DMEA - Services


	Clients come to the Defense Microelectronics Activity for help in resolving microelectronics technology issues in weapons systems. DMEA presents the system manager with appropriate solution options to not only keep the system operational but also transform it to the next level of sophistication. These solution options range from component upgrades to board or system upgrades with advanced technology. The latter options create opportunities for multi-symptom resolution and truly transformational alternatives. There are many reasons to perform a board or system redesign. Most of these are the result of typical
"Reliability and Maintainability” (R&M) issues like undependable performance, parts unavailability, or difficulty in repairing and testing. These problems lead to higher logistics costs as well as having the systems unavailable to perform their critical mission.

Generally it is more cost effective to reduce overall costs by redesigning at the board or system level to eliminate current and future problems. During the redesign phase, it is possible to build in more performance with little incremental cost at the same time as enhancing performance. This increased capability provides a true “transformational opportunity” for the system.

DMEA Engineering specialists and state of the art facilities ensure microelectronic issues are addressed fully. We can produce, on demand, microelectronic parts for all weapons systems. We can accomplish this through the worldwide unique Advanced Reconfigurable Manufacturing for Semiconductors (ARMS) facility. The military contacts DMEA when they need to evaluate radiation hardness. DMEA has an unequaled total dose testing laboratory. The Lab's unique J. L. Shepherd model 81-22/484 self-shielded irradiators are used to determine the effects of gamma radiation on microelectronics and photonics components and systems.

Solving the problem of microelectronics replacement and upgrades in fielded systems requires: Lifetime support of many different microelectronics processes and technologies Recognition of crucial time and money constraints in supporting these systems Cooperation with the commercial industry, whose economic model is fundamentally converse to DOD requirements A strategic approach to the escalating pace of microelectronics turn-over

Click on the Obsolescence link for information and documents related to parts obsolescence.

Image: DMEA facilities

DMEA is the only microelectronics engineering, design, prototyping, testing and processing entity that has made a practice of cost-effective Total Life Cycle System Management (TLCSM) support of weapons systems. DMEA is positioned to transform the capabilities of those systems by leveraging microelectronics engineering expertise, proprietary commercial technology, and flexible manufacturing capability.