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Vikram 32-bit Chip: A Landmark in Indigenous Technology

03 Sep 2025 GS 3 Science & Technology
Vikram 32-bit Chip: A Landmark in Indigenous Technology Click to view full image

Context

  • Presented to PM Narendra Modi at Semicon India 2025 by Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

  • Represents India’s growing capabilities in semiconductors, microprocessors, and space avionics.

Technical Features

  • Designed & Developed by:

    • Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), ISRO

    • Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), Chandigarh

    • Fabricated at 180nm CMOS semiconductor fab (SCL).

  • Application: Space flights – avionics systems of launch vehicles.

  • Evolution:

    • Advanced, refurbished version of 16-bit VIKRAM1601 microprocessor (used since 2009 in ISRO launch vehicles).

    • Now upgraded to 32-bit Launch Vehicle Grade processor → better performance, reliability, precision.

1. VIKRAM3201

  • First fully “Make-in-India” 32-bit microprocessor qualified for the harsh conditions of launch vehicles.

                                

  • Evolution:

    • Based on 16-bit VIKRAM1601 (flying since 2009).

    • “Make-in-India” VIKRAM1601 version fabricated in 2016 after SCL fab became operational.

  • Features:

    • Custom Instruction Set Architecture.

    • Floating-point computation.

    • High-level language support (Ada language).

    • In-house developed Ada compiler, assembler, linker, simulator & IDE.

    • C compiler under development for wider applications.

  • Validation: Successfully tested in PSLV-C60 POEM-4 Mission (Mission Management Computer).

2. KALPANA3201

  • 32-bit SPARC V8 RISC microprocessor.

  • Based on IEEE 1754 Instruction Set Architecture.

  • Compatible with open-source software toolsets.

  • ISRO also developed in-house simulator & IDE.

  • Successfully tested with flight software.

3. Associated Avionics Devices (Miniaturisation push)

Four additional devices handed over:

  1. Reconfigurable Data Acquisition System (RDAS) – two versions with multiple 24-bit Sigma-Delta ADCs on a single chip.

  2. Relay Driver Integrated Circuit.

  3. Multi-Channel Low Drop-out Regulator IC for high-reliability.

→ These contribute to miniaturisation of launch vehicle avionics.

Symbolic & Strategic Importance

  1. Atmanirbhar Bharat in Semiconductors:

    • Reduces reliance on foreign processors for critical space missions.

    • Boosts strategic autonomy in defence and space tech.

  2. Part of Larger Ecosystem:

    • Memento also included 31 prototype chips designed by IITs & NITs (Jammu, Roorkee, Dhanbad, Durgapur, Calicut, Ropar, etc.).

    • Shows academia-industry-government collaboration.

  3. National Semiconductor Mission Progress:

    • Launched in 2021 to make India a global hub for semiconductor design & manufacturing.

    • 5 semiconductor units under construction; pilot line of one unit completed.

    • Two units expected to start production within months.

  4. Global Confidence:

    • Minister Vaishnaw: “In uncertain times, you should come to India – policies are stable, ecosystem is ready.”

    • Positions India as a semiconductor manufacturing hub.

Broader Relevance for India

  • Space Programme: ISRO gains in-house, indigenous processors → higher reliability, cost efficiency, security.

  • Electronics Industry: Push towards domestic chip ecosystem (design + fab + packaging).

  • Geopolitical Angle: Amid U.S.-China chip rivalry, India can become a trusted global alternative.

  • Economic Growth: Foundation for $1 trillion digital economy target by 2030.



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