Electron omni-directional irradiator system for space package testing

The University of Maryland operates an integrated radiation testing and space simulation facility that includes a Cobalt-60 room source, a 250 kW TRIGA nuclear reactor/neutron source, and a 1-8 MeV electron linear accelerator. At the center of the facility is a unique test chamber that permits the 2 pi, in vacuo, electron irradiation of electronic packages. Recent programs include radiation transport, shielding, and dielectric breakdown studies within individual electronic devices, electronic packages, and electronic packaging materials. This paper describes the facilities and the applications for space package testing.