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About GEM
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Generalized Emulation of Microcircuits

The Generalized Emulation of Microcircuits (GEM) technology was developed by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to provide a continuing solution to the microelectronics diminishing manufacturing sources problem. The program was initiated by DLA in 1987 and deployed in 1997 as an on-demand type contract. The program is currently managed by the Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC) with the Sarnoff Corporation as prime contractor.

Utilizing a set of gate arrays and single line processing technology, Sarnoff's on-site flexible foundry manufactures a continuing source of form, fit, and function replacements for non-procurable microcircuits. These GEM devices are supplied to existing system documentation (source control drawings, military slash sheets, standard military drawings and/or M38510 specifications) and meet the specifications of the original devices, including physical (package type, pin out), electrical (functional DC, dynamic, power) and environmental (ESD, temperature, hermeticity).

GEM technology is used to produce microcircuits originally developed with RTL, DTL, TTL, Schottky, ECL, NMOS, and CMOS technologies including parts from bipolar and MOS microcircuit technology families, ranging from single function complexities to small microprocessors. General Criteria for "GEMability":

  • Supply voltage up to 20V
  • Total pin count up to 48 pins
  • Pin to pin propagation delay greater than 10 nsec mil temp or 5 nsec room temp.

The GEM program provides a microcircuit capability that supports production, redesign, and sustainment requirements. GEM devices can be used interchangeably with original microcircuits without changes to system documentation or test programs.

GEM:

  • Breaks the obsolescence cycle
  • Provides solutions for the life of the system
  • Reduces operating and sustainment costs
  • Supplies QML microcircuits
  • Helps maintain readiness levels
  • Accommodates low quantity requirements

Once a device has been produced using GEM technology, a continuing source for the microcircuit is established from a government supported long-term foundry, allowing Sarnoff to support requirements for the life of the system.