Platform integration of UHF multi-network intelligence terminals using COTS, GOTS and NDI RF ancillary equipment

Abstract

One-half the life cycle cost of spaced-based intelligence dissemination systems resides in the terrestrial terminals. Of that cost, most is not the price of the terminal but the integration of the terminals into platforms. Future cost of terminals will decrease as COTS (Commercial Off-the-Shew, GOTS (Government Off-the-SheQ and NDI (NonDevelopmental Item) equipment are ushered in, but the integration cost will remain constant unless terminal vendors are funded to supply the best possible information to the integrator to accomplish a smooth platform installation for the warfighter. As budgets continue to shrink, the burden of integration falls on the end-user. Both the Rustration level of not having the proper information and the cost of doing business must be reduced. This paper examines the complexity of the problem and the ability of an RF Accessog, Manual to reduce paper work, increase utilization of available COTS/GOTS/NDI RF ancillary equipment, allow for the proper installation of RF accessories for a particular application and reduce frustration by consolidating all the required information. An internet website can provide an interactive decision tree, along with the latest list of accessories. This concept 13 examined using the UHF Commanders' Tactical Terminal (CTT) Intelligence Terminal as an example.I. The Need and Function of the Accessory ManualDntegration Guide Each military service customizes communications terminal to a specific platform, because mission and configuration varies between airborne (i.e. EP-3 , Rivet Joint, ABCCC, JSTARS, A2C2, ABNCP, TACAMO), ground (C2V, JTAGS, ASAS, CGS) and naval (CVN, Aegis-class Cruiser, PC) command posts. Choosing the best antenna, filter, duplexer, preamplifier, RF selection/distribution panel and coaxial cable is especially important to developing cosite and On-the-Move (OTM) solutions. Proper integration of electronic equipment aboard a military platform is dependent on receiving accurate and sufficient documentation in a timely manner. Available COTS/GOTS/NDI ancillary RF equipment and the interplay of this equipment should be cataloged in an RF Accessory Manual to aid the platform integrator. Source information is typically divided between the SystemBegment Specification (ASpec), the equipment specification (B-Spec) and the Interface Control Documents / Installation Control Drawings (ICDs), which address acoustic, electronic, optical, safety, human factors, environmental and mechanical interfaces. They however do not treat RF accessories or instruct the user concerning the best mix of these accessories based on the particular platform or network or mode of operation. The RF Accessory Manual guides the Installation Engineer through an equipment maze to choose the proper version specific to the designated platform or mission. A tabular format or decision tree is typically used to guide the user through specification references, options, accessories, notes and itemized parameters. Typically accessory version numbers indicate different models based on the nu...