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| Telemetry Receiver
System
On August 31, 1999, a contract was award to ATIR U.S., Inc.,
now doing business as International Meteorological Systems (InterMet
Systems) for the demonstration phase of the Telemetry Receiver
System. The first demonstration unit will undergo testing in April,
2000. Following successful completion of this effort, a production
contract is expected to be awarded in September, 2000. Field operation of
the new system will begin in FY 2001. |
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The Telemetry Receiver System consists of three
major components:
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Antenna System |
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Receiver |
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Data Communications Equipment |
The antenna tracks the
radiosonde, providing the 1660 - 1700 MHz radio data to the receiver, which
down converts the signal to 10.7 MHz for the Signal Processing
System. The Data Communications Equipment provides a fiber optic
link back to the office (within 2000m) where the main workstation is
located, as well as voice communications between the office, antenna location,
and launch area. The receiver is state-of-the-art and uses standard
cell-phone components. |
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Antenna Characteristics:
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2.0 meter diameter fiberglass parabolic dish |
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Lightweight construction |
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Rugged, corrosion resistant materials |
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Easy access to subassemblies |
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Pedestal provides environmentally controlled 19"
rack for Data Communications Equipment and Signal Processing System |
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Use of current NWS radomes will be required |
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Uses proven, low risk technology |
The servoed parabolic
dish was chosen due to it's superb performance, low cost, and high
reliability. The usually lower reliability of moving mechanical parts
have evolved over the past 10 years to become very reliable
mechanisms. The dish can be split for easier
transport. The low inertia pancake motor drives are maintenance
free, lubricated for life. |
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| The system will include a comprehensive suite of
Built-in-test features for both continuous monitoring of the hardware and
software states, as well as special off-line diagnostic tests.
The system is controlled by a central processor, as well as
control unit at the launch area. The Control and Display Unit is
ruggedized and weather proof. It contains a 25-key membrane keyboard,
with a 4-line backlit display. Visual indicators are provided for
frequency and signal strength, and selectable to also provide audio indication
of signal strength and radiosonde modulation. An image depicting
the control unit is shown below. |
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