ABOUT THE COLLECTION

The International Telemetering Conference/USA (ITC/USA) is dedicated to the promotion and stimulation of technical growth in telemetering and its allied arts and sciences. It is the premier annual forum and technical exhibition providing telemetry specific short courses, technical papers from professionals and students, and exhibits of the industry’s leading companies. ITC/USA is sponsored by the International Foundation for Telemetering (IFT), a non-profit corporation dedicated to serving the technical and professional interests of the telemetering community.

This collection contains the proceedings of the forty-third International Telemetering Conference, October 22-25, 2007. The conference, sponsored by the International Foundation for Telemetering, was held at the Riviera Hotel & Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.


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Recent Submissions

  • International Telemetering Conference Proceedings, Volume 43 (2007)

    International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10
  • SCALABLE LOW COMPLEXITY CODER FOR HIGH RESOLUTION AIRBORNE VIDEO

    Marcellin, Michael W.; Bilgin, Ali; Lalgudi, Hariharan G.; Marcellin, Michael W.; Bilgin, Ali; Nadar, Mariappan S.; University of Arizona; Siemens Corporate Research (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    Real-time transmission of airborne images to a ground station is highly desirable in many telemetering applications. Such transmission is often through an error prone, time varying wireless channel, possibly under jamming conditions. Hence, a fast, efficient, scalable, and error resilient image compression scheme is vital to realize the full potential of airborne reconnaisance. JPEG2000, the current international standard for image compression, offers most of these features. However, the computational complexity of JPEG2000 limits its use in some applications. Thus, we present a scalable low complexity coder (SLCC) that possesses many desirable features of JPEG2000, yet having high throughput.
  • DESIGN TRADE-OFFS FOR REAL-TIME CHAPTER 10 REPRODUCTION

    Tompkins, Bob; K/Bidy, Gilles; L-3 Communications, Telemetry-West (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    This paper presents an analysis of various methods to address the reproduction of recorded Chapter 10 data in real-time. The standard IRIG 106 Chapter 10 recording format is quickly becoming the most commonly used data recording format in the community. As such, a lot of emphasis has been put on recording requirements including time-stamping, data multiplexing, etc. However, there are additional needs that must be considered when using Chapter 10 as the only permanent data record. It is often necessary to reproduce the original data stream exactly as it was recorded with all its timing characteristics. This paper presents various tradeoffs discovered while designing a real-time playback system for recorded chapter 10 data files. In particular, techniques such as just-enough buffering, data re-ordering, pre-processing, etc will be discussed.
  • THE EFFECT OF NETWORK CENTRIC OPERATIONS IN TELEMETRY FOR AIR FORCE FLIGHT TEST AND EVALUATION

    Santos, Eunice E.; Jones, Charles H.; Harris, Charles; Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University; Edwards Air Force Base (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    We discuss how aspects of telemetry can be effectively incorporated and modeled as a component within network-centric operations and warfare paradigms. Telemetry is particularly vital in Air Force Flight Test and Evaluation. As such, this paper has a specific emphasis and provides discussion within this domain. We also present how an existing framework for networkcentric operations and warfare can be particularly beneficial to telemetry modeling, and discuss the potential insights and utility within this context.
  • Network Design Considerations in Telemetry Systems

    Grebe, Andy; Klein, Wayne; Apogee Labs, Inc. (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    In today’s world, computer networking has become common place both in industry as well as home, however all networks are not the same! The Telemetry world, like with many industries, has critical design considerations that need to be evaluated when you begin a new system or just adding on to a current infrastructure. This paper is intended to outline needed considerations when planning or implementing a network design in Telemetry Systems. These applications can range from sensor data transport through High Definition/High Speed Video applications.
  • HIGH-RATE WIRELESS AIRBORNE NETWORK DEMONSTRATION (HiWAND) FLIGHT TEST RESULTS

    Franz, Russell; National Aeronautics and Space Administration (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    An increasing number of flight research and airborne science experiments now contain network-ready systems that could benefit from a high-rate bidirectional air-to-ground network link. A prototype system, the High-Rate Wireless Airborne Network Demonstration, was developed from commercial off-the-shelf components while leveraging the existing telemetry infrastructure on the Western Aeronautical Test Range. This approach resulted in a cost-effective, long-range, line-of-sight network link over the S and the L frequency bands using both frequency modulation and shaped-offset quadrature phase-shift keying modulation. This paper discusses system configuration and the flight test results.
  • Evolving Range and DISA Networks Using Pseudo Wire

    Merritt, Joseph; Avtec Systems, Inc. (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    The Eastern and Western Ranges along with DISA share a similar vision around Net-Centricity such that "Anyone, anywhere can get to any data source and exploit the information they are authorized to access." Their legacy infrastructure is built around TDM and ATM transport networks, which are link based and connection oriented. To achieve the vision the infrastructure must evolve towards a packet switched network (PSN) that is meshed based. Consequently, a means to interwork non-IP enabled services is required. Pseudo Wire protocol encapsulation provides the means for extending telemetry, data, voice, and video services in native formats over Ethernet, IP, and MPLS networks in a reliable way that delivers greater operational efficiency and a smooth migration to a single converged network.
  • RANGE COMMANDER’S COUNCIL (RCC) TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND TIMING GROUP (TTG) UPDATE ON TM OVER IP STANDARD DEVELOPMENT

    Eslinger, Brian; Kovach, Bob; TYBRIN Corporation; Superior Access Solutions (SAS) (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    The RCC TTG initiated task TT-49 to generate a standard for the transport of serial streaming telemetry (TM) over the Internet Protocol (IP). An ad hoc committee was activated comprised of Range and vendor participation to develop this standard. This paper will address the progress of the standard, the use of commercial standards, and the benefits to the ranges. The early meetings focused on developing the packet structure; the preliminary results will be presented along with the latest status on the RCC approval cycle.
  • TELEMETRY TRANSCEIVER DESIGN USING BOC SIGNAL

    Dongkai, Yang; Li, Du; Qishan, Zhang; Beihang University (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    This paper focuses on the transceiver design using BOC signal in the telemetry field, including the transmitter and receiver. The transmitter is similar as that using BPSK except from the sub-carrier modulation. But the receiver design is totally different because the BOC signal has different performance. The acquisition methods of BOC signal have been discussed such as the single-side BPSK-like, double-sides BPSK-like and hybrid processing methods, which can restrain side-peak and eliminate ambiguities. The three acquisition process principles and their performances include arithmetic complexity are described, compared and simulated using MATLAB.
  • ROBUST ADAPTIVE BEAMFORMING WITH BROAD NULLS

    Yudong, He; Xianghua, Yang; Jie, Zhou; Banghua, Zhou; Beibei, Shao; Tsinghua University; China Academy of Engineering Physics (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    Robust adaptive beamforming using worst-case performance optimization is developed in recent years. It had good performance against array response errors, but it cannot reject strong interferences. In this paper, we propose a scheme for robust adaptive beamforming with broad nulls to reject strong interferences. We add a quadratic constraint to suppress the power of the array response over a spatial region of the interferences. The optimal weighting vector is then obtained by minimizing the power of the array output subject to quadratic constrains on the desired signal and interferences, respectively. We derive the formulations for the optimization problem and solve it efficiently using Newton recursive algorithm. Numerical examples are presented to compare the performances of the robust adaptive beamforming with no null constrains, sharp nulls and broad nulls. The results show its powerful ability to reject strong interferences.
  • LOW-NOISE SWITCHING POWER SUPPLY CONSIDERATIONS FOR TELEMETRY ENCODER APPLICATIONS

    Lee, Jeffrey C.; Steppler, Missy; L-3 Communications (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    Modern telemetry systems using state of the art field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and signal processing components require lower voltage supplies to support various CMOS core geometries while still needing multiple higher voltage rails to support legacy interfaces. Addressing these power supply requirements efficiently requires switching power supply topologies that if left unchecked can generate high input surge currents and high levels of detrimental noise for both the sensitive analog signal processing circuitry and the power supply input source. This paper focuses on the design considerations and tradeoffs associated with implementing an efficient telemetry encoder power supply while mitigating the resulting noise effects typically associated with switching power supplies. This noise can negatively affect the power supply input source and the linear signal processing circuitry within the telemetry encoder.
  • L AND S BAND TUNABLE FILTERS PROVIDE DRAMATIC IMPROVEMENTS IN TELEMETRY SYSTEMS

    Wurth, Timothy J.; Rodzinak, Jason; NuWaves Engineering (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    Meeting the filtering requirements for telemetry transmitters and receivers can be challenging. Telemetry systems use filters to eliminate unwanted spurious or mixing products. The use of tunable microwave filters for both L and S Band can improve filter selectivity and provide low insertion losses in the filter passband. Along with meeting specifications, these microwave filters with the ability to tune an octave, reduce size and cost by the reduction of multiple, fixed-frequency filters. As size, weight and power are often a concern with aeronautical telemetry systems, this paper will demonstrate that microstrip tunable filters can be small in size and use minimal power. Telemetry transmitters are subject to difficult spurious emission and interference specifications and require selective filters to eliminate spurious signals before the final amplification. Telemetry receivers on the other hand are subject to intense Image and Local Oscillator (LO) rejection requirements and demand low insertion loss for front-end filtering. Low insertion loss filtering before the Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) circuit limits degradation to the system noise figure (NF). By using different filter topologies and state-of-the-art, high-Q varactor diodes, tunable microwave filters can be optimized for two different functions. The two functions emphasize either low insertion loss or selectivity. An important design consideration with tunable filters, when compared to typical fixed frequency filters, is the degraded intermodulation performance. This is largely due to the non-linear behavior of the varactor diodes. This paper describes the benefits and limitations of microwave tunable filter architectures suitable for both aeronautical telemetry transmitters and telemetry receivers. Information on the computer modeling of varactor diodes will be covered as a critical part of the design. Potential design considerations for microwave tunable filters will also be covered. Through the use of simulation software and filter prototypes, this paper presents dramatically improved filter performance applicable to telemetry transmitters and receivers.
  • BENEFITS AND TECHNIQUES FOR INCREASED POWER EFFICIENCY IN MODERN TELEMETRY TRANSMITTERS

    Bozarth, Don; Horcher, Greg; L-3 Communications (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    With recent developments in telemetry transmitter technologies, significantly greater DC to RF power efficiencies can be achieved. These new high efficiency transmitter designs may impact overall system design trade-offs by reducing the system size and weight requirements for batteries, heat sinks, and cabling. Furthermore, these fully DC isolated, next generation ARTM Tier 0, I and II enabled devices offer unique options to the platform designer in EMI/EMC control and system design. Advanced manufacturing techniques coupled with adaptive microprocessor control promises enhanced functionality, improved performance and reduced unit costs. The paper presents the performance of a new, high efficiency, telemetry transmitter topology and the possible system benefits involved with the application of this advanced transmitter technology within modern and legacy telemetry platforms. Specific sub-assembly circuit design techniques will be discussed and compared with prior design approaches.
  • DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE OF A MULTI-MODE MULTI-RATE TELEMETRY TRANSMITTER

    Ahmed, Walid K. M.; Wougk, Harald; Tyco Electronics Wireless Systems (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    Typical telemetry transmitter designs have focused on analog-circuit implementations, which suffer limitations when required to support multi-mode and multi-rate capabilities. In this paper, we introduce a transmitter design (and associated techniques) that employ an all-digital baseband line-up that utilizes only one single-rate clock. Thus, keeping the analog hardware to a minimum and providing the maximum possible flexibility through digital programmability, in order to efficiently support multi-mode (i.e., various modulation schemes) and multi-rate (i.e., various bit-rates) capabilities. The telemetry standard is defined in the IRIG 106-04 specification document published by the Range Commanders Council (RCC) government telemetry group [1]. The Telemetry standard supports several modulation schemes all of which fall under the general modulation family of continuous phase modulation (CPM). Out of such a family of modulation schemes, the work presented in this paper focuses on two modulation schemes as examples, namely, SOQPSK and the PCM/FM. However, this does not limit the scope of the ideas and techniques proposed in this paper. We present various design techniques as well as implementation considerations. We also present actual measured results using a test-bed and a synthesizer IC that have been developed in our laboratories. Finally, we compare the measured results with simulations in order to validate the performance of our implemented design.
  • STUDY ON GPS RECEIVER ALGORITHMS FOR SUPPRESSION OF NARROWBAND INTERFERENCE

    Yongkang, Hu; Qishan, Zhang; Yanhong, Kou; Dongkai, Yang; Beihang University (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    Despite the inherent resistance to narrowband signal interference afforded by GPS spread spectrum modulation, the low level of GPS signals makes them susceptible to narrowband interference. This paper discusses the application of a pre-correlation adaptive temporal filter for stationary and nonstationary narrowband interference suppression. Various adaptive algorithms are studied and implemented. Comparison of the convergence and tracking behavior of various algorithms is made.
  • USING COOPERATIVE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENTS (CRADA) TO REDUCE THE TRANSITION TO PRODUCTION RISK OF A MISSILE TELEMETRY SECTION

    Kujiraoka, Scott R.; Fielder, Russell G.; NAVAIR (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    The Joint Advanced Missile Instrumentation (JAMI) Program’s main thrust has been the integration of Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking technology into the Department of Defense (DoD) Missile Test Ranges. This technology could be used for Time, Space, Position, and Information (TSPI), Flight Termination (FTS), or End Game Scoring purposes. However the Program’s main goal is to develop Proof-of-Concept components only. Transitioning Missile technology developed by the Government to Private Industry, so that it can be economically mass produced, has been quite a challenge. Traditionally, private industry has had to bid on proposals without much detailed information on how these components have been designed and fabricated. These unknown risks, Non-Recurring Engineering (NRE) and Missile Flight Qualification costs, routinely have significantly increased the price of these procurement contracts. In order so that the Fleet can economically utilize these components in the field, Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADA) between the Government and Private Industry have been used to successfully transition Government developed technology to mass production. They can eliminate the NRE and flight qualification costs to provide for an economical and low risk method of providing the Fleet with the latest advances in GPS Tracking Technology. This paper will discuss how this is currently being accomplished in the development of a conformal wraparound instrumentation antenna for a five-inch diameter Missile Telemetry (TM) Section.
  • MULTIPLE TIME BASE SYCHRONIZATION PROCESS APPLIED TO THE FLIGHT TESTS CAMPAIGN OF A GPS ATTITUDE DETERMINATION ALGORITM

    Leite, Nelson Paiva Oliveira; Walter, Fernando; CTA - Grupo Especial de Ensaios em Vôo; ITA - Divisão de Eletrônica (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    For the final evaluation of a GPS attitude determination algorithm, it was determined its true performance in terms of its accuracy, reliability and dynamic response. To accomplish that, a flight test campaign was carried out to validate the attitude determination algorithm. In this phase, the measured aircraft attitude was compared to a reference attitude, to allow the determination of the errors. The system was built using non-dedicated THALES Z-FX airborne GPS receivers and a complete Flight Tests Instrumentation (FTI) System. Each GPS receiver operates synchronized with its internal time base. The FTI measurements are synchronized to an IRIG-B time base. All time bases have their own random walk characteristic. To avoid C/A code ambiguity, when its internal time base approaches ±1ms error from the GPS time, its clock is then corrected causing time and phase observables discontinuities. A multiple time base synchronization process was developed to correlate GPS and FTI data. The results are presented and the residual errors were considered acceptable. These data allowed the determination of the performance and accuracy of the GPS attitude determination algorithm. The tests profiles are fully compliant with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Advisory Circular (AC) 25-7A.
  • GPS RADIOSONDE: MIGHTY MIDGET OF THE MODERN RANGE

    May, Linda R.; Honeywell Technology Solutions, Inc. (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    Wallops Flight Facility is NASA’s principal site for management and implementation of suborbital research programs. Recently, WFF resumed its successful satellite-launching history without sacrificing its culture of being low-cost and responsive. Part of what made this possible is the GPS radiosonde. During recent successful Minotaur I launches, this tiny instrument provided upper-air observations that were used in six categories of analysis necessary for such launches: toxics, blast, winds aloft, debris, weather and forecasting, and post-flight. In addition, the GPS radiosonde has reduced costs associated with Wind Weighting at Wallops, and is used in numerous range research projects.
  • ENHANCED FLIGHT TERMINATION SYSTEM FLIGHT DEMONSTRATION AND RESULTS

    Tow, David; Arce, Dennis; National Aeronautics and Space Administration; Bourne Technologies, Inc. (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    This paper discusses the methodology, requirements, tests, and implementation plan for the live demonstration of the Enhanced Flight Termination System (EFTS) using a missile program at two locations in Florida: Eglin Air Force Base (AFB) and Tyndall AFB. The demonstration included the integration of EFTS Flight Termination Receivers (FTRs) onto the missile and the integration of EFTS-program-developed transmitter assets with the mission control system at Eglin and Tyndall AFBs. The initial test stages included ground testing and captive-carry flights, followed by a launch in which EFTS was designated as the primary flight termination system for the launch.
  • AN UPDATE ON NETWORK-BASED SECURITY TECHNOLOGIES APPLICABLE TO TELEMETRY POST-PROCESSING AND ANALYSIS ACTIVITIES

    Kalibjian, Jeff; Hewlett-Packard Corporation (International Foundation for Telemetering, 2007-10)
    Networked based technologies (i.e. TCP/IP) have come to play an important role in the evolution of telemetry post processing services. A paramount issue when using networking to access/move telemetry data is security. In past years papers have focused on individual security technologies and how they could be used to secure telemetry data. This paper will review currently available network based security technologies, update readers on enhancements, and discuss their appropriate uses in the various phases of telemetry post-processing and analysis activities.

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