News | February 17, 2005

The Design Of A Single Card Telemetry Module For Smart Munition Testing

Source: Cobham

By Stephen Oder, Christina Dearstine, Amy Webb, John Muir, Inder Bahl, Larry Burke, Weyant Stone
Cobham

Presented at the 2004 International Telemetering Conference

Abstract
M/A-COM, Inc. has developed a miniature tactical telemetry module (TTM) for medium power (500 mW and 1 W) telemetry applications. The TTM demonstrates system integration of a multichannel PCM encoder, lower S-band transmitter, and power regulation onto a single printed wiring board (PWB). The module is smaller than a standard business card and utilizes both COTS and M/A-COM proprietary technologies. The PCM encoder is designed for eight analog inputs, eight discrete inputs, and one synchronous RS-422 serial interface. Data rates of 300 kbps to 6 Mbps are supported. The module incorporates a frequency programmable, phase-locked FM S-band transmitter. The transmitter utilizes M/A-COM's new dual-port VCO and high-efficiency 500 mW and 1 W power amplifier MMICs. Additionally, switching power regulation circuits were implemented within the module to provide maximum operating efficiency. This paper reviews the design and manufacturing of the TTM and its major components, and presents system performance data.

Introduction
M/A-COM has produced a set of rugged, small, low cost transmitter modules for use in ballistic and commercial telemetry applications. These transmitters utilize direct frequency modulation, which results in a miniaturized system. These transmitters are compliant with IRIG 106-01, and can provide an output power level of up to 1 W.

There is a need for highly integrated, low-cost telemetry systems for munitions testing that can measure analog, digital, and discrete signals and provide 1 W to 2 W of RF output power. These telemetry systems must withstand setback accelerations of 30,000 Gs, vibration levels of 30 Gs in any direction up to 20 kHz, and temperature extremes of -40°C to 85°C. This paper describes the design of a single card telemetry system combining M/A-COM's transmitter technology, a CPLD based PCM encoder, and power regulation circuitry on a business card size printed wiring board.

Click here to download the product datasheet in pdf format.