INTEGRATION OF S-BAND FQPSK TELEMETRY TRANSMITTERS AND GPS-BASED TSPI SYSTEMS WITH CLOSELY SPACED ANTENNAE – A SUCCESS STORY

Abstract

Modern spectrally efficient telemetry transmitters are beginning to find their way on a variety of airborne test platforms. Many of these platforms also include Global Positioning System (GPS)-based Time-Space-Position-Information (TSPI) instrumentation systems. Due to space and other limitations, many of these platforms have demanding antenna placement limitations requiring closely spaced antennas. This paper describes steps taken to identify and mitigate potential interference to GPS-based TSPI instrumentation systems by these new technology transmitters. Equipment characterization was accomplished to determine interference potential of the proposed new transmitters and susceptibility of several GPS TSPI receivers. Several filtering techniques were identified as possible solutions to the anticipated interference problems. Telemetry (TM)/GPS system mockups and laboratory tests of the same were accomplished. Open-air testing was then accomplished to validate laboratory results. Finally, on aircraft tests were accomplished prior to performing any aircraft system modifications. Results of these test efforts are presented for others to consider when planning similar modifications to other platforms.