TELEMETRY SYSTEMS FOR THE 90’s: GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACES WITH PROGRAMMABLE BEHAVIOR

Abstract

The design and development of user interfaces for telemetry data processing systems is undergoing a period of rapid change. The migration to graphics workstations is raising expectations and redefining requirements for user interfaces in the nineties. User interfaces which present data in crude tabular form on alphanumeric terminals are on a path to extinction. Modem telemetry user interfaces are hosted on graphics workstations rich with power and software tools. This paper summarizes the evolution of user interfaces for telemetry systems developed by Computer Sciences Corporation, highlighting key enhancements and use of third-party software. The benefits of prototyping and the trend toward programmable interface behavior are explored.