NAVSTAR GPS HOST VEHICLE TELEMETRY SYSTEM

Abstract

The Navstar Global Positioning System (GPS) is presently undergoing full-scale engineering development by the Department of Defense. A unique telemetry system has been developed to support field test and evaluation of the GPS user equipment. Most of the field testing is being conducted at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground, which is equipped to receive and process GPS telemetry. The telemetry system allows real-time processing of GPS test data to support rapid on-site test planning, operations, and analysis. Telemetry transmission hardware has been integrated on a variety of GPS host vehicles. These include the Air Force’s C-141 cargo aircraft, B-52G bomber, and F-16A fighter, the Navy’s Convair 880 and A-6E attack aircraft, and the Army’s UH-60 helicopter and M-35 truck. Portable test station (PTS) units have also been developed to support the telemetry system. The PTS will function as ground support equipment for host vehicle modification center installation checkout, staging area premission checks, and telemetry transmission system troubleshooting. it also functions as a GPS-unique self-contained, man-portable telemetry receiving station for real-time GPS performance demonstrations and for remote range telemetry display and processing.