THE GRUMMAN ADVANCED TELEMETRY PREPROCESSOR

Abstract

The Grumman Automated Telemetry System (ATS) was one of the first computer based real-time flight test systems. It delivered real-time answers enabling Grumman to cost effectively meet its aircraft test objectives since 1970. Since then, aircraft systems have become more sophisticated with higher data rate requirements and with more on-board processing. Analysts have become more involved with defining man/machine interfaces and more sophisticated in their demand for real-time test data processing system. This paper provides an insight into the analyses and design trade-offs made when the first major section (The Preprocessor Subsystem) of the ATS was to be replaced. It proceeds from the requirements definition, through acceptance test results of the Advanced Telemetry Preprocessor (ATP). Emphasis is placed on the ATP hardware configuration, the subsystem software and the design/build cycle. System test results and a look into the future regarding planned applications and possible performance upgrades are summarized. The ATP is the first step in a series of planned upgrades of the ATS which will enable it to meet the flight test user’s demand for increased volume, sophistication and user-friendly interaction.