SMART MUNITIONS PCM TELEMETRY SYSTEM

Abstract

The last decade brought about the development of “smart” weapons and munitions that proved to be more efficient than conventional weapons based on their efficiency in the number of targets hit relative to the number hit using conventional weapons. The awakening of sensor-controlled, sensor-guided munitions technology has introduced a definitive need for telemetry instrumentation in developmental testing of this rapidly growing field. To satisfy the Army’s need for sensor-controlled, anti-tank munitions, several development programs are under way for the research and design of these systems. Telemetry has been a critical element in the development of these programs. From the program’s conception and through to its completion, the Armament, Research, Development, and Engineering Center-Telemetry Section has developed data acquisition systems to monitor the activity of such sensorcontrolled smart projectiles to support Army programs. This paper will discuss the development and use of a PCM telemetry system that has had tremendous success in use with these types of projectile programs in their sensor development and system integration stages. The application, albeit specific to these projectile programs, can be tailored to meet the needs of numerous test configurations within the Army or other organizations facing this need.