Very-High-Performance Data Acquisition/Analysis/Display/Control Systems Based on the APTEC I/O Computer

Abstract

During the past several years Lockheed's CATS group has built four large-scale data acquisition machines that are based on the APTEC I/O computer. Features of these systems include: * Speed: Up to 5,000,000 samples per second acquired to mass storage. * Duration: Several minutes per test (billions of samples). * Accuracy: .05% of full scale. * Real Time Display: Multi-channel, multi display. * Real time and post-processing calculation: 40 megaFlops. * Data access: Immediate, random access at test completion. The machines are appropriate for acoustic and structural-dynamic testing, windtunnel research, and scram jet engine performance analysis. Traditionally, these applications have been done with "Multiplexed FM" or "PCM" magnetic tape systems. Where they are applicable, I/O computer based systems are more accurate, versatile, and convenient than their predecessors. This paper describes the I/O computer based systems that are in use and explores the near-term extensions to the technology. Topics discussed include: * Real time displays of structural deflection. * Closed loop control systems (for structural-dynamic and acoustic testing and control-structure-interaction research. * Extensions to an aggregate rate of 20,000,000 samples/second at high accuracy.