Oceantronics

Range Operations provides operators of the major test ranges in the US with information that will help them in understanding the theory and operation of all aspects of the range.  Periodically this site will be updated with additional information provided to assist those new to range operations and equipment with a better understanding of "What this is All About".

In the future to access the technical information it may be necessary for the user to apply for a user name and password.  User names will be stored in a data base and they will be e-mailed every time there is an update to the technical content of the site.  Technical articles will be arranged on the site by category.  Each category will have its own web pages.  The initial Categories are listed below and can be found in the links under Discussions on the Navigation Bar;

  1. Telemetry Antennas - This section contains discussions regarding G/T, Pedestal Dynamics, Servo Types, Operating Modes, Data Formats, Load inertias, Ka etc.
  2. Receiving Subsystem - This section discusses Basic Receiver Configurations, Down Conversion, Modulation Techniques, Intermodulation Products, Band Width Selection, Receiver Dynamics and Conversion Losses etc.
  3. RF and Data Switching - This section includes discussions regarding Switching matrix requirements, point to point isolation requirements, Control Software, etc.
  4. Data Processing - This section discuss the basics of data processing and specific areas of this subject
  5. Record/Playback - This section discusses the basic methods of data recording and playback.
  6. Range Safety - This section discusses the basics of range safety including display and recording of missile performance.
  7. Flight Termination - This Section includes discussions of the basics of Flight Termination, Methods, Link Analysis etc.
  8. Communications - Dicusses the basic types of communications used by the Test Ranges as well as types of communications used at various distances.
  9. GPS - Discusses the theory of GPD, its uses, how it is used by the ranges, Accuracies etc.
  10. Ancillary Equipment - This discusses various topics that are not directly related to the range operation.  It includes calculating power requirements, sizing UPS's, Air Conditioniing etc.
  11. Miscellaneous - Catchall for other subjects
This site is managed by Fritz Amtsberg of Oceantronics with technical inputs from Range Engineering, Range Operators and the various vendors that provide equipment to the ranges.