Data Communications Possibilities for the Deployable Remote Consolidated AerialPort Subsystem

摘要

This research's purpose was to determine the optimal candidate system for datacommunications with deployable Remote CAPS. The process also established justification for the selection. A formalized methodology based on Benjamin Ostrofsky's Design, Planning, and Development Methodology was used for the process. After a needs analysis of the problem, which is a lack of a mobile data communications system for MAC air transportation units, a feasibility study was completed which formulated the candidate systems to solve the problem. Finally, a preliminary activities phase evaluated each candidate system according to end user based criteria. The candidate system selected was the Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) technology. This data communication method will allow mobile data communications links throughout the world. Also the costs of the VSAT technology are not prohibitive as compared to standard satellite communications. The small size adds the portability that is required for mobile operations. Recommendations for further research include analysis of total VSAT field systems required, analysis of host computer/hub terminal requirements, analysis of cost/benefits, and analysis of design specifications requirements.