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The
Controller and Power Supply Module
Required in all systems, this module manages control functions and
delivers low-voltage system
power. Using a backplane similar to those found in computer designs, it
determines which modules
are present and allows the user to select waveforms and determine if
they will be delivered as single
strokes, multiple strokes, or, in the case of waveforms 3a and 3b,
multiple bursts.
Waveform Timing
The rise and fill times of each waveform are determined by components in
each generator module.
The pulse-to-pulse timing of each waveform is tightly controlled by a
microprocessor. This allows
multiple-stroke and multiple-burst events to be delivered with either
uniform or pseudo-random
pulse spacing. The microprocessor also provides visual and aural cues
for the operator about the
status of the system.
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The High
Voltage Power Supply
The high voltage power supply is controlled by means of a knob on the
front panel of this module.
This continuously variable supply is capable of delivering over 1100
volts DC, and it can source in
excess of 25 amperes of current for rapidly recharging capacitors
between pulses.
The High Voltage Modulator
The output of the high voltage supply is also controlled by a
modulator circuit which ensures that
the first and succeeding pulses in multi-stroke sequences are delivered
at the proper levels. The
Modulator is controlled by the system microprocessor.
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System Status
Displays
Two LCD displays
on the front panel of the controller module provide information about the
operation of the system. The upper display of two 16-character lines shows
the tiered menu
system used to control the waveform generator. Turning the selector knob
prompts the user with
information about:
Which waveform modules are present in the system;
Whether a test will use single-stroke, multiple-stroke, or multiple-burst
application;
Whether a test will include 1 or 10 applications, or if it will apply
waveforms at 3-second
intervals for 5 or 10 minutes.
The lower, HV power display shows the voltage delivered to the waveform
modules plugged into
the system buss. This value is used during the calibration phase of a test
to enable the operator to
pre-set or vary waveform amplitudes during testing.
LCD displays for transient selection and peak voltage.
Visual and aural annunciators.
Pulse rate selection options:
Single pulse
Multiple strokes (per RTCA/DO-160E, Section 22)
Multiple bursts (per RTCA/DO-160E, Section 22)
Multiple-stroke and multiple-burst sequences precisely controlled by a
microprocessor.
Uniform or pseudo-random pulse spacing.
Field-upgradeable microprocessor firmware.
Continuously variable high voltage power supply (0-1000 volts). |
