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ALLIED AEDP-6
ENGINEERING (Edition 1)
DOCUMENTATION
PUBLICATION
April 2006
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FOREWORD
Custodian, AEDP-6
Lt. Col. Dennis Caron, USAF
SAF AQIZ
1060 Air Force Pentagon
Washington, DC 20330-1060
United States
Phone: 703-588-6414
FAX: 703-696-4337
E-Mail: Dennis.Caron@pentagon.af.mil
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
NATO LETTER OF
PROMULGATION………………………………………………....ii
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FORWORD…………………………………….………………………………………....iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS……………………………………………………….………….v
AEDP Overview…………………………………………………………………………1-4
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1. NADSI Objectives. The primary objective of the NATO Advanced Data Storage
Interface (NADSI) standard (STANAG 4575) is to define a data transfer interface for a
Removable Memory Module (RMM), which will download any data to any NATO
ground station, within a set of defined constraints.
2. NADSI Philosophy. Conformance with the NADS Interface requirements will allow
any compliant ground station to download data from any NADSI compliant data storage
removable memory module. Individual files, file segments or the full contents of the
memory module can be downloaded using sequences of SCSI Read commands. The
NADSI standard relies on existing commercial standards and definitions whenever
possible. A straightforward directory and file structure is used, that is specific to the
NADSI interface but was created using common techniques.
The NATO NADSI working group defined an interface to allow download and
transfer of information at high transfer rates and with a low error rate. Multiple industry
and government organizations participated in this development. Since multiple data
storage technologies and techniques can be used for the storage media, the interface has
been defined to allow all media to be read via this protocol. This allows for wide
variation in the implementation of the standard.
3. AEDP SCOPE. This document provides the technical information that was developed
during the production of the STANAG and updated with results and lessons learned
based on use and testing in subsequent years. This information was identified as
important to the acquisition communities of the member Nations, but inappropriate for
the STANAG. This information is divided into seven discrete sections, each provided in
the Annexes to this AEDP as shown in Figure-1.
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Annex G
Glossary
Annex F
Application Notes
Annex E
A Configuration Mgmt Plan
Annex D
E Compliance Test & Certification
Part 1: Airborne Equipment
D Part 2: Ground Systems
P Annex C
Acquisition Guidance
Annex B
Rationale For Standard
Annex A
Background &
Application Scenarios
Figure-1
AEDP Structure
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ANNEX A
BACKGROUND AND APPLICATION SCENARIOS
2. Application Scenarios.
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2.1.2 STANAG Exclusions. It should be noted that this STANAG does not include all
elements of a complete interface to exchange and exploit data. The higher levels of the
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complete interface, including the format of the stored user data, must be defined in other
Agreements (for example, STANAGs 4545 or 7023 for imagery).
The highest level of interoperability requires that the interface between the RMM
and the recorder be precisely defined. This implies that the architecture of all recorders
be identical as well. Given that many manufacturers have already developed products
and some are already in the field, it would be impossible to require all to adhere to an
arbitrarily selected architecture and physical constraints. Further, in some cases, the
developers of the ISR systems require that the recorders have some unique attributes and
trade-offs in the design, due to needed memory capacity, data rate, environmental
hardening, or a designated size or space for the recorder. If we define a specific form
factor for the RMM, then the ISR system developers would be very limited in their
ability to fit the recorder to the requirements.
The lowest level of interoperability does provide for complete interchange of the
data. However, in order to achieve that interchange, precious time is lost performing the
mass dump of the data and possibly much more definition would be required of the
ground station capabilities. Requiring the complete transfer of the data into the ground
station prior to exploitation would not provide the required data exploitation capability
within the time constraints imposed by typical operational requirements.
2.3 File Interpretation. As files are written to the Advanced Data Storage System
(ADSS), the directory of the files will be retained in the RMM and can be read through
the interface defined by this document. This makes it possible for the ground station to
find and recover discrete files. It should be noted, however, that it is not intended that the
memory system will have "knowledge" of the information stored in it. This is analogous
to a tape recorder being able to play back data from specific portions of the tape based on
track set ID, but the recorder doesn't know if the data is directories, infrared, radar, or
voice. The ground station will be required to identify the content of the memory and to
read from the RMM to download the appropriate portion of the data. The ground station
must also be able to interpret the contents of the files.
2.4 Operational Scenarios. It is recognized that the optimal use of advanced ISR data
storage technologies will only be achieved when the media is replayed in a unit
specifically designed for that purpose, such as in its companion ground station. In most
cases, the ground station defined for operational use with a particular sensor system will
include a playback unit designed for the RMMs used in the aircraft. For example, a ISR
system using a solid-state recorder in the aircraft will likely provide a playback unit
compatible with the solid state RMMs in the appropriate ground station. This will allow
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complete use of the memory system's capabilities. However, there are numerous
occasions when the RMMs may be provided to a different ground station for exploitation
of the data. This will require that the secondary ground station be able to access the data.
It was accepted by the technical team defining this document that the retrieval would be
done using data blocks that have been structured into files in accordance with this
STANAG. This provides the ability to use the mission tasking and other information
(such as an event mark file) to identify the priority data and download that imagery for
immediate exploitation. The requirement for this type of operation is based on three
operating scenarios.
The first scenario involves a limited action where coalition forces are operating
with limited resources. If more than one nation were to provide ISR capabilities, the
deployment could be accomplished using one ground station from one of the nations.
The primary sensors associated with that ground station would have full operational
capabilities, while the other sensors would be exploited using the interface defined in
STANAG 4575. All of the ISR data could be exploited in the single ground station
without the need for duplicate capabilities in the theater of operations.
The second scenario involves a larger scale operation. It is assumed that multiple
ground stations have been deployed and that an aircraft has diverted to a base other than
its main operating location. The aircraft may have diverted due to mechanical problems,
battle damage, hostile action at its main operating location, or ground station failure. Use
of the interface defined in this document, would allow the ISR data collected to be
rapidly accessed and exploited, limiting the possible mission degradation due to the
diversion.
The third scenario in which this interface can be used is for the direct download
of ISR data while on the flight line. In some cases, portable equipment, conceptually
ranging from backpacks to full aerospace ground equipment (AGE) carts or portable
connections to local area networks (such as on an aircraft carrier), can be used to
download the data without physically removing the RMMs from the aircraft. When this
equipment is available, the data port defined by this standard can be used and no other
connection needs to be defined. As such, ground equipment designed to be used with a
specific advanced data recorder through the interface defined in this STANAG can be
used with any other STANAG-compliant recorder. In this scenario, the RMM should
only be powered by the aircraft through the recorder’s normal power interface. Also for
this scenario, only the NADS data/control interface should be used to download data
from the RMM, but it is possible that the ADSS was being controlled via its native
control interface at the time the NADS interface was to be used. Contention between the
recorder’s native control interface and the NADS interface must be avoided. The ADSS
must also be placed in an operational state where its NADS interface is functional. In
general it may not be possible to sequence power to the ADSS to enable its normal
power-up NADSI discovery process. It is therefore recommended that at the conclusion
of all airborne recording operations, the ADSS be commanded into a recorder state
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enabling the NADS interface and that all further airborne control communications be
suspended. This procedure should be defined in the mission application scenarios.
3. Assumptions and Ground Rules. The basic operation, architecture, physical make-up,
and required interfaces for the NATO Advanced Data Storage Interface Standard were
discussed during the initial working group meetings. The users and manufacturers
agreed on the following assumptions and ground rules for development of this standard.
3.1 RMM Capability. The data acquisition recorder will have a removable memory
capability, which incorporates the NADS Interface. This means that either the whole
recorder can be treated as an RMM and be easily removed from the acquisition platform
and taken to a ground station for data download, or the recorder will contain one or more
RMMs, which can be easily removed from the recorder and taken to a ground station for
data download.
3.2 RMM Port(s). The removable memory portion of the recorder (as defined in 3.1
above) will have port(s) for data download / control and power, as described in this
STANAG for the transfer of data to a ground station. The NADS interface is defined as
the essential interface between the removable RMM and a NATO ground system. The
NADS interface will be capable of interfacing with “flying leads”.
3.3 Interface. The STANAG 4575 interface defines the physical connector(s), power
requirements, the command set, the data interface (electrical and signal protocol), and the
file structure.
3.4 NADSI Connector Accessibility. The STANAG 4575 interface provides two RMM
connector options that compliant ground systems must support: 1) A single 50-pin D
subminiature connector providing both power and data/control interfaces or 2) Separate
military 38999 type connectors for the power and data/control interfaces. Consideration
should be given to the installed accessibility of the NADSI connectors for all NADSI
operating scenarios (see paragraph 2.4). For RMMs implementing 38999 connectors, the
37-pin power connector may be located to inhibit access when mated to its IU within the
aircraft (power safety) as long as it is accessible for operating scenario 2.
3.5 File Recovery. File recovery will be possible from the RMM when single or
multiple channels of independent sensor data are recorded. Files can be randomly
accessed from the download port based on directory listings.
3.6 Parameters Outside Control of the STANAG. The NADSI STANAG does not
control the physical size, performance levels, configuration and form factor for the
recorder and the removable RMM. Due to the variation in capacity/rate/ cost
requirements of the users, the NADSI STANAG also does not specify the technology to
be used within the removable RMM.
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3.7 Data Download Alternatives. A minimum of three alternatives are anticipated for
download of data from the recorder or RMM. These are: (1) normal operation between
an acquisition platform and its normal ground station, (2) removal of the RMM from the
acquisition platform and connection via the NADS interface to a “different” ground
station and (3) download from the acquisition platform to a “different” ground station
through the NADS interface via either an intermediate data storage unit or directly to a
ground station via cable.
3.7.1 Normal Operation. Normal operation means that an acquisition platform and its
associated ground station are fully integrated and provide maximum system capability.
This capability is to be achieved in one of two ways and either method allows the ground
station to fully meet its operational requirements. The first way is removal of the RMM
from the acquisition platform and insertion into the ground station interface unit, which is
fully integrated into the ground station. The second way would be transfer of the data to
the ground station via either a dedicated cable or a dedicated intermediate storage unit.
3.7.2 Direct Download to Compliant Ground Station. Operation with a STANAG 4575
compliant ground station will allow transfer of all stored data or download of specific
files via the NADS interface on the RMM. This allows data download rather than
providing full recorder capability. This download can be accomplished by removal of the
RMM and connection to the ground station via the NADS interface.
3.7.3 Download Via Intermediate Media or Cable. The third option is to transfer the
stored data via the NADS interface to an intermediate storage unit or to the ground
station via NADSI-compliant cable while the recorder is still installed in the acquisition
platform.
3.7.3.1 Power During Download. When the data is downloaded from the RMM via the
NADS interface to a compliant ground station and the RMM remains installed in the
aircraft, recorder power will be supplied by the aircraft, not from an intermediate storage
unit or cable. When the RMM is removed from the aircraft, power will be supplied from
the ground station via the NADS interface.
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ANNEX B
RATIONALE FOR INTERFACE SELECTION
1. Scope. This Annex provides the rationale for the selections of the various elements of
the interface.
3. Rationale for Selecting Fibre Channel Interface. Fibre Channel was selected as the
Physical and Signaling Interface after a thorough study of all the viable alternatives and
consideration of the application scenarios intended for the use of this STANAG.
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TABLE B-1
Candidate Protocols For NADSI (August 1999)
Protocol Data Rates Connections
SCSI Wide Ultra3 1.28 Gbps 68 wide parallel,
80 pin connector
SCSI Wide Ultra3 640 Mbps 68 wide parallel,
80 pin connector
SCSI Wide Ultra3 320 Mbps 68 wide parallel,
80 pin connector
SCSI Fast and Wide 160 Mbps 68 wide parallel,
80 pin connector
USB 12 Mbps 4 pin serial
Fibre Channel 100 Mbps – 4 Gbps CAT5 T.P., fibre, or coax
serial
Firewire 400 – 800 Mbps 6 pin serial
Ethernet 1.25 Gbps CAT5 T.P. serial
ATM 622 Mbps – 2.48 Gbps Copper, fibre
PCI 1 Gbps 120 pin parallel
SSA 640 Mbps 4 pin serial
HIPPI 6400 6.4 Gbps 20 wide copper,
10 wide fibre
3.2 Fibre Channel Selection. Fibre Channel was chosen because of a desire to use an
industry standard interface, rather than developing a new custom interface or adopting an
existing proprietary interface. Fibre Channel is already widely accepted for similar
applications (rapid movements of large amounts of data) and several contributing vendors
already have relevant experience.
The base Fibre Channel standards contain multiple options. There are some
features that are mandatory, while others are optional. In addition, there are optional
ways of implementing features; for example one can choose electrical or optical
transmission media, different signaling rates, etc. So by themselves, the base standards
do not ensure interoperability. The Fibre Channel community approaches the
interoperability issue by developing profiles that tend to follow market areas. The most
active market area is the storage industry. There are three main Fibre Channel
interoperability documents for storage as listed below.
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The NADSI Technical Support Team chose the FC-PLDA profile because of its
flexibility and because it is optimized for the Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) as
the command set that uses Fibre Channel as a transport mechanism. ANSI developed the
FC-PLDA profile by selecting options from the FC-FCP Fibre Channel Protocol for SCSI
[ANSI X3.269-1996], FC-AL Fibre Channel Arbitrated Loop [ANSI X3.272-1996], and
the SCSI-3 architecture model [ANSI X3.270-1996]. SCSI –3 was selected as the
command protocol for this NADSI standard because it is well suited to large file transfers
and most of the contributing vendors have existing experience with SCSI. The Fibre
Channel PLDA specification provides implementation details for mapping SCSI onto the
Fibre Channel interface. Use of these existing, commercially accepted documents is
preferable to developing new custom requirement specifications. Most, if not all,
commercially available FC chips and adapter boards support the FC-PLDA profile.
These profiles typically do not specify the lowest physical level of behavior, so
the selection of signaling rates, media type (optical or electrical and variants thereof), and
connectors must also be made in order to ensure interoperability. A 1 Gbps signaling rate
was initially selected because it was the fastest speed available at the time (200-2001),
but with the promulgation of Edition 3 of the STANAG that rate was changed to 2Gbps.
Copper cable was chosen instead of optical fiber because reliable copper connections that
run at 2 Gbps are available. Optical fiber is more difficult to work with, and optical fiber
connectors are not yet well suited to frequent mate-demate cycles, especially in harsh
environments. The main advantage of optical cable is for extended length connections.
At 2 Gbps, copper provides a 10-meter run length, which is considered more than
adequate for this application. If longer run lengths are needed in the future, copper to
fiber adapter modules are commercially available. The rationale behind connector
selection is described in section 6.0 of this Annex.
It should be noted that the FC-3 level in the Fibre Channel protocol defines
common services that may be available across multiple ports in a network. These include
mandatory services such as "Login Server" but they also include optional services such
as "Data Compression" and "Encryption" which are prohibited in the NADSI STANAG
and should be avoided in selecting services for the FC-3 level. However, this in no way
prevents the system from using encryption or compression at the application level. If
needed, data encryption and/or compression should be performed independent of and
transparent to the STANAG 4575 interface requirements.
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4. Rationale for the STANAG 4575 SCSI Control Protocol. Fibre Channel has been
selected as a well-defined, high-speed interface best suited for rapid download of ISR
mission data from a removable memory cartridge via a simple connection. Fibre Channel
supports a number of mapping layer (FC-4) protocols including SCSI, IPI, HIPPI, LE and
SBCCS. Of these, the SCSI protocols are the most widely used in computer peripheral
storage devices. The Fibre Channel Private Loop SCSI Direct Attach (FC-PLDA, ANSI
NCITS TR19-1998) interoperability profile has been selected as a requirement document
for STANAG 4575. Table 17 of the FC-PLDA document specifies a control protocol
using a subset of SCSI-3 commands, features and parameters for SCSI Disk and
Controller Devices. FC-PLDA defines SCSI command, feature and parameter usage
categories of “Required”, “Allowed”, “Invokable” and “Prohibited” between the SCSI
Initiator and its Target. FC-PLDA Table 17 definitions assume that the Target device is a
magnetic disk drive or equivalent device.
The STANAG 4575 control protocol must support a number of data storage
media technologies. Therefore the usage definitions of FC-PLDA Table 17 have been
redefined for STANAG 4575. Only the minimum set of SCSI commands required to
download ISR mission data from the memory cartridge are defined as “Required”. These
five STANAG 4575 “Required” SCSI commands are:
1. Test Unit Ready
2. Inquiry
3. Read Capacity
4. Read (10) Logical Block
5. Request Sense
Figure B-1 illustrates the selected standards, how the FC-PLDA profile selects
and restricts logical options in these standards to achieve interoperability and how
STANAG 4575 further tailors the “Required” SCSI command set.
Figure B-1
STANAG 4575 Standards and Interoperability Tailoring
Figure B-2 shows an example STANAG 4575 mission data download command
sequence following application of power to the compliant Memory Cartridge.
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Host Controller
Recorder
Test Unit Ready
SCSI Op Code 0x00
Return
Status = Good
Inquiry
SCSI Op Code 0x12
Return
Inquiry Data
Read Capacity
SCSI Op Code 0x25
Return
Block Size and
Address of Last
Block
Read Logical Block
1,1
(Read 1 Block
S t a r t i n g a t Ad d r e s s
1)
SCSI Op Code 0x28
Return
S T AN AG D i r e c t o r y
Return Requested
Mission Data
Figure B-2
Example STANAG 4575 Mission Data Download Command Sequence
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Figure B-3 shows an example of a command sequence where the NADSI Host
Controller issues a command not supported by the Memory Cartridge and how the
Memory Cartridge responds using protocols defined by the SCSI-3 Architecture Model.
(SAM). The SCSI-3 Architecture Model (SAM) defines SCSI status codes and Initiator-
Peripheral protocols to be used when the peripheral receives unsupported or illegal SCSI
commands. These protocols require the Peripheral to respond to an unsupported or
illegal command with a CHECK CONDITION status and to subsequently respond to the
Initiator’s Request Sense command with appropriate SENSE KEY and SENSE CODE
information. Since it is anticipated that ground download facilities will issue SCSI
commands other than just those “required” by STANAG 4575, NADSI compliant devices
must have a method of indicating unsupported or illegal commands.
Request Sense
SCSI Op Code 0x03 Sense Key = Illegal
Request
Sense Code = Invalid
Command Operation
Code
Figure B-3
Example Illustrating a Recorder’s Response to an Unsupported SCSI Command
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5. Rationale for Chosen File System Implementation. The recommended File System for
the STANAG 4575 is unique but quite simple. It is flexible enough that it can be
implemented in any media type. The file system provides a single directory that contains
basic information about each recorded file and also contains pointers to the beginning of
each file and block count for each file. The files described by the directory are the
containers for all other recorded data. No assumptions are made regarding the contents
of the files, any content and structure is permitted. Each file is required to be contained
within strictly sequential logical memory locations.
5.1.1 Commercial Alternatives. Existing commercial file systems were examined for
their suitability for this application. These included (but were not limited to):
5.1.1.1 UDF (CD-ROM and DVD file format). UDF is a new format, now used for
recording data on CD-ROM and DVD media. Software was not available to write data in
this format for any of the available embedded operating systems likely to be used by
recorders. Software was likely to be available to read this file system in many
commercial operating systems used at ground stations. Its complexity was judged too
difficult at this time to implement for most acquisition systems. There was concern about
the actual commercial support for media block sizes other than 2K. This was important;
especially for some of the media types that require large media block sizes.
5.1.1.2 ISO-9660 (CD-ROM file format). ISO-9660, with its various extensions, is the
standard format used for recording data on CD-ROM media. Software was likely to be
available to read this file system in all commercial operating systems used at ground
stations. The ISO-9660 file system’s complexity was judged too difficult to implement
by most of the recorder vendors. There was also a concern with this file system about
actual support for various media block sizes.
5.1.1.3 NTFS (Microsoft Windows NT File System). The NTFS has attractive fault
tolerance features, and permits very large files and a very large total address space. Its
design is proprietary and it is judged to be very difficult to implement in the commonly
used embedded operating systems used by many recorders. Multiple versions of NTFS
have been released by Microsoft, and they are not necessarily compatible with each
other. Thus broad compatibility with the installed base of NT workstations cannot be
assured.
5.1.1.4 FAT (Microsoft Windows File System). FAT –16 was immediately rejected due
to its file size limitations. FAT-32 is supported by both embedded and workstation
operating systems. The total data permitted to be stored is large, however a single file is
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limited to a maximum of 4 gigabytes. This would require very large files to be broken
down into multiple files. Common implementations are not optimized for very high-
speed transfers and some modifications or tests would be required of existing systems.
5.1.1.5 XFS (Silicon Graphics File System). The XFS file system is widely regarded as
extremely high performance, with regard to sustainable data rates and file sizes and total
file system sizes. It is being placed into the public domain by SGI for use by Linux based
systems. Unfortunately the file system is quite complex. The source code released to
date is tens of thousands of lines of code. Understanding and porting the relevant
portions of this code to embedded systems was considered a prohibitively expensive task.
Only SGI workstations support this file system at this time.
5.1.2 Modified Commercial Alternatives. The option to modify an existing standard was
also considered. These were considered because of the diverse architectures available
with advanced memory systems. The options examined include:
5.1.2.1 Logically Sequential Access Mode. A very simple approach of placing all data in
logically sequential files was proposed from within the group. Code would need to be
developed by both the recorder and ground segment devices to access data in this format.
Although new code would need to be developed by all parties, its implementation is
expected to be quite simple.
5.2 Conclusion. The two modified commercial alternatives developed widely polarized
positions within the industry participants. There was no compromise position developed
to bridge these views. The government participants concluded that no common solution
was going to be developed. In a government-only session, an agreement was reached to
ensure that the interface was as simple as possible and that the interface places the
minimum burden on the ground station. The “Logically Sequential Access Mode”
approach was selected as the file system to be used for this STANAG.
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6. Physical and Power Interface Selection Rationale. The rationale used in selecting the
connectors and power is discussed in this section. The choices made in this
determination were primarily based on the STANAG 4575 Interface Requirements as
provided below.
The original power (both voltages and the associated currents) was estimated by
the manufacturers for all anticipated RMMs. The working group reviewed this data and
a worse case set of voltages and currents was compiled. Subsequently, this list was
reviewed and revised downward to the current STANAG requirement.
6.1 STANAG 4575 Interface Requirements. The interface was based on the following
requirements:
1. Support the 3 operational scenarios for data download
2. Maintain Fibre Channel signal integrity and impedance control
3. Provide regulated, noise-free secondary power voltages to the RMM
4. Meet applicable EMI/EMC requirements in the NATO Processing Facility and
on the Flight Line when the STANAG 4575 interface is connected
5. Meet applicable EMI/EMC requirements within the acquisition platform when
the STANAG 4575 interface is not connected (captive EMI/dust connector
cover)
6. Provide an environmental seal on the RMM
7. Provide an easy and secure connection (connector retention mechanism)
f. Mate/De-mate Cycles
g. Carrier Deck Operations
2. Electrical Characteristics:
a. Copper versus Fibre connections
b. Converters and Adapters available
c. Voltage/Current and Sense Requirements
d. Grounding, Bonding and Shielding
e. EMI/EMC
3. Practical Application Characteristics:
a. Availability and Cost
b. Repair ability
c. Commercial Standards
6.2.2.2 EMI/EMC Considerations. EMI/EMC must be taken into consideration for all
three configurations of the RMM, including the case where cables are attached to the
RMM in the acquisition platform. EMC standards such as MIL-STD-461 (US) or DEF
STAN 5941 (UK) are typically invoked in these applications. The various EMC
standards available require a range of conducted and radiated emission and susceptibility
testing and typically specify that testing must simulate actual installation and usage, e.g.,
shielded cables or shielded leads (including power leads and wire grounds) within cables
should be used only if they have been specified in installation requirements. Cables
should be checked against installation requirements to verify proper construction
techniques such as use of twisted pairs, shielding, and shield terminations. Details on the
cable construction used for testing must be included in the EMI Test Procedure (EMITP).
In the case of the single 50-pin connector, it was thought that the CE and RE tests may be
difficult to pass with expected out-of-specification energy at the Fibre Channel baud rate
and at the power supply switching frequency and its harmonics. The two-connector
approach was considered in order to resolve this issue and to provide an alternative
connection method when necessary. Testing of the 50-pin connector and cable is
required in order to identify and resolve any EMI/EMC issues.
Another issue considered was that conducted susceptibility testing as described in
MIL-STD-461 and other EMC standards include subjecting the unit’s power lines to tests
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which inject voltage/current spikes, pulses and damped sine wave waveforms. Passing
some of these tests requires the use of protection devices that are not considered
appropriate for secondary input voltages such as 3.3VDC and therefore, those tests may
not apply to all the NADS power interface applications. However, since Mil-STD 461-E
(Appendix) requires that all interfaces be tested, alternate means for providing protection
to those circuits must be found or revised test requirements must be addressed.
6.2.3 D-sub connector Considerations. The use of D-sub connectors was strongly
desired by some members of the working group, based on size, expense and availability.
However, a significant number of questions were raised concerning their physical and
performance characteristics. A number of commercial and military users had test data
and good experience with both 9 pin D-sub and other low pin count D-sub connectors.
However, a single 50 pin D-Sub connector was being considered in order to support both
the signal and power requirements for NADSI. A summary of the trade-offs between the
single and two connector approach is provided in 6.2.3.3. Test data for the 50 pin D-sub
connector with acceptable gigabit rate Fibre Channel performance was not available at
the time. A number of groups agreed to technically investigate its performance, perform
testing and report to the TST.
6.2.3.1 D-sub Connector Testing. The following specific tests and investigations were
performed to determine adequacy of the D-sub connector:
1. One of the test groups at Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division
(NAWCAD) at Pax River had been investigating Fiber channel copper
connections. They provided a test demonstration of the D-sub 9-pin connector
with camera data. The 9-pin D-sub connector was clearly adequate for 1 Gbit
data transmission.
2. NAWCWD China Lake provided some preliminary test reports in conjunction
with Raytheon testing.
3. General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems (GDAIS) tests of the 50-
pin D-sub connector showed acceptable performance with no power supply
voltages applied.
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6.2.3.2 Locking Mechanisms for D-sub connectors. In the case where a D-sub connector
is used for download on the flight line, a locking mechanism is required. Multiple
locking methods were evaluated and the Positronics Corporation approach was
determined to be the best. Documentation, part numbers and permission to specify the
connectors based on ANSI Policies and Guidelines were obtained from Positronics
Corporation.
6.2.3.3 Use of one D-sub connector for power and signal vs. two connectors. Although
the 9 pin D-sub connectors were proven for both signal and power applications, meeting
the power requirements for all RMMs would require a minimum of a 37-pin power
connector. The use of a 9 pin and a 37-pin connector would have used much more space
on the RMM than a single connector. The expense for two connectors, covers and
locking mechanisms was contrary to the philosophy of minimum cost and size when
using the D-sub connectors. The single 50-pin D-sub connector was seen as the best
alternative.
6.2.3.4 Power/signal distribution for the D-sub connector. The power connections in the
50-pin D-sub connector are in the center with the signal connections at the ends. This
allows separation of the input and output high data rate signals and optimum distribution
of the power connections. The number of pins allocated to each voltage is dependent on
the maximum required current for each voltage. Sense wires for each voltage are
incorporated and additional pins are reserved.
6.2.4.1 Use of two MIL-Circular connectors for power and signal. In order to preserve
the maximum performance and allow for the highest potential currents in the power
connector, separate connectors for power and signal were chosen for the case where MIL
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6.3 Aircraft Power Availability and Power Safety Interlocks. Members of the working
group investigated the potential effects of an inadvertent connection to both the aircraft
power and ground support equipment (GSE) power while downloading data from the
RMM. Multiple interlock methods, both active and passive, were suggested. Each
method increased the complexity of the RMM interface for the connector and ground
station. No simple method was foolproof. The working group questioned the need for
GSE power and the CONOPS that governed aircraft power. The country POCs
investigated the availability of acquisition platform power during download of the RMM
while installed in the acquisition platform and determined that power would be available
in every case. It was therefore agreed by all members that power will not be applied by
the GSE for data download of the RMM while the RMM is in the acquisition platform.
6.4 STANAG Selections. The STANAG provides for two alternate configurations for
the signal and power connections to the RMM. The D-Sub connector with 50 pins is the
low cost, small size option that is primarily intended for use on small, commercial, or low
cost RMMs. The circular military connectors, such as with the W.L. Gore & Associates,
Inc. (or equivalent) insert and cable, is intended for harsh environment (fighter/pod) use
where circular military specifications are required. It also provides options for use in
specific applications or operating scenarios.
6.4.1 D-sub Military Connector. A 50 contact male D-sub (pin contacts), Amp P/N
746790-1 or equivalent, may be utilized on the RMM for the signal and power interface.
The pin assignments are provided in the STANAG and the quantity of pins supports the
required currents. In applications requiring a positive locking mechanism, a Positronic
Corporation 50 contact male D-sub connector, part number HDC50M32S0V30 (non-
hermetic), SAVAC50M (hermetic), or equivalent will be utilized. The mating cable will
utilize a 50 contact female D-sub connector, Amp P/N M24308/2-346F (solder) or T&B
P/N 622-50S (mass terminated) or equivalent, with the Positronic Corporation 50 contact
female D-sub connector with quick release locking mechanism and EMI backshell, part
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Figure B-4 provides a drawing of a typical STANAG 4575 cable assembly using
the 50 Pin D-sub Military mating connector for the RMM side (J2) and an HSSDC
connector (J1) for the Ground Station (GS) side of the cable assembly. It is important to
note the required pin-out descriptions for the connections between J1 and J2, that is: Tx-
on the GS side must go to Rx- on the RMM side. Similarly, Tx+ on the GS side must go
to Rx+ on the RMM side. The same pattern must be applied to the other 2-wire set of
connections in the cable assembly.
Figure B-4
Typical STANAG 4575 Cable Assembly using the 50 Pin D-sub Mil Connector
6.4.2 Circular Military Connectors. Two connectors were chosen for use in this
configuration, one for the data, and one to provide power. A chassis mount connector,
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part number W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc. FCN 1058 or FCN 1060, or equivalent is used
for the data in this configuration of the interface. (Note - The Amphenol connector,
TV06RW-11-54P, is listed as an equivalent connector and has been used successfully for
this application.) The mating cable utilizes the W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc. FCN 1059
connector or equivalent. A chassis mount connector, part number MIL-DTL-
38999/20WD35SN, or equivalent, is used for the power in this configuration of the
interface. The mating cable uses the MIL-DTL-38999/26WD35PN connector, or
equivalent.
Figure B-5 provides a drawing of a typical STANAG 4575 cable assembly using
the Circular Military FCN-1509N mating connector for the RMM side (J4) and an
HSSDC2 connector (J3) for the Ground Station (GS) side of the cable assembly. It is
important to note the required pin-out descriptions for the connections between J3 and J4,
that is: Tx- on the GS side must go to Rx- on the RMM side. Similarly, Tx+ on the GS
side must go to Rx+ on the RMM side. The same pattern must be applied to the other 2-
wire set of connections in the cable assembly.
Figure B-5
Typical STANAG 4575 Cable Assembly using the Circular Mil. Connector
6.4.3 Power Connector and Pin Assignments. The Power Interface for the STANAG
4575 port will be implemented in the RMM for the chosen connector configurations. The
voltage, currents and power pin definitions are specified in the STANAG, for each
connector configuration. Power supply regulation is required to be +/- 5% for 3.3, 5.0,
and 12 VDC, and +/- 10% for 28 VDC. These values were set, based on expected
operation of known RMMs in a controlled environment such as a ground station, by the
manufacturers in the working group.
6.4.4 Power Availability Policy. There are two scenarios that were considered in
determining the power availability policy. The first scenario involves removal of the
RMM from the acquisition platform and transportation to a ground facility to process the
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collected mission data. In that scenario the RMM will be powered through the STANAG
4575 power interface.
In the second scenario, the RMM remains on the acquisition platform, mounted
within its native Interface Unit (IU). In that scenario the RMM will be powered via
acquisition platform power only, using the recorder’s native power supply located within
its IU. The STANAG does not define or require RMM power protection logic for the
potentially damaging case of both acquisition platform and STANAG power being
simultaneously applied to the RMM. Power should never be applied by the download
equipment in this scenario. This determination was based on an investigation regarding
all participating countries into availability of acquisition platform power for data
download after a mission.
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APPENDIX 1 to ANNEX B
EXAMPLE OF NADSI FILE IMPLEMENTATION.
Filename : NADSITESTFILEalpha
File Size : 70,500,000 Bytes
File Start Address : 100 dec
File Block Count : 235,000 dec
File Create Date : 02 Oct 2002
File Create Time : 13:04:27.00
Filename : NADSITESTFILEbravo
File Size : 151,310,100 Bytes
File Start Address : 236,000 dec
File Block Count : 504,367 dec
File Create Date : 02 Oct 2002
File Create Time : 17:07:15.03
Filename : NADSITESTFILEcharlie
File Size : 47,220,000 bytes
File Start Address : 741,000 dec
File Block Count : 157,400 dec
File Create Date : 03 Oct 2002
File Create Time : 08:09:59.07
Filename : NADSITESTFILEdelta
File Size : 419,346,300 bytes
File Start Address : 899,000 dec
File Block Count : 1,397,821 dec
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* Note: The year and the seconds are not defined in the fourth file to show an example of
how the file system should work when portions of the field are unavailable.
2. NADSI Block Layout. The layout for NADSI blocks 1 and 2 is provided below for
the four files described above.
Byte Element
Number Element Byte File HEX DEC
(1-600) Number
1 Magic Number (8) 1 46 70 "F"
2 2 4F 79 "O"
3 3 52 82 "R"
4 4 54 84 "T"
5 5 59 89 "Y"
6 6 74 116 "t"
7 7 77 119 "w"
8 8 6F 111 "o"
9 Revision Number (1) 1 01 1 Edition 1
10 Shutdown (1) 1 FF 255 Good
Number of File Entries
11 (2) 1 00 0 2 files
12 2 02 2
13 Reserved (4) 1 FF 255
14 2 FF 255
15 3 FF 255
16 4 FF 255
17 Volume Name (32) 1 4E 78 "N"
18 2 41 65 "A"
19 3 44 68 "D"
20 4 53 83 "S"
21 5 54 84 "T"
22 6 45 69 "E"
23 7 53 83 "S"
24 8 54 84 "T"
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25 9 52 82 "R"
26 10 4D 77 "M"
27 11 4D 77 "M"
28 12 31 49 "1"
29 13 00 0 EOS Null
30 14 00 0 EOS Null
31 15 00 0 EOS Null
32 16 00 0 EOS Null
33 17 00 0 EOS Null
34 18 00 0 EOS Null
35 19 00 0 EOS Null
36 20 00 0 EOS Null
37 21 00 0 EOS Null
38 22 00 0 EOS Null
39 23 00 0 EOS Null
40 24 00 0 EOS Null
41 25 00 0 EOS Null
42 26 00 0 EOS Null
43 27 00 0 EOS Null
44 28 00 0 EOS Null
45 29 00 0 EOS Null
46 30 00 0 EOS Null
47 31 00 0 EOS Null
48 32 00 0 EOS Null
Forward Directory Link
49 (8) 1 00 0
50 Block 2 2 00 0
51 "Next Directory Block" 3 00 0
52 4 00 0
53 5 00 0
54 6 00 0
55 7 00 0
56 8 02 2
Reverse Directory Link
57 (8) 1 00 0
58 Block 1 2 00 0
59 "This Block" 3 00 0
60 4 00 0
61 5 00 0
62 6 00 0
63 7 00 0
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64 8 01 1
65 File Name (56) 1a 4E 78 "N"
66 2a 41 65 "A"
67 3a 44 68 "D"
68 4a 53 83 "S"
69 5a 54 84 "T"
70 6a 45 69 "E"
71 7a 53 83 "S"
72 8a 54 84 "T"
73 9a 46 70 "F"
74 10 a 49 73 "I"
75 11 a 4C 76 "L"
76 12 a 45 69 "E"
77 13 a 61 97 "a"
78 14 a 6C 108 "l"
79 15 a 70 112 "p"
80 16 a 68 104 "h"
81 17 a 61 97 "a"
82 18 a 00 0 EOS Null
83 19 a 00 0 EOS Null
84 20 a 00 0 EOS Null
85 21 a 00 0 EOS Null
86 22 a 00 0 EOS Null
87 23 a 00 0 EOS Null
88 24 a 00 0 EOS Null
89 25 a 00 0 EOS Null
90 26 a 00 0 EOS Null
91 27 a 00 0 EOS Null
92 28 a 00 0 EOS Null
93 29 a 00 0 EOS Null
94 30 a 00 0 EOS Null
95 31 a 00 0 EOS Null
96 32 a 00 0 EOS Null
97 33 a 00 0 EOS Null
98 34 a 00 0 EOS Null
99 35 a 00 0 EOS Null
100 36 a 00 0 EOS Null
101 37 a 00 0 EOS Null
102 38 a 00 0 EOS Null
103 39 a 00 0 EOS Null
104 40 a 00 0 EOS Null
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146 10/2/2002 2a 32 50
147 3a 31 49
148 4a 30 48
149 5a 32 50
150 6a 30 48
151 7a 30 48
152 8a 32 50
153 Create Time (8) 1a 31 49
154 13:04:27:00 2a 33 51
155 3a 30 48
156 4a 34 52
157 5a 32 50
158 6a 37 55
159 7a 30 48
160 8a 30 48
161 Time Type (1) Zulu 1a 00 0
162 Reserved (7) 1a FF 255
163 2a FF 255
164 3a FF 255
165 4a FF 255
166 5a FF 255
167 6a FF 255
168 7a FF 255
169 Vendor Unique (8) 1a FF 255
170 2a FF 255
171 3a FF 255
172 4a FF 255
173 5a FF 255
174 6a FF 255
175 7a FF 255
176 8a FF 255
177 File Name (56) 1b 4E 78 "N"
178 2b 41 65 "A"
179 3b 44 68 "D"
180 4b 53 83 "S"
181 5b 54 84 "T"
182 6b 45 69 "E"
183 7b 53 83 "S"
184 8b 54 84 "T"
185 9b 46 70 "F"
186 10 b 49 73 "I"
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187 11 b 4C 76 "L"
188 12 b 45 69 "E"
189 13 b 62 98 "b"
190 14 b 72 114 "r"
191 15 b 61 97 "a"
192 16 b 76 118 "v"
193 17 b 6F 111 "o"
194 18 b 00 0 EOS Null
195 19 b 00 0 EOS Null
196 20 b 00 0 EOS Null
197 21 b 00 0 EOS Null
198 22 b 00 0 EOS Null
199 23 b 00 0 EOS Null
200 24 b 00 0 EOS Null
201 25 b 00 0 EOS Null
202 26 b 00 0 EOS Null
203 27 b 00 0 EOS Null
204 28 b 00 0 EOS Null
205 29 b 00 0 EOS Null
206 30 b 00 0 EOS Null
207 31 b 00 0 EOS Null
208 32 b 00 0 EOS Null
209 33 b 00 0 EOS Null
210 34 b 00 0 EOS Null
211 35 b 00 0 EOS Null
212 36 b 00 0 EOS Null
213 37 b 00 0 EOS Null
214 38 b 00 0 EOS Null
215 39 b 00 0 EOS Null
216 40 b 00 0 EOS Null
217 41 b 00 0 EOS Null
218 42 b 00 0 EOS Null
219 43 b 00 0 EOS Null
220 44 b 00 0 EOS Null
221 45 b 00 0 EOS Null
222 46 b 00 0 EOS Null
223 47 b 00 0 EOS Null
224 48 b 00 0 EOS Null
225 49 b 00 0 EOS Null
226 50 b 00 0 EOS Null
227 51 b 00 0 EOS Null
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269 5b 31 49
270 6b 35 53
271 7b 30 48
272 8b 33 51
273 Time Type (1) Zulu 1b 00 0
274 Reserved (7) 1b FF 255
275 2b FF 255
276 3b FF 255
277 4b FF 255
278 5b FF 255
279 6b FF 255
280 7b FF 255
281 Vendor Unique (8) 1b FF 255
282 2b FF 255
283 3b FF 255
284 4b FF 255
285 5b FF 255
286 6b FF 255
287 7b FF 255
288 8b FF 255
289 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
290 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
291 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
292 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
293 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
294 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
295 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
296 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
297 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
298 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
299 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
UNUSED Block
300 Boundary UNUSED FF 255
301 Magic Number (8) 1 46 70 "F"
302 2 4F 79 "O"
303 3 52 82 "R"
304 4 54 84 "T"
305 5 59 89 "Y"
306 6 74 116 "t"
307 7 77 119 "w"
308 8 6F 111 "o"
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470 2c FF 255
471 3c FF 255
472 4c FF 255
473 5c FF 255
474 6c FF 255
475 7c FF 255
476 8c FF 255
477 File Name (56) 1d 4E 78 "N"
478 2d 41 65 "A"
479 3d 44 68 "D"
480 4d 53 83 "S"
481 5d 54 84 "T"
482 6d 45 69 "E"
483 7d 53 83 "S"
484 8d 54 84 "T"
485 9d 46 70 "F"
486 10 d 49 73 "I"
487 11 d 4C 76 "L"
488 12 d 45 69 "E"
489 13 d 64 100 "d"
490 14 d 65 101 "e"
491 15 d 6C 108 "l"
492 16 d 74 116 "t"
493 17 d 61 97 "a"
494 18 d 00 0 EOS Null
495 19 d 00 0 EOS Null
496 20 d 00 0 EOS Null
497 21 d 00 0 EOS Null
498 22 d 00 0 EOS Null
499 23 d 00 0 EOS Null
500 24 d 00 0 EOS Null
501 25 d 00 0 EOS Null
502 26 d 00 0 EOS Null
503 27 d 00 0 EOS Null
504 28 d 00 0 EOS Null
505 29 d 00 0 EOS Null
506 30 d 00 0 EOS Null
507 31 d 00 0 EOS Null
508 32 d 00 0 EOS Null
509 33 d 00 0 EOS Null
510 34 d 00 0 EOS Null
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552 4d 00 0
553 5d 18 24
554 6d FE 254
555 7d B7 183
556 8d 7C 124
557 Create Date (8) 1d 30 48
558 10/3/---- 2d 33 51
559 3d 31 49
560 4d 30 48
561 5d 2D 45
562 6d 2D 45
563 7d 2D 45
564 8d 2D 45
565 Create Time (8) 1d 30 48
566 09:59:---- 2d 39 57
567 3d 35 53
568 4d 39 57
569 5d 2D 45
570 6d 2D 45
571 7d 2D 45
572 8d 2D 45
573 Time Type (1) Zulu 1d 00 0
574 Reserved (7) 1d FF 255
575 2d FF 255
576 3d FF 255
577 4d FF 255
578 5d FF 255
579 6d FF 255
580 7d FF 255
581 Vendor Unique (8) 1d FF 255
582 2d FF 255
583 3d FF 255
584 4d FF 255
585 5d FF 255
586 6d FF 255
587 7d FF 255
588 8d FF 255
589 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
590 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
591 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
592 UNUSED UNUSED FF 255
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ANNEX C
ACQUISITION GUIDANCE
The intent for future data storage system capabilities go far beyond the requirements
for downloading acquired data to a ground station from an RMM via a NADS interface.
There are many alternatives that would allow the NADS interface to meet its minimum
requirements while providing a much more extensive capability to programs that specify
additional capability. In addition, mechanical and electronic interfaces used for system
download may use any portion of the NADSI interface and capability via additional
connectors and couplers when operating with their native ground station.
It should be noted that the basic concept of this architecture includes provisions
for removing the memory module from the platform for replay in the ground station.
This concept is the most stressing of the operational scenarios. The ability to remove the
memory can involve removal of the portion of the recorder that contains the memory
media, or in some designs can include removal of the entire recorder, provided that this
can be done within the timelines provided by the specific application. In addition, in
some application scenarios, the data will be downloaded directly at the acquisition
platform, using portable download equipment that can be transported to a ground station,
or in the case of carrier operations and other applications with limited distances, may be
directly connected to the ground station. As the program acquisition office develops the
specification, consideration should be made to ensure the interoperability with allied
forces, while meeting the requirements of the application. The specification outlines
provided herein, should be used as guidance for developing the acquisition specification,
which would be tailored to the application.
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3.1 Required Drivers Based on the results of the first phase testing program conducted
by the NADS TST during the STANAG 4575 development, it was determined that some
Ground Station processor operating systems may require a driver be developed to allow
download of data from the RMM. (See paragraph 1.1 of Annex F, Testing of NADS
Interface with CIGSS Test Van at NAWC, China Lake, CA; 3 May 2001. )
3.2 Application Scenario Indicated Functionality. The interface should provide the
functionality to download the data contents of the RMM. This implies that the ground
station will determine the logical block size, access the directory of the RMM data files,
and be able to select and download individual files, file segments, or all of the files.
3.3 RMM Variability. STANAG 4575 defines the general requirements to support the
RMM operation in a ground station. These requirements apply to a wide range of RMM
designs, using various technologies and a wide range of specific requirements within
those general requirements of the STANAG. Consideration should be given to factors
relating to handling, positioning and normal safety precautions for these devices when
transported and used in a ground station.
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3.4 Interface Connections. The flying lead used in the ground station should be of
adequate length and appropriate placement to allow easy connection to the RMM in the
designed space and location. The length of the flying lead should be kept to a minimum
in accordance with good engineering design practice. STANAG 4575 allows the use of
both Mil Circular and D-sub connectors. The ground station must provide a method of
connection for both types of connectors.
3.4.1 Optical vs. Copper Connectors. Investigation into optical vs. copper connector
reliability determined that optical connections and cable are less reliable in an adverse
environment or in an application which requires frequent mating and un-mating,
especially in a dirty environment. Since there are in-line converters available to change
from copper to optical and back, copper was chosen as the NADS interface connection
with the belief that a copper to optical converter could be used whenever necessary.
Commercially available Fibre Channel Media Interface Adapters (MIA) typically use 9-
pin D-subminiature connectors for the copper interface. MIA pin assignments include
voltage and ground pins for powering MIA-internal electrical-to-optical conversion
electronics. Neither of the NADSI connector options is directly compatible with standard
MIA units. It will be necessary for programs wishing to convert to optical fiber to
develop custom conversion cabling and means for powering the associated electrical-to-
optical conversion electronics.
3.5 Power. STANAG 4575 requires that power to operate the RMM be supplied by the
ground station when the RMM is removed from the ADSS on the acquisition platform
and connected directly via the NADS Interface to the ground station. Since in many case
STANAG 4575 power voltages (+3.3VDC, +5.0VDC, +12.0VDC) will be directly
connected to the RMM’s internal electronics, it is imperative that these voltage be well
regulated, noise-free and carefully applied to the unit. Design considerations for the
STANAG 4575 power supply system are discussed by topic below.
3.5.1 Output Current: The maximum STANAG 4575 currents versus voltage are shown
in the Table C-2. It is recommended that the power supplies be rated to supply at least
50% more current than these requirements in order to achieve high power supply
reliability and long life.
TABLE C-2
Maximum STANAG 4575 Currents vs. Voltage
STANAG 4575
Recommended P.S.
Voltage Current
Current Rating
Requirement
+3.3 VDC 15 A 22.5 A
+5.0 VDC 10 A 15 A
+12.0 VDC 13.5 A 20 A
+28 VDC 5A 7.5 A
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3.5.2 Voltage Regulation: The regulation of the +3.3V, +5.0V and +12.0V power
supplies should be rated at +/- 5% under full load conditions. The regulation of the +28V
power supply should be rated at +/- 10% under full load conditions.
3.5.3 Output Noise and Ripple: Output noise and ripple on the +3.3V, +5.0V and
+12.0V power supplies should be rated at 2% or less of the regulated output voltage
under full load conditions.
3.5.4 Over Voltage Output Protection: The power supply outputs should be protected
against over voltage conditions with adjustable or preset crowbar limits of nominally
110% of the regulated output voltage.
3.5.5 Load Short Circuit Protection: The power supply outputs should be internally
protected against short circuit loads.
3.5.6 Remote Sense: The STANAG 4575 power cable is expected to produce voltage
drops in both the voltage and return wires. To offset these losses the NADSI power
connectors provide remote sense pins for the +3.3V, +5.0V and +12.0V voltages and
their returns. The power supplies must be capable of offsetting wiring voltage losses that
are proportional to the load current, the number of wire pairs, the wire gauge (resistivity
per foot) and length. See comments below on power cable length. In order to determine
the required power supply remote sense capabilities it will be necessary to calculate the
expected wire losses. It is recommended that power supply vendor’s remote sense
application notes be consulted during design of the power supply system.
3.5.7 Power Cable Length: In general wire gauge #22 is the maximum size compatible
with the 37-pin 38999 connector. The 50-pin D-sub may support #20 or #18 gauge wire.
It is important that all of the power wires in both connectors be populated with maximum
gauge stranded copper wire. In general 19 stranding provides the lowest resistance per
foot in each gauge. It is important to implement the shortest power cable that is practical,
to calculate the resulting voltage drops in the cable and to ensure that the losses are
within the regulation capabilities of the selected power supplies using their remote
sensing. If a practical cable length cannot be met, it may be possible to use a transition
cable approach with the longer length implemented with lower gauge wire (see figure C-
1 below).
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Figure C-1
Example Transmission Cable Approach
3.5.8 Soft Start Voltage Application: In general the STANAG 4575 power supply
voltages will be connected to RMM electronics containing a significant amount of bypass
capacitance. It is important that the power supplies provide a “soft start” feature to insure
inrush current is limited. The power supply voltages should be established with a
controlled, continuously increasing voltage rise that is neither too fast nor too slow. It is
recommended that each power supply transition from OFF to 90% of its regulated
voltage in no less than 0.5 milliseconds under no load conditions. It is recommended that
each power supply transition from OFF to 90% of its regulated voltage in no more than
5.0 milliseconds under full load conditions.
3.5.9 Power ON Overshoot: The power supply overshoot during the power ON
transition should be no more than 50 millivolts for the +3.3V, +5.0V and +12.0V
voltages. An overshoot of up to 500 millivolts is acceptable on the +28V voltage.
3.5.10 Power Interlock: The STANAG 4575 power connector must be fully mated to the
RMM prior to the application of power to avoid damaging the unit. It is important that
the power supply design properly utilize the interlock feature that has been defined for
the STANAG 4575 power connectors. This interlock consists of a short circuit between
two pins within the connector. The power supply design must sense a continuous short
circuit between these pins for a minimum of 5 seconds before applying power. This time
was arbitrarily estimated as the maximum time required to firmly attach either power
connector to the RMM following initial connector contact. Any loss of interlock
continuity must restart the 5-second time interval (clumsy operator provision). Should
interlock continuity be lost after power has been applied to the RMM, power should be
automatically disconnected immediately and only reconnected following 5 continuous
seconds of continuity. Implementing this interlock will require logic within the power
supply system that is separately powered.
3.5.11 Power System Protection: It is recommended that primary power source to the
STANAG 4575 power supply system be protected with either a fuse or circuit breaker.
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3.5.12 Power Safety: The power supply system and all of its cabling should be designed
to eliminate any risk to the operating personnel.
3.5.13 Simulated RMM Load Fixture: It is highly recommended that a simple resistive
load fixture be developed that can be connected to the power cable via either the 50-pin
D subminiature or 37-pin 38999 connector. The power supply loads should be designed
to draw the maximum currents as specified in STANAG 4575. Voltage test points should
be provided for rapid measurement. This load fixture would be useful for initially
verifying the operating characteristics of the NADSI power supply and as a quick safety
check prior to connection to each RMM. It will be important to accurately measure each
voltage at the load to ensure that the remote sense circuitry is operative.
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APPENDIX 1 to ANNEX C
1. SCOPE.
1.1 Introduction. Introduce and name the equipment covered and state the purpose for
the specification.
3. Requirements / Definitions
3.1 Advanced Data Storage System (ADSS) Definition. Describe the total storage
system being addressed by the specification. This might include the airborne recorder
with the RMM and a description of planned CONOPS. Required partitioning of the
ADSS, specific RMM and native system docking requirements should be included.
3.1.1 Interface Definition and Characteristics. Describe and show by Block diagrams the
various interfaces associated with program requirements.
3.1.1.1 Mechanical Interface. The mechanical interface for the RMM should be clearly
defined using drawings and descriptions showing size, weight and dimensional data for
all hardware and connector placement. Description of removal and insertion procedure
and clearances for the RMM is described, as well as time requirements and power
interlock considerations. Physical interface and accessibility as well as
connect/disconnect restrictions of the NADSI high-speed download port are also
described. Some of these parameters can also be covered under Physical Characteristics.
3.1.1.2.1 ADSS Cooling Requirements. If cooling is required for the ADSS, the cooling
method to be used (Conduction forced air, Conduction to liquid cooled surface,
Convection, etc) should be defined with the temperature limits for which the ADSS will
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3.1.1.3 Electrical Interface. The Electrical Interface information for the high-speed
download NADS 4575 port of the RMM will be taken directly from Annexes B & C of
STANAG 4575. The information below is guidance for preparing specifications defining
the electrical interfaces between the aircraft and the ADSS.
3.1.1.3.2 Control / Status Interface. Specifications for the Control and Status interfaces
should list all protocols that will be used (e.g. MIL-STD-1553, RS-422, RS-232, SCSI
over Fibre Channel, etc.) and the order of desired preference. If there is an override
preference between the STANAG 4575 and the commands on the ADSS bus, it should be
so indicated. The Control bus protocol, control commands, status messages and error-
handling protocol should be clearly defined. Non-interference requirements between the
native and NADSI interface should be identified.
3.1.1.3.3 Data Interfaces. The Data Interface specification should clearly define the
number of data interfaces and kind and number of ports for each. For example, two
separate data input interfaces and two or more separate data output interfaces may be
required. Additional capabilities to consider might include:
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The capability to record/reproduce data via the NADSI interface as the primary
interface to the recorder should be considered.
3.1.1.3.3.1 Input Data Interface and Data Rate. The input data interface protocol should
be clearly defined (SCSI, Fibre Channel, DCRsi eight bit parallel, etc.) with references
provided to appropriate standards. Interface connectors should be clearly defined with
part numbers, diagrams and tables defining pin-outs and associated signal names.
Data Rates for each of the input interfaces should be specified independently for
maximum capability as well as capability when operating simultaneously with the other
input interfaces. The method or command by which the data rate for the interfaces is
controlled should also be specified here.
3.1.1.3.3.2 Output Data Interface and Data Rate. The output data interface should also be
clearly defined as to types and protocols to be used, providing references to appropriate
standards. Interface connectors should be clearly defined with part numbers, diagrams
and tables defining pin-outs and associated signal names. The capability for selective
and general dubbing of data to external equipment should be specified if required.
Data Rates for each of the output interfaces should be specified independently for
maximum capability as well as capability when operating simultaneously with the other
output interfaces. The method or command by which the data rate for the interfaces is
controlled should also be specified here. If required, the rate for dubbing should be
specified here.
3.2 Characteristics.
3.2.1 Performance.
3.2.1.1 Non-Volatility. In the first NADS TST meeting, the group accepted that non-
volatile storage was to be used in principle. Nonvolatile (sometimes written as "non-
volatile") storage (NVS) can be implemented using a large number of different memory
technologies. These include semiconductor, optical, magneto-optical, and magnetic
memories. In this section, the author would define the length of time that implies non-
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volatility, any restriction on the techniques that can be used to provide this function (such
as acceptability of batteries), and the requirements for proper erasure of the storage
media. Since non-volatility can be influenced by environmental conditions, storage and
transportation of NVS media should also be addressed.
Note – Declassification is addressed separately in AEDP-3.
For some data storage media types there may be as many as three non-volatility
specifications:
1. The length of time that recorded data must be accurately retained in memory
when used in the normal operational scenario. This time could range from
hours to years and the data must be fully recoverable at the original error rate.
The media storage environment, conditions and handling should be specified,
which may include intermittent operation (or the inability to operate) of the
memory element (such as for disk or tape) or for checking or changing
batteries.
2. The minimum write/re-write cycles that allow full retention of the data and
provide the full memory capacity originally specified. The number of
write/read/erasure cycles can affect both the error rate and the retention of
user data. In addition, some portions of the memory may be re-written much
more often than others, causing data loss earlier than the bulk of the memory
unit. These issues must be considered when specifying the time over which
the NVS requirement must be maintained for all memory elements.
3. As portions of the memory become defective, remapped or unreliable over
time, volatility becomes dependent on data location within the memory and
the overall memory capacity is reduced. In time, the Non-memory portions of
the system can contribute significantly to memory loss or become the
dominant failure mode. The system/media operational lifetime over which
the NV requirement must be maintained should be specified based on the
overall performance and capacity requirements.
3.2.1.2 RMM Capacity. Required user data storage capacity for the RMM should be
specified in this section. Since capacity of memory modules in Advanced Data Storage
systems is constantly increasing, users may elect to specify current minimum acceptable
memory capacity with design goals for future growth and acceptable upgrade methods.
For example upgrades may exclude any mechanical, electrical or software/firmware
redesign and allow growth only by adding additional memory. (There is a difference in
usage of the capacity multipliers commonly used to define memory. Traditional mass
memory devices have defined “megabyte” to mean 106=1,000,000. Computer system
memories usually are stated in terms of a “megabyte” as meaning 220= 1,048,576. To
avoid ambiguity, the specification should clearly state which of these applies to this
procurement.) In terms of STANAG 4575, megabytes refers to 106 bytes.
Data storage technologies using portions of the user data space to perform “circular
buffer” operation, where the recorder automatically over-writes the “oldest” mission data
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when its storage capacity is reached, then users should specify the minimum amount of
mission data that must be retained in this mode of operation.
3.2.1.3 Time.
3.2.1.3.1 Access Time. Access time is that time from when a command is issued until
the actual operation begins. It should be specified precisely for both write and read
operations, in order to clearly define the requirements and permit later verification of
compliance. The access time needs to be measured over a broad range of data addresses
that are possible to be accessed and should be specified as a minimum, maximum and
average measured value. It is usually important to be aware of the events in the timeline
of the interface to the data storage system, however, the access time is an overall value,
which includes all steps in a write or read operation.
3.2.1.3.1.1 Read Access Time. Read access time is the time from the transmission of the
last byte of the command to access data until the time that the first byte of data has been
transferred to the host. Average and maximum times should be specified.
3.2.1.3.1.2 Write Access Time. Write access time is the time from the transmission of
the last byte of a command to write data (or a file) to the data storage device, until the
time that the first byte of data is written (i.e. when the write operation begins) on/in the
media. Average and maximum times should be specified.
3.2.1.3.1.3 Access Time Verification. Compliance to the specification for the read and
write access times should be verified. This measurement includes the complete end-to-
end time to initiate and begin the operation, regardless of intermediate steps. Care should
be taken to use data addresses for this testing that are representative of the entire memory
span and that the sequence of test addresses includes the full range of adjacent and distant
addresses.
3.2.1.3.2 Startup Time. Startup time is considered to be the minimum time required for
the storage device to accept all supported commands from the time when power is
applied, assuming the drive temperature is within the operating range. Additional
requirements for temperature extremes should also be inserted here, if applicable. .
Startup time includes booting the recorder’s software, performing its Operation
Readiness Test (ORT), enabling Periodic Built In Test (PBIT) and entering the Initialized
mode (ready for host commands over either its native or NADSI control interface.
3.2.1.3.3 Erasure Time. Some data storage technologies such as solid-state Flash
memory require erasure before they can be re-written with new mission data. The
recorder specification should identify the time allowed to perform bulk erasure of the
RMM between missions. Declassification of mission data is discussed in AEDP-3.
Applications requiring erasure of individual record sessions or files should provide
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3.2.1.4 Modes of Operation – The method for selection of the modes of operation by the
host system should be specified, e.g. by the control/status interface or by front panel, etc.
One could also specify mode interdependencies and mode change times in this section.
Some typical Modes of Operation that could be specified and example definitions and/or
requirements are presented below in 3.2.1.4.1 thru 3.2.1.4.8.
The use of the term “Mode” is only descriptive. For example, there is not
required to be either an “Initialize Mode” command issued by a system controller or an
“Initialize Mode” response issued by an ADSS. The behaviors and responses associated
with these modes are common and need to be considered in procurements, controlled by
specifications, and defined in interface control documents. The recorder acquisition
program may require:
1. Either strict adherence (emulation) to or compatibility with an existing
recorder control protocol (minimize host software changes).
2. Use of an existing control protocol with specified enhancements to support
new operational capabilities.
3. Definition of the recorder’s required operational modes, functional capabilities
and status reporting, allowing the ADSS supplier to tailor a custom control
protocol to the application.
3.2.1.4.1 Off Mode. The ADSS will be in the “OFF” mode when power is not applied.
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4. As a goal in this mode, the ADSS will minimize power consumption (e.g.,
operate only those circuits necessary for communication with the host system,
power-supply control, BIT or heaters).
5. Means should be provided for the system controller to determine that the
ADSS is initializing and not yet ready to respond to functions associated with
the Operate Mode.
3.2.1.4.3.1 Legacy Tape Emulation Functions. Rotary magnetic tape recorders have
historically been used in many Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)
applications. These recorders write wideband mission data in transverse or helical tracks
along a ribbon of magnetic tape housed in a removable cassette or cartridge.
Longitudinal tracks along the edge of the tape may be written with additional low rate
data that may be either played back along with the wideband data or used to search the
tape for particular areas of interest. Advanced Data Storage Systems (ADSS) may be
retrofitted into legacy magnetic tape recorder applications to gain advantages of their
lower size, power and weight and improved reliability and environmental ruggedness. In
these applications it may be required that the ADSS exactly emulate the previously used
magnetic tape recorder in its interfaces, modes of operation and control protocol. In such
cases it is important to supply hardware and control protocol Interface Control
Documents (ICD) for the legacy magnetic tape recorder that define these details for the
ADSS supplier. Figure C-1-1 provides a sample interface diagram for a typical
application of an ADSS configured for Tape Recorder Emulation.
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When emulating legacy magnetic tape recorders the ADSS must support data
“record” or “play” modes. Due to the sequential access mode of magnetic tape, a
simultaneous record and play mode is not supported, however, some tape emulators add
enhanced features beyond the normal capabilities of tape systems. Typically the recorder
supports only a single wideband record and a single wideband playback interface.
Magnetic recorders generally implement dedicated record and playback data interfaces
using 8-bit data word widths and differential emitter coupled logic (DECL) drivers and
receivers. These data interfaces generally provide special signals that allow the host
system to control the data that is recorded on a byte-by-byte basis and to control the flow
of playback data (e.g.: in data link or on board review applications).
Figure C-1-1
ADSS Tape Emulation Model
With magnetic tape emulation, the recorder is responsible for accepting record
data and placing the data in logically sequential memory locations defined by the ADSS.
Magnetic recorders generally support host queries for the current tape position during
record (e.g.: current track set ID (TSID) or scan block) so that an external tape directory
can be generated. In many legacy applications the detailed mission tape directory is
downloaded to tape over the wideband record data channel at the end of the airborne
mission. Supporting a NADSI compliant file directory in magnetic tape emulation mode
would require either the ADSS to internally generate one or the external host to generate
one and download it at the conclusion of the mission.
the normal Record Data Interface. The dashed lines and box were meant to indicate a
method of time multiplexing between the host held file directories and sensor data being
applied to the ADSS Record Data Interface.
Longitudinal tape channels are frequently used to record data such as voice
annotation, time code, platform data, event marks, rotary head scan number, etc. These
channels may be used to search for specific wideband data segments of interest.
Alternately the recorder may provide a tape footage counter used to locate data segments.
Magnetic tape requires erasure before reuse. However erasure heads are generally
implemented within the tape transport and are automatically energized during Record
mode such that a separate Erase command is not required. These recorders may also
support standard avionics test modes such as Operation Readiness Test (ORT), Periodic
Built-In Test (PBIT) and Initiated Built-In Test (IBIT) although much of the provided
status is associated with tape transport mechanisms which may not apply to the ADSS.
3.2.1.4.3.1.1 Record Function. The ADSS will record user data at a host controlled data
rate. The record command will be rejected (with cause) if the installed RMM is write-
protected. The ADSS will be able to sustain recording at data rates up to the maximum
specified rate. If record data will be provided in bursts, the peak input data rate should be
clearly defined. The ADSS will provide a “Record” status indication to the host system
over the control/status interface in accordance with the ICD.
3.2.1.4.3.1.2 Play Function. The ADSS will playback the previously recorded data
requested by the host system. A host system may request either playback of a specific
data segment or playback starting from a specific memory location. Only the data
requested by the host system will be outputted. The playback data rate will be controlled
by the host and will support data rates up to the maximum specified. Requirements for
the ADSS to support playback data flow control mechanisms should be stated. The
maximum time between the play command and the ADSS beginning to output the
requested data may be specified. The ADSS will provide a “Play” status indication on the
control/status interface to the host system in accordance with the ICD.
3.2.1.4.3.1.3 Stop Function. This function is invoked to end any of the other functions,
e.g., record, play, fast-forward, rewind or search. This function may also be used to return
the system to the Operate mode, where the ADSS is ready to accept new functional
commands.
3.2.1.4.3.1.4 Auxiliary Channel Function. Requirements for record and playback of other
channels such as voice annotation, time code, platform data, event marks, rotary head
scan number, etc. should be clearly stated. Requirements for these tracks to be readable
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during playback or simulated fast-forward, rewind or search modes should also be clearly
stated.
3.2.1.4.3.1.5 Fast-Forward, Rewind and Search Function. The legacy approach for
positioning tape for playback of a particular data segment should be clearly defined. This
is particularly important if external equipment such as a time code reader is used in the
tape positioning control loop. If Search commands will be issued that contain parameters
such as time code, TSID or scan blocks this should be clearly stated.
3.2.1.4.3.1.6 File Directory. Detailed requirements for both the legacy mission file
directory and the NADSI file directory should be provided. For directories generated
external to the ADSS the methods for extracting ADSS record addresses and for
eventually storing the directory on the ADSS media should be provided. If the NADSI
file directory is to be generated by the ADSS the method of providing individual file
entry annotation (file name, create data, create time, etc.) should be defined.
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Figure C-1-2
ADSS Intelligent Peripheral Model
Similar to the Tape Recorder Emulation model, the Intelligent Peripheral provides
separate data and control interfaces. This allows the record data interfaces to be
connected directly to the mission sensors, radar system or data compression suite without
additional data buffering or multiplexing. The ADSS may also accept auxiliary inputs
such as IRIG time code, event marks, voice annotation or platform data for recording or
time-stamping the sensor data. These recorders support standard avionics test modes such
as ORT, PBIT and IBIT. The Intelligent Peripheral architecture also facilitates placement
of the NADSI mandated Fibre Channel interface (with its software) on the removable
memory unit.
Primary operational commands for intelligent peripheral include: Record, Stop
Record, Play, Stop Play, Erase and File Directory request. The following sections provide
recommended requirements for these modes.
3.2.1.4.3.2.2 Play Function. The Intelligent Peripheral ADSS Play (Read) command
may provide parameter fields to allow independently initiating a playback operation on
any of its multiple playback data interfaces. The ADSS will playback the previously
recorded data requested by the host system. A host system may request either playback of
a specific data segment or playback starting from a specific memory location. Only the
data requested by the host system will be outputted. The playback data rate will be
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controlled by the host and will support data rates up to the maximum specified.
Requirements for the ADSS to support playback data flow control mechanisms should be
stated. The maximum time between the play command and the ADSS beginning to
output the data may be specified. The ADSS will provide a “Play” status indication on
the control/status interface to the host system in accordance with the ICD.
3.2.1.4.3.2.4 Stop Record Function. An ADSS providing multiple record data interfaces
or a simultaneous record and playback function requires a Stop Record command so that
the host can specify the exact function to be terminated.
3.2.1.4.3.2.5 Stop Play Function. An ADSS providing multiple play data interfaces or a
simultaneous record and playback function requires a Stop Play command so that the host
can specify the exact function to be terminated.
3.2.1.4.3.2.6 Erase Function. An ADSS using solid state Flash memory may require a
separate bulk erasure mode to prepare the memory for the next mission.
(Note: ADSS declassification is addressed in AEDP-3.)
3.2.1.4.3.2.8 File Directory. If the application will be generating a mission file directory
external to the recorder, an approach should be specified for determining the ADSS
assigned record addresses and for eventually storing the directory to the ADSS. The
method of providing individual file entry annotation (e.g.: file name, create data, create
time, etc.) for the recorder’s NADSI file directory should be defined if the specified
default parameters are not acceptable.
3.2.1.4.3.3 DASD Functions. A direct access device is always given the specific
addresses at which all data is to be accessed from. A data access command, such as
“read” or “write” from the system controller specifies both the starting address as well as
the number of memory addresses to be read or written. Because this type of ADSS does
not interface directly to the sensors, the number of channels of sensor data and their types
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are not directly defined by the ADSS. The system controller conveys sensor data with
“read” and “write” commands. The data associated with these commands can come from
any type or combination of sensors. Also, a DASD device permits “read” and “write”
commands to occur in any sequence and to access any region of memory. The tradeoff of
this flexibility in handling arbitrary sensor data is that the system controller must be more
complex than that of a tape emulation type of ADSS and any required signal conversion
or signal processing must be performed outside of the ADSS. Figure C-1-3 provides an
interface diagram for an ADSS configured as a DASD.
3.2.1.4.3.3.1 Read Function. The ADSS will accept “READ” commands in accordance
with the protocol selected for use (e.g., SCSI).
3.2.1.4.3.3.1.1 Read Data Rate. The procuring authority specifies the channel rate (its
intrinsic data carrying capability) directly by specifying the channel type. The host
controls the data transfer rate by the rate at which it issues data access commands. The
procuring authority specifies the transfer rate the media must support by defining the
characteristics of the read data rate.
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ADSS
Sensor #1 DASD
Buffer/ Model
Multiplexer/ Mission File
Demux Directory
Sensor #N
NADSI File
Playback Data Directory NADS
Control Interface(s)
NADSI File
Data & Status Removable Media
Directory
Mission File
Host
Directory Controller Multiplexed Data & Control
Interface
Power Interface
Figure C-1-3
Interface Diagram for DASD Configured ADSS
The ADSS will transfer data through its system interface at a burst rate equal to
the capacity of the required channel type. It will be capable of a minimum sustained
transfer rate of “X” megabytes per second measured for a total transfer of “Y” megabytes
with individual read transfers greater than “Z” kilobytes per transfer. The minimum size
of each transfer needs to be specified so as to make sure that efficient use is being made
of the data channel and that the required performance is a measure of the ADSS and not
of the channel itself. The total transfer size needs to be specified in order to quantify the
meaning of the word “sustained” in the transfer rate specification. It may also be
necessary to specify that read cache memory is not to be used by the ADSS when
measuring this data rate so that the measurement correctly reflects the intrinsic media
capabilities.
The DASD type of ADSS understands only blocks of data, not files; therefore it is
not necessary or possible to specify “file-handling” performance.
The previously specified access time measurement, combined with the Read data
rate will allow for system performance predictions to be made.
3.2.1.4.3.3.2.1 Write Data Rate. The procuring authority specifies the channel rate (its
intrinsic data carrying capability) directly by specifying the channel type. The host
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controls the data transfer rate by the rate at which it issues data access commands. The
procuring authority specifies the transfer rate the media must support by defining the
characteristics of the write data rate.
The ADSS will transfer data through its system interface at a burst rate equal to
the capacity of the required channel type. It will be capable of a minimum sustained
transfer rate of “X” megabytes per second measured for a total transfer of “Y” megabytes
with individual write transfers greater than “Z” kilobytes per transfer. The minimum size
of each transfer needs to be specified so as to make sure that efficient use is being made
of the data channel and that the required performance is a measure of the ADSS and not
of the channel itself. The total transfer size needs to be specified in order to quantify the
meaning of the word “sustained” in the transfer rate specification. It may also be
necessary to specify that write cache memory is not to be used by the ADSS when
measuring this data rate so that the measurement correctly reflects the intrinsic media
capabilities.
This type of ADSS understands only blocks of data, not files; therefore it is not
necessary or possible to specify “file-handling” performance.
The previously specified access time measurement, combined with the Write data
rate will allow for system performance predictions to be made.
3.2.1.4.3.4 File Server Functions. A File Server device accepts data access commands,
such as “read” or “write” from the system controller over a network interface. Unlike a
DASD device, a file server uses these commands with a reference to a file identifier and a
block offset into that file. This combines some of the features of tape emulation and of a
DASD device. Like a tape emulation ADSS, a file server does not need to convey actual
data address locations to the system controller in order to function. And, like a DASD
device, the system controller does know exactly where it put all of its data, but it knows
those locations only at a higher level of abstraction. This type of ADSS does not
interface directly to sensors, therefore number of channels of sensor data and their types
are not directly defined by the ADSS. The system controller conveys sensor data with
“read” and “write” commands. The data associated with these commands can come from
any type or combination of sensors. Also, a File Server device permits “read” and
“write” commands to occur in any sequence and to access any file in memory. The
tradeoff of this flexibility in handling arbitrary sensor data is that the system controller
must be more complex than that of a tape emulation type of ADSS and any required
signal conversion or signal processing must be performed outside of the ADSS. Figure
C-1-4 provides an interface diagram for an ADSS configured as a File Server.
A file server has the advantage of being easily shared by more than one system
controller. The permissions for read and write access to various files can be used to
prevent one system controller corrupting another controller’s data.
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Sensor #1 ADSS
File
Buffer/
Multiplexer / Server
Demux Model
Sensor #N
Power Mission File
Interface Directory
Playback
Control NADSI File
Data & Status Directory NADS
Interface(s)
Mission File
Host Removable
Directory Controller Network
Interface
Figure C-1-4
Interface Diagram for File Server Configured ADSS
3.2.1.4.3.4.1 Read Function. The ADSS will accept “READ” commands in accordance
with the protocol selected for use (e.g., NFS over TCP/IP on Fibre Channel).
3.2.1.4.3.4.1.1 Read Data Rate. The procuring authority specifies the channel rate (its
intrinsic data carrying capability) directly by specifying the channel type. The host
controls the data transfer rate by the rate at which it issues data access commands. The
procuring authority specifies the transfer rate the media must support by defining the
characteristics of the read data rate.
The ADSS will transfer data through its system interface at a burst rate equal to
the capacity of the required channel type. It will be capable of a minimum sustained
transfer rate of “X” megabytes per second measured for a total transfer of “Y” megabytes
with individual read transfers greater than “Z” kilobytes per transfer. The minimum size
of each transfer needs to be specified so as to make sure that efficient use is being made
of the data channel and that the required performance is a measure of the ADSS and not
of the channel itself. The total transfer size needs to be specified in order to quantify the
meaning of the word “sustained” in the transfer rate specification. It may also be
necessary to specify that read cache memory is not to be used by the ADSS when
measuring this data rate so that the measurement correctly reflects the intrinsic media
capabilities.
This type of ADSS understands only blocks of data associated with files;
therefore it is necessary to specify “file-handling” performance. This includes the
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number of different files that can be “open” for access at any one time, and the time delay
for gaining first access to a file.
The previously specified access time measurement, combined with the Read data
rate will allow for system performance predictions to be made.
3.2.1.4.3.4.2 Write Function. The procuring authority specifies the channel rate (its
intrinsic data carrying capability) directly by specifying the channel type. The host
controls the data transfer rate by the rate at which it issues data access commands. The
procuring authority specifies the transfer rate the media must support by defining the
characteristics of the write data rate.
The ADSS will transfer data through its system interface at a burst rate equal to
the capacity of the required channel type. It will be capable of a minimum sustained
transfer rate of “X” megabytes per second measured for a total transfer of “Y” megabytes
with individual read transfers greater than “Y” kilobytes per transfer. The minimum size
of each transfer needs to be specified so as to make sure that efficient use is being made
of the data channel and that the required performance is a measure of the ADSS and not
of the channel itself. The total transfer size needs to be specified in order to quantify the
meaning of the word “sustained” in the transfer rate specification. It may also be
necessary to specify that write cache memory is not to be used by the ADSS when
measuring this data rate so that the measurement correctly reflects the intrinsic media
capabilities.
This type of ADSS understands only blocks of data associated with files;
therefore it is necessary to specify “file-handling” performance. This includes the
number of different files that can be “open” for access at any one time, and the time delay
for gaining first access to a file. The time to create a single file and the file creation rate
should both be specified.
The previously specified access time measurement, combined with the Write data
rate will allow for system performance predictions to be made.
3.2.1.4.4 Terminate Mode. A Terminate mode may be required by the ADSS that must
perform overhead functions prior to removing power. In the terminate mode, the ADSS
could perform all overhead functions (e.g., transfer of internal ADSS directory
information from volatile to non-volatile storage, storage media releases, ADSS door
actuators, etc.) required prior to power removal, prior to physical removal of the
Removable Memory Module from the Interface Unit, and/or prior to download of the
recorded data through the STANAG 4575 defined interface. The ADSS could also
perform PBIT functions during this mode. The ADSS should provide a positive
“Terminate” status indication on the control/status interface to the host system in
accordance with the ICD.
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3.2.1.4.7 Host Initiated BIT Mode (IBIT). This mode is used to extensively test the
ADSS functions by using fault-detection and fault-isolation tests that are not possible
during PBIT and require interruption of the normal system operation, including recording
and playback of internally generated data or that require operator intervention.
3.2.1.5 Bit Error Rate (BER). The Bit Error Rate should be specified for the playback of
the RMM stored data through any ADSS-to-host interface or via the STANAG 4575
defined interface. The BER specified should apply to all defined operating
environmental conditions and apply to the RMM using new, erased or declassified
previously recorded media. The BER should also be specified for Crossplay in both
directions between all Interface Units and all memory modules. The BER is directly
applicable to user’s data, regardless of any processing or conversions performed internal
to the ADSS or RMM.
3.2.1.5.1 Seek Error Rate. Seek Error Rate is unique to RMMs with electromechanical
positioning and is usually specified as one addressed track positioning error in a given
number of seeks.
A NADSI compliant recorder must support download of mission data when its
standalone RMM is powered through its NADS Interface (scenario #2; see Annex A, par.
2.4). Therefore the recorder’s RMM, when powered by the NADS Interface, must
automatically initialize into a mode enabling its NADSI fibre channel data/control
interface.
A NADSI compliant recorder must also support download of mission data when
mounted to its IU within the aircraft and powered by the aircraft (scenario #3). Therefore
the recorder must support commands through its normal airborne control interface that
enable the recorder’s NADSI fibre channel data/control interface to be the priority data
and control interface. This could be a System Reset command from the airborne host that
initializes the recorder and allows it to “discover” the active control interface (native or
NADSI) or a command could be issued to the recorder to activate the NADSI port.
Cycling aircraft power to the ADSS may also enable NADSI in scenario #3.
To avoid data corruption, the airborne host should not issue further commands to
the recorder that could cause alteration of the contents of the RMM memory during
NADSI port operations. To maintain optimum download speed, consideration should be
given to the commands that are issued by the airborne host to the recording system
during NADSI operation.
3.2.1.6.2 Data Access. This section of the specification should clearly delineate the
responsibility for creating and recording the directory and establishing the NADSI file
structure within the RMM. The nature of advanced data storage systems allows the
storage architecture to vary from system to system and technology to technology. In the
case where the RMM is a memory element only, incorporated into the airborne host
system (e.g. the RMS) as compared to being the recorder itself (e.g. the ADSS),
additional burdens are placed on the system to assure proper directory and file structure
implementation in accordance with NADSI requirements for subsequent data access.
This section of the specification should define how the mission data is inserted in files
and the NADSI directory is created and stored (i.e. the data is organized and cataloged)
in the RMM. Two alternative approaches to accomplish this are:
1. The NADSI File Directory may be created by the airborne host system external
to the RMM and recorded in the RMM for use during subsequent file
download via the NADSI port. This approach will require the system to
operate with the RMM to assign file locations for the RMM. These file
locations will then be recorded in the directory data.
2. The airborne host may issue record/write commands to the ADSS and could
transmit the data files directly to the ADSS, which takes the responsibility for
NADSI compliance. The ADSS would store the data in the NADSI files in the
RMM and then create the directory, which incorporates the file locations. The
NADSI directory is then stored in the RMM. The host can query the ADSS to
determine where the data is written or extract the whole directory.
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3.2.1.6.2.1 Data Access Notes. The RMM’s file directory and the file structure is an
essential part of allowing efficient ground/shipboard data access. There are additional
capabilities inherent in the advanced data storage technologies that are enhanced by the
directory and file structure. The specification of the airborne system should not inhibit
these capabilities. The following should be considered:
1. The recorder supports auxiliary channels for recording time code, event marks,
scan block IDs, etc. which are used to identify playback data of interest.
2. For an ADSS with multiple RMMs, an explanation of the expected operation of
the system in the event of a single RMM failure or the use of only one RMM
should be defined.
3.2.1.6.3 Write Protect. STANAG 4575 does not require the record function to be
incorporated into the NADSI interface as the NADSI is primarily a download port for
sharing data. However, there is no prohibition against using the NADSI port as the
primary interface to the RMM in its native system. All of the allowable SCSI commands
can always be used. In cases where the record/write command is incorporated, a physical
write inhibit capability would be advantageous in the RMM.
A write inhibit function precludes acceptance of the write command and therefore
eliminates the possibility of writing to the media in circumstances where it is undesirable.
The write inhibit could be implemented as a software command, a hardware initiated
command or a physical setting on the RMM. Regardless of the selection method, a clear
indication of “write inhibit” should be provided on the RMM.
3.2.1.6.4 Time Stamping Data. If data time stamping is required, the method (e.g.: time
correlated auxiliary track, formatted in with data, etc.), the clock source (recorder
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external (IRIG/GPS) or internal (settable RTC)) and the time precision and periodicity
should be specified.
3.2.1.6.5 Built-In-Test (BIT). The ADSS system should incorporate a minimum Built-In
Test (BIT) capability as defined in this section. The purpose of this BIT capability is to
determine the operational suitability ability of the ADSS and any connected RMM(s) and
to perform fault detection/isolation. BIT functions could also be used to provide
information to allow the system to establish and implement degraded modes of operation.
BIT functions are normally organized as Operational Readiness Test (ORT) BIT,
Periodic BIT (PBIT), and Initiated BIT (IBIT). Additional BIT capability can be defined
in the system procurement specification for the specific application.
The RMM must be inserted into the ADSS system in order to test the
performance of any RMM dependent BIT function. All RMM(s) should be capable of
supporting BIT when more than one RMM is installed in the ADSS system.
The ADSS should be able to test those functions that are not dependent upon the
presence of an RMM and report appropriate status when an RMM is not present.
Built in Test or BIT should accomplish failure detection and isolation without the
assistance of support test equipment.
3.2.1.6.5.2 BIT Performance. The specification should provide BIT performance levels
by indicating what percentage of ADSS functional failures should be detected for each
type BIT and it should also specify a maximum percentage for false failure detection.
For example:
1. For Initiated BIT, fault detection of at least X% of all faults. For Periodic BIT,
fault detection of at least Y% of faults that affect the equipment performing
current mission functions.
2. For Initiated BIT, fault isolation to a line replaceable assembly for at least U%
of detected faults.
3. For Initiated BIT, the false alarm rate (percentage of BIT fault reports
subsequently determined to be erroneous) will not exceed V%. This will be
achieved by carefully screening out failure indications caused by transients. A
false alarm is defined as a fault callout where no fault exists. BIT failure
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reports due to cables, wires, harnesses, etc., not located within a line
replaceable assembly are not considered false alarms.
4. It is desirable to provide a wraparound capability so that failures in equipment
interfaces can also be detected and isolated without auxiliary test equipment
external to the aircraft.
3.2.1.6.5.3 Operational Readiness Test (ORT). The ORT is an automatic test at start-up
that verifies that all functions, such as power supplies, clocks and connections are proper
and operating. It would be used for confirming the operational capability of the
equipment status when the equipment enters the “ON” state.
1. ORT BIT will include the testing of all WRA(s) circuitry and the equipment
backplane(s).
2. ORT BIT will be performed whenever input power is reapplied to the
equipment.
3. ORT BIT duration should be specified.
ORT should also verify the presence and functionality of any connected RMMs.
It should verify that each RMM is operating, providing the available memory capacity
and should verify the ability to read and write data. It could also detect and report if
there are any problems with identifying error blocks that have been masked. The ORT
may be accomplished in multiple steps rather than at initial start-up if required, e.g., if no
RMM is present -or ready- at initial power-up.
3.2.1.6.5.4 Initiated BIT (IBIT). The IBIT should perform a full comprehensive test that
includes a determination of the available memory. Initiated BIT will include the full
complement of WRA tests and backplane tests that can be performed while the
equipment is installed in the vehicle. IBIT tests are permitted to interfere with the normal
operation of the ADSS.
3.2.1.6.5.5 Periodic BIT (PBIT). The PBIT will be a non-intrusive test run in the
background whenever power is applied to the ADST system. The frequency of the
additional PBIT test (beyond power-up test) should be as defined in the procurement
specification. It is used to determine the health of the equipment without interfering with
equipment tactical operations. Periodic BIT will include autonomous module tests,
backplane tests and equipment health checks.
1. Periodic BIT should be state preserving and should execute during equipment
operation as a background task.
2. Periodic BIT will begin testing automatically when the WRA completes
initialization. Periodic Bit status will be made available to external equipment
by interrogation of the ADSS.
3.2.1.6.5.6 Maintenance BIT (MBIT). MBIT may be distinct tests or may be a subset of
the IBIT functions. These tests are specifically intended to support maintenance
operations and may include tests that detect and map out defective areas of the memory
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on the RMM to maintain bit error rate. This type of a test usually requires that the
complete memory be overwritten upon initiation of MBIT and at the completion the
RMM is completely erased and is ready for the next use. The time required for the
complete process to be completed for all RMMs should be specified.
3.2.1.6.5.8 Fail-Safe Operation. The circuits and devices that provide self-test functions
should be designed in such a manner that any failure of the self-test circuitry should not
functionally degrade the equipment with which it is associated.
3.2.1.6.5.9 BIT Fault Recording. BIT data for the latest N detected faults should be
stored in equipment non-volatile memory for retrieval at a later time. Time of failure
should be stored with the BIT data.
3.2.1.6.5.10 Discrete Warnings and Indicators. If a BIT indicator is appropriate for the
specific ADSS program then the following features should be considered:
1. Placement of the indicator on each line removable assembly.
2. Event types that will cause the indicator to be set and to be reset (e.g., power
cycling, IBIT results).
3. Ability to control the state of the indicator via the system control interface.
4. The color and brightness of the indicator and whether or not it must be
viewable without power applied.
3.2.2 Physical.
3.2.2.1 ADSS. The ADSS weight, center of gravity, dimensions, mounting, cooling,
markings, etc should all be clearly specified as required for the particular application.
The requirements and procedures for the removal and insertion of the RMM into the
ADSS must be specified.
3.2.2.2 RMM. The RMM weight, center of gravity, dimensions, mounting, cooling,
markings, etc should all be clearly specified as required for the particular application.
The requirements and procedures for access to the RMM must be specified.
3.2.3 Environmental.
3.2.3.1 EMI Requirements. EMI/EMC must be taken into consideration for all three
configurations of the RMM, including the case where cables are attached to the RMM in
the acquisition platform. EMC standards such as MIL-STD-461 (US) or DEF STAN
5941 (UK) are typically invoked in these applications. The various EMC standards
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available require a range of conducted and radiated emission and susceptibility testing
and typically specify that testing must simulate actual installation and usage, e.g.,
shielded cables or shielded leads (including power leads and wire grounds) within cables
should be used only if they have been specified in installation requirements. Cables
should be checked against the MIL-Standard installation requirements to verify proper
construction techniques such as use of twisted pairs, shielding, and shield terminations.
Details on the cable construction used for testing must be included in the EMI Test
Procedure (EMITP). EMI performance of FC system is governed by a system approach.
It is of the responsibility of the program and project manager to decide appropriate
method for insuring EMI performance. Program manager guidance for EMC issues at
program level can be found in: MANAGER’S HANDBOOK ELECTROMAGNETIC
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS (E3) 25 August1999 or updated version if any.
3.2.3.1.1 General Remarks about Fibre Channel Interconnects at the System Level:
Fibre channel interconnect topology is based on differential signalling techniques, cable
definition is mostly based on twinax or quadrax cables with over-shielding.
considered at both extremities of the system (host and storage levels). It is also
recommended that the D-sub 50 interconnect cable system incorporate an over-shield. FC
interconnect management and particularly shield management, has to be considered with
care. Shield pigtails are critical issues and recommended bonding techniques should be
used.
3.2.3.1.3 Two Connector Approach: Fibre Channel interconnect management for the
Mil-DTL-38999 connector, particularly regarding signal integrity is expected to be easier
than for the D-sub 50 connector. However bonding termination is still a critical issue.
Mil-DTL-38999 accessories, in particular EMI back-shells are mandatory. EMI tests on
existing systems have shown them to meet EMC radiated emission requirements when
termination bonding is properly implemented.
3.2.4 Reliability. A primary consideration for use of an ADSS is increased reliability and
data integrity. Reliability requirements should address long-term use and consider data
recovery (e.g. disk replacement in a RAID system). Specific requirements for Mean
Time Between Failures (MTBF) should be established for the ADSS when operated in
any combination of modes, service life, or natural environments. Predicted MTBF levels
should also be established and can be based on MIL-HDBK-217 or industrial standard
alternatives. An expected standard service life for the ADSS may also be specified under
the environments and design described within the spec. It would also be very important
to specify the expected number of RMM removal and insertion cycles with the ADSS
without degradation to the performance of the system.
3.2.6 Transportability.
3.2.6.2 RMM Transportability. The RMM will be removed from the data acquisition
platform and taken to the ground station for data recovery in many cases. The
specifications should address the conditions it must withstand during removal, transport
and insertion into the ground station system.
3.2.7 Safety and Cautions. This paragraph should provide requirements and address
issues related to safety and cautions in connecting to and handling the RMM. Since the
NADS Interface incorporates a power connector and data can be downloaded from the
NADSI port while the RMM is installed in the aircraft, specific cautions and safeguards
should be highlighted. Specifically, when the RMM is mounted and powered in the
aircraft, the power pins on the NADSI may have voltage supplied to them by the ADSS.
These pins are male because the ground station connector supplying power (when the
RMM is connected to the DCGS) was chosen to be female. There is the potential for high
current flow if these pins are shorted. Appropriate connector covers should be installed
when the RMM is in the ADSS/aircraft and the NADSI connector has the potential to be
powered. Procedures and training should address this potential hazard.
3.2.8 Other Characteristics. Other characteristics to be specified could include (but are
not limited to) Design & Construction, Human Engineering, Interchangeability, Security
and Computer Resources.
4.1 General. In this area, quality conformance requirements should be specified along
with methods of verification, inspection, analysis and demonstration. Also, ADSS and
RMM functional and performance acceptance tests including NADS Interface
Certification tests would be contained in this section.
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APPENDIX 2 TO ANNEX C
SPECIFICATION TEMPLATE FOR GROUND STATION TO
MEET NADS INTERFACE REQUIREMENTS
1. SCOPE.
1.1 Introduction. Introduce and name the equipment covered and state the purpose for
the specification.
3.1 Ground Station Data Download System Definition. Describe the total ground station
data download system being addressed by the specification and a description of planned
CONOPS.
3.1.1 Interface Definition. Describe and show by Block diagrams the various interfaces
associated with program requirements.
3.2 Characteristics. The following characteristics should be described for the NADS
Interface in a ground station:
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5. Ability to list supported command set for specific NADS device. i.e. provide
the operator with feedback on the ability of the NADS device to accept further
NADS compliant commands.
6. Ability to copy the entire contents of the NADS device into a single file in the
ground station. This functionality may be useful for recovery of data should
the system be unable to decipher the directory listing due to airborne
equipment failure. (Corruption of NADS file table due to power failure etc)
3.2.2.1 Incremental Download of Multiple files. The software interface between the
NADS device and the host operating system will take the form of a self-contained device
driver, or compilable software module library. The simplest implementation for a NADS
software interface is usually through a user level software application, utilising specific
NADS library code.
Most host computer systems natively support Fibre Channel devices, and more
specifically the SCSI command protocol over a Fibre Channel connection through the use
of low-level device drivers supplied with the specific Fibre Channel interface hardware
or through native support by the operating system. It is recommended that any additional
NADS interface software be a non-blocking implementation, allowing simultaneous
access by one or more user applications, or user application threads. The reason for this
recommendation is the desire to obtain the maximum throughput and utility from the
functionality offered by the new breed of NADS compliant random access media.
Most operating systems used in ISR ground stations support multi-tasking and/or
multi-threaded operations, and it is advised that any NADS software implementations
continue to support multi-tasking and threading operations. An example download
scenario could see a NADS device with several data files being read by a ground station.
One of the files is a large multi-gigabyte compressed data file, and several of the other
files are smaller auxiliary data files. After reading one of the auxiliary data files, the
ground station begins to open and read the large compressed data file, transferring several
blocks of compressed data before de-compression begins, at which time download is
paused. The NADS device is therefore available for transfer of data from other data
blocks whilst the decompression takes place. Depending upon the implementation of the
NADS device driver, and whether the driver is blocking or non-blocking, NADS device
may or may not be available for continued download of alternate data whilst the main
data transfer has paused. Historically tape recorders have been unable to re-position and
transfer alternate data without incurring a throughput penalty, however random access
media offers the ability to near simultaneously serve several streams of user data from the
device (for example imagery from more than one sensor).
3.2.2.2 Declassification. The ability to erase / declassify / purge data from the NADS
device (assuming system security policy permits this operation and the NADS device
supports this operation) is a highly desirable capability. Sanitization procedures for disk
and solid state devices are provided in the NATO AEDP 3 document. It is assumed that
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host ground stations will not be required to declassify RMMs received from non-native
systems, or RMMs from other NATO nations. However the functionality to achieve
declassification through the NADS interface may be specified, should the NADS
interface be the only, and hence prime interface for a host ISR system. See AEDP-3 for
further guidance.
3.2.2.3 NADS As The Primary Interface. Should the ISR system wish to use the NADS
interface as the primary interface for the data recorder, then further functionality may be
required to support the re-commissioning of the recorder prior to re-use within the
airborne ISR system.
3.2.3 Power Supply Characteristics. Specific power supply interface requirements for
NADS devices are listed in STANAG 4575 Annex C section 3. In addition, detailed
guidance regarding power supply considerations are provided in Annex C of this
document at paragraph 3.5.
3.3 Performance. Data Integrity and Performance of the download port should not be
degraded by the ground station, its interface implementation or other influences of
ground station operation.
3.4 Physical.
3.4.1 Mounting/Support. Describe the physical environment and how the RMM to be
downloaded will be supported in accordance with STANAG 4575. Also, describe how
the physical assemblies that will constitute the NADSI port, interface board, power
supplies, connectors will be mounted and supported so as to be assessable and provide
the shortest cable run to the connected RMM.
3.4.2 Connector Selection. Describe how both the circular and D-sub connectors will be
accommodated. If the flying leads use connectors on both ends, describe the
requirements for the panel mounted connectors and caps (if required).
3.4.3 Flying Leads. Describe the cable and connector approach, including cable length,
routing and storage when not in use. Address the use of adaptors and/or cable
extensions.
3.4.3.1 Safety and Cautions. This paragraph should describe the requirements and
address issues related to safety and cautions when connecting to the RMM via the
NADSI or its native interface in a ground station. When the RMM’s NADS Interface is
used to download data in the ground station, the ground station will provide power using
flying leads from the system. The power supplies have the potential to provide high
currents and the procedures should include the method and sequence for proper
connection and appropriate cautions. When the RMM is used in a docking tray in its
native system the power pins of the NADSI connector may have voltages applied.
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Cautions related to covering the NADSI connector, including use of the connector cover
should be specified.
3.4.4.2 EMI Requirements. The ground station requirements for both radiated and
conducted EMI should be reflected in the NADSI specification. The NADSI hardware
should not be affected by the electronic environment in the ground station. The EMI/RFI
requirements should be applied to the NADSI with the flying leads attached to the RMM.
The flying leads must be specified with the appropriate shielding and grounding.
The use of commercial off-the-shelf equipment presents a dilemma between the need for
EMI control with appropriate design measures implemented and the desire to take
advantage of existing designs which may exhibit undesirable EMI characteristics.
Paragraphs 4.2.4.1.1 and 4.2.4.1.2 of Mil-STD-461E (reproduced below) address the
specific requirements for the two separate cases of contractor selection versus procuring
activity specification of commercial equipment. For some applications of commercially
developed products, such as commercial transport aircraft, EMI requirements similar to
those of Mil-STD-461E are usually imposed on equipment. Most commercial aircraft
equipment is required to meet the EMI requirements in RTCA DO-160 or an equivalent
contractor in-house document. Recent revisions to RTCA DO-160 are making the
document more compatible with Mil-STD-461E. Equipment qualified to revisions “C” or
“D” of RTCA DO-160 is often suitable for military aircraft applications. EMI
requirements on most commercial equipment are more varied and are sometimes not
incorporated. In the US, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) is responsible
for regulating "Non-Licensed Radio Frequency Devices" in the commercial and
residential environment to control interference to radio reception. Requirements are
imposed in FCC CFR Title 47, Parts 2, 15, and 18. The FCC does not control
susceptibility characteristics of equipment. The most widely applied requirement is Part
15 which requires that any "digital device" comply with the following conducted and
radiated emission limits for commercial environments (Class A) and residential
environments (Class B).
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These requirements are typically less stringent than military requirements of a similar
type. Also, there is difficulty in comparing levels between commercial and military
testing due to differences in measurement distances, different types of antennas, and
near-field conditions. The commercial community is moving toward immunity standards.
The basis for immunity requirements is given in ANSI C63.12. There is also similar
activity in the international area. The European Union is imposing mandatory standards
and the International Electrotechnical Commission is working on standards.
This topic is also addressed in the United Kingdom’s DEF STAN 59411 which also
includes recommendations for EMI considerations in support equipment. Relevant
excerpts are provided below.
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b) Category E2
This is where the AGE is not electrically interfaced with the aircraft but used in close proximity and is categorised as
non safety/ mission critical and is used in the following conditions:
1) On aircraft with the aircraft empowered.
2) Off aircraft and directly interfaced (not electrically) to aircraft systems with aircraft empowered.
c) Category E3
This is where the AGE (maintenance levels 2 & 3) is used off aircraft and off the flight line.
Any AGE that is not categorised as E1 or E2 shall be categorised in this group.
And also:
13.4.4 Sea Services Support Equipment
The requirements are defined for categories of equipment as determined by location.
a) Above Decks Support Equipment
Support equipment is designated ‘Above Decks’ where:
1) It is to be used on the exposed upper deck of a surface ship.
2) It is to be used in compartments on non-metallic ships (except where use is restricted to specialist screened rooms
on such ships).
3) It is used in areas or compartments, such as the bridge and hangar that have openings to the upper deck and are
not afforded notable levels of attenuation to electromagnetic field by the structure of the ship.
4) It is used in the space between the pressure hull and outer casing of a submarine, or on deck when surfaced.
b) Below Decks Support Equipment
Support equipment is designated ‘Below Decks’ where:
1) It is to be used in areas that are surrounded by an enclosed metallic structure which provides significant
attenuation to electromagnetic radiation.
And consequences of this classification on test specification are specified in §14 of DEF
STAN 59411.
Only citation of Support Equipment cited below:
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This means that EMI/EMC requirements for any AGE specified for use on a flight line
(Air Force or Navy use cases Air Category E1 or Sea above Decks) should be
incorporated into the AGE EMI specification and should reflect the equivalent EMI
constraints as are specified for the NADSI recording platform.
This also means that any AGE used in processing areas (outside flight line use)
equipment may be specified with the usual commercial standards (US or European CE
marking) with approval of procuring authorities. Program specific requirements can be
addressed by requiring additional military testing.
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3.6 Maintainability. The location, mounting and connection of the NADS Interface
should allow for access by ground station maintainers and technicians.
3.7 Transportability. When installed, the NADS Interface will be able to withstand
moving of the ground station and transportation of the ground station using normal
methods. The requirements fro other equipment in the ground station should be applied
to the NADSI.
3.8 Storage. Describe how the NADS Interface and associated power supplies will be
secured and stored when not in use. If the NADSI hardware set is not mounted in a rack
or cabinet, it will be securely stored when not in use. When secured, it will withstand
transportation of the ground system. The NADS Interface installation should be as
compact and functional as possible within good engineering practice.
4.1 General. In this area, quality conformance requirements should be specified along
with methods of verification, inspection, analysis and demonstration. Also, NADSI
Ground Station functional and performance acceptance tests including NADS Interface
Certification tests would be contained in this section.
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ANNEX D
COMPLIANCE TEST AND CERTIFICATION
1. Introduction.
1.1 Purpose. This Annex establishes the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
Advanced Data Storage Interface (NADSI) Compliance Test and Certification activities
for achieving and sustaining NADSI compliance by all fielded and developmental
advanced digital data storage implementations. This Compliance Test and Certification
Guidance prescribes the NADSI Compliance Test and Certification policies, defines roles
and responsibilities, and provides test-funding guidance within the Global NATO
Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Interoperability Architecture
(NIIA) Allied Engineering Documentation Publication (AEDP) Structure.
1.1.1 NADSI Testing Goals. The overall goal of NADSI testing is to maximize NATO-
owned and national information system's interoperability in NATO operations. This will
be accomplished by the following:
1. Verify standards syntactical correctness and unambiguous interpretation to
ensure high quality NADSI documentation.
2. Ensure NADSI satisfies the information transfer requirements specified in
STANAG 4575.
3. Ensure NATO-owned and national information systems implement the NADSI
standard correctly and consistently.
4. Conduct NATO Compliance Tests to determine whether or not deviations
from Standard Agreement (STANAG) 4575 exist and certify systems that
implemented the standard correctly.
5. Conduct NATO-owned and national information systems interoperability
evaluations to determine how/if different standard implementations have
impacted interoperability.
1.1.2 Test Guidance Basis. This Guidance is established under the NATO Common
Interoperability Standards (NCIS) Testing Concept and the NIIA AEDP Structure. This
Guidance will allow developers, system designers, system managers, and budget planners
to plan and perform NADSI testing. The NADSI Custodian is responsible for
coordinating the use of national and NATO testing facilities in accordance with this
Guidance.
1.2 Scope. This document applies to all NADS Interfaces and Data Storage Devices
defined as meeting the NADSI standard. This document encompasses the following
NADSI Compliance Test and Certification information:
1. Testing authorities
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2. Testing responsibilities
3. Funding test services
4. Defining test criteria
5. Compliance test planning, execution, and reporting
1.2.1 Test Guidance Organization. Section 2 introduces the test criteria. The test
execution section, Section 3, is divided into two parts. Part One addresses the test
criteria for acquisition equipment, specifically the Removable Memory Module (RMM).
Part Two provides the test criteria for the ground stations (GSs) side of the interface.
Sections 4 and 5 provide the quality assurance requirements and reporting procedures.
Section 6 defines the requirements for the test facilities.
1.3 Background. The interface and if applicable, the associated cable test are required of
each manufacturer to certify compliance with the standard. In conjunction with the
interface test, RMMs will be verified to comply with the requirements of the standard
both for data transfer and interface performance. The same test method and equipment
will be used for both tests.
On the opposite side of the interface, the GS must also be tested to certify
compliance with the standard. This testing will confirm that the GS will be able to
provide the proper commands to the RMM, provide the required power and receive the
imagery and associated data for exploitation.
As stated in the NATO Policy for Command, Control, and Communications (C3)
Interoperability, "there is a NATO requirement that automated data systems, whether
NATO or nationally owned, used by the forces of NATO, be interoperable; the extent of
the interoperability between specific systems is to be determined and agreed according to
the information exchange requirements of cooperating forces."
1.4 References. Referenced documents for this Annex are contained in section 4,
Applicable or Referenced Documents, on page 3 of this AEDP.
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1.5 Applicability. To ensure STANAG 4575 quality and its successful implementation
in NADSI systems, the Compliance Test and Certification guidance is applicable to tests
performed during NADSI development, configuration management, implementation, and
operational use. Nations, Major NATO Commands (MNCs), and NATO organizations
responsible for the development, configuration management and implementation of
NADSI are to conduct testing in accordance with this Plan. This Plan will be effective
upon approval by all authorities.
Within the NCIS Testing Concept document, statements are made about the level
of commitment of nations, MNCs, NATO organizations, and industries to adhere to
testing implementations utilizing NCIS standards. The principal commitments in the use
of this test program are summarized below:
1. NADSI Compliance and Interoperability Testing is mandatory for MNCs,
NATO organizations, and Host Nations employing the NADSI in NATO-
owned information systems to be used in NATO operations.
2. NADSI Compliance Testing and Interoperability Testing is highly
recommended for nations employing the NADSI in national information
systems to be used in NATO operations.
3. NADSI Compliance Testing is encouraged for nations implementing NADSI
systems even when intended for national use only.
4. Industries that develop commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) systems that
implement the NADSI are recommended to submit their products for testing
under the provisions of this Compliance Test and Certification Guidance.
NATO and nations that acquire COTS to use in their information systems
should insist on standards compliant products.
1.6 Authority. The following bodies have the responsibility for participating in the
NADSI Test Program.
1.6.1 NATO Air Force Armaments Group (NAFAG) Air Group IV (AG IV). NAFAG
AG IV has the responsibility for the development and configuration management of
STANAG 4575. AG IV oversees the process whereby imagery systems achieve and
sustain NADSI compliance through the NADSI Test Program. AG IV appoints the
STANAG 4575 Custodian who will in turn manage the Configuration and Testing of the
NADSI STANAG. The custodian will review and approve test procedures for the
NADSI Test Facilities.
1.7.1 Test Policies. The Testing Policies for AG IV STANAGs identified in the NATO
ISR Interoperability Architecture (NIIA) are contained in AEDP-2, Part II.
1.7.2 Test Procedures. Each NADSI Test Facility will maintain its particular test
procedures available upon request as part of the test coordination. A test procedure will
be provided to the NADSI Custodian for review and approval.
1.7.3 Test Program Responsibilities.
1.7.3.1 Test Coordination. The NADSI Owning Body or Vendor will coordinate directly
with the NADSI Test Facility for test support. The NADSI Test Facility will provide
schedule availability for tests and retests.
1.7.3.2 Test Schedules. The NADSI Test Facilities will maintain test schedules and
provide current scheduling information to the NADSI Custodian.
1.7.3.3 Master Schedule. The NADSI Custodian will maintain a master test schedule
and demonstration/exercise schedule.
1.7.3.4 Certified NADSI Systems. The NADSI Custodian will maintain a Certified
NADSI System registry.
1.7.4.1 NADSI Test Facilities. The NADSI Custodian will maintain a registry of
accredited NADSI Test Facilities. The registry will include point of contact information,
locations, and associated costs.
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2.1 Compliance with AEDP-2, Volume II, Annex B. The testing program in this
document complies with the policy contained in the Air Group IV (AG IV) directions
contained in AEDP-2, Volume 2, Annex B. The policies and procedures defined therein
are applicable to this test and certification program. However, minor deviations from the
general guidance in AEDP-2 may be identified, and under such circumstances, the
guidance provided herein takes precedence. All deviations will be approved by the
Chairman of the ISRIWG and AG IV as provided in AEDP-2.
2.2 Overall Test Philosophy This program is intended to ensure that systems
implementing the STANAG 4575 interface will, in fact, be interoperable once deployed
in coalition operations. The test program provides for testing of both the removable
memory modules from the airborne element of the recorder, and the ground station
components of the interface required to download the data for exploitation and display.
While the testing program is intended to be comprehensive relative to STANAG 4575
interface requirements, it will not include testing of the applications required to properly
exploit and disseminate the information. The test program assumes that the format of the
data recorded on the RMM is proper and that the applications to exploit the data are
available in the ground station. This test program is therefore limited to verifying that the
interface functionality is correct and operates in accordance with the requirements of the
STANAG.
2.2.1 Basic Test Concept The testing concept embodied by this test program requires
that all required features of the interface operate properly and that no optional features
cause interface failure (in the sense of an interface lock-up or electrical overload). The
test criteria will cover tests that examine each requirement in the STANAG. A test
matrix is included in section 2.3. No system that fails one or more of the tests will be
certified under the provisions of this program. However, since the purpose of the test and
certification program is to ensure interoperability of systems in coalition operations,
every effort will be made to provide the vendor an opportunity to fix the problems and
bring the system or subsystem into compliance. If corrections or fixes are made, the
certification facility will repeat the entire test sequence and the system or subsystem will
be required to pass all tests without further changes to ensure that fixes did not cause
other problems prior to certifying the system or subsystem.
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2.2.2.1 Subsystem Eligibility. The only subsystems that can be awarded subsystem
compliance are:
1. Disk Drives – Disk Drives would not typically have the device drivers
included that would properly record the files in the NADSI structure. If the
files are properly written to the drives, the drives would then respond to the
NADSI command set through the NADSI interface. However, if the host
writes the files in some other format or structure, the NADSI interface would
likely fail.
2. Power Supply – Power supplies can be tested against STANAG 4575 criteria,
but none of the data protocol criteria would apply.
3. Power Connector and Cable - Power Connector and Cables can be tested in
isolation to the STANAG 4575 criteria.
4. Ground Station without Power Supply - Ground Stations that do not have a
NADSI power supply can be certified as compliant subsystems for use when
the RMM remains in and is powered by the host platform during data
download. This also applies to a mobile AGE or Backpack type of ground
station.
Other subsystem options can be considered for subsystem compliance testing with
supporting justification and the approval of the 4575 Custodial Support Team.
2.2.2.2 Subsystem Testing. If a vendor, owner or program manager wishes to apply for
subsystem certification, he will state in the application the limits intended for the tests.
The vendor, owner or program manager, the STANAG Custodian, and test facility will
agree on the subset of criteria that the unit will be tested against prior to beginning the
testing. The testing will then be a pass/fail of the agreed subset. The process is the same
as described with a full compliance test. The subsystem compliance certification will be
provided if the subsystem passes all the agreed subsystem criteria.
The certification facility will clearly identify those tests against which the system
or subsystem was tested on the completion certificate. The information will include a
summary of the intended use of the unit that received the limited certification, and the
details of the testing that was performed. The details will allow potential users to know
what tests were performed. It will also give potential users a sense of the extent of
additional functionality that will be required to obtain full certification. The same
information will also be recorded in the registry so that potential users of the system or
subsystem can know to what extent the system or subsystem was tested.
related to a specific validation test. Other requirements are difficult and expensive to test
and validate. The following identifies which requirements correspond to a direct test,
and which requirements are better validated through design analysis. The method of
verification required for each test category is described below:
2.3.1 Inspection (I). Verification that a specification requirement has been met by
observation of overt characteristics (such as mechanical orientation, presence of a
feature, or color) or by simple measurement of a physical property (such as length or
weight).
2.3.2 Test (T). Verification that a specification has been met by means of quantitative
measurement with standard or specialized external test equipment under the required
operating conditions.
2.3.3 Demonstration (D). Verification that a specification requirement has been met by
satisfactory demonstration of the required function when operating with a STANAG
4575-certified system or subsystem, or by observation of a higher-level test.
2.3.4 Analysis (A). Verification that a specification requirement has been met by
analyzing the contributing subsystem tolerances, ranges, or limits followed by the
allocation of such components among the subsystem in such a manner that the overall
specification is assured. Analysis may be derived from equations, charts, graphs, and/or
test data.
2.3.5 Not Applicable (N). No verifiable requirement exists. Tests are not applicable to
this paragraph.
3. Test Criteria
3.1.2 Required Documentation and Software. The documents, software, and pretest
procedures listed in 3.1.2.1 are required for performing the NADSI Acquisition
Equipment/RMM Compliance Test and Certification.
3.1.2.1 Documents.
1. STANAG 4575
2. AEDP-6 and AEDP-2, Volume II, Annex B
3. Owning Body Test Requirements Document (if applicable)
4. NADSI Test Requirements Document
5. NADSI Test Facility Test Plan and Procedures
3.1.2.2 Software. The Owning Body or Vendor will be provided test data to be recorded
to the RMM data storage unit prior to the test. The test data will be of sufficient size to
require more than one Directory Block and will consist of test patterns and files of
various file sizes and file types.
3.1.3 RMM Electrical and Command Protocol Requirement. The RMM interface will
conform to the requirements of the Fibre Channel Private Loop Small Computer System
Interface (SCSI) Direct Attach (FC-PLDA, ANSI/NCITS TR19-1998) with the exception
that it conforms to the minimum set of commands in Table B-1 in Annex B of STANAG
4575, "Required" SCSI Commands, Features and Parameters.
3.1.3.1 Criteria.
1. The RMM interface will use an electrical transmitter (D).
a. Fibre Channel/SCSI 3 Diagnostic Test - May be based on anomalies
(D)
b. The maximum transmission signaling rate shall be 2.125 Gbaud (T). If
transmitter and receiver maximum signaling rates differ, then
highest speed negotiated rate will be used, in accordance with FC-FS Clause 28,
Link Speed Negotiation.
2. The RMM interface will provide SCSI Target functionality (T, D).
3. The RMM interface will implement or will not implement in accordance with
STANAG 4575, SCSI commands, features, and parameters that are:
a. Required (T)
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b. Prohibited (T)
c. Invokable (T)
d. Allowed (if implemented) (T)
4. The interface does not use stream device or encryption protocols (D).
5. File (data) transfer from the RMM will be demonstrated (D).
3.1.4 RMM File Structure Requirement. The RMM interface will conform to the
requirements of the Logically Sequential Access Mode defined in Paragraphs 3 through
3.3.3.2, Annex B of STANAG 4575.
3.1.4.1 Criteria.
1. Data Hierarchy (D)
a. Directory (D)
(1) One or more directory blocks of data will contain a list of all
data files.
(2) The directory will start at logical address zero of each block.
b. Directory Block. The memory block will contain file entries and other
metadata (N).
c. File Entry. A fixed length data structure will describe files (N).
d. Data Files. Data files will comprise user data stored in a monotonically
increasing contiguous logical address (D).
2. Directory (D)
a. Directory Blocks (Table B-2) (D).
(1) Magic Number. The value is BCS "FORTYtwo" (hex –
0x464F52545974776F) (T)
(2) Revision Number. Revision number of STANAG (T)
(3) Shutdown. If set to 0xFF, then file system was properly
shutdown.(T)
(4) Number of File Entries. Number of file entries that follow (T)
(5) Reserved. Bytes are reserved (T)
(6) VolName. Filled with 0x00 for no name (T)
(7) Forward Link. Block address of next block (D)
(8) Reverse Link. Block address of directory block pointing to
this address (D)
(9) (N File Entries). One entry for each file (T)
b. Directory Fixed Fields (A).
c. Block Size. Varying block sizes (not defined) will be determined via
SCSI protocol (D).
d. Directory to Data File Link (Table B-2) (D).
(1) Name (56 Bytes). File name (T)
(2) FileStartAdd (8 Bytes). Zero based address of first block (D)
(3) FileBlkCnt (8 Bytes). One based number that is the count
consecutive address blocks fill with 0x00 for Deleted
Entries(D)
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3.1.5 RMM Connectors and Power Requirement. The RMM connectors (D-sub 50 male
pin or DTL 38999 male pin) and Data-Out Ports will comply with standards and
protocols in accordance with Annex C to STANAG 4575, Physical and Power Interface
Definitions.
3.1.5.1 Criteria.
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1. RMM will use D-sub 50 male pin or DTL 38999 male pin equivalent
connectors (I).
2. RMM will use the Pin-out detailed in Annex C to STANAG 4575 (I).
3. RMM will allow the NADSI Test Set or GS to detect a continuous short circuit
across the RMM Safety Interlock Leads for a minimum of five seconds to
verify the safety lock (T).
4. When removed from the acquisition platform, the RMM will operate to
specification when the NADSI Test Set or a ground station provides power in
accordance with STANAG 4575 (allotted power and within the tolerances)
(D).
5. When removed from the acquisition platform, the RMM will boot up when
power in accordance with STANAG 4575 is detected from the NADSI Test
Set or a ground station (D).
6. When the RMM is installed in the acquisition platform, it will provide, at a
minimum, access to the STANAG 4575 connector that houses the data and
command interface (I).
7. Connectors will be tested for continuity and isolation.
8. The RMM will not use more power than allotted in table below (T):
3.1.6 Environment Requirement. The RMM will operate in the environment provided
by the GS that is compliant with Annex C, Ground Station Environment Requirements to
STANAG 4575 (I).
3.1.6.1 Criteria. The RMM will operate during the following environmental conditions:
1. RMM will not require special cooling (I)
2. RMM will operating in an ambient air range of –20 to +50 degrees Celsius,
non-condensing (I)
3. RMM will have any hot surfaces marked IAW proper safety guidelines (I)
3.2.1 Test Objective. To determine if the NADSI GS can establish an interface to the
NADSI RMM to request and receive required data as specified in STANAG 4575 and to
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determine that the NADSI GS can provide the required power and can accept all required
cable/connector types.
3.2.2 Required Documentation and Software. The documents, software, and pretest
procedures defined in 3.2.2.1 are required for performing the NADSI GS Compliance
Test and Certification.
3.2.2.1 Documents.
1. STANAG 4575
2. AEDP-6 and AEDP-2, Volume II, Annex B
3. Owning Body Test Requirements Document (if applicable)
4. NADSI Test Requirements Document
5. NADSI Test Facility Test Plan and Procedures
3.2.2.2 Software. The owning Body or Vendor will provide the capability to control the
RMM and interact with test data received during the test. The test data will be of
sufficient size to require more than one Directory Block and will consist of test patterns
and files of various file sizes and file types.
3.2.3 GS Electrical and Command Protocol Requirement. The GS interface will conform
to the requirements of the Fibre Channel Private Loop SCSI Direct Attach (FC-PLDA,
ANSI/NCITS TR19-1998) with the exception that it conforms to the minimum set of
commands in Table B-1, Annex B of STANAG 4575, "Required" SCSI Commands,
Features and Parameters.
3.2.3.1 Criteria.
1. The GS interface will use an electrical transmitter (D).
a. Fibre Channel/SCSI 3 Diagnostic Test (D)
(1) Pass/fail/anomalies
b. Signaling Rate will be 1.0625 Gbaud (T)
2. GS will provide SCSI Initiator functionality.
3. GS will implement or will not implement in accordance with STANAG 4575,
SCSI commands, features, and parameters that are:
a. Required (T)
b. Prohibited (T)
c. Invokable (T)
d. Allowed (if implemented) (T)
4. The GS will not implement the Fibre Channel encryption services (D).
5. File (data) transfer from the RMM will be demonstrated (D).
3.2.4 GS File Structure Requirement. The GS interface will conform to the requirements
of Paragraph 3. through 3.3.3.2 in Annex B of STANAG 4575.
3.2.4.1 Criteria.
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1. GS will demonstrate the capability to read the RMM directory and file
structure (D)
a. Select, command, and receive discreet files (T).
b. Select, command, and receive complete downloads (T).
c. Files and complete downloads will be compared with test date to
determine accuracy and completeness (T). The method for extracting
the data from the GS will depend upon the Unit Under Test (UUT) and
test procedures.
d. Block Size. Varying block sizes (not defined) will be determined via
SCSI protocol (D).
e. Vendor Unique (8 Bytes). For vendors to utilize (N).e. Names (T)
(1) Leading and trailing spaces will not be permitted.
(2) Leading periods will not be permitted.
(3) Names will fill their field starting with byte 0.
(4) Names will terminate their field with 0x00.
(5) When Names utilize full field length, then terminating 0x00 is
omitted.
3.2.5 Connectors, Cables, and Power Requirement. The GS connectors (50 contact
female socket D-sub connector and DTL 38999 female socket) and Cables will comply
with standards and protocols in accordance with Annex C, Physical and Power Interface
Definitions to STANAG 4575(I).
3.2.5.1 Criteria. Cables will have the correct mating, pin out, and positive lock
mechanism assemblage. The maximum length of the power cables for all
implementations of the NADSI interconnection cables shall not exceed 3 meters,
including connectors. Cables/Connectors will be tested for continuity and isolation (I, T).
1. Cables will utilize a twin-axial copper pair with differential impedance of 150
ohms (I, T)
2. Power Test to an RMM when RMM is removed (T).
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4. GS power supply will detect a continuous short circuit across the RMM Safety
Interlock Leads for a minimum of five seconds before outputting power. (T)
a. Pass/fail/time required.
3.2.6.1 Criteria. The GS will provide for the RMM the following environmental
conditions:
1. GS will provide a flat surface at least 18 inches wide, 18 inches deep, and 12
inches high (I)
2. GS will support a minimum of 43 pounds (19.5 kilograms) (I)
3. GS will provide a flat surface capable of withstanding +100 degrees Celsius on
the contact surface (I)
4. GS will provide in an ambient air range of –20 to +50 degrees Celsius, non-
condensing (I)
5. Reporting
5.1 Certification Letters and Test Summaries. The NADSI Test Facility will provide a
draft Compliance Certification Letter with Test Summary to the NADSI Custodian for
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the Custodians approval and signature within 30 calendar days after completion if the
UUT complies with STANAG 4575. If approved, the Custodian will certify the system
as compliant with STANAG 4575 and provide the Certification Letter to the owning
Body or Vendor. The certification is valid for a period of four years. A new certification
may be requested upon expiration for a UUT if there are no changes since the last
certification. The test summary will include the following:
1. System Title
2. Proponent
3. Program Manager
4. Testers
5. System Under Test Description
6. Test Network Description
7. System Configuration
8. Modes of Operation
9. Testing Limitations
10. Required Standards and Conformance
11. Summary providing:
a. Number of trials passed
b. Number of trials failed
c. Total number of trials
5.2 Certification Recommendation to Custodian. The NADSI Test Facility will provide
an Assessment Letter with Test Summary to the NADSI Custodian for the Custodians
approval and signature within 30 calendar days after completion if the UUT does not
comply with STANAG 4575 or when reporting demonstration results. The Custodian
will provide the Assessment Letter to the owning Body or Vendor. The NADSI Test
Facility will also out brief the owning Body or Vendor at the end of the test with known
problems and provide an informal quick-look e-mail report to the owning Body or
Vendor, NADSI Custodian and his AST within 15 calendar days. Compliance
Certification Letters and Assessment Letters will be maintained with the NADSI
Custodian, placed on the NADSI web site, and placed in the JITC registry.
5.3 Appeals to Custodian. The owning body or vendor may appeal to the NADSI
Custodian for complaints involving test facility schedule conflicts, test procedures, or test
results. Test result complaints need to be filed within 30 calendar days after issuance of
the Assessment Letter by the NADSI Test Facility. The owning body or vendor will
appeal to the NADSI Custodian in writing.
6. Test Facility(ies). The NADSI Test Facility encompasses the hardware and software
(NADSI Test Set), and personnel needed to provide a NADSI Compliance Test
capability. The NADSI Custodian will accredit NADSI Test Facilities. The NADSI Test
Facilities should be accessible to any NATO body that wishes to make use of the
compliance testing service. NADSI Test Facilities should have portable test equipment
to provide maximum flexibility to the using test customer.
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6.1 NADSI Test Set. The NADSI Test Set will be capable of testing the NADSI
interfaces as specified in STANAG 4575 and will be tested and validated as part of the
NADSI Test Facility accreditation.
6.2.1 Formal Request for NADSI Test Facility Accreditation. The NATO Body
sponsoring the proposed NADSI Test Facility will submit a formal accreditation request
to the NADSI Custodian. An approved checklist detailing the required system hardware,
software, test equipment, and test procedures will be completed and attached. The
request will state the preferred test location and at least three-accreditation test dates.
6.2.2 NADSI Test Facility/Set Accreditation. The NADSI Custodian will accredit all
NADSI Test Facilities. A validated NADSI Test Set will be used to certify the NADSI
Test Facility's compliance to STANAG 4575, the NADSI Test Requirements Document,
and to test the interface as required in the approved procedure. Initially, the Joint
Interoperability Test Command (JITC) NADSI Test Set will be used to accredit NADSI
Test Facilities; once accredited, a NADSI Test Facility can be used under the direction of
the Custodian to accredit other NADSI Test Facilities.
The JITC NADSI Test Set will be tested with several NADSI devices to ensure it
accurately tests and evaluates NADSI systems for compliance to STANAG 4575 and the
NADSI Test Requirements Document. The NADSI Custodian will certify the JITC
NADSI Test Set based on successful test assessments and reports.
6.3.3 Accredited NADSI Test Facility Maintenance. The NADSI Test Facility will
report all successful NADSI system compliance tests to the NADSI Custodian within 30
calendar days of test completion. The report will include as a minimum the items listed
in paragraph 5 in this annex. The NADSI Test Facility will submit an annual report
summarizing test activities and a statement that required test equipment had been
calibrated. The NADSI Test Facility will implement hardware and software changes as
directed by the NADSI Custodian to accommodate program and possible STANAG
changes. Modifications and changes are addressed in paragraph 6.3.4.
6.3.4 Modifying an Accredited NADSI Test Facility. The Accredited NADSI Test
Facility will notify the NADSI Custodian of planned or required modifications to the test
facility. The notification will include the reason for modifying the test facility and what
hardware and software is being modified or replaced. The NADSI Custodian will
determine if the NADSI Test Facility needs to be reaccredited.
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ANNEX E
CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT PLAN
1. Purpose. The purpose of this Annex is to provide the framework for the management
of STANAG 4575 and all associated documents.
3.1 General.
3.1.1 NATO Nation Responsibility. Each NATO member nation is responsible for
funding its own participation. Although each NATO member nation can assign
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3.2 Custodian/Chairman. The STANAG 4575 Custodian also serves as the chairman of
all meetings of the configuration management functions. The Custodian is responsible
for all STANAG 4575 activity. Specific duties include, but are not limited to the
following tasks:
1. Tracks changes and provides "official" copy for promulgation
2. Reports to AG IV on status
3. Chairs STANAG 4575 Custodial Support Team (CST) meetings
4. Directs activity of STANAG 4575 Administrative Support Team (AST)
3.2.1 Tasking and Reporting Responsibility. The Custodian is the only individual to
receive tasking from and report to AG IV on STANAG 4575. This authority can be
delegated to other members of the STANAG 4575 community, but responsibility for the
tasking and reporting resides with the Custodian.
3.3 STANAG 4575 Custodial Support Team (4575 CST). The Custodial Support Team
decides on the changes to be made to STANAG 4575.
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3.3.4 Other Participation. Other individuals from nations with representatives may
participate at discretion of national representatives or the Custodian/chairman. The
participants can be additional government personnel or contractor personnel. The intent
of having additional personnel participate is to provide technical, operational, or
procedural expertise that may not be resident with the representatives and to allow
participation by those who are developing systems using STANAG 4575.
3.3.5 Other Interested Parties. Individuals from non-NATO nations may participate in
4575 CST meetings only at the request of the Custodian, and only to explain/defend
changes proposed by the individual or a non-NATO nation.
3.4 STANAG 4575 Administrative Support Team (4575 AST). The STANAG 4575
Administrative Support Team provides the necessary planning and maintenance activities
to manage STANAG 4575.
3.4.1 4575 AST Member Selection. The members of the 4575 AST are selected by the
Custodian. Members are selected based on tasking, resources, and remain members of
the 4575 AST at the discretion of the Custodian.
3.4.2 4575 AST Member Functions. The members of the 4575 AST will perform the
following functions.
1. Prepare for meetings by identifying locations and dates for the meetings,
preparing announcements, coordinating security clearances, providing
guidance to meeting hosts, and preparing presentation materials and handouts.
2. Presentation of recommended changes during the meetings.
3. Track recommended changes submitted through 4575 CST channels.
4. Prepare minutes of all meetings.
5. Prepare revisions for distribution to AG IV secretary and members.
6. Perform the configuration management STANAG 4575, including maintaining
the current version of document.
7. Disseminate all proposed changes to the 4575 CST as they are received and
logged.
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The Secretary will update the postings for past and upcoming meetings based on
information provided by the Custodian. Once changes to STANAG 4575 are approved,
the Secretary will post the revision to the AG IV web page within 45 days of the meeting,
unless other arrangements are agreed during the AG IV meeting. The Secretary will
maintain a list of the national representatives to the 4575 CST on the web page, based on
the nominations made during the AG IV meetings as documented in the AG IV meeting
decision sheets.
3.6 Special Teams. The Custodian will have the authority to convene special teams to
examine major technical issues that are beyond the scope of routine change proposal
activity. Technical issues of this type can include major changes to the format or
development of future strategies for advanced data storage, interface and data download.
The Custodian can chair the special team or select another member of the NADS
community to chair the special team and report on its progress. The members of the team
will be appointed by the Custodian based on recommendations from the national
representatives. The Custodian will identify any special teams, including the members,
tasking, planned schedule, and expected products, to AG IV.
4.1 Change Request Procedure. All representatives can submit change requests that
change the content or structure of STANAG 4575. Other personnel requesting changes
will submit their requests through the respective national representatives. For persons
from NATO nations without formal representatives on the 4575 CST, the change requests
will be submitted through their respective AG IV representative.
4.2 Change Request Format. All change requests will use a standard format, either by
completing the form in Appendix A or electronic mail containing the same information
and order as the form. The paper form can be submitted either through the mail or by
telefax. The change request is submitted to the appropriate national representative, who
then endorses the change and forwards it to the Custodian. The Custodian provides the
change request to the 4575 AST for logging and dissemination for discussion and review.
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4.3 Class of Changes. All change requests will identify the proposed change as either
Class I (amendments of substance) or Class II (editorial amendments). Class I changes
modify the functionality of standard (requires s/w change to comply). This includes
changes to the order of fields, changes to the allowed or required values for a field, or
additions/deletions of fields or approved values. Class I changes are those identified as
changes of substance in paragraph 214.2. of AAP-3(G). Class II changes are for
administrative or editorial revisions or to clarify the usage of the STANAG. These
changes are those identified as editorial amendments in paragraph 214.3 of AAP-3(G).
5.1 Routine Business Activities. These activities can be performed at any time by the
appropriate personnel.
5.1.1 Change Requests. Change requests are submitted by any interested individual or
organization to the respective national representative using the form included in
Appendix 1. A list of national representatives will be maintained by the AG IV Secretary
and included on the web page.
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5.1.2 Change Request Routing. The Custodian provides the change request to the 4575
AST for logging into the configuration management system. At the direction of the
Custodian, proposed changes can be disseminated by the 4575 AST at any time for
review.
5.2 Quarterly 4575 CST Meetings. The 4575 CST will meet quarterly unless there are no
outstanding change proposals. The Custodian will formally call the meeting based on the
arrangements established by the 4575 AST.
5.2.1 Procedure for Proposed Changes. Proposed changes are compiled and distributed to
all national representatives no less than fourteen days prior to the meeting. The format of
the change compilation is shown in Appendix 1. National representatives then distribute
the proposed changes to other interested individuals from the respective nation. National
representatives and others are directed to establish impact of the proposed changes. The
respective national positions are determined by procedures established by each nation. If
a nation is unable to attend a 4575 CST meeting, the nation may submit written comments
to the Custodian prior to the 4575 CST meeting. The comments will be provided to all
attendees for consideration during deliberations.
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5.2.2 Discussion of Change Proposals. During the 4575 CST meeting, each proposed
change is discussed. Change proposals are discussed under direction of the Custodian.
Change proposals can be deferred pending additional investigation/review, for which the
Custodian assigns responsibility for addition study/review, or changes can be voted
independently or in groups at discretion of Custodian.
5.2.2.1 Voting on Change Proposals. Only the national representatives vote on final
configuration decisions. Class I changes require unanimous consent of national
representatives (or designated alternates) in attendance and voting. Class II changes
require a majority vote of national representatives in attendance and voting. Ties are
decided by the Custodian.
5.2.2.2 Custodian’s Options and Approval Authority. The Custodian can defer the
decisions of the national representatives for AG IV review, request additional discussion
and review by the national representatives, or approve them immediately. Approved
decisions are incorporated into the STANAG by the 4575 AST. When deemed necessary
by the Custodian, unapproved decisions are presented to AG IV for final decision. Those
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5.3 AG IV Meetings. At the AG IV meetings, two topics are presented along with the
general status of the STANAG 4575 activities. The Custodian can present any change
proposals approved or rejected by the 4575 CST for which the Custodian disagreed. Air
Group IV makes the final decisions on those items presented for which the Custodian
disagreed with the 4575 CST national representatives. The 4575 AST then incorporates
the revisions as directed by Air Group IV.
6.1 Language. All meetings will be conducted in English. Those nations requiring the
materials in different languages are responsible for translating the materials. Attendees
to the meetings should be proficient enough in English to contribute to the meeting in
English.
6.2 Meeting Advance Notice. All meetings will be announced with a minimum of 60
days notice.
6.3 Quorum. The quorum for approving changes for submission to AG IV is 2 nations
formally represented by approved representatives or their alternates.
6.4 Meeting Minutes. Minutes of all formal meetings will be distributed within 14 days
of the completion of the meeting. The minutes will include a record to document
approved and disapproved changes, identify the status of all outstanding changes, and
identify issues to be taken forward to AG IV.
6.5 Memorandum of Resolution. If, because of disagreement between the Custodian and
the majority of national representatives, items are taken forward to AG IV for a final
decision, the Custodian and 4575 AST will prepare a memorandum for record,
distributed to all national representatives, which will identify results of AG IV
discussions/decisions, and provide status of all changes. This memorandum will be
disseminated to the national representatives within 14 days of AG IV meeting.
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APPENDIX 1
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Note: This form may be used to submit changes to any document included in the STANAG 4575 data set. This form may not be used
to request copies of these documents. The documents are available on the NATO NAFAG AG IV Internet home page
(www.nato.int/structur/AC/224/home.htm), or through normal NATO document distribution channels.
RECOMMENDED CHANGE: (continue on additional sheets as necessary) page | | of | |
1. Document Number: 2. Document Version/Release Number: 3. Document Date:
AC/224-D/950 Edition 1/ Ratification Draft 1 17 July 2001
4. Document Title:
STANAG 4575, NATO Advanced Data Storage Interface (NADSI)
5. Proposed Change to: (Section, Paragraph, Line, Page) 6. Change Class: I | | II | |
| | | |
9. Reason/Rationale:
19. Nat’l Rep Mailing Address: 22. Nat’l Rep E-Mail Address:
Mail, Telefax, or E-Mail Change Proposals To: 26. Date Logged by 4575 AST/initials:
STANAG 4575 Custodian
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ANNEX F
APPLICATION NOTES
1. Scope. This Annex provides application notes for the use of the NADS Interface
based on practical experience and lessons learned from previous testing and
demonstrations during the STANAG development. It will be updated with information
as the certification phase defined in Annex D and the NATO-wide interoperability
demonstrations progress.
2. Testing of NADS Interface with CIGSS Test Van at NAWC, China Lake, CA; 3 May
2001.
2.1. Background. The testing addressed in this section was required prior to the release
of STANAG 4575 to NATO Air Group IV for ratification in order to verify that the
STANAG is correct and complete. By having two or more independent organizations
implement the interface and verify that the data stored can be recovered, a reasonable
level of assurance is provided that there are no missing or unclear elements of the
interface definition.
2.2 Objective. The objective of the testing was to confirm that image files previously
recorded on a manufacturer’s RMM (GDIS Disk Array) could be downloaded via the
NADSI Fibre Channel port to the U.S. Common Imagery Ground/Surface Station
(CIGSS), using the NADSI command structure and file system, and that those image files
could be replicated from the downloaded data.
2.3 Results. The test identified a potential problem in that the operating system used
(Sun Solaris 2.6) requires that an identifier be written to the device before any data could
be read. This is not allowed by the STANAG. In subsequent teleconferences, it was
determined that this seemed to be unique to the Sun library and other operating systems
do not have this limitation. It was further determined that a different approach to the Sun
driver would fix the problem for Solaris. As such, no change was required in the
STANAG. It was agreed that this problem should be highlighted to the community in the
AEDP. Because of the result of the test, it was agreed that the STANAG was complete
and correct and could be submitted for ratification (which was subsequently completed).
2.4 Lessons Learned. It was clear from this first testing of the NADS Interface with the
CIGSS Test Bed that the GS processor software may provide different levels of
functionality when used with that RMM NADS interface.
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2.4.1 Required Functionality. The drivers and software control of the RMM are required
to provide for data download through the NADS Interface to the ground station
processor. It is intended that this capability include identification of data files in the
RMM and download of individual files as well as the option to download the complete
memory of the RMM. The driver must be backward compatible whenever it is updated.
2.4.2 Optimal Functionality. There is no guarantee that any RMM will respond to
recommended or optional commands from the ground station via the NADS Interface.
The ground station must use discovery techniques to determine available commands and
functions for a given RMM. It is expected that each ground station will develop their
driver differently such that it best fits their system architecture. The driver provides the
hardware interface between the RMM and the self-contained ground station processor
application, including the API as shown in Figure E-1-1 below.
Figure-E-1-1
RMM Interface to Ground Station (GS) Processor
3. NADS Interface Demo at UAV Topical Meeting, NATO HQ, Brussels Belgium; 23-
24 Jan. 2003
3.1 Background. The demonstration included a QinetiQ supplied UK ground system (an
SGI workstation with the UK software for the NADSI interface and an image processing
capability), an L-3 Communications, Communications Systems- East Solid State
Recorder (SSR), which was a S/TAR recorder in the SHARP configuration and a General
Dynamics Advanced Information Systems disk-based RMM. Both recorders had been
loaded with the supplied test files and test imagery. The recorders were connected to the
ground station through a Fibre Channel hub. The data was downloaded and processed
individually from each RMM. Power supplies and converters were used to power the
units. Both units underwent an initial integration at QinetiQ in the UK prior to being
driven to Brussels.
3.2 Results. The ground station demonstrated the ability to command the download of
files from both of the RMMs via the NADS Interface and accept, display and save the
transferred files. The files included test sequences and imagery. The disk and the SSR
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were demonstrated individually using the identical data and commands. The directories
were displayed and stored. The data was stored on the system storage unit and individual
data files were evaluated and displayed. The test data was downloaded directly to the
ground station and was compared visually to the transferred data.
4. NADSI/US DCGS-CIP Interface Testing at DCGS-I Test Bed, China Lake, CA; 1-2
June 2005
4.1 Background. The NADSI/ US DCGS-CIP Interface Program was a two phase
program to develop the capability within the US DCGS ground system to be able to
download and process ISR data from any STANAG 4575 compliant RMM. The first
phase primarily involved the development of a Sun (Solaris) based driver that would be
resident in the CIP IOP that would allow the CIP to recognize an external storage device
as a NADSI compliant RMM, issue NADSI SCSI commands to the RMM, and download
and process any one or all of the files contained on that storage device. During this phase,
the driver development primarily focused on interface with a Disk based RMM. The
power and the cabling and connectors were supplied by the RMM manufacturer. In the
second phase of the program, that driver was enhanced to provide the same download
capability for both Disk and Solid State technology storage devices. In addition a
Universal Power Supply with appropriate cabling/connectors was developed that would
provide power as specified in the STANAG to any RMM for download.
4.2 Results. The general update to the CIP for NADSI includes the 6.7A release of CIP
software and the installation of the CIP Solaris 2.8 driver for NADSI. In addition, to
these updates, the DCGS test bed CIP software includes a GUI controlled modification
that allows any file (and specifically NITF files) to be transferred to the screener and
storage. A Fiber Channel switch with media conversion had previously been installed in
the test bed for use with NADSI devices or other Fibre Channel inputs. Two RMMs
were used for the demonstration: an Ampex DSR 400 Solid State Recorder (SSR) and a
General Dynamics disk based RMM. Identical data had been loaded on both units from
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the test CD. The data included ATARS and NITF imagery files. Each unit was connected in
turn, initialized and verified to be operating properly. The directories were called up and
displayed. A single ATARS test file was downloaded and processed by the CIP and transferred
to the screener. The imagery was displayed. The balance of the ATARS files were then
downloaded to the screener. Selected files were processed, displayed, and verified to be correct.
A single NITF file was downloaded, sent to the screener and displayed. The balance of the NITF
files were transferred to the screener and selected files were displayed and verified. This
completed the NADSI data transfer demonstration. `
4.3 Lessons Learned. Although the demonstration was successful, it relied on the
“engineering level” control panel to access the NADSI port and download data. This
approach allowed the download of the NADSI data; however, it is not user friendly. It
requires a “manual” intervention to select the NADSI port (RR 10) and the operator must
know the sequence of operation. In addition, the software in the test bed allowed the
transfer of NITF files, whereas the current CIP interface only allows the option to
“process” the data, not pass it directly to the screener. NSIF files on coalition RMMs
will require this same pass through function. It is recommended that program ground
stations developing NADSI software drivers incorporate access to the ”RR 10” NADSI
input and the selection of data types into a GUI to provide an intuitive and user friendly
approach to accessing this capability.
5.0 Status Lights for RMMs. Based on feedback from operational / fleet users of
STANAG 4575 recording systems, it is highly recommended that a status light/ indicator
be incorporated on all RMMs so that operators can easily determine that power is on and
the operational status of the recorder is positively indicated.
6.0 Guidance on Use of the Write Command for Writing Data to an RMM.
6.1 Background: During the 11th STANAG 4575 CST meeting, the Group made the
decision to incorporate this description into the AEDP-6 in order to not constrain any
manufacturer in their approach to implementing write function in a NADSI device in the
NADSI interface, or to appear prescriptive in defining an example of a write approach for
procurement.
6.2 Introduction: The CST received a manufacturer’s comment on the application of the
WRITE 10 command when using the NADSI interface to write data to an RMM. The
essence of the concern was that using the WRITE 10 SCSI command as recommended in
the first two editions of the STANAG, implies the use of the associated SCSI rules and is
based on the process of writing to a disk; where the computer controls the directory
entries and file write position. STANAG 4575 defines the directory, the file names and
writing requirements. This may cause a conflict between NADSI and WRITE 10. The
intent of choosing WRITE 10 to initiate the recording of data on a NADSI compliant
device was to choose a standard SCSI command (that was not “RECORD”) that would
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initiate the recording process on a NADSI compliant device to store data in the NADSI
file structure and write the associated NADSI directory on an RMM. It was not the intent
to imply a procedure for recording this data. It must be noted here that the “Record”
function is not a “required” command in the STANAG for the NADSI interface, but an
“allowed” command. STANAG 4575 is intended to only define a data download port on
an NADSI compliant RMM.
6.3 Lessons Learned for recording using “Write 10”: The SCSI WRITE 10 command
and the FORMAT UNIT command were chosen as Recommended commands in
STANAG 4575 to provide common record commands for NADSI compliant recorders
when the recording function was desired in the NADSI interface, rather than just in the
native system interface. Although the record function is not required for data download
(the stated purpose of STANAG 4575), it is required if overwrite or sanitization of the
RMM are desired, separate from the native system. At the time of incorporating these
record commands in STANAG 4575’s list of “Required” and “Recommended” SCSI
commands, it was realized that implementation would require different approaches
depending on the technology and “intelligence level” of the RMM. It was expected that
any RMM that included only the memory element would not be capable of recording
without the associated system or recorder. It was also expected that when the RMM was
incorporated into its native system, its native system interface would have full capability
and could use whatever approach was optimum for recording and reproducing data. Use
of WRITE 10 in the native interface was neither expected, required or recommended.
As NADSI recorders were developed, both data download only and download and
recording RMM/Recorders were developed by multiple manufacturers. When the
WRITE 10 command was implemented, the SCSI definitions and requirements for the
command were reviewed and conflicts with STANAG 4575 were identified. The CST
reviewed recording approaches with multiple manufacturers and discussed the issue of
strictly interpreting the SCSI WRITE 10 requirements for its use in implementing
STANAG 4575. It was clarified that a strict interpretation of WRITE 10 was not an
appropriate approach. The clear intent is to identify a common SCSI command that will
result in the recording of data on an RMM that can be downloaded through the NADSI
interface and be compliant with STANAG 4575. It is still expected that either a
recorder/RMM or an “Intelligent RMM” is required to interpret the WRITE 10 command
as a “record this file” command and to record data to the RMM in STANAG 4575
format. The host system or the recorder assumes the full responsibility for recording the
STANAG 4575 format.
When the WRITE 10 command is used to initiate recording on a STANAG 4575
compliant recorder or RMM, it shall be interpreted to mean that the associated data shall
be written to produce a STANAG 4575 compliant recording. An example of an
acceptable approach would be where the Logical Block Address of the WRITE10
Command Descriptor Block (CDB) is ignored, data is written into consecutive block
addresses, the number of blocks written is equal to the transfer length in the CDB and the
recorder calculates the BYTELENGTH and next write position. There are many ways to
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Note – The SCSI WRITE 10 command and the FORMAT UNIT commands were removed from the
STANAG’s Table B1, List of “Required” and “Recommended” SCSI commands and the table was
renamed to STANAG 4575 Required Commands. That change will appear in Edition 3 of the
STANAG.
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ANNEX G
GLOSSARY
(ACRONYMS AND DEFINITIONS)
GB Gigabytes
Gbps Giga bits per second
GFI Government Furnished Information
GFS Government Furnished Software
GH Global Hawk
GIAS Geospatial and Imagery Access Service
GIF Graphics Interchange Format
GIMS Geospatial Imagery Management System
GIS Geographical Information System
GOTS Government off-the-shelf
GS Ground Station
GSE Ground Support Equipment
GUI Graphical User Interface - A user environment that uses pictorial
as well as textual representations of the input and output of
applications and the hierarchical or other data structure in which
information is stored. Conventions such as buttons, icons, and
windows are typical, and many actions are performed using a
pointing decide (such as a mouse). Microsoft Windows and the
Apple Macintosh are prominent examples of platforms utilizing
GUIs.
H/C Hardcopy
HAE High Altitude Endurance (UAV)
HCL Hardware Compatibility List. Software that enables one to detect
the hardware minimum requirement for an operating system.
HiPPI High Performance Parallel Interface
HiPPI-FP HiPPI Framing Protocol
HMMWV High Mobility Multi-purpose Wheeled Vehicle
HiPPI-PH HiPPI Physical Layer
HRU Hardcopy Reconstruction Unit
HSI Hyper-Spectral Imagery
HTML Hyper Text Markup Language
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IU Interface Unit
KB Kilobytes
Kbps Kilobits per second
KCOIC Korean Combat Operations Intelligence Center
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