Test & Measurement - February 2024
From advanced fighter aircraft to future fleets of driverless cars, innovative test technologies are enabling major performance, quality, and cost improvements. Read about these and other applications in a new report from the editors of Tech Briefs and Aerospace & Defense Technology magazines.
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Overview
The February 2024 Special Report on Test & Measurement focuses on critical electronic systems, particularly in military applications involving aircraft and warships. It emphasizes the importance of reliable signal transmission and the need for advanced testing solutions to ensure performance under demanding conditions.
Key highlights include the necessity of maintaining high-speed data transmission at RF and millimeter wave frequencies, which are essential for mission success in modern military operations. The report discusses how system interference, whether intentional or unintentional, can significantly impact the effectiveness of signals intelligence (SIGINT), electronic warfare (EW), and Command, Control, Communication, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) systems. The report underscores that the survivability of aircraft and the safety of troops depend on the reliability of these critical defense systems.
To combat electromagnetic interference (EMI), the report outlines the importance of adhering to established standards such as RTCA DO-160 and MIL-STD-461, which guide the evaluation of airborne equipment and control EMI issues. Shielding of line replaceable units (LRUs) and harnesses is highlighted as a key strategy to mitigate EMI effects.
In addition to military applications, the report also touches on advancements in the semiconductor industry, particularly the interest in using 2D materials to shrink electronic devices and reduce energy consumption. The need for quick and accurate defect detection methods for these materials is emphasized to ensure their suitability for device manufacturing.
Another significant area covered is the research being conducted at UBC Okanagan, which aims to enhance cell phone connectivity and localization through the use of "smart" surfaces. These surfaces are designed to reflect signals from towers to improve communication links, particularly in dense urban environments.
The report also includes practical insights on ensuring aerospace composite quality through force measurement and material testing, as well as common mistakes to avoid when integrating battery test systems. These sections provide valuable guidance for professionals in the aerospace and defense sectors.
Overall, the Special Report serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the challenges and innovations in test and measurement for critical electronic systems. It highlights the ongoing need for innovative testing solutions to address the complexities of modern military operations and the evolving landscape of electronic device manufacturing. The report is a call to action for industry professionals to prioritize reliable testing and measurement practices to ensure mission success and operational safety.
