A maintenance system for the OTH-B MATE with RF augmentation

A comprehensive maintenance system was developed for the over-the-horizon backscatter (OTH-B) radar modular automatic test equipment (MATE). Particular emphasis was placed on developing the maintenance software for the critical MATE RF augmentation system. The author describes the design approach as well as lessons learned in developing a fully compliant MATE maintenance software system. System maintenance was performed through a combination of continuous status monitoring, rapid internal instrument self-test, and a comprehensive ATLAS self-test. A unique 11-min internal self-test program for the RF augmentation not only checks critical instrument functionality, but also checks critical RF switches, routing, and interface parameters. This multitier maintenance approach provides rapid critical fault detection along with accurate fault isolation to a single assembly/subassembly.<>