According to the schedule, this master’s student will be in charge of the following tasks:
1) 1-14 Preliminary evaluation of SDR radios (mainly for transponder)
2) 1-33 Study functionalities of transponder
3) 2-12 Finalize Transponder SDA with initial interoperation
4) 3-32 Bench Test individual transponder SDA functionality
The general objective of this Master’s research project is to implement the various functionalities of the transponder (Ident, Altitude Encoding, and the foundation for ADS-B). The master’s student has the goal of conceptualization, design, integration of the transceiver, and baseband aspects of the experimental transceiver. Other goals include integration of the real-time demonstration module with the rest of the transceiver, including the augmented functionality of interoperation permitting the use of real transponder receiver functionality, and accumulation of flight test data, when the time comes. This project will also provide a better understanding of complementary sensors including the altitude measurement, as well as operator pushbuttons, and code settings. Where possible, real time data will be simulated and used as test signals to interrogate the receiver function of the transceiver. New algorithms to enable this functionality are required, to demonstrate performance. The main goal of the project is to give thorough insight into transponder weaknesses, or unreliabilities at the module level. This one year research project will start with a meticulous analysis of the existing mechanisms, building on previously acquired knowledge, with a view towards simulation of the interrogation and resultant performance. Bibliographical studies of the transponder and associated functions are required. The RTCA documents detailing basic functionality, such as DO-144A, and DO-181D MOPS for Transponder, and Transponder mode S respectively, will be part of the bibliography.
