Secure Communication System 1.0

Audio Management System Technology with Analog Audio Switching for Large Fixed-Wing Aircraft, Medium and Heavy Helicopters, and Shipboard Applications

Palomar Secure Communication System 1.0 technology provides a wide range of solutions for secure intercommunication systems (ICS) using full military qualified non-developmental item hardware.  Our TEMPEST compliant integrated systems include high quality audio, secure and clear communications, crypto and data modem switching, radio control, radio relay, MIL-STD-1553B interface, microprocessor controlled flexibility, redundancy and a current design for logistics support.   Ultra-high channel-to-channel isolation allows the management of multi-level secure communication assets and crew stations. The integrated, microprocessor controlled, modular distribution system is designed to meet modern net-centric multi-mission operational requirements. It offers reliable real-time control of communication and data assets in the most demanding battlefield conditions.

System Architecture

The flexible and modular SCS 1.0 architecture can be scaled from simple internal/external communication systems up to full command and control systems that include crypto and data link assignments, clear/secure radio relay, clear/secure simulcast, unlimited conference networks and selective dial-up. Systems can be interfaced to mission computers via standard network links.

Features and Benefits

Dependable Technology

Simultaneous clear and secure transmissions
Greater than 120dB crosstalk isolation
EMP/lightning hardened
Voice and data switching with binaural audio
Wideband audio
Radio and crypto control
Crypto/modem switching
Both redundant and emergency backup operations
Recorder control/playback
Lightweight, low power consumption
Convection cooled, no forced air required
High reliability and low mean time to repair (MTTR)
Built-in test
Alarm generation
Radio relay (clear and secure)

Compatibility and Interfaces

Standard interfaces: MIL-STD-1553, RS-422 (Ethernet optional)
Night-vision compatible
Compatible/daylight readable
Compatibility with all standard headsets and microphones
Multi-headset interface at each position

Certified Tough & Secure

TEMPEST qualified to NSTISSAM TEMPEST/1-92 Level 1 and NACSIM 5100
NSTISSAM / TEMPEST 2-95

Notable Platforms

Marine 1 (VP and President transport helicopter)
P-3 Orion CUP Germany & Portugal & Pakistan
P-3 Customs and Border Patrol
E6B
AWACS USAF
E3
LM-00J Foreign Operators
Shipboard: LCC, LA, LHD, CV/CVN, BB, CG, DDG

More Information

Start-up Time (typical):
2 Seconds

Radio Receiver Levels:
0 to +24dBm

Radio Transmit Levels:
0 dBm ±3dB

Microphone Input:
0.045 mV nominal (low level)
500 mV nominal (high level)

Headphone Output:
Up to 1 watt into an 8 ohm load
(mono or binaural)

Crosstalk Isolation:
Greater than 120 dB

Audio Quality:
<5% harmonic distortion
<0.5 mV rms noise
>5 kHz bandwidth transmit
18 kHz bandwidth receive

Speech Intelligibility:
91% during peak ambient noise conditions

Electrical Power:
28 V per MIL-STD-704

Environmental:
Designed to MIL-E-5400T
Tested to MIL-STD-810C

EMI/EMC:
mil-std-461

TEMPEST:
NSTISSAM TEMPEST/1-92 Level 1
and NACSIM 5100A

Reliability (typical for P-3C Program)
Predicted series MTBF: >3300 hours at 35°C

Maintainability:
MTTR of 0.25 hour
Extensive built-in-test

Up to 60 radio channels and intercom networks can be accessed through the IPCSU when used with a full ATR CCU.  Receive and Transmit channels are selected via simple push-button keys. When a channel  is selected, its status LED is illuminated and its volume is automatically set to mid-range or to the level set after power-on. Panel LEDs also display the channels selected for transmit and their associated security level. Receive and transmit indicators can be programmed to flash if there is receive or transmit activity on a given channel.  The panels can be customized to allow for additional control features. These include crypto switching, modem switching, clear/secure selection, radio relay and others. The panel can also be set up to allow selection of several conference intercom nets, direct access channels to crew positions or dial-up calling. Other typical panel features are ICS Disconnect, Alternate ICS and PTT  ICS/radio select.

The CDU is a microprocessor-based control and display unit that gives the crew member access to radio and intercom audio channels. The full-function keyboard allows the user to control transmit and receive functions such as assignment of all communication assets including crypto units, data-link modem switching, radio relay and display of Built-In-Test (BIT) readouts.  Complete status of the communication assets for each.

The CCU networks and controls the links between communication assets and crew members. The CCU is a modular, microprocessor controlled, TEMPEST qualified secure unit that is integrated into the communications suite to provide the necessary control and switching of all internal and external, clear and secure voice and data lines by the crew members.

 

The CCU is available in half and full ATR size depending on system and redundancy requirements. The unit can be interfaced to mission computing via MIL-STD-1553B data buses or optional Ethernet connections. Its modular circuit card assembly design allows the CCU hardware to be tailored to meet multiple platform requirements. Flexible firmware functionality enables a single CCU type to be used on multiple platforms with different configurations and communication plans. It is this flexibility that enables its use from small internal/external communication systems up to full command and control systems. Larger and more complex systems can include crypto and data link assignments, clear/secure radio relay, clear/secure simulcast, unlimited internal conference networks and/or selective dial-up.

The MSU provides interphone channels to remote aircraft locations for maintenance functions or remote crew interphone stations. Each MSU provides a headset connection, adjustable volume control, HOT MIC, and CALL functions.  MSUs come in a variety of sizes.

The ACU provides access to radio and intercommunication channels in a small form factor.  Up to 30 radio and/or intercom channels can be assigned to the panel pushbuttons.

Palomar Secure Communications