Plug and Play Compatibility Enhancements for the Network Data Acquisition System (NDAS)

The Air Force has an operational need to launch satellites on demand for a variety of missions as well as to provide last minute tailoring for dynamic mission requirements. One of the critical capabilities required to achieve this goal is the ability to rapidly integrate all the necessary satellite subsystems, including mission specific payloads, in a short time period before launch. The capability to rapidly integrate components prior to launch also supports the ability to rapidly reconfigure a spacecraft to accommodate changing mission requirements. In support of this operational need, the AF has established a roadmap for the development of satellite components that can perform these functions, with the initial phase concentrating on establishment of a "Plug and Play" (PnP) interface similar to those implemented on standard personal computers via Universal Serial Bus (USB). In support of this Phase I SBIR, PSI is modifying their existing high-speed, dual redundant, multi-drop network for space (Network Data Acquisition System - NDAS) by adding USB compatibility. We will provide an integrated PnP design that that can plug into an existing USB device as well as host numerous USB components along the network. The Phase II effort completes the design work for an ASIC implementation.