Link-16 Training and Exercise Coupler (1,16TEC) A Low Cost PC-Hosted Test/Training Support Tool

Link-16 is the new joint service standard for digital data communications. The ability to test the compatibility of new/upgraded Link-16 terminal models and Link-16 host systems is crucial as is the ability to conduct training and operational exercises using Link-16. Currently, the Navy's Link-16 Gateway System provides a means to connect physically separated Link-16 test/exercise sites but does not support integrated test/use of a complete host/terminal systems at single terminal sites. The Link-16 Training and Exercise Coupler (L16TEC) which Digital Wizards and KOR Electronics propose to design and develop will have radio frequency (RF) cable connections to the Link-16 terminal of the test/exercise system and will transmit and receive the Link-16 pulses. The high Signal-to-Noise ratio inherent in the direct connection will allow the use of a variety of low cost technologies which are not practical in an actual terminal. The L16TEC will consist of a standard personal computer and a plug-in board which will incorporate RF reception and transmission, Reed Solomon encoding/decoding, and data encryption functions. The L16TEC will employ the Link-16 Gateway protocol to communicate over telephone lines with other L16TEC and/or Link-16 Gateway Sites.