Airborne Data Recorder

We propose to create a highly reliable, airborne solid state data recorder with capabilities unprecedented in tape based storage systems. Data will be stored only when needed (or when specific conditions are met in real time), for the duration desired, eliminating storage of unnecessary data (where this can be defined). The cost of media will be eliminated. The data will be digitally filtered in real time using DSP algorithms of the users choice. Data is compressed and stored with error correcting codes. A solid state data storage system would have no moving parts. Use of COTS technology will reduce cost. Fault tolerant techniques will further boost the reliability of such systems. Advanced packaging technologies and optical storage techniques will allow for stacking in 3-D, yielding a more compact, reliable, and economical system than can grow with user needs. The proposed design for the prototype involves making use of Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) memory daughter cards that are widely available for the PC market, and leverages the economies of scale for a cost-effective solution. Finally, we will be making use of holographic memory that will eventually allow for TeraBytes of storage in very small form factors that is ideal for aerospace applications.