GPS-IU

Abstract

Global Positioning System (GPS) Interface Unit (IU) Upgrade will replace three Circuit Card Assemblies (CCA) in the GPS IU, as well as the backplane (to integrate the new and old CCAs): the Central Processing Unit/1553, the power supply CCA, and the video graphics card. The current inventory of GPS IUs (76 installed on B-52H, plus current supply level of 16), plus 1 in the System Integration Laboratory (SIL), and 2 on Ground Instructional Training Aircraft (GITA)) will be upgraded by Prime Contractor Boeing. The upgraded LRUs will be replaced using blue-suit installation, using remove-and-replace processes on the flight line (the current maintenance process). The GPS IU integrates GPS Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) data into navigation, communications, and weapons systems onboard the B-52. The GPS IU acts as a controller for a MIL-STD-1553 data bus communications path. The major areas of support include GPS interface control and monitoring, targeting pod functions, navigation displays for the Pilot and Copilot stations, and Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) control functions. Originally developed with a 33MHz processor with 4MB of Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), the GPS IU has become overloaded as more software has been added to the B-52. Currently operating at 86% throughput capacity and at 90% memory capacity, it is projected to exceed the designated safety threshold of 95% memory load by 2018. The GPS IU is also facing parts obsolescence issues. Studies show that the current spares will be exhausted by 2018. The upgrade will improve system reliability and address Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS) issues on subcomponents of the IU. The modified GPS IU will retain the existing functions and interfaces of the legacy GPS IU, and provide additional interfaces to allow for future growth requirements. GPS IU requires upgrading to incorporate any other GPS dependent capabilities on the B-52 platform. B-52 fleet will have the capability to carry additional GPS dependent weapons and targeting pods, and the increased capacity to incorporate future GPS-dependent capabilities beyond 2018. Funds may be used to address emerging and short-notice Diminishing Manufacturing and Material Shortage (DMSMS) issues. Funds may be used to resolve emerging safety of flight and diminishing manufacturing sources issues, accommodate technology insertion and fulfill FAA or other mandates necessary to ensure continued aircrew safety and mission effectiveness. DMS efforts to include removal of end-of-life software/hardware within simulators systems and move to a modular, common open system architecture that is sustainable and cyber-resilient. Implement requirements and standards defined under the Simulator Common Architecture Requirements and Standards (SCARS) initiative. This program element may include necessary civilian pay expenses required to manage, execute, and deliver B-52 weapon system capability. BA7- This project is in Budget Activity 7, Operational System Development because this budget activity includes development efforts to upgrade systems that have been fielded or have received approval for full rate production and anticipate production funding in the current or subsequent fiscal year.

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2018
• Source ID: 675055_0101113F_7_3600_PB_2018

Tags

Readers

• Civilian Systems Systems Program Capability Development and Upgrade Support Activity Expense and Pay Management.
• Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Technology.

Technology Areas

• Cyber
• Space