THE EFFECT OF CALIBRATION ACCURACY ON BASIC SONAR OPERATIONS
Abstract
Research was conducted to determine the extent to which inappropriate calibration of the SQS-23 sonar may be reducing sonar operational effectiveness in the Fleet. A measurement routine was devised to accurately assess the calibrative status of this sonar. The measurements revealed that errors in calibration existed in all sonars examined. The errors found were later related to the four basic sonar operations: detection, target classification, tracking, and weapons control. Range accuracy and classification information were found to be particularly sensitive to calibration errors and, for that reason, the sonars were in a questionable state of readiness at the time the measurements were made. A test of calibration proficiency was devised and administered to sonarmen assigned to SQS-23 maintenance aboard each of the ships visited. Its purpose was to assess the degree to which sonarmen can relate the various calibrative activities required by the SQS-23 to their knowledge of the functional operation of the sonar. Test scores were extremely low. It was tentatively concluded that the manner in which the calibration procedure is written encourages sonarmen to perform calibrations without awareness of the operational consequences they are producing within the sonar. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1964
- Accession Number
- AD0351223
Entities
People
- Edward L. Parker