MIRAGE II.
Abstract
The MIRAGE (Microelectronic Radar Indicator for Ground Equipment) concept developed a 12-inch screen plan position indicator (PPI) almost exclusively with microelectronic components to reduce equipment size and weight and yet increase reliability and performance capability. The concept was fundamentally a result of the use of unique resolvers, or other electromechanical devices. The MIRAGE II, or now called AN/UPA-56, experimental model is two cubic feet in volume, weighs 70 lbs and requires 150 watts of power. This equipment represents a 5.3 to 1 power advantage, a 614 to 1 weight reduction of the existing transistorized comparable indicator. Most of the 640 integrated circuit packages used in the equipment are digital devices and the complete digital design is accomplished with only seven different circuit types. A ratio of integrated circuit type transistors to discrete types yields a 99.8% integration. Likewise, a ratio of integrated circuit type resistors and capacitors to discrete types yields a 94% integration. This almost blanket use of microelectronics results in an equipment mean time between failure rate (MTBF) of 2286 hours. MIRAGE II is considered to be a bench mark, its mechanical design emphasizing the particular parameters of small weight and volume. The use of integrated circuits presented no problems in the design, test, or manufacturability of the equipment. The recommendations are generally directed toward improving the techniques used rather than gross reduction. At the conclusion of this program, the AN/UPA-56 experimental model yielded a radar PPI ready for immediate field utilization. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0669143
Entities
People
- David V. Reinhardt Sr
Organizations
- General Electric