B4.2 - PCM Frame Generator for Telemetry System Tests
- Event
- ETTC 2026 - European Test and Telemetry Conference
2026-06-09 - 2026-06-11
Nuremberg - Chapter
- Data Aquisition I
- Author(s)
- H. Celik, F. M. Yildiz, M. K. Arpacioglu - Turkish Aerospace Inc., Ankara (Turkey)
- Pages
- 233 - 240
- DOI
- 10.5162/ettc2026/B4.2
- Price
- free
Abstract
Flight test telemetry systems involve tightly coupled processes including data generation, encoding, transmission, reception, and decommutation, making end-to-end validation both critical and challenging. Conventional validation approaches rely heavily on onboard instrumentation systems, which restrict test flexibility, complicate fault isolation, and limit comprehensive performance evaluation due to hardware constraints. This paper presents a configurable IRIG 10⁶ Chapter-4 PCM Frame Generator designed to enable independent and controlled verification of the telemetry chain. The proposed system supports user-defined PCM frame structures, including synchronization words, subframe configurations, and adjustable bit rates, along with deterministic and repeatable data content modes. By modeling PCM frame definitions from XidML inputs, the generator preserves structural integrity while allowing dynamic modification of data content in real time. The system operates at the hardware level, producing compliant PCM outputs across multiple transmission rates and data patterns. Through its RS-422 interface, the generator can directly feed both transmitter and receiver units, enabling isolated or integrated testing of RF links and decommutation systems. Known data patterns allow bit-level verification across the entire telemetry chain. The proposed solution provides a scalable and flexible test platform, improving test coverage, repeatability, and fault isolation capability in telemetry system verification and development.