International Telemetering Conference Proceedings / October 17-20, 1988 / Riviera Hotel, Las Vegas, Nevada / Digital-based linear-array chart recorders are replacing conventional stylus recorders in telemetry data stations everywhere. They offer advantages in virtually all respects, and are becoming indispensable. But because of the completely different writing method and technology employed, it is difficult to make completely analogous performance comparisons between analog and digital chart recorders. This has led to some confusion when replacing aging stylus recorders is contemplated. Objectives: Establish a set of universal, standardized performance characteristics for digital chart recorders. Introduce appropriate terminology, allowing valid, repeatable comparison of old and new systems.

International Telemetering Conference Proceedings / October 17-20, 1988 / Riviera Hotel, Las Vegas, Nevada / Mission safety and cost-efficiency concerns have resulted in a resurgence of interest in real-time strip chart recorders. But conventional recorder technologies require inordinate maintenance and daily calibration. Attempts at strip chart emulation involving costly dedicated microcomputers and CRT's have failed, because the chart itself is not real-time, a basic requirement. The concept of an inexpensive, direct digital link to a telemetry processing computer (VAX, e.g.) is discussed. A thorough examination of real-time monitoring of critical, non-repeatable data is presented. Objectives: An automated, turn-key telemetry data system. Reduce the routine maintenance required by conventional recording systems; eliminate the need for digital-to-analog converters (DAC's); and improve the efficiency of range personnel and the integrity of recorded data.

International Telemetering Conference Proceedings / November 04-07, 1991 / Riviera Hotel and Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada / A synopsis of the very recent evolution of telemetry chart recorders from “closed” chart paper output devices to powerful “open” Data Management Systems. A Data Management System (DMS) is defined as one which incorporates a video screen for waveform preview and monitoring, direct connection of hard or optical disk via SCSI for real-time data archiving, and DR11 digital interfacing. The DMS concept of providing real-time waveform monitoring independent of hard copy recording is discussed, as well as the capabilities of the hard copy recorder. The realities of budget shortfalls makes wholesale system upgrades to eliminate DAC’s entirely difficult at best. These concerns—and a potential remedy: a DMS which accepts any mix of analog and digital waveforms—are reviewed. Objectives: How DMS’s can be integrated with existing telemetry systems, encompass the functionality of conventional recorders and add new capabilities, with an emphasis on how data can be digitally pre-formatted in real-time, simplifying—or even eliminating—post-mission reduction and analysis. A demonstration of how a video display allows real-time trace viewing—a major weakness of conventional thermal array recorders.