RCC DOCUMENT 118-02, TEST METHODS FOR TELEMETRY SYSTEMS AND SUBSYSTEMS (VOLUME-2): TEST METHODS FOR TELEMETRY RF SUBSYSTEMS (JUN-2002) [SUPERSEDING RCC DOCUMENT 118-97]

RCC DOCUMENT 118-02, TEST METHODS FOR TELEMETRY SYSTEMS AND SUBSYSTEMS (VOLUME-2): TEST METHODS FOR TELEMETRY RF SUBSYSTEMS (JUN-2002) [SUPERSEDING RCC DOCUMENT 118-97]., The Telemetry Group of the Range Commanders Council (RCC) has prepared this document to provide common methods for testing radio frequency (RF) equipment. Figure I-1, RF/System Measurements and Data Flow Diagram, is included to serve as a guide for recommended tests to verify equipment status. The use of common methods should minimize problems when organizations exchange test results. Other volumes of this document address test methods for recorder/reproducer systems and magnetic tape, data multiplex equipment, and vehicular telemetry systems. The Telemetry Standards (IRIG Standard 106-XX) and the Telemetry Applications Handbook (RCC document 119-XX)1 are companion documents. The test methods in this document provide standard outlines on how to measure various parameters. The comments listed below apply where appropriate. 1. Equipment may need to be tested at a variety of environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, vibration, and shock. The user needs to determine the appropriate test conditions. 2. Electromagnetic interference characteristics should be measured in accordance with the latest version of Military Standard (MIL-STD)-462, Measurement of Electromagnetic Interference Characteristics. 3. Proper interconnection of equipment is critical for accurate test results. Verify that connectors are not corroded or otherwise damaged. Tighten connectors properly. The cables should not be kinked, cut, stretched, or otherwise damaged. The line losses for RF cables should be known prior to their use for correct interpretation of the data results. 4. The test equipment may output spurious signals that produce erroneous test results. Verify that the test equipment is not causing problems with the measurements. 5. The test equipment should have an accuracy of 10 percent of the specified tolerance (or 10 percent of the absolute value to be measured if no tolerance is given). This accuracy may not always be possible. The test equipment must have accuracy equal to or better than the required accuracy of the measurement. 6. Signal levels may have to be increased to get valid readings on instruments that have limited sensitivity. Microwave counters are one example.