Abstract: The testing apparatus of the present invention provides a self-contained test module that connects to the weapons firing circuit on the weapons platform. This test module communicates with a data collector and controller that is carried by a technician or operator. The communication link between the test module and the data collector and controller is wireless so that the technician can move about without interference from the cable. The test module, which contains a digital voltage detector, is more accurate than prior analog voltage detectors. The test module connects to different connectors, allowing for a reduction of equipment needed in the testing apparatus and providing a significant savings in weight. The data collector and controller stores test data of a particular circuit over a period of time and performs analysis on that test data to identify upcoming or potential problems so that repair can be made before operational readiness is compromised by a circuit failure.

Abstract: A digital squelch system (100) includes a timing signal generator (102) for generating a reference window. An edge detector (106) detects edges in the input signal during this reference window. An accumulator (110) accumulates the number of coherencies. An overflow detector (112) coupled to the accumulator (110) detects overflow conditions therein. A latch coupled to the overflow detector (112) squelches and unsquelches the radio (200) when the overflow or underflow conditions have been detected, respectively.

Abstract: A radio device (10) receives optical control signals from a remote control apparatus (22). In one embodiment, both the radio device and remote control apparatus include optical transmitters (58) and receivers (60) so that control and information signals may provided to and received from the radio's operator. In another embodiment, the radio () provides a light signal to the remote control apparatus () that either permits or prohibits (80) the light signal's return to the radio. In this way, the presence or absence of the return light signal comprises optical control signals to control the radio's operation.

Abstract: A light source (124) is used to transmit a light signal down an optical communication channel (12). In a light-reflective embodiment of the present invention, a portion of the transmitted light signal is reflected back (20) into the optical communication channel (12) to an optical receiver (126). By measuring the intensity of the reflected light, one or more operational parameters of the radio can be controlled (106). In a light-transmissive embodiment of the present invention a portion of the transmitted light signal is allowed to pass to the end of the communication channel. By measuring the intensity of the light reaching the end of the optical communicaton channel, one or more operational parameters of the radio can be controlled.