Abstract: A hardware tracking system includes memory storage devices on tracked parts containing unique serial numbers, part numbers, revision numbers, and firmware versions. At power up and after a reset, a host computer or real-time subsystem downloads this information and compares it to the information stored in a central database. Changes in data in a central database log file indicate a replacement or update of the component, which is then used to automatically update the database. Each change causes the generation of a new record having date and time information attached thereto. These records are scanned to determine the system evolution. They are also compared to an error log and diagnostic history information to generate a cause versus effect occurring during troubleshooting. The system also tracks and records the number of times a part is removed and re-inserted, indicating shot-gunning of the system by field engineers.

Abstract: An imaging system includes an exciter generating a series of radio frequency pulses for dividing a frequency band having a sampled band defined by an upper folding frequency and a lower folding frequency. The system also includes a receiver receiving and digitizing the radio frequency pulse after the radio frequency pulse has been reflected. The receiver also samples the frequency band, receives a folded radio frequency pulse appearing within the sampled band, and generates therefrom a receiver signal.