DF-430 Direction Finding Set

GENERAL

The Rockwell Collins DF-430 is a multi-mission direction finder, covering the range of 30 to 400 MHz. It    provides tactical direction finding capability for both the Search And Rescue (SAR) and anti-submarine warfare roles.

 
ch148_df430_01.jpg
DF430 major system components. (L-R) : ANT-430 antenna , BC-125 display/control head and RPU-450 controller . (Photo courtesy Rockwell Collins)

FEATURES

•Tactical DF in the 30 to 410 MHz frequency range regardless the type of signal (AM, FM, PM, etc.)
•Civil SAR missions on 121.5 MHz, 243 MHz 406 MHz and COSPAS-SARSAT beacons.
•Ability to detect COSPAS-SARSAT beacons (EPIRBs) and decode their message (latitude/longitude/country code/etc.)
•Sonobuoy frequency band (FM 136 - 174 MHz) coverage and optimized localization by dedicated algorithms (standard and advanced OTPI) for anti-submarine warfare.
•Compact/lightweight quality and flush mounted antenna facilitate the DF-430 integration onboard any platform
•Can be interfaced through MIL-STD-1553B , A429 or BC-125 (standalone configuration) controller

ON TOP POSITION INDICATOR (OTPI)

The OTPI function is used to localize sonobuoys during ASW mission. The result is a visual indication when the aircraft flies directly above the sonobuoy (On Top Position). When connected to the aircraft bus, the DF-430 is able to significantly increase the OTPI detection accuracy by computing the altitude and ground speed information.

ch148_df430_system.jpg
DF-430 block diagram. (Photo courtesy Rockwell Collins)
 
SPECIFICATIONS

General
DF Antenna: Omni Directional, Vertically polarized
Receiver Operating Range: All VHF and UHF frequency coverage bands including the distress frequencies:
 
30 - 87.975 MHz
25 kHz steps
 
108 - 117.975 MHz
25 kHz steps (excepted VOR modulation)
 
118 - 136.990 MHz
25 kHz steps or 8.33 kHz steps
 
137 - 173.975 MHz
25 kHz steps (compatible with 99 channels sonobuoys)
 
225 - 399.975 MHz
25 kHz steps
 
121.5 / 243 COSPAS (406 )
Distress frequencies
 
ARGOS frequency
 
Precision figures:  Bearing intrinsic accuracy <3° over 360° for the whole frequency range 30 - 407 MHz.  Bearing intrinsic stability <±5° at the sensitivity limit
 
Physical and Environmental Characteristics
 
Weights
ANT-430: 3.5 kg (max)
BC-125: 0.780 kg
RTU-125G: 1.4 kg
RPU-430: 3.1 kg
MT-125 0.820 kg
 
Size/Dimensions
ANT-430: 267 mm (diam).; 98 mm (height)
BC-125: 146 x 120 x 65 mm
RTU-125G:146 x 153 x 114 mm
RPU-430: 57 x 367 x 193.5 mm
MT-125 80 x 120 x 347 mm
 
Operational Temperatures
ANT-430:  -50° C to +55° C
BC-125: -20° C to +70° C
RTU-125G:  -45° C to +70° C
RPU-430:  -40° C to +75° C


Credits and References:

1) http://www.rockwellcollins.com/sitecore/content/Data/Products/Navigation_and_Guidance
/Direction-Finding_Equipment/DF-430_Direction_Finder.aspx
2) http://www3.rockwellcollins.com/ecat/gs/Systems.html

 
 

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May 10/11