The Role of the Computer in the ATC Environment

Computers, and digital techniques in general, have become pervasive in the technology of air traffic control (ATC). So much so that it is difficult to discover an area, application, or function in which automation is not involved, if only at the conceptual level. Rather than describing a single role for the computer, this paper examines some typical uses of computers in relation to the various functional organizations and facilities of the ATC system. One conclusion reached is that present and near-term computer teehnology is sufficiently capable to meet the needs of at least the next decade of air traffic. While the emphasis is not on machine organizations or computer sizings, several examples of each are presented to give perspective to the discussion.