The Digital Data Processor for the Skytop Static Test Facility

The Digital Data Processor implements a new data acquisition concept which permits self-adaptive, accurate, real-time digitizing and editing of a large number of high-frequency data channels. The system was designed to meet the constantly changing requirements of a high-energy propulsion engine research and development program. The centrally located processor basically samples 127 channels of analog information from any one of several 1-million-pound static test stands, and produces a digital tape. Before a new test the sampling scheme of the data channels is quickly set for any desired selection sequence that will best fit the new test situation. During a test the data processor can monitor preselected channels. Based on their performance, sampling priority can be shifted from one channel group to another, thus automatically optimizing the data acquisition process. Immediate digitizing of the multiplexed analog data preserves its original accuracy. Record lengths on the output tape are programmable, and the tape format is compatible with the IBM 7090 computer.