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Radar Operation Center - Hotline
Hotline		 Radar Operations Center - Interface Control Documents
ICDs		 Radar Operation Center - Radar Build Status
Build Status		 Radar Operation Center - Radar Build Loaded at Each Site
Build Loaded		 Radar Operations Center - Wind Farms
Wind Farms		 Radar Operations Center - Modification & Software Notes
Mod/SW Notes		 Radar Operation Center - RMT Status
RMT Status

Radar Operations Center

WSR-88D Transmitter Refurbishment

  • Past modifications to transmitter improved reliability by replacing components with high failure rates, high repair costs or both
  • Wholesale replacement of the transmitter is considered to be "cost prohibitive"
  • Transmitter Refurbishment consists of 3 subprojects, listed below

Transmitter Backplane Modernization

  • Transmitter Backplane and Control & Monitoring CCAs are based on 1980's technology and have become difficult and expensive to repair.
  • Project replaces "Wire-Wrapped"backplane design with modern multi-layered Printed Wiring Board (PWB) and combines the functions of 4 C&M CCAs onto a single multi-layered CCA
  • Fleet Implementation will be through use of a Mod Note beginning in FY16. Downtime should be minimal (<2hrs).

Transmitter Backplane Modernization

Pulse Modulator Upgrade

  • Eliminates "Top 3" failure items in Modulator:
    • RBDT Switch Assembly, Trigger Amplifier, Backswing Diode Stack
    • Trigger Amp will be retained in cabinet to maintain good airflow, but it will be inoperative
  • Requires addition of new:
    • High speed Fiber Optic Switch Assembly
    • Optical Discharge CCA - Converts electrical trigger signals to fiber optic signals required by new switch
    • RBDT Stack Monitor CCA - Monitors the voltage across the RBDT stack

Modulator Switch

Transmitter Refurbishment

Transmitter Refurbishment

Pulse Modulator Upgrade

  • Modulator Switch Prototype Testing
    • 1 prototype and 3 beta units delivered for test
    • Prototype operating on ROC test bed since July 2008
    • 3 Beta units operating reliably in field since January 2010
  • Scope of SLEP Effort
    • SLEP will fund the production and deployment of the new modulators
    • Deployment method is a round robin - sites receive upgraded modulator drawer and return the legacy for upgrade and reissue

Transmitter Chasis Refurbishment

  • Cable Replacement:
    • Cables become brittle over time, develop open circuits, broken pins on connectors, etc
    • In general, cables are either high voltage with lug terminals or signal cables
    • Documentation of wiring is incomplete
  • Component Replacement:
    • One-For-One Replacement: fuse holders, cable connectors, power filters, main breakers, centrifugal blowers
  • Refurbishment performed by commercial contractor(s) selected through competitive procurement process
  • Estimated Transmitter downtime is 5 days.