BAE Systems Case Study - Automated RF Test

BAE Systems have introduced a new test suite which allows for a more efficient characterisation of RF cables within Eurofighter aircraft. The system provides easy to follow instructions for the user, and automated setup of the measurement hardware.


System Design
Hardware Components
  • National Instruments PXI
  • NI Embedded PXI Controller
  • NI Signal Generator
  • NI Signal Analser
  • NI 2.4GHz Multiplexer Switch
  • Anritsu Network Analyser
BAEScreen
Software Components
  • NI LabVIEW™
  • NI Scope
  • NI Switch
  • NI RFSA and NI RFSG
  • NI Report Generation Toolkit

The system incorporates NI PXI technology to allow accurate vector/phase measurements of RF cables in the GHz frequency band. In addition the PXI controller also communicates with the Anritsu Network Analyser through GPIB, enabling the system to acquire scalar measurements, such as Standing Wave Ratio and Transmission Loss.

BAE
Design Challenges
  • The system had to demonstrate that RF testing could be automated to a level where it could be performed by operatives with little or no knowledge of RF
  • A monolithic test sequencer was also required to allow BAE engineers to create, edit and execute custom test procedures into the system
  • Creation of a generic test editor to allow BAE engineers create new tests or edit existing test parameters
  • Several parameters in the test procedure are considered NATO secret
  • Eliminate human errors during the inputting of test parameters
  • Test results were compiled into the current report format
System Results
  • The system demonstrated that automating RF testing is possible
  • Input errors have been eliminated and due to reductions in test time throughput has increased
  • Estimated cost savings of £1.2M will be made over the next 10 years

BAE Systems were able to leave us some feedback for our work with them. Please see their testimonial along with a few others here.