58 -- 275K AEROSTAT TELEMETRY AND COMMAND SYSTEM

ACC Contracting Squadron is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to industry. The objective of this RFI is to obtain market research data for replacement of the 275K Aerostat Airborne Telemetry and Command System to include the Airborne Telemetry and Command System, Ground State of Heath System (GSHS), telemetry link, ground processing equipment and the system status monitor. The airborne telemetry system is mounted on a tethered aerostat platform flown at altitudes up to 15,000 feet MSL. This system is used to provide status monitoring and control of the aerostat. The airborne system shall be light weight, packaged in a sealed moisture waterproof enclosure, interface with the existing power system and interface with the existing equipment mounting hardware/aerostat lacing straps. Primary power is 120VAC 400 Hz. Backup power is +24 to +28 VDC. System must automatically switch between primary and backup power. It must use existing inputs from sensors currently installed on the 275K aerostat and provide current controls. System must accept a minimum of 64 analog inputs, 32 bi-level inputs, and 24 command outputs. Analog inputs will be up to +30 VDC. The proposed system must automatically control blowers, fans, etc., and allow override control from the ground station. Maximum weight of airborne system shall not exceed 54 lbs and fit in current location. The ground system shall integrate existing winch system data and ground meteorological data into the display system. System must fit in an existing 19" rack 6 Ft tall, and archive data for a minimum of 30 days. System will operate continuously 24 hours a day 7 days a week and display all parameters on screen. System must report all out of specification parameters with an audible alarm and be easily identified on screen by operators. Out of specification parameters shall automatically print out on printer. Pentium based computer with a flat screen monitor that will fit into a standard 19" rack will be used. Ground station components must have external outputs from the system that will interface with the TARS Interactive Display System (TIDS) and Real Video Time Display (RTVD) systems. Archive data must be retrievable and play back on PC running windows XP. The Telemetry System shall operate while airborne up to 15,000 MSL with 100% connectivity. It must operate while moored either by communication line or through the telemetry link. It must also operate a helium deflation device up to 25 miles line of site. This function will be integrated into telemetry stream and operate at a minimum 56K baud rate. Potential vendors shall submit a report to the ACC Contracting Squadron/LGCC, 11817 Canon Blvd., Suite 306, Newport News VA 23606-1988 by 22 Sep 03 that identifies proposed system that meets the above requirements. Please include a Rough Order of Magnitude cost for the initial system and associated Non-Recurring Costs. Vendors are encouraged to submit other systems that can safely control aerostat systems, i.e., power-up fiber optic tethers, that could be used to meet above listed parameters, if applicable. Please direct any questions on this Request for Information to SSgt Martin Cicero, ACC CONS/LGCC at (757)-764-9358, or MS Sharon Potter at (757) 764-9371.