Spectrum Implements JTRS Soldier Radio Waveform in Miniature Modem

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Spectrum Signal Processing by Vecima (CA:VCM) a provider of software reconfigurable radio technology, has implemented the Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) Soldier Radio Waveform (SRW) Electronic Warfare (EW) physical layer on its flexComm SDR-4000 software reconfigurable transceiver. The SRW-Electronic Counter-Counter-Measure (ECCM) modem is designed for sensor and handheld applications, providing robust communications in environments subjected to interference or jamming.

It has a bandwidth of 1.2 MHz and provides throughputs up to 225 kbps. The SDR-4000 rugged wireless modem is packaged in a small 3U CompactPCI form-factor that is conduction-cooled. The modem architecture consists of software reconfigurable processor technology combined into an integrated package that is size, weight and power optimized for deployment in harsh environments and where power is limited.

“Spectrum’s SDR-4000 supports WNW OFDM, SINCGARS, and now SRW EW, three very demanding waveforms that are important to the JTRS vision for versatile next-generation communications for the armed forces,” said Mark Briggs, VP Marketing at Spectrum. “Radio and waveform developers have an extremely cost effective, commercial-off-the-shelf option in the SDR-4000 that is robust and capable of handling complex waveforms. Furthermore, when they are ready to deploy, Spectrum will optimize the final configuration to meet specific size, weight, power and cost targets.”

SRW is a tactical military communications (MILCOM) waveform designed to network radios on the battlefield. SRW is the third waveform in the JTRS program to be ported to the SDR-4000. Other military waveforms supported by Spectrum’s SDR include the Wideband Networking Waveform Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (WNW OFDM) and Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS) waveforms. All three waveform ports have been completed by L-3 Communications Nova Engineering. Having a choice of existing off-the-shelf waveform capabilities significantly reduces technical and schedule risk for multi-waveform programs, while immediately allowing end users to benefit from powerful reconfigurable radios.