estt/iStock/Getty Images and Curtiss-Wright Corp.
Parvus DuraNET switch

Ethernet Switches Connect Tactical UAS

March 25, 2019
Compact Ethernet switches have been developed to meet tough environmental conditions while maintaining reliable LANs in unmanned aircraft systems (UASs).

Unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) are increasingly used by U.S. Army and Marine Corps for reconnaissance, surveillance, targeting, and assessment in hostile environments although communications between them and base stations can sometimes be challenging. Due to the high levels of electromagnetic interference (EMI) and jamming in the UAS operating environments, links between onboard sensors and command posts can be interrupted. But through an upgrade involving miniature, extremely rugged Ethernet switches, commanders can rely on these UAS tools for critical situational awareness information in time-critical situations.

The Ethernet switches meet the latest size, weight, and price (SWaP) requirements as highly durable commercial off the shelf (COTS) solutions and perform effectively in the wide-temperature, high-altitude applications of military missions. The Parvus DuraNET Ethernet switches designed by Curtiss-Wright Corp. are detailed in a case study available free of charge from the manufacturer’s website. The switch systems weigh only 0.5 lb. and occupy a volume of only 10 in3.

To meet the needs of tactical applications, the Ethernet switches were designed in two connector variants. They can deploy either eight ports of Gigabit Ethernet through military-standard circular connectors or six ports of 10/100 Ethernet through a rectangular connector fitted with Quadrax contacts for enhanced signal integrity. These compact switch systems support reliable local-area-network (LAN) switching systems that can survive the challenging conditions of the most demanding tactical missions.

About the Author

Jack Browne | Technical Contributor

Jack Browne, Technical Contributor, has worked in technical publishing for over 30 years. He managed the content and production of three technical journals while at the American Institute of Physics, including Medical Physics and the Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology. He has been a Publisher and Editor for Penton Media, started the firm’s Wireless Symposium & Exhibition trade show in 1993, and currently serves as Technical Contributor for that company's Microwaves & RF magazine. Browne, who holds a BS in Mathematics from City College of New York and BA degrees in English and Philosophy from Fordham University, is a member of the IEEE.

Sponsored Recommendations

MMIC Medium-Power Amplifier Covers 6 to 12 GHz

Nov. 11, 2024
Mini-Circuits is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of RF, IF, and microwave components from DC to 86GHz.

RF Amplifier and Filter Testing with Mini-Circuits Power Sensors

Nov. 11, 2024
RF power sensors are essential for accurately measuring RF components like filters and amplifiers, focusing on parameters such as insertion loss and gain. Employing instruments...

High-Frequency Modules to 110 GHz

Nov. 11, 2024
Mini-Circuits’ wide selection of high-frequency modules are designed, assembled and tested in-house by the best talent in the industry at our Deer Park Technology Center. The ...

Defense Technology: From Sea to Space

Oct. 31, 2024
Learn about these advancements in defense technology, including smart sensors, hypersonic weapons, and high-power microwave systems.