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Description

The DR6200 dual channel data recorder is designed to support a number of standard and custom I/O modules allowing the recorder to support a variety of user applications.  One example of a specialized application is a custom I/O module designed to directly interface with the Digital Receiver Technology (DRT) family of wideband tuners and receivers.  Currently, the DRT receivers offer users the capability to tune RF signals and monitor and store the audio content of those signals on the hard drive of the system controller.  The DR6210 recorder, when equipped with the proper I/O card, can store the raw signal content from the digitized Intermediate Frequency (IF) of the receiver for follow-on processing and analysis. 

The DR6240 recorder provides record and playback support for the DIM module in DRT receivers.  The DIM1 provides digital signal information in and out of the receiver prior to down-conversion and monitoring.  The high sample rate used to digitize the inbound RF signal requires a fast recorder to accurately store the signal.  The DR6240 is capable of supporting this high rate signal recording and playback.  By utilizing a special I/O card designed to mate with the DIM card, the DR6240 can fully support signal acquisition and playback for the DRT receiver family.

In a typical application, a single DRT receiver would supply two high rate digital channels through a dual channel DIM card to a DR6240 recorder.   A single system controller, usually a laptop, connects to the receiver and recorder through a network connection to offer a common control point for both devices.  Each device would operate through its own control window.  A basic system block diagram is shown in Figure 1. 

Figure 1.  DRT Receiver/DR6240 Block Diagram

Connecting the Pieces

The DRT receiver connects to the DR6240 via a cable through a data I/O card.  This specialized I/O card has been designed to match the unique electrical requirements of the DIM card for record and playback.  A network interface provides remote control of the record and playback functions for the DR6240 through a Graphical User Interface.  

Storage Elements

The DR6240 employs a multi-drive, removable disk pack for storing the recorded signals.  The disk packs are equipped with a handle and latching mechanism to support easy insertion and removal with positive feedback on insertion.  The drive modules are designed to provide a maximum sustainable transfer rate capable of supporting the data rate provided by the DRT receiver.  

The DR6240 supports two disk packs.  Each is used to record and playback the signal for one data I/O channel.  The disk packs are removable to provide data security during transport and to provide a quick method for extending record time during operation.  Disk packs are transportable from system to system so that recordings made on one recorder can be replayed on another.  

Recorder Components

The DR6240 is designed to occupy 7” (4U) of vertical rack space while the DR6240LP is offered in a 2U chassis with an external power supply.   The DR6240 operates from standard commercial AC power.  An auto-sensing power supply allows the recorder to operate with either 115/230, 47 to 63 Hz, VAC power.   Alternate power supplies are available.