also be transmitted. Alternatively, two CDI DTGs may be transmitted, one of which must be 256 kb/s or less;
the other may be a data stream up to a maximum of 576 kb/s.
b. Link with a non-nodal terminal in the point-to-point or a nodal terminal hubspoke mode.
c. On the downlink side, can receive, demodulate, and switch a single SHF carrier via the demultiplexing
equipment to the user interface.
d. Fully independent operation from a 10-kilowatt, three-phase, five-wire diesel generator or compatible
commercial power.
e. Link with DSCS gateway terminal to provide DCS entry.
LEARNING EVENT 3: EMPLOYMENT
1. Limitations. Channel capacity on DSCS II and DSCS III satellites limits the number of TACSAT terminals
that can operate at any one time. This number varies depending on several factors. These factors can include
the type of terminal, number of channels, condition of terminals and satellite, size of antenna, and location of
terminals within satellite footprint. These factors and others (for example, weather) affect how many terminals
can use a satellite. For these reasons it is not possible to give a clear-cut number of terminals that can be
operated at any one time. Unfortunately, there is not enough space segment to satisfy all the users. It should be
stressed that DSCS II and DSCS III satellites support Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine, and other DoD/non-DoD
users. The satellite channels on DSCS II and DSCS III are Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) assets and therefore not
dedicated to any particular service.
2. Division.
a. The divisions receiving multichannel TACSAT terminals are selected based on their operational areas,
terrain, and distance considerations. The signal battalion installs, operates, and maintains the AN/TSC-
85B/93Bs.
b. In selected divisions, five multichannel TACSAT terminals provide extended distance connectivity.
Division main and division support command (DISCOM) use one AN/TSC-85B each. One AN/TSC-93B is
deployed to each of the three maneuver brigades. This is at the commander's discretion. An AN/TSC-85B at
division main might terminate links from each maneuver brigade and DISCOM. During division main
displacements, the terminal at DISCOM acts as the hub.
3. Corps. In the corps, two AN/TSC-85Bs and four AN/TSC-93Bs are pooled to provide support based on the
general support (GS) concept. Terminals in support of corps are used for various missions such as restoration
of critical links, out of sector operations, and deep operations. This concept has been developed based on the
range extension capability of the MSE system. The corps signal brigade installs, operates, and maintains the
AN/TSC-85B/93Bs.
SS0031
5-6
Previous Page
