3. The Airborne/Air Assault divisions use the AN/PSC-3s primarily to provide a long-haul command and
control link between major headquarters during initial deployment. Once on the ground, those headquarters still
requiring a communications link not available by LOS means or by multichannel satellite link will continue to
operate via the AN/PSC-3 network. The primary mode is secure voice, though secure teletype (AN/UGC-74) is
also used.
4. Selected Infantry divisions (light and mechanized) use the AN/PSC-3s to provide a long-haul command and
control link between major headquarters during initial deployment of a contingency operation. The primary
mode is secure voice, though secure teletype (AN/UGC-74) is also used.
LEARNING EVENT 4: SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
1. The AN/PSC-3 is a battery-operated, highly portable manpack TACSAT terminal. It employs an RT-1402
receiver/transmitter (R/T) unit that provides two-way communications in the frequency range of 225 MHz to
400 MHz. The R/T functions in both satellite mode and LOS mode of operation. It can be configured to
provide data or secure voice.
a. In the data mode, it uses the digital message device group (DMDG) OA-8990 as the input/output (I/O)
device. It provides data rates of 300 bp/s or 1,200 bp/s.
b. In the secure voice mode, the AN/PSC-3 uses either the advanced narrowband digital voice terminal
ANDVT) or a communications security (COMSEC) interface device such a the VINSON KY-57.
c. In addition to voice and data, the AN/PSC-3 can interface with facsimile, teletype, net radio interface
(NRI), and FM retransmission media.
2. The NCS uses the same basic AN/PSC-3 R/T unit reconfigured to form an AN/VSC-7. The vehicle's
electrical system provides power for operation. The NCS can control as many as 15 terminals in a network.
Because it is a single-channel system, it is configured with data needs being satisfied by some terminals and
secure voice needs being satisfied by other terminals. The call mode operation is a unique calling function. It
allows the sending station to alert a distant unit with a visual indication. It also allows an optional 5-second
audible alarm. The NCS can transmit or receive any one of 15 selective calls. It can also receive all conference
calls regardless of the selective control setting on the NCS applique front panel. The NCS selects any one of
the 15 units operating in its net for selective call transmissions. Conference calls will be received by all units
operating in the net with their controls set to receive selective call messages.
4-3
SS0031
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