d. Simplicity - when
soldiers
can
easily
use
and
maintain
their
elements of signal support.
(1) Technological
sophistication
-
common
and
interchangeable equipment, integrated and enhanced soldier training.
(2) Standardization - achieving uniformity of parts, equipment, and
procedures.
6.
Signal Functions.
a. The structure of signal support is extremely complex.
It is a
system of systems covering the entire battlefield. Figure 1-3, page 1-10,
illustrates the signal support systems integration that provides command and
control from brigade through corps. This architecture thoroughly interfaces
the BFA between echelons through a signal network engineered to process vast
amounts of voice and data communications. Signal officers are responsible
for integrating this system of systems.
The primary tasks to accomplish
this integration are network management, battlefield spectrum management,
software management, and information security management.
b. Network Management. A network is an organization of equipment that
can intercommunicate.
Network management is managing the network and all
connecting elements.
Network management consists of three functions:
planning, engineering, and controlling.
(1) Planning. Network planning is the process of deciding in advance
what has to be done, who has to do it, when it has to be done, and, to some
extent, how it has to be done. It is a continuous process. The planning
function provides the general sense of direction to the network. Examples
of specific planning functions include preparing signal estimates, preparing
signal annexes, coordinating with other signal staffs, and coordinating
sustainment or logistics for the network.
(2) Engineering. Network engineering includes
the technical details
for designing a network.
It is a detailed form
of network planning.
Examples of specific engineering concerns are
battlefield spectrum
management, software management, information security
and transmission stems
connectivity.
(3) Controlling.
Network controlling is the process of controlling
the
network
by
establishing
rules,
standards,
requirements
and
specifications designed to govern the network. These may be established in
technical manuals, (standing operating procedures (SOP), signal operation
instructions (SOI), policies, or orders. Examples of these include terminal
installation procedures, use of radio frequencies, software versions, and
data format.
Network management is a very complicated process that
integrates and synchronizes all signal support resources. A planned network
must be continuously monitored and possibly modified to keep up with the
fluid battlefield.
1-9
SS0119
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