Lesson 1/Learning Event 2
b. Technical Control Facility (TCF). A TCF is an organic element of a
DCS station that functions as the point of interface between the
transmission elements of the system, that interfaces users with the system,
and has the physical, electrical, and manpower capabilities to perform the
required functions of technical control. Basically a TCF is a facility that
performs all the functions of a PTF, including supervision and control of
all the PTFs consolidated in a centralized area. See figure 1-1.
c. Patch and Test Facility (PTF). The PTF is an organic element of a
DCS station or user-subscriber terminal facility that functions as a
supporting activity, under the technical supervision of a designated TCF,
and has the physical, electrical, and manpower capability to perform the
required functions of the PTF. Figure 1-1 shows the relationship between a
TCF and the PTF.
d. Equipment.
The technical control facility found in many Defense
Communications System (DCS) stations will not necessarily contain all of the
equipment found in other stations. However, each technical control facility
should have essentially the same configuration.
This holds true if the
facility is located at a transmission nodel point, a fixed radio station, an
automatic voice network (AUTOVON) switch, or an automatic digital network
(AUTODIN) switch, or any combination of these.
Learning Event 2: TECHNICAL CONTROL FUNCTIONS
a. Supervision of Transmission Quality. The technical control facility
is responsible for the circuit, equipment, and system test to determining
the operating condition of all circuits and equipment within the station, as
well as all circuits passing through the station.
Circuits that have
deteriorated to the extent that service to the user may be interrupted are
removed from service.
First the technical controller that locates the
trouble must inform the user so he can stop traffic if the circuit is in
use, then the technical controller makes temporary substitution of
facilities if available. The technical controller will also inform the user
when the circuit is restored by equipment substitution or by rerouting the
circuit.
As a follow up he reports any equipment or components that are
measured and found to be out of tolerance to the appropriate maintenance
section.
Routinely, the technical controller notifies the maintenance
personnel of any circuits or equipment not in active use that are found to
be below standards during the quality control tests.
With this approach,
all equipment and circuits can be maintained at a level of peak performance
at all times.
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