In modern military operations, sensor systems are crucial for providing real-time intelligence across air, land, sea, and space domains. These sensors, including radar, infrared, acoustic, and electronic warfare (EW) platforms, must work together seamlessly to offer a comprehensive picture of the battlefield. This is where sensor fusion comes into play, enabling the aggregation and integration of data from multiple sensors to enhance situational awareness. However, sensor fusion requires highly reliable power conversion and networking solutions to handle the massive volume of data generated by modern sensors, as well as to ensure smooth integration into military systems.
Multisphere provides cutting-edge solutions that support the evolving needs of sensor fusion systems. Their MIL-STD Ethernet switches, power converters, and tailored power management products offer the robust performance, high-speed data transmission, and EMI protection that sensor fusion systems demand in military applications.
Role of Networking and Power Systems in Sensor Fusion
Military sensor fusion systems rely on the rapid transmission of large amounts of data. Networking infrastructure must support high-speed data transfer and provide minimal latency to ensure that critical information is available in real time. In addition to reliable networking, robust power management is crucial to ensuring that all components of the sensor fusion system operate efficiently and consistently.
MILTECH Series Ethernet Switches: High-Speed Data Transmission
Multisphere’s MILTECH 308 and MILTECH 918 Ethernet switches provide high-performance networking capabilities for sensor fusion applications. These switches are designed to meet MIL-STD-810G and MIL-STD-461F standards, ensuring their durability in harsh environments.
MILTECH 308: This is a 10/100M Ethernet switch optimized for compact, rugged environments. It is an ultra-compact switch unit that supports eight copper ports and allows installation across various platforms, including aircraft, unmanned vehicles, and maritime systems.
Key Features:
• 8 x 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports
• MIL-STD-810G and MIL-STD-461F compliance
• Wide operating temperature range (-40°C to +70°C)
• Advanced QoS for optimized data prioritization in mission-critical environments
MILTECH 918: With support for 1 Gigabit Ethernet speeds, the MILTECH 918 is designed for high-bandwidth applications, particularly in naval or airborne sensor fusion systems where high-speed data transfer is essential. The switch can manage real-time data from multiple sensors, such as radar, infrared, and communications systems, enabling faster response times and improved decision-making.
Key Features:
• 8 x 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports
• Redundant power inputs for continuous operation
• Supports military-standard protocols, including IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP)
• Environmental protection per MIL-STD-810G and MIL-STD-461F
MILTECH 9116 and MILTECH 9030: 10G Ethernet Switches for Advanced Systems
For more complex sensor fusion applications, such as large-scale naval systems, the High Bandwidth MILTECH 9116 and MILTECH 9030 Ethernet switches provide 10 Gbps port speeds, designed to manage high data volumes efficiently.
These switches are ideal for shipboard systems that require massive data throughput. It offers low-latency data transmission and robust cybersecurity features for secure military communications.
Key Features:
• 12 x 1/10G Base-T and 4 x 1/10G Fiber Ethernet ports (MILTECH 9116)
• 24 x 1000Base-T, 5 x 10G Base-T and 1/10G Fiber Ethernet ports (MILTECH 9030)
• Full Layer 2 and Layer 3 functionality
• Supports advanced VLAN tagging, traffic shaping, and segmentation
• Ultra-low latency for real-time data transmission
• Compatible with MIL-STD-810G shock and vibration standards
These switches work seamlessly with a wide range of sensor technologies, offering scalable solutions for small or large sensor fusion systems.
Power Conversion Solutions: Enabling Reliable Sensor Operation
Power management is a critical aspect of military sensor fusion systems. The ability to provide stable, reliable power to sensors, network switches, and other critical systems is paramount in ensuring that the entire sensor suite operates effectively in the field. Multisphere offers several power conversion solutions designed to meet the exacting requirements of defense applications.
M7019 DC/DC Converter: Compact, High-Performance Power for Sensor Fusion Systems
Multisphere M7019 DC/DC converter module offers a high-density, configurable power conversion solution with advanced electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection. Designed for compact and rugged environments, the M7019 ensures stable power delivery for sensor fusion components, providing up to 100 watts of power in a small footprint.
Key Features:
• Wide input voltage range (18-36 VDC)
• Single output up to 12VDC or 28VDC
• Advanced EMI filtering and low ripple noise for sensor protection
• MIL-STD-810G compliance for shock, vibration, and thermal resistance
The M7019 is ideal for applications where space and weight are critical, such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS) or portable sensor fusion platforms.
M4094 3U VPX Power Supply: Supporting SOSA-Aligned Sensor Fusion Systems
For large-scale sensor fusion applications, such as military aircraft, ground systems, and naval platforms, Multisphere's M4094 3U VPX power solution offers a rugged and reliable power source. This solution is SOSA (Sensor Open Systems Architecture)-aligned, ensuring quick integration with existing military systems and future upgrades as sensor technology evolves.
Key Features:
• Input voltage range: 270VDC (airborne power systems)
• Outputs up to 300W per slot in a 3U VPX form factor
• Supports 3.3V, 5V, and 12V outputs for sensor and communications systems
• MIL-STD-704F and MIL-STD-1275 compliant for airborne power systems
This power supply solution supports high-performance military systems and can adapt quickly to changing technological needs.
Power Management for Custom Applications: Tailored Solutions for Mission-Critical Systems
Multisphere's M9538 is an advanced 8-channel power management solution that can be customized to meet the needs of any sensor fusion platform. For airborne or ground platforms requiring specific power outputs, the M9538 provides multiple current-limited 100A outputs, ensuring that each sensor or device receives optimal power without risk of overload.
Key Features:
• 8 power channels with programmable current limits
• Customizable output voltages and current levels
• Redundant, fault-tolerant power design
• Complies with MIL-STD-810G for environmental durability
This modular solution is particularly useful for military platforms undergoing rapid upgrades, as it can be tailored to meet the exact power requirements of new sensor technologies.
Conclusion: Power and Networking Solutions for the Future of Sensor Fusion
As military sensor fusion systems continue to evolve, the need for advanced power and networking solutions becomes even more critical. Multisphere is at the forefront of providing military-grade products designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern sensor fusion applications. With high-speed networking switches, reliable power conversion modules, and custom power management solutions, Multisphere supports a wide array of military platforms, ensuring that data is transmitted quickly and securely while providing reliable power to mission-critical systems.
Whether you are integrating new sensors on an airborne platform, upgrading a naval system, or developing a land-based sensor network, Multisphere has the expertise and products needed to deliver reliable, high-performance solutions for your sensor fusion applications. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your mission.
