Automatic Omega Receiver: Computer-Augmented Approach to Low Cost Marine Navigation

Abstract

The latest developments in computer technology have been applied to the design of Omega navigation receivers in a successful effort to enhance performance and reduce cost. An automatic Omega receiver has been developed which is economically practical for the commercial fisherman as well as the maritime industry. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate how, through the use of available computer components, receivers can be built at a fraction of normal costs by a variety of program-versus-hardware tradeoffs. For example, frequency division and data storage can be performed by a low-cost computer instead of expensive frequency counters and integratedcircuits storage devices. Integration and other arithmetic functions can be performed in the computer at a cost measured in microseconds rather than in hardware dollars. Complex logical decisions based on a large array of data accumulated over a large span of time can be made by a simple computer. Such decisions can be extremely expensive or even impossible in a conventional digital receiver. A complete new spectrum of operational possibilities are available to the designer of a receiver controlled by a small computer. The new ORN-101 Omega Receiver developed by the LITCOM Division of Litton Systems, Inc., is an excellent example of this new concept. This paper describes the ORN-101 in comparison with a conventional receiver and illustrates the cost reductions and performance improvements made possible by the sensor/computer concept. Design information and operational test data are then presented to further illustrate the fact that the benefits of space age computer technology are now available to the average mariner.