Description Of A Dry Film Tactical Laser Beam Recorder

Abstract

This article describes a laser beam image recorder, which has been designed and fielded for a minimum amount of flexibility for the operator and a maximum amount of control by a remote sensor minimizing the operator duties and requirements. It is also designed for the shelter environment of a tactical and field operation, where the environment is not so benign. With the advent of recent electronic sensors, the capability for data linking information directly to ground with immediate image production is now feasible. The laser beam recorder, which RCA chose to call the Tactical Laser Beam Recorder because of its application, has been designed to meet three general types of applications which are somewhat similar. They are systems with electronic sensors and data link capability, where images can be immediately produced, all in high resolution. The information from an Air Force remote sensor system is directed to the Tactical Laser II earn Recorder which records a latent image, immediately processes the film on a continuous in-line basis, and slides the film automatically across the photo-interpreter's tables. Simultaneously, a tape recorder records the information in the airborne reconnaissance plane in the event that a data link is not maintained,