Data Capture System is Linux based.
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Press Release Summary:
Vexcel Data Capture System (VxDCS) incorporates disk array, which may contain up to 10 disk units, into rack mountable chassis. System also houses Vexcel Ion(TM) circuit boards and PC components. Tape drive, for data archiving, is optional. Machine is available in low-end and high-end configurations at respective processing speeds of 200 and 380 Mbps. Product is suited for direct-to-disk data acquisition and optional retransmission of satellite downlinks.
Original Press Release:
Vexcel Announces Linux-based Data Capture Systems
BOULDER, COLORADO-Vexcel Corporation today announced the addition of Linux-based systems to their Vexcel Data Capture System (VxDCS) product line. VxDCS, previously available only for the Unix platform, is the leading solution for direct-to-disk data acquisition (and optional retransmission) of satellite downlinks and other high rate data. The product claims the largest installed base in its class, with customers that include major aerospace companies, a range of international remote sensing centers, and prominent US agencies such as NASA.
"The addition of Linux support benefits Vexcel customers in a number of ways," said Henry Frick, Director of Satellite Ground Systems at Vexcel Corporation. "Most significantly, competitive pricing among PC manufacturers allows for lower cost of goods for system hardware. This savings is passed on to our customers, meaning a lower cost option compared to the Unix-based solution, which is already half the price of high-density recorders. Also, customers purchasing the Linux-based VxDCS should realize additional savings over time due to free Linux upgrades."
In addition to the smaller price tag, the new VxDCS boasts a smaller footprint when one considers the integration of the disk array-which may contain up to ten disk units-into the rack mountable system chassis. This compact system design also houses the Vexcel Ion(TM) circuit boards and the PC components. A tape drive for data archiving is optional.
Despite Vexcel's trimming of the size and cost of the VxDCS, Frick emphasizes that there is no trade off in performance. In fact, the Linux-based machines have outperformed Unix systems in Vexcel's labs, with top speeds of up to 380 Mbps. Vexcel will offer low-end and high-end configurations at respective processing speeds of up to 200 and 380 Mbps.
"Availability and serviceability have also improved as a result of this newly added platform," added Frick. "Linux hardware is more quickly and widely available than Unix hardware. As a result, we expect system turnaround to be as little as 2 weeks, including testing. Users are also likely to appreciate the convenience of local PC support over the centralized support-and all its implications-for Unix systems."
