The iCDL from BAE Systems is a Common Data Link that operates in the Ku-Band from 14.4 to 15.35 GHz. It provides the warfighter a complete affordable solution to bring wideband wireless data link capability to airborne, surface, and maritime platforms. This data link has a programmable hardware and software radio design architecture to provide a comprehensive solution. The iCDL radio supports advanced signal processing with dual-receive configuration to mitigate multipath effects and advanced beamforming in dual-transmit configuration for better signal reception. It also incorporates antenna agnostic tracking and scanning algorithms to allow interfacing of phased array antennas as well as conventional, mechanically-steered antennas.
The iCDL’s advanced programmability allows for additional waveforms including BE-CDL and next-generation networking waveforms. It has embedded Type 1 or AES-256 encryption schemes to ensure secure transmission and is IPv4/IPv6 capable. This data link is equipped with 100/1000 Base-T Ethernet interfaces for data transmission and control along with full duplex Ku-Band outputs to simplify platform integration.
The iCDL data link delivers an output power of +10 dBm with a power control range of 30 dB and a data rate from 200 kbps to 274 Mbps. It requires a DC supply of 9-36 V and consumes 30 W of power. It offers reduced size and weight that minimizes its power footprint and eases installation. This iCDL is available in an enclosure that measures 4.0 x 6.0 x 1.5 inches and is ideal for manned and unmanned vehicle applications. It has undergone EMI/EMC, vibration, and shock tests according to military standards.
