Service Life Extension Program
The WSR-88D was originally designed for a 20 year service life. Most systems in the field are now approaching that point. This
program provides technology refresh and depot level overhaul of necessary subsystems to ensure the system can perform reliably for
another 20 years.
Signal Processor
The current signal processor will be replaced with a new, state of the art digital signal processor
capable of supporting algorithm upgrades for the foreseeable future. The new signal processor and interface panel will incorporate
the antenna positioning control functions in software, eliminating the Digital Control Unit, which provides that functionality in
hardware. The new interface panel will also eliminate the current Data Acquisition Unit, which interfaces the computer to system
sensors such as backup generator fuel level, temperature sensors, etc. Deployment of the new signal processor is currently scheduled
to begin in FY16.
Transmitter
The radar transmitter will be refurbished with a redesigned modulator, new electrical backplane and
control circuitry, new internal cabling, electrical filter capacitors, circuit breakers, indicator lamp fixtures, etc. The modulator
development effort is completed. Development effort for the rest of the project will be ramping up over the next few years. A
deployment date has not yet been set.
Pedestal
The pedestal refurbishment project will replace all fielded antenna pedestals with factory-refurbished
pedestals. All drive gears, motors, position sensors will be replaced with new equipment. Waveguide components and the radome will
also be replaced. This project will take the longest to implement, because each pedestal in the field will be removed, refurbished,
and installed in another field site in a round robin fashion. Limited seed stock limits the number of pedestals that can be in the
refurbishment process at one time. Development work has not yet begun for this project.
Equipment Shelters
The radar equipment shelters, backup generator shelters, and TPMS shelters will be refurbished on site.
This project includes the roof, external vent hoods, doors, caulking, paint. The work will be contracted. A date has not yet been
set.