Frequently Asked Questions

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MIDS LVT GENERAL QUESTIONS

Q: What does MIDS LVT stand for?

• The MIDS LVT acronym literally translates to Multifunctional Information Distribution System Low Volume Terminal.  These terminals are used by platforms to participate in a Link 16 communications network. 
• The MIDS LVT is the next generation following JTIDS and was designed to decrease size, weight, volume, and cost.

Q: What are the different versions of the MIDS LVT?

• There are three families of MIDS LVT Terminals
  • The MIDS LVT(1) family is generally used in airborne platforms (though it may also be used on the ground).  This family of terminals requires the platform provide power, cooling, control and cabling
     

* requires additional hardware (HPAG) 

• The MIDS LVT(2) family is generally used in ground platforms.  This family of terminals includes power, cooling, control, and cabling.  The LVT(2) family does not implement TACAN.
   

• The MIDS LVT(3), also known as the MIDS FDL, is a specially designed terminal used by the U.S. Air Force F-15s.  This is a 50 Watt terminal that controls the onboard TACAN, but does not contain a Voice or TACAN within the terminal.  The MIDS FDL has been recently tested for ground application.
   

Q: What type of voice output is supported in the MIDS LVT?

• The MIDS LVT provides two secure voice channels, supporting both 2.4 Kbps and 16 Kbps voice.

Q: What is the difference between a Block Cycle Upgrade and a Block Upgrade?

• A Block Cycle Upgrade is an upgrade to the government furnished CORE and TIO software that is loaded into the MIDS LVTs.  These software releases are controlled by the MIDS PO.
• A Block Upgrade is an upgrade made either to software or hardware that is under the control of the Vendor.

Q: What is a FIM/FOM?

• A FIM is a Functional Input Message used for Host-to-Terminal communication transmission on the host bus.
• A FOM is a Functional Output Message used for Terminal-to-Host communication transmission on the host bus. 

Q: What is the support port?

• The Support Port is an Ethernet interface of the LVTs that provides access to detailed performance data, much of which is not available on the normal Host interface.
• The Support Port can also be used for software loading.

Q: What is MIDS on Ship?

• MIDS on Ship (MOS) is an LVT(5) with high power output (HPAG).  The LVT(5) is an LVT(1) variant, minus TACAN, with special software to compensate for the ship environment.

Q: What is TACAN?

• Tactical Air Navigation (TACAN) is a military navigation system.  It provides the user with distance and bearing and operates with a channel spacing of 1 MHz in the frequency band 962 – 1213 MHz.

Q: When will DLS deliver its first LVT(2) Terminal?

• DLS was awarded LVT(2) and LVT(11)s in Lot 9 and the first scheduled delivery is November 2009.
• DLS is competing for an LVT(2) and LVT(11) award in Lot 10.

Q: Are there any batteries associated with the MIDS LVT?

• Yes.  The MIDS LVT requires the installation of three 3.0 Volt Lithium-Manganese Dioxide Non-Rechargeable Batteries
  • Ultralife Part Number: U10025 (replaces U2550HCES-F95)
  • NSN: 6135-01-545-6582
  • Nominal battery life is 6 – 8 months
  • 10-year shelf life
  • Storage and disposal in accordance with local HAZMAT procedures
• The Ultralife batteries CANNOT be substituted with standard C Cell batteries.

Q: What is the purpose of the three lithium batteries?

• The batteries serve two purposes. The first is to retain the Crypto keys when the MIDS terminal is in the "Stand-by" mode.
• The second is to retain Crypto keys and Link 16 data when the terminal is in the "On" position during power interruptions.

Q: Are there specific instructions for installing the batteries into the MIDS LVT?

• All 3 cells MUST be replaced at the same time
• Follow your local maintenance instructions for proper removal and installation of the batteries
  • Note: The wedgelocks for the batteries and battery compartment cover have specific torque requirements

Q: What is a notch filter?

• A notch filter is used to pass a majority of frequencies unaltered, but attenuate those in a specific range to very low levels.
  • Link 16 uses internal notch filters to attenuate the 1030 / 1090 frequency bands which are used for IFF.
  • External notch filters are used for additional protection from transmission in unauthorized frequencies.

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