The increasing complexity of defense and security operations demands powerful data capture and management capabilities deployed directly at the tactical edge. However, platforms operating in these environments, from unmanned aerial and ground systems to specialized pods and manned vehicles, often face severe Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) limitations. Ampex Data Systems addresses this critical gap with the TuffLITE®, a rugged, multi functional data system engineered to deliver high performance and robust security within an extremely compact footprint.

TuffLITE® integrates the functions of a high speed data recorder, network file server, and video server into a single unit weighing just 2.5 lbs, measuring approximately 1.3″ x 6.1″ x 6.7″, and typically consuming only 35W. This minimal SWaP profile allows advanced data handling capabilities to be integrated into platforms previously unable to support them, significantly enhancing mission potential without compromising endurance or payload capacity.

High Capacity Storage and Performance

A core strength of TuffLITE® is its substantial data storage capacity, offering over 8 Terabytes (TB) via detachable media. This enables the capture of extensive datasets crucial for operations, including EO/IR video, EW/ISR collections, Mission Data packages, platform Bus Data (like MIL-STD-1553 or ARINC 429), and PPMx feeds.

What does this capacity enable?

Extended High Fidelity Recording Capture hours of high bandwidth sensor data. For instance, an 8TB module could store an estimated 12.4 hours of 1.5 Gbps HD-SDI video or roughly 6.2 hours of 3 Gbps HD-SDI video, ensuring crucial visual intelligence isn’t missed.
Comprehensive Bus Data Logging Record low rate bus traffic like MIL-STD-1553 (1 Mbps) almost indefinitely relative to mission length, providing complete datasets for diagnostics and analysis.
Substantial EW/ISR Collection While rates vary, 8TB provides significant duration for many signals intelligence or electronic warfare tasks. As an example, a 1 Gbps stream could potentially be recorded for over 18 hours.
Complete Mission Packages Ensure sufficient space for integrated mission data streams, capturing a full operational picture.

This capacity is supported by high speed I/O, including 10GbE network interfaces, and sustained internal data rates up to 1250 MB/s, ensuring the system can ingest and process demanding data loads without bottlenecks.

Security and Ruggedness for Operations

Operating at the edge requires robust security and environmental resilience. TuffLITE® incorporates multiple encryption options for data at rest and data in transit, including FIPS 197/AES256, FIPS-140, NIAP, and it is available with a CSfC package. Features like secure in-flight data erasure provide additional protection for sensitive information. Built to withstand harsh conditions, TuffLITE® operates from -40°C to +70°C, resists high levels of shock and vibration, and meets MIL-STD-461 for EMI compatibility.

Flexibility Through Open Architecture

Leveraging Red Hat Enterprise Linux and the Ampex Common Compute Environment (ACCE), TuffLITE® provides an open, adaptable software foundation. This simplifies integration, supports third party applications, and allows the system to evolve with mission needs, ensuring long term value and avoiding proprietary limitations.

Enabling Capabilities Across Domains

The combination of minimal SWaP, high capacity, security, and ruggedness makes TuffLITE® ideal for diverse applications:

Airborne Enhancing ISR capabilities on UAVs/pods with extended recording times.
Land Providing comprehensive data capture and secure storage on tactical vehicles or Autonomous Ground Vehicles (AGVs). Record sensor data from AGVs, capture tactical network traffic, or log extensive vehicle diagnostic data.
Sea Enabling long duration sensor recording on USVs or other maritime platforms.
Space With Ampex’s background in rad-tolerant systems, TuffLITE’s architecture could be adapted for hardened space vehicles requiring robust data handling.

The Ampex TuffLITE® empowers operators by providing reliable, secure, high-capacity data capture on the most SWaP-constrained platforms. Achieve enhanced situational awareness, drive mission success, and experience Ampex’s commitment to providing Excellence at the Edge.