14 S2A MT State University Bozeman Iso Switch Test Fixture
Channel: Stratospheric Ballooning Association
Date: 2024-02-06

NEBP Iso-Switch Test Fixture
Abstract:
A simple hardware test fixture has been provided to all the NEBP Engineering teams for evaluation of their tracking and control payloads.  This talk will go over the use of this test fixture to build team confidence in understanding the subtle details that make the system function.

The NEBP Iso-Switch board is used for testing Iridium, OCCAMS, Vent and Cutdown boards as a system on the bench as well as through Iridium email commands.  XBEE radio modules are used to communicate commands and status between the various payloads.   The Iso-Switch board plugs in between the OCCAMS board and the Iridium tracking modem providing a visual indication of input and output pin states.  An Iridium or Switches switch allows users to select the email control or switch control of the system.  The emails can be sent and a visual indicator will show the current state of the system. The Iridium modem will need to be outside and have a clear view of the sky in this mode.  Switches can be set to simulate the three pin commands used to control various payload functions.  This testing can be done inside on the bench.

This easy to use test fixture allows teams of the NEBP to broaden their understanding of the tracking and control payloads as well as test out their complete systems before flights.