Flight test instrumentation is undergoing a fundamental shift. Miniaturised onboard data acquisition systems are replacing legacy wiring-heavy architectures, allowing engineers to capture more data with fewer integration headaches — and DTS (Diversified Technical Systems) is at the forefront of that change.
Why Legacy Flight Test Instrumentation Is Being Rethought
Traditional flight test setups rely on large, centralised data acquisition units connected to sensors via long cable runs. As aircraft become more complex — and as programmes extend into eVTOL, UAS, hypersonics, and counter-UAS platforms — the weight, volume, and integration time of these systems become real constraints.
DTS has built its product range around the opposite philosophy: ultra-compact, high-shock-rated data acquisition systems that mount directly at the measurement point, minimising cable runs and maximising data fidelity. The result is what DTS calls SWaP-optimised test instrumentation — Size, Weight and Power reduced to the minimum while preserving measurement performance.
DTS Products Suited to Modern Flight Test Programmes
DTS’s miniaturised DAQ portfolio covers a wide range of flight test applications. The SLICE6 AIR and SLICE6 AIR-BR are ultra-compact data recorders designed for harsh, high-g environments. The TDAS PRO provides multi-channel data acquisition for more complex channel counts, while the TDAS G5 adds GPS timing and expanded connectivity. For angular rate measurement, the ARS PRO / ARS HG angular rate sensors provides high-accuracy sensing in a compact form factor compatible with the SLICE ecosystem.
Applications discussed in the DTS webinar include fixed-wing flight testing, rotary wing and rotor testing, eVTOL certification programmes, air-drop and munitions testing, UAS and counter-UAS platforms, launch vehicles, hypersonics, and sounding rockets — all areas where SWaP constraints and harsh environments make conventional DAQ impractical.
Smarter DAQ Architecture: Key Benefits for Flight Test Engineers
- Closer to the sensor — mounting DAQ at the measurement point reduces cable inductance and electromagnetic interference, improving signal integrity
- Faster setup — modular COTS architectures reduce integration time and allow rapid reconfiguration between test campaigns
- Reduced cost — fewer custom cables and lower integration labour, particularly valuable for cost-constrained programmes such as low-cost weapon systems
- Better data quality — local digitisation eliminates analogue signal degradation over long cable runs
DTS Data Acquisition Available Through THP Systems
THP Systems is the authorised UK distributor for DTS (Diversified Technical Systems), supplying the full range of miniaturised DAQ systems, angular rate sensors, and data management software. Whether you are instrumenting a prototype UAV or equipping a certified test aircraft, our team can help you specify the right DTS configuration and support the full test lifecycle.
We also provide calibration services and repair and maintenance services for DTS equipment, ensuring your instruments remain within specification throughout the programme.
Planning a flight test programme? Speak to THP Systems about DTS miniaturised data acquisition solutions.
Original source: https://dtsweb.com/dts-webinar-disrupting-legacy-flight-test-instrumentation/
