BATTLE SHORT MODE OF OPERATION
The battle short mode is used when it becomes
necessary to run the computer continuously even
though an overtemperature condition exists. The
activation of a battle short switch will bypass
overtemperature protection interlocks and power will
be maintained to the computer for continued operation.
An overtemperature condition is a result of a failed
assembly or inadequate cooling. The requirement to
run the computer continuously in an overtemperature
condition usually only exists under battle conditions.
Some computers are also equipped with a horn to warn
an overtemperature condition exists.
OPERATIONAL CAPABILITIES AND
LIMITATIONS
It is important to know the capabilities and
limitations of the hardware and software of any system
you maintain. It is equally important to know whether
the system can operate at reduced capability and still
accomplish its mission.
Some systems are designed
with more than one computer (CPU), sufficient
memory, and enough peripheral devices to enable them
to function even when some devices are down. The
operational capabilities and limitations of a computer
system can be controlled at the equipment through
switchboards or control panels, or through commands
to the software using an I/O device to talk to the
computer. Figure 1-11 is an illustration of a digital fire
control switchboard used on a CDS/NTDS to
interconnect the computer to equipments and other
major systems.
To find out the capabilities and limitations of a
computer system, refer to your system operating
manuals (SOMs) or combat systems technical
operations manuals (CSTOMs) for details.
CDS/NTDS is an example of a system that uses a
three-bay/one-bay computer configuration. This
means it has four CPUs and can still meet its mission
even if one of the CPUs is down. The term reduced
capabilities means the computer system can perform its
mission with fewer resources. Resources may be
unavailable as a result of a casualty to a computer. If
the memory of the computers allows it, you can take
one of the computers offline to perform training. You
can reduce the operational capability through the
software using an I/O device to take the computer
offline. This can be accomplished using operating
system functions (commands). An example would be
Figure 1-11.—A digital fire control switchboard used on a CDS/NTDS.
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