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Abstract

A lightning direction finder controller (LDFC) for use at remote sites in a Lightning Detection Network provides information on lightning return strokes to a network controller. The LDFC digitizes and processes return stroke data from an analogue direction finder unit, time tags each return stroke with an absolute time accurate to the nearest 10.sup.-4 second of NIST time, and provides an interface for satellite and/or land line communication of lightning flash data to the network controller. The LDFC includes a CPU board, a multi-function analogue and digital input/output board that provides an interface to the analog direction finder unit, and an Interface Facility that provides an interface for: satellite and/or bisynchronous communications, a local data storage device, diagnostic devices, and a satellite controlled clock. A watchdog timer on the Interface Facility resets the CPU of the LDFC when data communications cease, or the execution of the main program halts. The LDFC supports a communications network overlay, using Reroute/Header messages, which allows the routing and passing of commands and the results of processed commands from any location in the network to any other location, e.g. for remote diagnostic purposes. The LDFC also supports virtual screen/keyboard capabilities, configurable parameter tables, various counts, status indications and screens, and a time correction technique for an out-of-sync LDFC.

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