The JPL Data Decoder Assembly for mission independent sequential decoding.

Implementation of the Fano sequential decoding algorithm as one of the functions of the Data Decoder Assembly. Installation of these systems at all stations in the Deep Space tracking network has been completed, and the systems will be used to support future deep space missions which will be using long constraint length convolutional codes at medium rates (less than 2048 bits/sec). The design philosophy and the performance of the sequential decoder are discussed.