Comprehensive testing of a defense systems communications satellite

The system level testing of the defense satellite communications system (DSCS) 3 program is reviewed. Concentration is on the results of the systems tests of the DSCS 3 development test model (DTM). The DSCS 3DTM consisted of engineering components interconnected in an open bench layout. The DTM tests were performed to demonstrate satellite electrical performance characteristics and to uncover design deficiencies and interface problems. The availability of the DTM test results prior to the fabrication of the flight model hardware permited the incorporation of necessary design changes with a minimum impact on program costs and schedules.