Ampex TuffLITE® Advanced Data Management for the Tactical Edge
April 21, 2025 - Ampex Data Systems
The increasing complexity of defense and security operations demands powerful data capture and management capabilities deployed directly at the tactical edge. However, platforms operating in these environments, from unmanned aerial and ground systems to specialized pods and manned vehicles, often face severe Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) limitations. Ampex Data Systems addresses this critical gap with the TuffLITE®, a rugged, multi functional data system engineered to deliver high performance and robust security within an extremely compact footprint.
TuffLITE® integrates the functions of a high speed data recorder, network file server, and video server into a single unit weighing just 2.5 lbs, measuring approximately 1.3″ x 6.1″ x 6.7″, and typically consuming only 35W. This minimal SWaP profile allows advanced data handling capabilities to be integrated into platforms previously unable to support them, significantly enhancing mission potential without compromising endurance or payload capacity.
High Capacity Storage and Performance
A core strength of TuffLITE® is its substantial data storage capacity, offering over 8 Terabytes (TB) via detachable media. This enables the capture of extensive datasets crucial for operations, including EO/IR video, EW/ISR collections, Mission Data packages, platform Bus Data (like MIL-STD-1553 or ARINC 429), and PPMx feeds.
What does this capacity enable?
- Extended High Fidelity Recording Capture hours of high bandwidth sensor data. For instance, an 8TB module could store an estimated 12.4 hours of 1.5 Gbps HD-SDI video or roughly 6.2 hours of 3 Gbps HD-SDI video, ensuring crucial visual intelligence isn’t missed.
- Comprehensive Bus Data Logging Record low rate bus traffic like MIL-STD-1553 (1 Mbps) almost indefinitely relative to mission length, providing complete datasets for diagnostics and analysis.
- Substantial EW/ISR Collection While rates vary, 8TB provides significant duration for many signals intelligence or electronic warfare tasks. As an example, a 1 Gbps stream could potentially be recorded for over 18 hours.
- Complete Mission Packages Ensure sufficient space for integrated mission data streams, capturing a full operational picture.
This capacity is supported by high speed I/O, including 10GbE network interfaces, and sustained internal data rates up to 1250 MB/s, ensuring the system can ingest and process demanding data loads without bottlenecks.
Security and Ruggedness for Operations
Operating at the edge requires robust security and environmental resilience. TuffLITE® incorporates multiple encryption options for data at rest and data in transit, including FIPS 197/AES256, FIPS-140, NIAP, and it is available with a CSfC package. Features like secure in-flight data erasure provide additional protection for sensitive information. Built to withstand harsh conditions, TuffLITE® operates from -40°C to +70°C, resists high levels of shock and vibration, and meets MIL-STD-461 for EMI compatibility.
