Spectrum Signal Processing Inc. and General Dynamics C4 Systems have introduced an upgraded wideband modem for the U.S. Navy's AN/USC-61(C) Digital Modular Radio (DMR). The upgrade will enable the DMR, a software-defined radio (SDR), to host new wideband Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) waveforms, in addition to the range of existing waveforms supported now. Spectrum will supply advanced modem technology that General Dynamics will integrate on the DMR platform. First demonstrated to the Navy in late 2004, the upgraded modem will enable advanced communications capabilities consistent with JTRS requirements using cost-effective, commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) technology. General Dynamics has already shipped about 300 software-defined radios, each with four channels, to the Navy to be installed on ships, submarines, shore sites and test facilities. The new modem capability will permit the hosting of high-speed networking waveforms that operate over multiple channels on the DMR platform, thereby enabling true wideband-networking capability.

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The DMR system is a National Security Agency certified SDR that features JTRS capabilities such as expanded frequency range, multiple software-defined waveforms, multiple independent level security, and advanced software. The system can be used to replace multiple existing radios on certain Navy platforms, thereby reducing equipment space requirements by more than 50%.