DIMAC Systems IT Rack

DIMAC Systems (Luxembourg) has unveiled its latest generation IT Rack, the centralised image acquisition system of its renowned DiMAC (Digital Modular Aerial Camera). The IT Rack has been designed to be fitted on any type of aircraft, from small single engine planes to large bi-turbo ones. Its design, size (HxWxD: 44x27x36cm /17x11x14 in) and weight (35kg/75lbs) make this tailor-made anti-vibration rack easy to install on and remove from any aircraft.

The IT Rack is made of three high-quality components: the Master Computer Unit, the Slave Computer Unit and the Removable Storage Unit.

The Master Computer Unit can be considered as the DiMAC's control system as it manages and synchronises the camera module settings, the electromechanical shutter, and most importantly the TRUE FMC system that is unique to the DiMAC camera. Motion compensation occurs automatically during the flight according to the information provided by the IT Rack's Control Board. The Master Computer Unit is connected to the flight management system and allows for in-flight preview and control of the image in real time.

Each Camera Module (CM) is connected to a Slave Computer Unit that acquires exposures. Up to 4 CMs can be fitted into a single protective Cylindrical Camera Frame (CCF). Each CM takes individual pictures allowing for multi-spectral and/or infrared exposures and simultaneous production of up to 4 individual or 2 merged images.

The Removable Storage Unit contains one pressurised hard drive per CM that records up to 10,000 pictures. Once on the ground, the plug-and-play Removable Storage Unit can easily be disembarked and the image data quickly downloaded.

This image acquisition IT Rack is currently in production and will be ready for delivery in October 2008 as part of the DiMAC end-to-end solution or to upgrade an existing DiMAC.

Caption: DiMAC New Compact ITR