Remote Activation Munition System
The Remote Activation Munition System (RAMS) is a radio frequency controlled system that is used to remotely detonate demolition charges. It can also be used to remotely operate electronic equipment such as beacons, laser markers, and radios.[1]
RAMS was developed by a team of researchers led by James Chopak at the Army Research Laboratory from 1996 to 2000.[2][3] The system consists of a transmitter and two different types of receivers, one to initiate blasting caps and one to initiate C4 directly.[4]
RAMS was designed to serve as a more portable and convenient alternative to conventional remote activation systems like the model XM-122, which was considered too big, heavy, and fragile for efficient use. In addition, the XM-122 was limited in its range (about 1 km) and relied on very large high capacity batteries.
In contrast, the RAMS weighed only a couple pounds and its microprocessor-based transmitter was powered by at most seven standard 9-volt batteries. The device was capable of reaching a range up to 2 kilometers, and the combination of the crystal filter in the receivers and the FM detector circuit made it possible to maintain high signal sensitivity at a low power consumption rate.
In addition, the RAMS was operational in harsh environments with temperatures as low as −25 °F (−32 °C) and as high as 140 °F (60 °C). It was also capable of functioning when submerged in saltwater, up to depths of 66 feet (20 m).[5] However, testing performed by the Army Research Laboratory have found that due to the low power levels of the RAMS receiver’s electrical signals output, the system has demonstrated a noticeable level of unreliability in performance past a certain distance.[6]
More modern versions of the RAMS can weigh as little as 3 pounds (1.4 kg) and can reach a range of more than 5 kilometers, allowing operators to stand farther away from the blast at a safer distance.[7]
References
[edit]- ^ "Department of Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 Report". Committee on Armed Services. May 11, 1998. Retrieved July 13, 2018.
- ^ Holmes, H. Allen; Shelton, Henry (1997). U.S. Special Operations Forces: 1996 Posture Statement. DIANE Publishing. p. 54. ISBN 9780788149115.
- ^ Assessment of the Army Research Laboratory. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press. 1997. p. 66.
- ^ Teo, Shirley; Li, Zhi (2011). "Remote Activation Munition System (RAMS)". www.pica.army.mil. Retrieved 2018-07-13.
- ^ Andrejkovics, R., Chopack, J., Brann, H., Hopkins, John, Tobin, R., & Fraser, W. (2003). United States Patent No. US 6,546,873 B1. Washington, D.C.
- ^ Land, D.G. (2008). United States Patent No. US 7,451,700 B1. Waltham, MA.
- ^ Buckley, Melissa (December 6, 2012). "New system untethers Soldiers from demo charge". U.S. Army. Retrieved 2018-07-13.