Programmable Network Switch
A software-based network switch, purchased from XCube Research and Development, is an essential element of the data path at each VLBA station. Its primary functions are to merge the packet streams from each of the two RDBE units into a single stream that is sent to the Mark 6 recorder, and to regulate the timing of these packets so as not to overflow the Mark 6's input buffer.
Other switching and real-time data analysis functions may be added as part of future developments. A phase-cal detection capability is operational and used for diagnostic purposes. Real-time data transmission capabilities are currently being tested on the XCube system.
