ADU-208 for Auto Destruct system in launch flight termination system.

00The Model ADU-208 Automatic Destruct unit is one component of an automatic destruct system used in a launch vehicle flight termination system. The ADU monitors for inadvertent stage separation or launch vehicle breakup via breakwire sensing, and outputs commands that are used to terminate the flight vehicle should it be necessary. The primary functions of the ADU include:

  • Interrogation of two independent breakwire continuity loops routed through the launch vehicle.
  • Initiation of a destruct output for termination of flight when both loops are open and each breakwire circuit is armed.
  • Respond to a redundant arm/safe command for the breakwire circuits from ground equipment and redundant safe commands from airborne equipment.
  • Issue telemetry data for these functions.