correct as is Laser range does not go to 9999 when no laser return (> 15000m/sky)

[FalcoGer]

When the laser does not get a valid return, it should display 9999. But now the range stays what it is when the laser does not get a valid return. This happens when lasing a target that is to far away (greater than 15km) or when lasing the sky.

To reproduce:

1. Lase something within 10km to get an accurate range
2. Lase the sky

Expected result: Range 9999

Actual result: Range stays the same as the accurate range determined to the previous spot.

 

Related:

1. Get a range using a different range source (Set man range to 2000 for example)
2. Lase the sky

Expected result: Laser range 9999

Actual result: Stays Man range 2000

Edited May 12, 2024 by FalcoGer

[FalcoGer]

laser range not 9999.trk

[AstonMartinDBS]

Reproduced. Here's a shorter track: CA AH-64D LaserRangingIssue.trk

[Lord Vader]

Hi @FalcoGer

This seems to be correct according to our sources.

If you feel this requires a review, feel free to send you documented, non-classified information to @BIGNEWYand we'll have a look.

Thanks

[FalcoGer]

@Lord Vader

DCS AH-64D early access guide. Page 296:

Quote

Laser range. Laser range is automatically entered as the range source any time the CPG fires the LRFD

If the laser ranger doesn't see the spot, it does currently not enter laser range as range source. The other document I was referencing says the same thing. The range source switches to laser range when the CPG fires the laser, no conditions attached, such as a valid range.

The asterisks should only illuminate solid when a valid range is detected and flashing if it detects multiple ranges (such as when lasing through foliage or the edge of an object)

Common logic dictates that 9999 should be used when the spot is not visible to the system, as that would usually indicate a range where the laser spot can not be seen. While the other document does not state either way whether it goes to maximum range or not.

@Raptor9 Maybe someone who actually flies the thing can say how it behaves when the laser spot is not detectable to the TADS such as when lasing something very far out of range or the empty sky.

 

[Raptor9]

@FalcoGer, as Lord Vader has stated, the current behavior is correct as is. The laser must be receiving a valid return to perform any sort of ranging measurement, which is why the asterisk indicates the presence of a valid return. If there is not a valid laser return to the sensor, the TADS has no way of knowing if there is any object in front of it, let alone whether the object is at 900 meters or beyond 9999 meters, and cannot update the range.

The assumption is that if the LRFD is being fired, it is being fired in a sensible situation that makes logical sense. Firing the LRFD into the sky or at an object that is well beyond the range at which the LRFD is meant to be employed has no relevance to range measurement since there is nothing that would generate a return, or a return that was strong enough to be adequately detected.