What is the Data Multiplex System?

Data Multiplex System (DMS) is a general purpose, user-oriented, micro-programmed, electronic information transfer multiplexing system. The system accommodates a variety of input signal formats from source user devices and provides output signals in the same or different formats, as applicable, to the sink user devices.

DMS consists of a group of stand-alone modular building blocks of electrical equipment and interconnecting cables. These building blocks are specialized functional assemblies that can be assembled in an almost unlimited number of combinations to meet the electrical information transfer requirements of a wide variety of electrical equipment located on a wide variety of ships, from frigates to aircraft carriers, and from submarines to shore test facilities.

DMS conveys electronic data for many shipboard subsystems such as fire control, sonar, navigation, alarm, sensor, and other similar subsystems. While providing reduced vulnerability to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and to physical damage, DMS significantly reduces the massive amount of cables, multipin connectors, junction boxes, line drivers and receivers, signal conversion equipment and switchboards that are required in conventional installations. Fewer bulkhead penetrations are required to interconnect user devices aboard ships and submarines.

DMS also improves integration of the interfacing ship's electrical subsystems without compromising the total system capability. It is readily adaptable to equipment modifications in established subsystems, and does not contain a single point of system failure.

DMS transfers information with a network of multiplexers and with relatively few cables. The cables are installed according to a standard plan that does not vary with changes to the ship's electrical equipment locations.

The DMS system is currently installed on USS Arleigh Burke Class Destroyers numbers 51 to 78.