Wideband Wideband is a high-speed link between the RDA and RPG used to transfer massive amounts of data quickly (refer back to fig. 2-25). It also conveys system commands to the RDA (recall, system commands originate at the UCP). Should this crucial link be broken,  all  antenna  functions  halt,  the  processing  of real-time data ceases, and communications to and from the RDA are terminated. Wideband link may consist of either hard-wired (direct cabling) to the RPG, or a fiber optic connection. The type of connection used depends largely on distance. Narrowband Narrowband  consists  of  a  series  of  dedicated telephone lines that link all remaining components (PUPs) to the RPG (refer back to fig. 2-25). It is primarily  used  to  disseminate  products  to  users  and relay   UCP   commands   to   the   appropriate   radar component. Narrowband also carries message traffic between the UCP operator and system users. If a single narrowband link becomes disabled, only that  specific  user  (PUP)  is  affected.  Since  dial-in capability exists, impact to the user is minimal. All access  ports  on  the  RPG  are  designated  as  either dedicated for APUPs and PUPS or dial-in for part-time users. NATIONAL  WEATHER  RADAR NETWORK  (NWRN) The National Weather Radar Network (NWRN) is a  composite  of  WSR-88D  sites  from  around  the country. Each site is tasked with the challenge of continuous collection of radar data while ensuring the availability of WSR-88D products to all system users. Currently, this network consists of over one hundred sites   providing   nearly   complete   coverage   of precipitation and severe weather events throughout the u s . The NWRN increases the WSR-88D’s versatility and establishes greater flexibility for system users. The NWRN allows users to access far away sites, providing live  data  for  aircrew  briefings  and  other  types  of mission   support.   Connections   are   made   via commercial phone lines; therefore, access to a remote site  defines  you  as  a  non-associated  user  (NAPUP). Once contact is terminated, you can freely return to your host system as an APUP. This capability is a breakthrough  for  weather  briefers  as  it  improves aviation safety. Before its existence, the availability of radar data was extremely limited. Radar charts were often old and unrepresentative of current conditions. WSR-88D systems have been installed in parts of Alaska and at various sites throughout the Pacific, allowing for even more versatility. For example, you may be stationed stateside and be asked to brief your commanding  officer  on  tropical  storm  conditions  in Guam. As a non-associated user, you can examine live radar information for storm movement, strength, and wind velocity. You can also analyze for tornadic activity,   squall   lines,   and   other   severe   weather signatures-all from the safety and comfort of your own weather office thousands of miles from the event. This is all made possible through the WSR-88D’s advanced  communications  system.  Note  that  any WSR-88D   site   that   is   located   outside   of   the conterminous United States (CONUS) is considered a non-network  site. In addition to the WSR-88D PUP workstations, a Supplemental Weather Radar (SWR) is being installed at selected weather stations overseas that do not have access to information provided by the WSR-88D network.  The  SWR  is  a  commercially  developed Doppler radar capable of providing real-time radar surveillance.  It  consists  of  a  mini  antenna  and  a desktop  workstation  similar  to  a  WSR-88D  PUP.  It also produces interperative products similar to the WSR-88D. ARCHIVING Archiving is simply the process of preserving data for long-term storage. As information passes from one component to another, archiving may be accomplished in different formats. The WSR-88D uses two types of storage devices, an 8mm magnetic tape and a 5 l/4- inch optical laser disc. The act of archiving occurs at four  locations  throughout  the  system.  These  are identified as Archive Levels I, II, III, and IV. Archive Levels I and II are accomplished at the RDA. This archived  data  consists  of  system  maintenance information and digital base data from the signal processor. The Archive Level III interface is located at the RPG. At this level, all products produced by the RPG can be saved. The Archive Level IV interface is located at each PUP. Only data available at the PUP may be recorded at Archive Level IV, at the discretion of the user. 2-31