Army logistics center use USB-to-Ethernet Adapter, saves training costs

By CECOM Public AffairsApril 3, 2013

CSLA
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Donald Meyer, from the Communications Security Logistics Activity (CSLA) New Equipment Training Team, Fort Huachuca, Ariz., devised a solution for utilizing a USB switch in CSLA's In-line Network Encryptor (INE) KG-175D training. This alleviated the need for having two computers per student, giving the Army a short-term savings of over $25,000 in hardware costs, maintenance and shipping. Previously, two laptop computers were needed to handle what are known as red and black operations; however, with the switch, both can be emulated using just one laptop by changing one of the USB ports on the laptop to an Ethernet connection. This solution saves money not only by reducing the need of purchasing and maintaining hardware by half, but also saves on shipping costs to training locations. The training team can now train twice as many students, thereby eliminating the need for making multiple visits to individual sites. While this solution has proved invaluable as a training tool, it has not yet been approved for use in live networks.

Related Links:

CECOM Public Page