Technology invades the modern world

Chapter 152 Who? Shu Xingbei! (6.2k)

"Secret 1954 No.154"

At 3 a.m., Larry King took a book out of the agreed-upon dead mailbox.

He knew his time was limited and he needed to put the book back in the dead mail box as soon as he finished photocopying it.

The maximum duration cannot exceed eight hours.

Larry King himself didn't need to go to the phone booths in Times Square, New York. He only needed to pick up the goods from the pre-arranged dead mailbox, take pictures with microfilm, and put them back in another dead mailbox.

After putting the book in his pocket and taking it back to his apartment, Larry King felt that his work had been worthwhile.

Just from the title "MIT Radiation Lab Series," he could guess what kind of things they were.

This is the technical information that China currently lacks most.

After a quick glance, he became even more convinced of this view.

The title page prominently displays the seal of the Ministry of Defense, and the logo reads "Secret 1954 No. 154".

As a professional, Larry King is very familiar with the military's security system, even though everyone uses different systems.

Their confidential technical information is handled in accordance with a set of security protocols called the National Industrial Security Program Operation Manual (NISPOM).

According to his limited understanding, it should be divided into three levels, or possibly more.

But since this is a Secret, it must at least be a secret, so it's definitely not a low-level file.

The level of secrecy signifies importance, and just for this Secret alone, he felt that the time and money spent on this trip to New York were worthwhile.

Whether it's crashing the car, paying for accommodation in New York, or incurring treatment costs at Columbia University Medical Center, each of these is a significant expense for Larry King.

However, Secret is just the beginning.

The subsequent books in this series, titled "MIT Radiation Lab Series," were sometimes titled "Confidential" and sometimes "Secret."

What appeared in the last two days was not books, but a file folder. When he opened it, he found the title page read "Top Secret".

What is TOP? It stands for top-level secret.

Larry King guessed this must be top secret.

The dates of the latter two documents are not 1954, but 1950.

For technical documents like these, the specific stamping requirements depend on the document's classification level and distribution scope. The stamp and markings will include the date, number, and authorizing authority.

This immediately allowed Larry King to determine who had obtained the item.

In America, apart from Randolph Lin, no other Chinese person could obtain such confidential information.

Larry King transformed his rented apartment in New York into a studio in just one day.

The room was filled with the smell of film and chemicals.

That is, he was able to find both a miniature film camera and a semi-automatic page turner in such a short time without attracting attention.

Larry King, dressed in a dark gray coat, stood in front of a Kodak Recordak miniature film camera, looking haggard but with a determined gaze.

This latest device, featuring a planetary design, is also equipped with the most advanced semi-automatic page turner available today, enabling it to efficiently turn pages.

Larry King placed the books on the shooting table, fixed the camera on a vertical stand with the lens pointing downwards, and laid the document flat on the shooting table to ensure that the pages were flat and without distortion.

As he operated the camera, he took a deep breath, opened the first roll, and the semi-automatic page turner whirred softly, each page clearly displayed under the lens. Larry King was completely focused, his fingers dancing nimbly on the control panel, sometimes adjusting the focus, sometimes pressing the shutter.

He also checked the film frames frequently to ensure the images were correct, his forehead beaded with sweat but he didn't stop. Finally, after completing the task, he carefully put the film away.

The sheer number of Top Secrets alone made Larry King determined to complete the mission no matter what.

Not to mention the contents inside.

The Top Secret content represents the pinnacle of America's radar technology, set in the 40s.

The complete design scheme of SCR-584 involves everything from antenna design drawings to automatic tracking system design and circuit diagrams, and even the core magnetron technology and servo drive algorithm.

To put it simply, this radar, designed in the 40s by combining English magnetron technology and America's engineering capabilities to counter German air raids and the threat of V-1 missiles, is a godsend for China today.

This can fundamentally resolve the pressure from the southeast.

Many of the technologies within can be used not only in radar but also in other areas.

This radar is an automatic tracking radar that can achieve precise positioning with a distance accuracy of 75 feet and an angle accuracy of 1 degree. Its servo drive algorithm can be used in automatic artillery.

Although this radar is from the 40s, it was not exported to any island.

Given its importance, it's no surprise that it's covered by Top Secret.

What Lin Ran put in the phone booth was not the original, but a modified version that he had carefully prepared.

Based on current technology and China's semiconductor technology, the improved version will be significantly better than the original SCR-584 in terms of both precision and detection accuracy.

The improvements here are mainly based on later sources.

Among them, the complete "MIT Radiation Lab Series" details the design ideas and improvement suggestions for the SCR-584 in volumes such as Radar Systems Engineering in Volume 1 and Tracking Systems in Volume 20, including early experiments with monopulse, MTI, and modularity.

In the records later released by Bell Labs, a scheme for optimizing the SCR-584 using single pulses and fire control was discussed, which could be used for subsequent tracking improvements of the SCR-584.

A 2020 test report on the SCR-584 from the American Army Signal Corps, held at the American National Archives, includes recommendations for lightweighting and X-band modifications.

The book "The History of MIT Radar Development", published in the 80s, provides a detailed summary of the subsequent improvements to the SCR-584.

Based on the existing data, Lin Ran improved the anti-interference capabilities of the original SCR-584 design, including frequency agility, moving target indication, and sidelobe suppression.

In addition, improvements were made to enhance tracking accuracy and multi-target capability, including single-pulse tracking, improved ranging circuitry, and multi-target switching.

This enhanced solution was not outdated for China at that time, even into the 80s.

In other words, Larry King didn't know his stuff. If he had known it better, he would have discovered that much of the technology in this so-called SCR-584 solution came from the late 50s and early 60s, and was not something from the 40s at all.

However, SCR-584 and Top Secret alone were enough to make Larry King take them seriously.

Larry King has been in a state of high tension ever since he read the first book.

Larry King pushed open the door to the consulting room and walked in with heavy steps. Although his suit was neat, it couldn't hide the dark circles under his eyes and his pale complexion.

"Dr. Kolb, am I beyond saving?" Larry King asked, his face full of worry, but inwardly he was overjoyed.

Because he successfully completed the task and placed the complete set of microfilm at the designated location.

This set of microfilm will travel across the ocean to where it belongs, giving wings to China's currently weak defense industry.

While it may not be a leap forward, it will at least completely resolve the current gaps in radar technology.

Kolb looked up, glanced at him over his glasses, frowned slightly, and then gestured for him to sit down.

Kolb asked in a gentle tone, with concern, "Mr. Kim, you've arrived. Please have a seat. How are you feeling today?"

Larry King sat down, managing a weak smile, but it vanished in an instant. He took a deep breath, trying to mask his exhaustion, but the hoarseness in his voice betrayed his condition.

Larry King: "Dr. Kolb, thank you. I... am still the same, not sleeping well and under a lot of stress. To be honest, I thought I could catch my breath in New York, but it seems to be even worse."

The deliberately crafted hoarse voice seemed particularly appropriate at this moment.

Kolb put down his pen, leaned forward, crossed his hands on the table, and stared intently at Larry King, as if trying to read more from his expression.

“I understand, Mr. Kim. You mentioned work stress and homesickness earlier, and it seems these issues haven't eased yet. Could you elaborate on what's been happening lately? What's making things feel worse?”

Larry King lowered his head, rubbed his temples, and feigned exhaustion. He deliberately slowed his speech and spoke in a heavy tone:

"During my time in New York, I wanted to relax, but work kept getting in my way. My mind was full of documents, reports, and unfinished tasks. I knew I should let go, but I just couldn't."

Aside from work itself, I visited IBM's Technology Ark, which made me even more anxious.

I'm very worried that it will cause us to lose our jobs.

Since machines can beat humans, they will eventually be able to replace humans in translation.

At least for now, the translation of Babel between Russian and English is quite good.

Maybe next year, maybe the year after, it will be able to translate Chinese into English.

I get worried that I'll be laid off someday, and the more I worry, the more I think about work.

Doctor, do you think I'm sick? Why can't I completely relax during my vacation like other people?

"Mr. Jin, your situation is not uncommon. Many people who come to me for treatment are worried about the changes brought about by artificial intelligence. The technological singularity proposed by the professor is indeed very tempting, but at the same time, it has also made many people start to worry."

The more likely someone is to be replaced by artificial intelligence in their job, the more worried they are.

It's difficult for people to let go of stress in a short period of time. Your insomnia, anxiety, and inability to relax are all signs of overthinking.

Have you tried the relaxation methods I suggested before? For example, progressive muscle relaxation, or a regular daily walk?

Larry King gave a wry smile, shook his head, and feigned helplessness: "I've tried, Doctor. I walk along the Hudson River every day and try those exercises, but it doesn't work."

Lying in bed at night, my mind is still a jumbled mess, and I toss and turn, unable to fall asleep. Sometimes, I feel like I'm about to break down.

I might have to go back to California; I can't put off work any longer.

Kolb frowned, a hint of worry flashing in his eyes. He put down his pen, leaned forward, and his tone became serious:

“Mr. Jin, I understand your sense of responsibility towards your work, but you need to pay attention to your physical and mental health. Going back now might put you under even more pressure, which would be detrimental to your health. I suggest you stay a little longer and see how things go. Our weekly conversations have been helpful, haven't they?”

"Doctor, I know you mean well, and I'd like to stay a few more days, but work is really urgent. I've already taken a month's leave, and if I don't go back soon, it might affect the progress of the entire project."

"It's not that I don't want treatment, it's just that I need to finish my work first, and then figure out how to adjust myself." Larry King paused for a moment, feigning hesitation, before his tone became firm.

Kolb sighed, leaned back in his chair, crossed his arms, and looked at him with a mixture of helplessness and understanding.

“I understand, Mr. Kim. Work is important to you, but health is fundamental.”

If you insist on returning, I suggest you continue your treatment with a psychiatrist in California. I can recommend a few colleagues; they are very professional. Additionally, I will prescribe some low-dose sedatives to improve your sleep, but please take them as prescribed and do not overdose.

Larry King nodded, feigning gratitude, but a hint of relief flashed in his eyes: "Thank you, Dr. Kolb."

I will take your advice and see a doctor as soon as I get back. I will be careful with the sedatives.

However, I'm worried that the pressure will be even greater when I go back, and I don't know if I can handle it.

Kolb stood up, walked over to him, gently patted him on the shoulder, and encouraged him, "Mr. Kim, you are very strong, and I believe you can get through this."

Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health; don't ignore your feelings. If you can't handle it, feel free to call me, or come to New York to see me again.

You can come to me anytime you need me.

Larry King stood up, grasped Kolb's hand, and nodded with a smile, feigning deep gratitude.

Larry King was actually thinking, "A $100 hour treatment fee? If it weren't for completing a mission, I'd be really sick to even come see you."

At that time, America did not have health insurance, and psychiatric treatment relied mainly on out-of-pocket payments. Medical care rarely covered mental health services.

Just like how medical insurance doesn't cover massages.

Moreover, the $100 fee is because Larry King is a federal employee; if Larry King were an ordinary person, the fee would increase by 50%.

As a top-tier institution affiliated with New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University Medical Center is indeed that expensive.

Larry King said sincerely, "Thank you, doctor. Your words have put my mind at ease. I will remember your advice and make adjustments accordingly when I get back. I hope I will be feeling better when we meet again."

Kolb smiled and saw him to the door, watching him leave.

After receiving the latest information from America, its value is obvious.

The MIT Radiation Lab series itself has immense value in the field of electronic engineering; it's a gold mine that needs to be tapped slowly and cannot be achieved overnight.

The value brought by SCR-584 is immediate.

We can start working on replicating it right now. Having the SCR-584 would be a huge boost to China's national defense.

It's even a qualitative leap.

Therefore, it's the same old routine: all the radar experts in the country are transferred to the southwest.

The first to arrive was Bi Dexian, a pioneer in the field of radar.

The other party graduated with a master's degree in electrical engineering from Stanford University in 1941 and a doctorate in physics from Caltech in 1944. He had only been transferred to Chongqing as the vice dean of the Signal Corps Engineering College for a short time when he was transferred to Area 51, which is further southwest.

He was the first expert to arrive.

As a top expert in the radar field, and especially given his active involvement in education, he dedicates himself to teaching and mentoring in addition to research.

Therefore, China hopes that he will be in charge of the SCR-584 radar replication project.

When Peter H. P. arrived at Area 51, he immediately sensed a vibrant, thriving energy.

He knew Wu Xijiu. He was a few years older than Wu Xijiu. Wu Xijiu studied at Berkeley in 49, while he graduated with a PhD from Caltech in 44.

Therefore, before meeting Dean Qian, he first had a meal with Wu Xijiu in the canteen of District 51.

He could clearly feel the passion emanating from Wu Xijiu, a passion unlike any he had ever experienced, a passion that seemed to burn with his entire being.

Moreover, Bi Dexian could sense that this was a passion that the other party had spontaneously ignited.

This is completely different from being passively arranged.

This feeling also made Bi Dexian curious about this place for the first time.

Wu Xijiu's words further fueled his curiosity: "Senior, I believe you were transferred here for a reason. Soon you should be able to see things here that you've never seen before."

That will be a surprise you've never seen before!

Bi Dexian had no idea what the other person was talking about.

However, he saw it the very next day.

In the conference room of Area 51, the room was softly lit, and the simple wooden table was covered with technical drawings and thick technical manuals.

"Dexian, I'm sorry, but the situation is urgent, and you have a more important task, so I have to transfer you here." Dean Qian and Bi Dexian also knew each other.

Bi Dexian was three years older than Dean Qian, but Dean Qian received his doctorate from Caltech a full five years earlier than Bi Dexian, and he was a double doctorate in aerospace and mathematics.

Bi Dexian was certainly a genius of that era, but Dean Qian was undoubtedly an even more dazzling genius.

"Take a look first, then we'll talk," Dean Qian continued.

"Dean, this information is indeed very detailed."

I'm very familiar with the SCR-584. Back when I was doing my master's degree in electrical engineering at Stanford, some of my classmates went and researched this thing.

It is an automatic tracking microwave radar developed by the United States during World War II. It uses the S-band, operates at a frequency between 2.7 and 2.8 GHz, and has a wavelength of about 10 centimeters.

"I also wanted to participate in this project, but because I'm Chinese, and radar research isn't like atomic bomb research—it doesn't lack people—I couldn't go. But I heard about it from them," said Bi Dexian after roughly finishing the translation.

The document is a photocopy, and all sensitive markings have been redacted.

"Take another look." Dean Qian did not reply.

"This is so complete; it must have been difficult to obtain such technical data."

Its antenna design was indeed as ingenious as I had imagined, achieving high-precision target tracking through parabolic reflectors and conical scanning technology.

"The cone-shaped scan here helped the radar transition from manual tracking to automatic tracking."

Our current radar is still based on manual tracking; this automatic tracking system is far more advanced.

"So that's how it is. The SCR-584's cone scanning uses a rotating antenna off-axis beam to determine the target's location."

The antenna rotates at a certain frequency, and the received signal strength changes with the target's position. By analyzing these changes, the system can automatically adjust the antenna's direction to keep the target centered in the beam. This greatly improves tracking accuracy and speed. Bi Dexian muttered to himself as he watched, a habit of his.

He felt that this would effectively improve reading efficiency.

Dean Qian knew that the other party had this habit, so he didn't bother him.

"No, no, there was no frequency agility technology or moving target indication filtering back then."

That's not right. These technologies can indeed improve radar's anti-jamming capabilities and low-altitude target detection capabilities, but where would these technologies be available in the 40s?

Radars at that time all used fixed frequencies, so how could they possibly use frequency agility technology?

"I just saw this in IEEE not long ago." Bi Dexian's face was full of disbelief.

“Dean, this is definitely not SCR-584, even though the name says SCR-584,” Bi Dexian said, looking directly at Dean Qian.

"Are you sure?" Dean Qian asked.

Bi Dexian nodded and said, "I'm sure. As I mentioned before, I have classmates who participated in the development of the SCR-584. They know I'm interested in this. We Chinese were studying in America at the time, and we wouldn't give up any military industrial information that could potentially enhance China's strength."

So they would give me some less important information.

They've always complained that the magnetron technology England provided for the SCR-584 is untunable, which makes it impossible for the SCR-584 to evade electronic interference.

Frequency agility allows radar to quickly switch its operating frequency within a certain range in order to avoid enemy electronic interference.

"Magnetrons can be tuned to achieve limited frequency adjustments, which is very advanced. Not to mention America in the 40s couldn't do this, even England, the pioneer of magnetron technology in the 40s, couldn't do this at the time!" Bidwin said firmly.

Dean Qian then asked, "Compared to our current technology, what aspects can we learn from it?"

Bi Dexian shook his head and said, "Learn from it? I suggest we stop all our current radar projects and put all our resources into replicating this project."

Here, the SCR-584 antenna design features a parabolic reflector with a diameter of approximately 6 feet, a beamwidth of only 4 degrees, and an angular accuracy of 1 degree, far exceeding our current capabilities. Our 411 radar, on the other hand, has an angular accuracy of only about 5 degrees.

They are far ahead of us in high-precision tracking.

Of course, this doesn't mean blindly worshipping America's technology. Just looking at this, I'd say it's an improved version of the SCR-584. Whether it's training our radar industry's talent pool or the military strength benefits of the SCR-584, it's far superior to simply copying the Russian version.

While the SCR-584 is advanced, it is primarily designed for air defense fire control. We need to improve and innovate it according to our own needs.

However, too many things in this set are too high-end.

For example, the MTI filtering technology mentioned here can effectively distinguish between moving targets and stationary clutter, which is very helpful for improving our low-altitude radar.

However, it is difficult for us to manufacture the corresponding equipment.

This includes applying the SCR-584's automatic tracking system to fire control radar, which can greatly improve the hit rate of anti-aircraft guns.

The renovation was also very difficult for us.

The biggest challenge lies in the fact that the SCR-584's design is based on the United States' industrial base and materials technology, which may present difficulties for us in its implementation.

Manufacturing high-precision servo motors is very difficult for us.

After reading it, Bi Dexian finally understood what Wu Xijiu meant by the surprise.

According to his judgment, this set of information should be the most up-to-date, originating from America's side.

Moreover, it is an improved version based on existing technology, making it invaluable to China.

“There are too many technical details inside. Although the other party has written it out clearly enough, it is still very difficult for us to replicate it,” said Bi Dexian.

Dean Qian replied, "That's why I transferred you, Dexian, to oversee this matter. Do you have confidence?"

After thinking for a moment, Bi Dexian stared into Dean Qian's eyes and said, "I think there is someone more suitable to lead the SCR-584 project."

"Who?"

"Shu Xingbei!"

　Here's a total of 10,000 words, please vote for me with monthly tickets!

　　
　
(End of this chapter)