A method is provided for controlling operations in a video guidance sensor system
wherein images of laser output signals transmitted by the system and returned from
a target are captured and processed by the system to produce data used in tracking
of the target. Six modes of operation are provided as follows: (i) a reset mode;
(ii) a diagnostic mode; (iii) a standby mode; (iv) an acquisition mode; (v) a tracking
mode; and (vi) a spot mode wherein captured images of returned laser signals are
processed to produce data for all spots found in the image. The method provides
for automatic transition to the standby mode from the reset mode after integrity
checks are performed and from the diagnostic mode to the reset mode after diagnostic
operations are carried out. Further, acceptance of reset and diagnostic commands
is permitted only when the system is in the standby mode. The method also provides
for automatic transition from the acquisition mode to the tracking mode when an
acceptable target is found.
