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                                                                   Exhibit 23.1



                        CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement
(Form S-3 No. 33-63983) of Odetics, Inc. and in the related Prospectus and in
the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-05735) pertaining to the Amended
and Restated Outside Director Stock Plan of Odetics, Inc. and the Odetics, Inc.
Long-Term Incentive Equity Plan of Odetics, Inc. of our report dated April 29,
1997, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of
Odetics, Inc. included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended
March 31, 1997.


                                                /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP


Orange County, California
June 27, 1997