The technology of small earth stations - A status report
Abstract
Types and users of earth stations with antenna diameters 5 m and less are discussed, as small antenna diameters translate into cost-effectiveness. Low earth segment costs provide a higher EIRP in the space segment, as a 6 dB increase in spacecraft EIRP reduces reflector diameter requirements. This cost-effectiveness is particular to FM-video, and SCPC and TDM/FDMA systems handling such data streams as 56 Kbps, 64 Kbps, and 1.544 Mbps. For sensitivity improvement, FET amplifiers are used, providing noise temperatures from 200-400 K at 12 GHz. An example earth station uses a 5 m antenna and a solid state HPA with less than 10 W output, and can transmit one or more 56 Kbps data streams on separate carriers. Other systems are discussed, including diagrams and photographs. A growing use of small earth stations is foreseen.
- Publication:
-
Paris International Astronautical Federation Congress
- Pub Date:
- September 1982
- Bibcode:
- 1982pari.iafcV....C
- Keywords:
-
- Antenna Design;
- Ground Stations;
- Low Cost;
- Microwave Antennas;
- Satellite Transmission;
- Technology Assessment;
- C Band;
- Cost Effectiveness;
- Data Transmission;
- Frequency Modulation;
- Intelsat Satellites;
- Multiplexing;
- Noise Temperature;
- Superhigh Frequencies;
- Communications and Radar