Orbital efficiency through satellite digital switching

Basic satellite switched time division multiple access (SS/TDMA) concepts and design considerations are described, and an overview of selected planned SS/TDMA systems is presented. The burst timing, synchronization, and frame formatting of TDMA transmissions is considered, showing a typical SS/TDMA frame and burst structure. A typical SS/TDMA terrestrial terminal and an SS/TDMA spacecraft are shown and the functions of their components are summarized. Current and planned SS/TDMA systems are discussed, including the commercial K-band, payload which will be integrated into each TDRS spacecraft, the NASA Advanced Communications Technology Satellite, the satellite communications system planned for the terrestrial digital toll network of Japan, INTELSAT VI, and ITELSAT. Progress in microwave switching research for the SS/TDMA satellite switch is addressed.