Transponder optimization by computer simulation

In order to achieve an optimum transponder system design it is necessary to select or specify the appropriate components, like filters, mixers, amplifiers, etc. Since the various electrical characteristics of the transponder components and the quality of the overall transmission are related in a very complex way, a simple analytical approach is not practical. On the other hand, a completely experimental approach would not be time or cost effective. The simulation model (TOPSI) was created to solve this problem. A software package was implemented that consists of a large number of individual modules. Each module is dedicated to the simulation of a single transponder component, signal generator or signal analyser. The software modules may easily be integrated and configured to simulate a corresponding experimental test set-up. In this way, the system performance may be evaluated and the impact of a specific component parameter, e.g., a filter characteristic, may be determined. The architecture and the mathematical background of the simulation package are described.