Communications satellite transponders - Configurations and design
Abstract
The design advances made in satellite transponders and support systems, particularly active systems, since 1965 are surveyed. Communications satellites in GEO are powered by solar cells and feature a receiver, mixer, local oscillator, various power amplifier configurations and frequency conversion transponders. The transponder components receive the upcoming signals, alter their frequencies, perform heterodyning functions, and amplify the signal for a return link. Details of Intelsat traveling wave tube amplifiers are discussed, along with the reductions of required power for operations that can be achieved with solid-state amplifiers. Most current communications spacecraft use 36-40 MHz frequencies, although 11/14 GHz frequencies are being tested for future systems, as are digital TDMA/DSI systems and solid-state amplifiers.
- Publication:
-
30th International Scientific Congress on Electronics
- Pub Date:
- 1984
- Bibcode:
- 1984isce.proc...63B
- Keywords:
-
- Communication Satellites;
- Design Analysis;
- Satellite Configurations;
- Transponders;
- Antenna Design;
- Onboard Equipment;
- Solar Cells;
- Systems Engineering;
- Communications and Radar