Navigating Commercial Pressures: The Importance of Standardised Testing
The webinar highlighted critical challenges and solutions for standardising flat panel antennas in satellite communications, a pivotal area for the industry. Participants emphasised the necessity of uniform data sets to satisfy both customer demands and environmental regulations, as well as the importance of early-stage testing and simulation. Difficulties in measuring radiation patterns and addressing thermal management were also key concerns.
As the demand for rapid network integration intensifies, the risks of inadequate testing and validation could compromise long-term reliability and safety. A comprehensive, cost-effective testing strategy is essential, as relying solely on individual operators is no longer viable. Establishing standardised protocols will enhance the overall reliability and efficiency of satellite networks, ultimately benefiting the entire industry.
Looking forward, critical action items include developing standardised testing methods, addressing interference management, and refining simulation-based assessments. By determining optimal data sets for integration and enhancing ongoing performance monitoring, we can foster a more collaborative environment. This approach will unlock the industry’s potential through agreed-upon standards, setting the stage for a more resilient and innovative satellite communications ecosystem. Collaboration and standardisation are not just beneficial; they are essential for the future of satellite communications, driving advancements that will meet growing global connectivity needs.
Q & A continued….
Thank you to our audience for taking an active part by asking many questions. We ran out of time to respond to the questions below but our panellists were kind enough to answer after the event ended…
1. LEO satellite UTs will be used in densely populated urban areas. To maintain satellite communication quality, satellite UTs may require EIRP as high as 40dBm. How to ensure that the health of surrounding people is not affected?
Harvinder Nagi (SA Catapult): Answer to this question requires further intervention from regulatory bodies.
- My recommendation is getting the design right, such as Narrow beam intelligent directional beamforming antenna, low side lobes, use of smart antenna algorithm to change the dynamics of transmitted power relevant to the conditions.
- Calculate safe zone from the terminal prevent humans entering the zone (just common sense).
- Adhere to guidelines provided by International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP).
2. Buildings and terrain can affect satellite communication quality. Are there any recommended channel models for different usage scenarios (urban, rural)?
Harvinder Nagi (SA Catapult): I can think of following ITU recommended models.
- ITU-R P.2108 Model (for Urban and Dense Urban Areas)
- ITU-R P.833 – Vegetation – Rural
- Street Canyon Model (Rayleigh/Rician Fading) – Urban
- Walfisch-Ikegami (WI) Model – Urban
- ITU-R P.618 Model – Rain Attenuation (Common to Both urban & rural Models)
You can find more details here.
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