A satellite simulator that efficiently enables testing to take place without the need to access the satellite has been announced by AtlanTecRF.  

This global RF and microwave equipment, interconnects and component manufacturer, launched this new Ruggedized Satellite Simulator System, designed to provide a loop-back test without the need to access the satellite.

Comprised of two units, this new Satellite Simulator (RSS Series) is portable thereby facilitating the testing and calibration of terminals off-satellite. The base control unit is a weatherized, portable instrument with the capability of both local and remote, ethernet control and this is connected to a mast mounted transponder via a power and data cable.

The Transponder communicates with the system under test (SUT) via appropriately polarized gain horns, receiving at the SUT transmit (Tx) frequency and transmitting at the SUT receive (Rx) frequency, thereby completing the loop-back without satellite involvement.

The local oscillator in the Transponder is synthesized over its frequency range by either front panel controls on the base unit or via ethernet with a GUI and input signal level is similarly controlled over a 60dB range in 1.0dB steps thus accommodating varying range distances from the SUT as well as a variety of Tx power levels.

In addition to the transmission of the Rx frequency direct to the SUT antenna, a sample of this is fed back via coaxial low loss cable to the base unit and is then made available at the front panel for connection to a spectrum analyzer or other test equipment.

At the product launch in Braintree, England, AtlanTecRF's CEO, Geoff Burling, said that as the satellite market embraces greater mobility it needs new and innovative products that are designed to work in all weather conditions and in more remote locations. This Ruggedized Satellite Simulator is transportable and weatherproof and is easy to set up and operate. With the inclusion of this new Satellite Simulator to the Satcom product range, AtlanTecRF can now offer operators an even greater choice it comes to off satellite signal testing.