Analysis of Factors Affecting the Normal Operation of User Satellite Networks

When planning to build a satellite communication network or use satellites for service transmission, what factors do you consider when selecting satellite transponder resources? Beyond rental costs, key technical parameters such as EIRP (Effective Isotropic Radiated Power), G/T (system quality factor), and SFD (saturated flux density) are essential. Coverage area, signal latency, and system reliability also play significant roles. But beyond these, what other elements should users take into account? Are there additional factors that may influence the performance of the satellite link?

In practice, no two transponders operate in exactly the same frequency band. Satellite operators' management experience, antenna design, interference from neighboring satellites, cross-polarization issues, and shared usage among multiple users can all impact the overall performance. Therefore, it's crucial for users to thoroughly understand and compare available satellite resources before leasing a transponder.

1. User Requirements

1.1 Network Service Scope

C-band beams are typically designed for wide-area coverage, often covering large hemispherical regions. In contrast, Ku-band beams are usually smaller, focusing on specific areas based on population density and economic needs. Each satellite has a defined coverage area, so users must select satellites that can support all stations in their network. For private networks, it's advisable not to aim for excessive coverage. To reduce costs, simplify management, and minimize latency, itâ€™s best to first choose a satellite that covers all stations in the network and then consider a double-hop configuration if needed.

1.2 Working Frequency Band Selection

Satellite communications commonly use C-band (6/4 GHz) and Ku-band (14/12 GHz). Ku-band offers higher EIRP and smaller antennas under similar conditions, but it is more susceptible to rain fade, especially in high-rainfall areas. The cost of Ku-band channels and ground equipment is generally higher, though coordination with terrestrial interference and adjacent satellites is simpler.

The Ku-band operates at a much higher frequency than the C-band, resulting in a gain difference of around 6 dB for the same antenna size. However, this doesnâ€™t solely explain why Ku-band systems use smaller antennas. Both antenna gain and free-space loss increase with the square of the operating frequency. While the gain improves, the increased loss balances it out. The main reason for smaller Ku-band antennas is the higher downlink EIRP, which allows for better signal strength despite the losses.

Both C-band and Ku-band include standard and extended frequency bands. Standard band equipment typically supports bandwidths of over 500 MHz, while extended band devices often support up to 800 MHz. Extended band equipment is pricier but offers lower channel costs and less interference from neighboring satellites.

2. Business License

According to Chinaâ€™s Telecommunications Regulations, any entity wishing to lease or sell satellite transponder resources must obtain approval from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Users should ensure they work with qualified companies to protect their rights and interests.

3. Satellite Orbital Position

3.1 Ownership of Orbital Position

The ITU requires countries to apply for and register orbital positions for geostationary satellites. These positions are strategically important for national defense, economic development, and political stability. With the increasing number of satellites in geostationary orbit, orbital resources have become scarce, leading to heightened competition. For long-term network operations, it is recommended to choose satellites registered under the Chinese government at the ITU.

Orbital position details can be found on the official ITU website.

3.2 Antenna Elevation Angle

The choice of satellite orbital position directly affects the elevation angle of the ground station antenna. A lower elevation angle increases susceptibility to ground noise and thermal interference, reducing the G/T value. It also increases the path length between the ground station and the satellite, leading to greater free-space loss and higher rain fade risk, especially for Ku-band signals. Users should aim for satellites with a higher elevation angle to improve signal quality and reliability.

4. Satellite Platform

The satellite platform significantly influences its overall performance throughout its operational life. When purchasing a satellite, platform reliability is a top priority for satellite operators. Major commercial satellite manufacturers are located in the U.S., Europe, and China. Users should verify whether satellites from the same platform are in orbit and have a proven track record of stable operation. Even if a satellite has superior coverage, it wonâ€™t be effective if it fails to operate reliably over time.

5. Repeater Specifications

Portable Power Station

A Portable Power Station is a compact, rechargeable electrical device designed to provide on-the-go power for various electronic devices and appliances. These units typically feature multiple outlets, including USB ports, AC power outlets, and sometimes even DC outputs, allowing users to charge smartphones, laptops, lights, fans, and other small electronics without access to a traditional power outlet. Portable power stations come in different capacities, measured in watt-hours or ampere-hours (Ah), which indicates how much energy they can store.Some models include advanced features such as solar charging capabilities, enabling them to recharge from sunlight, making them ideal for camping, outdoor activities, emergency preparedness, and off-grid living. They often have built-in batteries that can be quickly charged via an AC wall adapter, a car charger, or through solar panels. Portable power source is not only useful for recreational purposes but also serve as backup power sources during power outages or for emergency situations where reliable electricity is needed.

In summary, a Portable Power Station is a versatile and convenient solution for providing reliable power when you're away from home or in need of a dependable power source without the constraints of a standard electrical grid.

Power Station,Portable Power Source,Mobile Power,Portable Power

Ningbo Taiye Technology Co., Ltd. , https://www.tysolarpower.com