News

Designed to simulate the satellite link during ground station set-up and alignment, new models of Loop Test Translator from Atlantic Microwave Ltd. feature switchable frequency bands, thereby accommodating multiple transponders or multiple satellites within a single 1U rack unit.

In addition to significant equipment cost savings, these translators provide both a reduction in valuable rack space usage and an improvement in test routine workloads for both fixed and mobile satellite stations where efficient operation is key to economic success.

A dedicated multiple Ku band unit has the ability to translate a common 13.75~14.50GHz uplink into four separate downlink bands of 10.70~11.45GHz, 10.95~11.70GHz, 11.45~12.2GHz and 12.0~12.75GHz enabling set-up to take place at most locations for the majority of the World’s Ku band broadcast and telecommunication satellite links.

Alternatively, mixed Ku and C band units are available for convenient alignment where both types of transponder are being addressed from co-located transmit / receive equipment.

In each case, the frequency conversion is achieved with the use of custom double balanced mixer technology driven by crystal controlled phase locked oscillators with better than +/-2ppm frequency stability and typical phase noise of –125dBc/Hz at 10KHz offset from the LO frequency.

Input signal level is controllable over a 30dB range by an easy-access front panel mounted manual attenuator with vernier dial so it can be quickly and repeatedly re-set. The rear panel RF input and output are via durable stainless steel SMA connectors and the whole assembly measures just 13.5” (343mm) deep in a 1U x 19” rack case.