Because satellite ground stations have long-range communication links, they must provide high uplink transmission power, receive very low downlink signal levels, and compensate for link variations caused by weather conditions and changes in the satellite/ground antenna. Ground stations contain numerous sensitive components and subsystems (e.g., antenna subsystems, waveguides, coaxial cables, filters, LNAs, LNBs, BUCs, HPAs, and TWTAs) that must be verified during installation and maintenance. The spectrum performance of the entire system must also be monitored. These tasks are even more challenging when ground stations are located in remote areas.
FieldFox handheld analyzers offer the accuracy, frequency coverage (up to 26.5 GHz), and all-in-one functionality (e.g., spectrum analyzer, full 2-port vector network analyzer, and power meter) needed to perform a wide range of benchtop quality measurements in challenging test environments. Now, with the introduction of the 208 Measurement Option, FieldFox is the perfect tool for conducting field testing of satellite communications.
The FieldFox Option 208 verifies frequency converters installed at satellite ground stations and performs common maintenance tasks. Users can also use FieldFox to perform cable and antenna testing, vector network analysis such as S-parameters, power measurements, spectrum analysis, and interference detection—all critical aspects of effective satellite ground station maintenance and troubleshooting. Because all of this is accomplished with a single instrument, users no longer need to transport multiple test devices to the field.
FieldFox Option 212, also introduced today, extends cable testing beyond single-core coaxial cables to provide insights into the performance of differential devices. Option 212 enables FieldFox to measure the reflection behavior of 1-port differential devices, such as twisted-pair cables or printed circuit boards. Furthermore, it allows FieldFox to perform time-domain measurements of differential devices operating in mixed mode.
Today also sees the launch of new Data Link software for the FieldFox family of analyzers. The software integrates remote viewing, control, and SCPI command consoles, enabling users to more easily control and monitor remote instruments and automate testing processes. Satellite operators, for example, can now monitor the spectrum behavior of satellite communication links from a control center.
“FieldFox is an innovative solution for field maintenance and troubleshooting of satellite ground stations,” said Dan Dunn, general manager of RF handheld devices at Keysight. “Its comprehensive functionality and accuracy for satellite ground station maintenance provide the capability needed to perform maintenance tasks quickly and efficiently anywhere.”
