This course has been written for engineers who already have experience in digital satellite communications and wish to learn how to calculate link budgets for geostationary satellites.

The course is split into two distinct sections:

(a)    The theory of the satellite link budget

(b)   The use of software for calculating link budgets

Section (a) assumes that the participant has little or no experience in calculating a satellite link budget and so concentrates on the determination, relevance and magnitude of each parameter. Examples are provided which require the use of a scientific calculator, so the student is expected to have an understanding of basic trig and log functions.

Section (b) demonstrates the use of some commercially available software and how the parameters discussed in section (a) can provide data entry into the software. This section covers the use of SatmasterPro software and may be extended to cover Intelsat LST5 should time permit.

The course involves active participation throughout the day since activities follow each of the many examples. This makes the course less stressful than having a final exam.

At the end of the course, the participant should be able to understand a number of important tasks:

(i)                How the satellite link budget is formed

(ii)               The magnitude and importance of each variable

(iii)               Interpretation of satellite operators and modem manufacturers datasheets

(iv)              How the link is affected by external variables (weather, interference, satellite settings etc.)

(v)               The use of commercially available software

(vi)              Optimisation of space segment utilisation

(vii)              Link budgets using ACM

(viii)             Link budgets using frequency re-use techniques (e.g. CinC and Paired Carrier)

Preparation details

Duration             This course lasts two days (or one if our “Satellite communications” course has been taken first)

Participants         The minimum number of participants is typically 5. The maximum is unlimited

Location             We often hold this course in a conference room in a hotel or at the customer site

Lunch                 Lunch is provided. Please notify us of any special dietary requirements beforehand

Materials             A course handbook is provided for each participant to use and then afterwards keep

Prerequisites       Each participant should (if possible) bring a scientific calculator for their own use