Satellite-switched TDMA - Transponder-switched or beam-switched

Abstract

For satellite communications in the 1980s, there is a strong trend toward wide-band communications packages utilizing a multiplicity of narrow high-powered beams. There are numerous advantages to this trend; a disadvantage, however, is the burden this technology places on the interconnection flexibility of the satellite. To restore this interconnection flexibility, an onboard real-time timedivision multiple access (TDMA) communications system linking the stations has been proposed. This approach has been broadly termed satellite-switched TDMA (SS-TDMA) and is based upon the switching occurring between multiple transponders, each with fixed antenna pointing. Another class of SS-TDMA incorporates individual transponders with variable antenna pointing (beam-switched). This paper explores and develops the conceptual configuration and technology base for both types of SS-TDMA, discusses hybrid approaches wherein both types are interconnected, considers the use of onboard regeneration, and closes with a treatment of the advantages of SS-TDMA to mobile and military satellite communications. Presented as Paper 74-460 at the AIAA 5th Communications Satellite Systems Conference, Los Angeles, Calif., April 22-24, 1974. This paper is based partially upon the authors participation in the Intelsat research and development program. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Intelsat. *Operation Director, Satellite Communications and Transmission Systems Operation. 139 Purchased from American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics