Introduction To Satellite Communication

Here's one of the most understandable and comprehensive overviews of satellite technology and satellite usage for commercial purposes currently available. An update of the widely used first edition published in 1986, this book offers expanded coverage of all the relevant elements of the satellite, ground control system, and earth stations. It gives you a practical understanding of the basic construction and usage of modern commercial satellite networks — how parts of the satellite system function, how the various elements interact, what role each element plays, and which elements are the most critical to success.

The book contains over 250 illustrations, defines current terminology, and explains complex concepts in a comprehensive, detailed manner that is factual, accurate, and easy to understand. It is an expertly authored guidebook that provides you with the technical foundation for understanding how satellite applications are implemented through the design of the space and ground segments.

Specifically, the book helps you understand:

>The fundamentals of satellite communication, particularly as they relate to newer systems such as Global Mobile Personal Communication Systems and digital transmission of television and data

>Ways in which satellite links can be applied to practical communication problems

>The systems and subsystems which comprise the space and ground segments

>Alternatives for placing satellites into earth orbit and operating them

>The economics of implementing and operating satellite networks

>The tradeoffs between GEO, MEO, and LEO systems

>The Ka band frequency anddigital DTH and multimedia applications

This important reference introduces new communication engineers and technicians to the field, and brings experienced engineers up-to-speed on all aspects of commercial satellite communication systems. It helps equipment designers of spacecraft and earth stations understand the tradeoffs between the various networks, and is a handy guidebook for non-technical professionals in management, operations, marketing, and finance who need to understand what makes satellite communication work. As a textbook, it is suitable for university courses and internal training programs in communication system design and planning.