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The satellite communications industry is going through a transformative period. The current shift towards virtualization and digitization is leading to innovation, and a whole host of emerging technologies are pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

As technological advancements reshape the satellite communications sector, the ground segment faces a transformative shift towards a virtualized model. Underpinning this shift is the introduction of Digital Intermediate Frequency (DIF) technology, which will enable digitization to reach the satellite ground segment.

This is something we have been working on for a number of years, collaborating with partners across the industry such as the UK Space Agency and the DIFI Consortium to develop a range of products to digitize the radio frequency (RF) stream, as well as investing significantly in our team of expert engineers and R&D capabilities.

While the technological transformation of digital IF is still ongoing, there’s now no doubt that RF streams can be transported over IP. This provides a range of benefits, not least the security, but also in terms of equipment and labor saving. While broader digital integration promises enhanced efficiency, improved scalability, and new capabilities.

The market is now at a point where it’s moving away from simply educating satellite technology providers around what is able to be done, and looking at what is practically and financially useful. For example, we are seeing a transfer of interest from wide to very narrow bandwidth solutions, more akin to a VSAT network, and from a control-room based digitization model to digitization at the terminal/edge. This is not only more cost effective to both manufacture and purchase, but is also a very adaptable, more flexible option.

Interoperability, Flexibility and Collaboration

Of course, for any new technology to be a success, integration challenges need to be addressed.

The DIFI Consortium is working with industry players to ensure interoperability, and this is no doubt creating reassurance in the market. We have invested time in educational marketing campaigns, aimed at both the government and defense, and commercial satellite communications sectors. Ultimately, this is to give them the confidence and comfort that the new technology can do what it promises.

Interoperability doesn’t just relate to the satellite constellations; ground infrastructure plays an equally important role. Time is being invested to ensure that new technologies work hand-in-hand with legacy RF equipment. For example, signals that need to be transported long distances via IP network, have to be interoperable with the existing ground station infrastructure.

Flexibility is also paramount, and this is something we are increasingly hearing from our customers. Adaptable, future-proof ground systems spanning both the RF and digital domains are essential if we are to meet their requirements

In June 2024, the first European DIFI PlugFest took place at the UK Satellite Applications Catapult. The event was a significant milestone in advancing the interoperability of ground segment technology, with a focus on extending to testing products for compatibility at both the 1.1 and the new 1.2 standard levels.

Sharing our knowledge with the market will also be important in future development. In a sector that has relied heavily on analog RF for years, some customers have a more advanced understanding of digital infrastructure than others.

We anticipate early adopters exploring the possibilities of emerging solutions, while others continue to rely on RF until digital infrastructure becomes more established.

As satellite communications technology continues to evolve, the skills required at teleports are also undergoing a transformation. The shift from traditional RF expertise to a more network-centric understanding is beginning. Fortunately, this shift aligns with the emerging labor market, where a growing number of graduates possess the skills necessary for modern, network-based technologies.

For example, where systems were once primarily evaluated based on gain and noise figure, new specifications — such as sample rate and bit depth — become critical for system performance. To further illustrate, the relationship between dynamic range and bit depth is well-established, and from this, network bandwidth requirements can be derived.

Balancing these elements appropriately is key to ensuring optimal system operation. Other parameters, such as instantaneous bandwidth, are integral considerations for operators when selecting DIF products.

Understanding the Nuances of Interoperability

As RF over IP technology continues to mature, understanding the nuances of interoperability becomes increasingly important. The technology is still at an early stage, and its specification is evolving alongside emerging applications. It’s therefore crucial that all system components are compatible with the relevant information classes defined in the specification.

Although each release of the specification maintains backward compatibility, equipment compliance is determined by its adherence to specific information classes, rather than to a particular version of the specification.

As we move forward, I have no doubt that interest will remain in how the industry can provide comprehensive solutions that cater to both sides of the equation, supporting both satellite operators and teleport developers. The challenge lies in managing the pace of implementation as technology advances, and in aligning with the broader industry for a cohesive and seamless transition.

Kevin Dunne is the CEO of ETL Systems. With over 20 years of experience in RF systems for satellite and defense communications, he joined ETL in 2023 to lead transformative change. Kevin’s vision has led the company through its pioneering Digital IF development program, bridging the gap between traditional RF technology and the evolving virtualized ground segment. His expertise positions ETL Systems as a key partner for satcom operators globally.