Flat Panel Antennas (FPA) clearly have an important role to play in satcom networks. In a world where consumer expectation for connectivity is greater than ever, FPAs may well be the key to meeting that consumer demand. As well as being cost effective, FPAs are also small and lightweight, which makes them an appealing ground segment option. Their physical properties also make them attractive to the COTM industry where cumbersome and bulky antennas tend to be problematic.
As the need for better connectivity continues to drive LEO expansion, the demand for FPAs that dynamically track satellites is sure to increase. However, as with most new technologies, there are some concerns and unknowns about consequences of FPA adoption that need consideration. In this blog, we’ll explore 3 reasons why we need to come together to ensure that the industry is prepared for the new technology.
1 Customer expectations
Understanding and then managing customer expectations of FPAs is extremely important. With their technological capabilities and physical properties, many customers view FPAs almost as the panacea they have been searching for. However, from the perspective of satellite operators, FPAs have so far, not met their cost and performance requirements. This is challenging for satellite operators because it limits the services being provided and can lead to disappointed customers.
A more coordinated approach is needed to ensure that FPAs are able to provide satellite operators with the performance capabilities required in order to meet end customer service requirements.
2 Lack of standards
It’s hardly surprising that given the high consumer expectations around the use of FPAs, the lack of standards in place is a real concern for operators. Without standards conforming to their needs, it is difficult for satellite operators to maximise throughput of signals to FPAs. In addition, a lot of valuable resource is used identifying whether the equipment is suitable in the first place. This is an inefficient way of working and at the same time, can lead to poor or inadequate service provision which is damaging for the industry as a whole. At a time when the satcom industry is faced with competition from other technologies such as 5G and IP, it really can’t afford to get this wrong.
The industry faced a similar challenge surrounding quality and specifications of parabolic antennas in 2013. The SOMAP group was established at that time to create a coordinated approach by delivering standards for manufacturers of parabolic antennas. The approach has been incredibly successful with parabolic antennas, and there is no reason why it can’t be used again to produce a set of standards for the FPA market. SIG is currently working alongside SOMAP and is establishing a working group to drive this forward. This will enable a smooth rollout of the technology throughout satcom.
3 Potential for increased RF interference
Whether or not the use of FPAs have an impact on the number of cases of RF interference, it is another area that needs some careful consideration. It has long been the case that alongside poorly trained users and inadequate monitoring systems, substandard equipment is a common cause of RF interference. As FPAs become more widespread, the absence of adequate standards is highly likely to increase the frequency of RFI cases. This would have negative consequences for the satcom industry as a whole. As happened with parabolic antennas in the past, the development and implementation of standards will mitigate the risk of increased RFI.
Benefits of a cohesive approach
Having higher quality networks will benefit all stakeholders in the satcom industry. A more cohesive approach to FPAs will go a long way towards achieving that aim. With standards that confirm to their needs, satellite operators will be able to maximise the throughput of signals to FPAs. Satellite operators will also be able to use their resources more effectively because with standards in place, it will not be necessary to spend time qualifying the equipment as suitable.
FPA manufacturers will benefit too, because they will be aware of the exact requirements of both their customers and satellite operators. Other ground segment businesses will be able to produce services and solutions which will be suitable to a broad number of customers across the vertical. Other space users will have confidence that the FPA products being used will not have a negative impact on their services.
Most importantly, end users will receive the best satcom services with easy access to suitable and efficient tools. A cohesive approach has no drawbacks; a unified and coordinated approach to space use has always been the most successful. Engaging with all corners of the market is important because it is vital that we deliver standards which work for all.
We will be discussing the next steps for Flat Panel Antennas at the next technical SIG workshop, taking place at Intelsat in Washington DC on 16th and 17th March 2023. To get involved, visit the SIG events page.