First 'Switchboard in the Sky': An Autonomous Satellite-Based Access/Resource Controller

摘要

Satellite communications systems can connect hundreds of dispersed users instantaneously. But when such a system is serving many small, widely dispersed users and is handling fluctuating traffic loads, the satellite channels must be allocated dynamically. A satellite-based access/resource controller, a 'switchboard in the sky,' has long been seen as the most efficient way to use the costly resources of a satellite. Two satellite communications packages, which will provide highly protected links to small mobile terminals, incorporate the first autonomous satellite-based switchboard. (RH)