Prediction of Power Margins on Satellite Communications Links as a Function of Local Rain Rate Statistics and Desired Availability

摘要

This thesis presents an algorithm which can be used to predict power margins needed to overcome the degrading effects of rain on satellite communications links in the 7 to 9 GHz frequency range. This algorithm employs established mathematical models which are used to characterize rain rate behavior and its effects on wave propagation. The algorithm accounts for each of the three ways in which the link can be degraded by rain; signal attenuation, signal depolarization, and incrased noise power at the receiver input. This algorithm is designed to give the link designer all the tools necessary to compute a reliable power margin. The power margin is tailor-made for each individual link by considering all the relevant variables that can distinguish one link from another including the specified value of link availability, the rain rate characteristics at the location of the satellite earth terminal, and the link configuration. Finally, the algorithm is implemented in a computer program to make it convenient to use. (Author)