Low Power Highly Configurable CCSDS Compliant Satellite Communication Module

Abstract

This paper presents a design for a satellite Communication Module (COMM). The design primarily uses twin integrated configurable RF transceivers, which allow configurable frequencies and modulation techniques, while also consuming little power. It also features a low noise amplifier and a power amplifier, which is ramped up during transmission to further conserve energy. Everything is protected by current-limiting switches which prevent Single Event Effects from permanently damaging the device. Both transceivers are controlled by a single Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). The main interface of the COMM is a dual hot-redundant Controller Area Network (CAN) bus. The module also features a dedicated direct command interface with the power system, allowing operators to directly control some functions of the satellite while bypassing the data handling subsystem. The FPGA is also used to facilitate Fault Detection, Isolation and Recovery (FDIR) of the communication subsystem. To facilitate the compatibility of the Communication module with the European Space Agency’s ground station network, the COMM is compliant with the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS) protocol. The protocol is also extended to allow CCSDS frames to be directly compatible with the frames used on the CAN interface.

Publication
In Small Satellites, Systems & Services Symposium.
Date
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