New L-Band RF over Fiber Solution for Air Force Satcom Telemetry

The Air Force Research Lab (AFRL), in the USA, is a scientific research organization that is responsible for planning and executing the US Air Force (USAF) science and technology program in order to improve and develop new products and services.

The AFRL approached RF over fiber manufacturers, ViaLite Communications, to deliver a solution for a satellite communications downlink, transferring the L-Band signals through the ground station complex.

ViaLite’s L-Band HTS links, in the standalone Blue OEM module format, were selected by AFRL for integration into their system. Compact, single link and available in RF bands up to 6 GHz, the links were an ideal fit. They can be operated as either transmitters or receivers and are easily mounted into existing equipment. AFRL explained that they’d decided on the links based on their performance, best in class quality and reliability.

Craig Somach, ViaLite Director of Sales, said: “We are pleased to continue supporting AFRL; helping with the advanced satellite and terrestrial infrastructure they operate across multiple satellite transponders and locations.”

Craig and the team were also on hand to provide service and support to AFRL during the equipment installation process.

As well as OEM module format, the links are available as rack chassis cards (for use in ViaLite 3U and 1U rack chassis units), as Yellow OEM modules (designed for system integrators and equipment manufacturers to build into their own designs) and in the ViaLite Blue2 module which houses two links and can be setup to be a dual transmitter, dual receiver or transceiver.