May 14, 2012, post by Artur Nowak
Satellite specialist Newtec’s IP traffic enhancement and shaping technology Cross-Layer-Optimization™ has been implemented in the flagship EURO HAWK® Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) which detects and collects information. The Newtec technology is required in order to secure the downlink via satellite. EURO HAWK is a joint programme between Cassidian, an EADS company, and Northrop Grumman. It is a UAS which signals a new era for Germany’s Federal Armed Forces – the debut of the largest unmanned aerial system in German airspace.
“It’s a milestone for us,” said Rüdiger Knöpfel, the head of the unmanned project department at the German Federal Office of Defence Technology and Procurement (BWB). “It represents nearly 10 years of concept preparation and development. At 15 metres long, a wingspan of 40 metres and take-off weight of approximately 15 tons, the Euro Hawk by far outstrips other UAS types.”
The EURO HAWK can stay airborne for more than 30 hours and fly more than 20,000 km before needing to refuel. Technicians have equipped the EURO HAWK with German sensors and intelligence technology.
From an altitude of 20,000 metres – which is above the altitude at which civil aircraft fly – the EURO HAWK’s SIGnals INTelligence (SIGINT) system detects and collects information from ELectronic INTelligence (ELINT) radar emitters and communications emitters. It then transmits this information to the ground stations in real-time for analysis and dissemination.
In order to secure the downlink of the recorded data, satellite communication leader Newtec provided its IP traffic enhancement and shaping solution: Cross-Layer-Optimization, www.newtec.eu/cross-layer-optimizationtm.
The Newtec Cross-Layer-Optimization solution seamlessly enhances the TCP communication and at the same time includes comprehensive shaping and compression techniques. All technologies interact in order to optimize the communication link. The system can be tailored to provide the maximum availability and bandwidth efficiency to any application running for the EURO HAWK interaction and data transmission.
“The EURO HAWK is an important asset for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance operations for Germany and its partner states and has Newtec technology at its core,” said Serge Van Herck, CEO of Newtec. “Key to this project was providing expertise and the right solution to ensure the satellite link for Beyond-Line-of-Sight communications. Newtec technology allows the most data and video as possible through the satellite link whilst providing optimal availability to assure mission critical communications.”
Newtec has a track record of installations on both manned and unmanned intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft. The company has 27 years’ experience dealing with high data rates and video transmissions over satellite.
May 03, 2012, post by Artur Nowak
Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE:A) announced four new X-Series signal generators that provide unmatched performance in phase noise, output power, ACPR, EVM and bandwidth. With these capabilities, Agilent’s new MXG and EXG products (available in analog and vector models) support the development of components and receivers that meet the complex challenges of mitigating interference, speeding data throughput and increasing signal quality in applications such as radar, military communications and consumer wireless.
“Our ongoing innovation in signal generation is driving the unsurpassed performance our customers need to test their highest performance devices”.Today’s aerospace/defense environment requires enhanced radar performance to detect weak signals at long distances. To provide the pure and precise signals needed to test these designs, the MXG uses an innovative triple-loop synthesizer to deliver phase noise performance of -146 dBc/Hz at 1 GHz and 20 kHz offset. For developers of radar components such as mixers and analog-to-digital converters, the MXG also features industry-leading spurious performance of -96 dBc at 1 GHz.
In wireless communications, demand for more data and better coverage is driving higher performance in consumer devices and network infrastructure. For designers developing faster data streaming in 802.11ac devices, the MXG is the only solution with factory-equalized 160-MHz RF bandwidth and ±0.2 dB flatness. For those seeking to enhance range, mitigate interference and boost component performance, both the MXG and EXG deliver three industry-leading capabilities: low EVM, output power up to +27 dBm, and ACPR of up to -73 dBc (W-CDMA test model 1, 64 DPCH).
“Our ongoing innovation in signal generation is driving the unsurpassed performance our customers need to test their highest performance devices,” said Andy Botka, vice president and general manager of Agilent’s Microwave and Communications Division. “With signals that range from simple to complex and pure to impaired, the MXG and EXG support detailed measurements that reveal the true performance of advanced designs.”
To support a broad range of signals for cellular communications, wireless connectivity, video, and navigation, the MXG and EXG now provide real-time simulation of complex real-world signals. The associated Agilent Signal Studio software – a flexible suite of tools that accelerates signal creation – offers support for rapidly changing standards and highly complex signals such as real-time simulation of GPS or GLONASS constellations and performance testing of LTE base stations.
In manufacturing test, the cost-effective EXG is optimized for extended uptime and fast throughput (<900-µs switching). It also provides the signals needed for basic parametric testing of components and functional verification of receivers.
To reduce cost of ownership, the X-Series is designed for reliability and fast, easy calibration, service and repair. Today’s MXG and EXG leverage technology used in previous-generation MXG signal generators, which are among the most reliable signal sources ever offered by Agilent. The recommended three-year calibration cycle and self-maintenance strategy will help reduce support costs and increase instrument uptime.
About Agilent Technologies
Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE:A) is the world’s premier measurement company and a technology leader in chemical analysis, life sciences, electronics and communications. The company’s 18,700 employees serve customers in more than 100 countries. Agilent had net revenues of $6.6 billion in fiscal 2011. Information about Agilent is available at www.agilent.com.
Apr 19, 2012, post by Artur Nowak
Morpho Detection, Inc. (MDI), the explosives and narcotics detection business of Morpho, Safran group’s security unit, announced the Israeli Airports Authority (IAA) has selected its advanced technology “System of Systems” to help meet its stringent hold baggage screening requirements at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport.
Source: www.sys-con.com
