Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required for a new installation project, an upgrade of capacity or technology in an existing network or as a result of convergence to next generation networks (NGN).
It applies to individuals working as supervisors and engineers, who plan, design and implement satellite communications systems.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Research satellite communication systems | 1.1 Research satellite applications with various orbit types for assessing their spatial positioning for specific purposes 1.2 Analyse and report on architecture, major subsystems and critical components in communication systems of recently launched commercial satellite 1.3 Research and report on multiple access techniques and their typical applications |
2. Analyse uplink and downlink variables | 2.1 Determine uplink and downlink criteria that impact on carrier to noise ratio 2.2 Determine up/down link criteria that impact on baseband signal to noise ratio 2.3 Determine critical parameters of a satellite system 2.4 Research common types of baseband signal processing, and their spectral and noise improvement parameters for determining criteria for link budget evaluations |
3. Conduct link budget analysis | 3.1 Produce satellite link budget and calculate link margin for satellite system with specified modulation types 3.2 Analyse relationship between bit error ratio (BER) for given energy per bit per noise power density (Eb/No) and forward error correction (FEC) parameter for determining operational performance of link |
4. Analyse properties of geostationary satellites | 4.1 Calculate look angles for geostationary satellite from any receiving location 4.2 Research and report on frequency re-use in conjunction with polarisation selection and use of spot beams 4.3 Analyse and specify major features of very small aperture terminal (VSAT) systems, and calculate link reliability in high rainfall regions |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
analyse satellite communications system architecture
produce a satellite link budget and calculate link margin for a range of digital modulation types
calculate the look angles for a geostationary satellite from any receiving location
analyse and specify the major features of very small aperture terminal (VSAT) systems.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
identify and perform antenna calculations including:
gain
beamwidth
polarisation
effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP)
define bit error rate (BER) and how it affects satellite communications
outline carrier and noise ratio
explain constellation and eye diagrams
outline distance to satellite and typical delays
summarise frequency spectrum (satellite bands)
explain gain-to-noise-temperature G/T ratio
outline geostationary orbit
explain link budget calculation
explain look angle calculations
describe low earth orbiting (LEO) satellites
evaluate the following modulation types suitable for satellite communications:
n-FSK:
2FSK
4FSK
n-PSK:
2PSK
4PSK
8PSK
16PSK
n-QAM:
16 QAM
256QAM
define spread spectrum techniques including:
direct sequence
frequency hopping.
Assessment Conditions
Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances should be typical of those experienced in the telecommunications – radio frequency networks field of work and include access to:
a site on which satellite analysis may be conducted
data, calculators and appropriate software tools.
Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational education and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Reading | 1.1-1.3, 2.4, 4.2 | Interprets complex technical information in a variety of forms and applies the knowledge gained to solve complex problems by making informed judgements and assumptions |
Writing | 1.2, 1.3, 3.1, 4.2 | Uses clear, specific and industry related terminology to prepare detailed reports containing recommendations for relevant personnel |
Numeracy | 2.4, 3.1, 3.2, 4.1, 4.3 | Uses and applies knowledge about space and shape, including angle properties, when analysing variables Determines link budgets by selecting antennae size, power requirements, link availability and bit error rate (BER) by solving complex mathematical formulas |
Get the work done | 1.2, 2.1-2.3, 3.1, 3.2, 4.1, 4.3 | Gathers and analyses data and seeks feedback to improve plans and processes Makes high impact decisions in a complex and diverse environment, using input from a range of sources Identifies key factors that impact on decisions and their outcomes, drawing on experience, competing priorities and decision making strategies where appropriate Operates from a broad conceptual plan, developing the operational detail in stages, regularly reviewing priorities and performance during implementation, and identifying and addressing issues as the work progresses Addresses complex problems involving multiple variables, using formal analytical, lateral thinking techniques, experience and knowledge to focus on the root cause Takes responsibility for high impact decisions in complex situations involving many variables and constraints |
Sectors
Telecommunications – radio frequency networks