Comparison of three tracking methods for ground station antennas in satellite communications -Program Tracking, TLE Tracking, and Vector Tracking
I believe that everyone often sees various satellite antennas in daily life, but have you noticed that some antennas are installed on the ground, some are installed on high platforms, and some have a “small room” under the antenna. Have you ever wondered why the antenna should be installed in this way, and what kind of environmental conditions are suitable for these installation methods? Today, this article will answer your questions. We will introduce 3 different installation methods and compare them in detail, and finally summarize their respective environmental requirements. Please go ahead to learn more details from below.
The satellite antenna can be installed in different locations based on specific installation requirements and environmental conditions. Generally, the satellite antenna can be installed in the following locations: on the ground, on a platform, on a tower. When designing a new satellite antenna station, the first thing to do is to determine the installation site. It directly determines the quality of transmitting and receiving satellite signals, the amount of capital investment, and many practical issues such as installation, operation, maintenance, and security. Business personnel should consider geographical factors, ground electromagnetic environment, meteorological conditions, safety factors, etc. according to actual application requirements, and make the operation of the receiving station more convenient and the operation and maintenance more efficient while ensuring the stable operation of communication services.
- Three antenna installationmethods introductions
- On the Ground: If the site is flat and free from significant obstacles, the antenna can be installed directly on the ground. Typically, supporting structures are needed to ensure the stability and proper angle of the antenna.
Antesky 6.2m Tx/Rx. antenna in USA
- On a Platform: If a higher position is required or if there is limited ground space, the antenna can be installed on a platform. The platform can be a specially designed mount to ensure the antenna operates without obstructions.
- On a Tower Base: For antennas that need greater height to ensure the signal is not interfered with, they can be installed on a tower base. A tower base provides sufficient height and avoids interference from nearby buildings and obstacles.
When choosing the installation location, the main factors to consider are signal transmission effectiveness, site conditions, and stability.
- Three antenna installationmethods comparison
Here is the comparison table of the three antenna installation methods:
| Item | Directly on the Ground | On a Platform | On a Tower Base |
| Stability | High, less affected by wind but may be influenced by terrain | Medium, depends on platform structure | Low, significantly affected by wind load |
| Land Occupation | Large | Medium | Small |
| Construction Difficulty | Low | Medium | High |
| Maintenance Difficulty | Low, easy to inspect and repair | Medium, requires climbing or additional support | High, requires special equipment and safety measures |
| Signal Obstruction | Easily obstructed by surrounding objects | Moderate | Minimal obstruction, best visibility |
| Interference Resistance | Easily affected by ground reflections | Moderate | Highest, away from ground interference |
| Cost | Low | Medium | High |
| Applicable Scenarios | Flat, open areas such as deserts or plains | Limited spaces, rooftops of buildings | Maximum visibility required, complex terrain like mountainous areas or urban environments with tall buildings |
- Antenna installationsites requirements
Different installation methods suit different geographical environments and operational needs.
- Ground installationis suitable for open areas like deserts or plains.
- Platform installationis ideal for rooftops or areas with complex terrain.
- Tower base installationis best for maximizing visibility in mountainous regions or urban environments with high-rise buildings.
Antesky Science Technology Inc. was built in 1985, we’re mainly engaged in the design and manufacture of satellite communication large satellite dish,VSAT antenna,TVRO antenna, Portable flyaway antenna and relevant control and tracking system. We have a selected range of antenna in the frequency band, such as C-band, Ku-band, X-band, L-band, S-band, Ka-band, DBS-band.
If you are looking for any other satellite communication dish or related accessories, please send Antesky an inquiry via sales@antesky.com. Thanks!
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