Paolo Burzigotti

Versatile two-state land mobile satellite channel model with first application to DVB-SH analysis†

Standardization activities on Digital Video Broadcasting–Satellite services to Handheld Devices (DVB-SH) have driven the need for a consolidated Land Mobile Satellite (LMS) narrowband channel model. In the DVB-SH system, the satellite broadcasts a signal carrying multimedia services aimed directly to a variety of mobile (handheld or vehicular) and fixed terminals. A three-state LMS channel model that describes the narrowband propagation channel in three possible shadowing states—line-of-sight conditions, moderate shadowing and deep shadowing—had been selected as a baseline for physical layer simulation of the DVB-SH waveform. This type of model, capable of generating complex time series, was originally selected, because it is the simplest model that allows the simulation of first- and second-order effects of the LMS channel in a realistic manner. The main limitations of such model are, first of all, that a classification in three states does not necessarily correspond with reality and, secondly, that the statistical parameters for each state were fixed for a given scenario and elevation angle. Those limitations may impact the selection of Physical Layer parameters of the DVB-SH standard. A new channel model is proposed based on the original three-state model including two major modifications: a reduction in the number of states and the introduction of a versatile selection of statistical parameters describing each state. Furthermore, the state machine is governed either by Markov or by semi-Markov chains. The new-state classification does not necessarily correspond to intuitive physical definitions of the states as before (line-of-sight, shadowing) but instead to channel variations that share similar statistical characteristics. The two-states are termed for convenience, Good and Bad states, representing a range of LOS-to-moderate shadowing and moderate-to-deep shadowing, respectively. For the model parameters selection, datasets at L- and S-band have been analysed using an iterative algorithm that includes automatic data classification and parameter extraction. The proposed model is considered more suitable for the analysis of DVB-SH test cases. This study starts with an overview of the main DVB-SH system parameters and assumptions. The original three-state model is briefly introduced; the new model is presented in detail, including simulator implementation. Finally, both models and experimental data sets are compared on a statistical basis. The performance of both models are discussed to show how effective the model is for the representation of shadowed conditions and therefore, its suitability for the analysis and optimal configuration of the physical and link layer parameters (namely physical layer interleaver size, link layer protection time, overall redundancy, etc.). Copyright

Advanced receiver design for satellite‐based automatic identification system signal detection

SUMMARY This paper describes an innovative receiver architecture for the satellite-based automatic identification system. The receiver performance has been fully validated in the presence of the typical satellite channel characteristics. In particular, it is shown that the devised receiver provides an excellent performance against the noise, as well as a large resilience against message collisions, Doppler shift, and delay spread. Copyright

In-depth analysis of the satellite component of DVB-SH: Scenarios, system dimensioning, simulations and field trial results

SUMMARY This paper presents a first-step validation of the satellite component of DVB-SH obtained by simulations and preliminary on-field measurements. It is hoped that the results presented will be useful to system designers. The methodology and results presented are expected to be further consolidated by additional onfield trials with recently launched and soon to be launched commercial S-band GEO satellites dedicated to DVB-SH. Copyright r 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Capacity potential of mobile satellite broadcasting systems employing dual polarization per beam

The paper carries out a preliminary assessment of how mobile satellite broadcasting (MSB) systems can increase their capacity potential with a high degree of flexibility and, at the same time, remain on par with wireless terrestrial counterparts. As argued in this work, a promising way forward in this regard is the migration from the conventional single polarization per beam to an advanced dual polarization per beam architecture, also benefitting from recent advancement in multibeam antenna techniques. This work summarizes results of recent studies on dual polarization MSB from a system, interference, antenna, channel, capacity, and FEC uncoded MIMO performance perspective, highlighting along the course the major milestones and challenges.

Performance Validation of the DVB-SH Standard for Satellite/Terrestrial Hybrid Mobile Broadcasting Networks

The recently introduced Digital Video Broadcasting Satellite to Handheld standard (DVB-SH) allows for digital broadcasting service provision to small mobile terminals in satellite/terrestrial hybrid networks. In this paper, the key results from an in-depth DVB-SH performance assessment campaign lasting two years are reported. The performance results reported encompass simulation, laboratory and field trials key findings and allow deriving recommendations for preferred system parameters and configurations.

Advanced receiver design for satellite-based AIS signal detection

This paper describes an innovative receiver architecture for the satellite-based Automatic Identification System (AIS). The receiver performance has been fully validated in the presence of the typical satellite channel characteristics. In particular, it is shown that the devised receiver provides an excellent performance against the noise, as well as a large resilience against message collisions, Doppler shift, and delay spread.

Special issue on satellite communication systems and networking

information society. In this context, the Q/V band frequencies will play a key role in enabling challenging and unproven broadband communications missions for a wide range of applications and leading to the implementation of Terabit Satellite Networks. The Q/V frequency band may be employed for feeder links, for direct-to(fixed, mobile) user satellite applications and as part of the whole integrated network. Some of these issues are of great interest by European Space Agency as this is testified with the launch of Alphasat in 2012. The focus of this Special Issue is to present high-quality unpublished research papers on recent advances in the wider area of SatCom Systems and Networks by experts from industry, academia, and space agencies. Our call for papers attracted numerous submissions worldwide.