Mechanical Design of Military Communication Satellite X-band PCM

Abstract

Before an actual military communications satellite is designed and constructed, a feasibility study should take place. The basic functions of such system can be observed and demonstrated in an X-Band payload simulator. For this purpose a Payload Concept Model (PCM) for X-Band payload subsystem has been developed to simulate the workings of an actual military communications payload. This paper explains and illustrates the mechanical design, manufacture, and integration of the PCM. Basic RF tests also have been performed in order to verify the design requirement of the system. The results demonstrate successful development of the PCM and operation without RF losses.