Which applications can be supported by OPM systems?

All « classical » user applications that are also carried by non-motorized Earth Stations: Vsat bidirectional, Receive-only, Monitoring etc. But in addition, this can be done intermittently on satellites at different orbit locations and also while accessing satellites in Inclined Orbit.

What is the interest of using Inclined Orbit satellites?

Inclined Orbit satellites are approaching the end of their theoretical lifetime. In applying a different station keeping strategy, the satellite operator can stretch the lifetime considerably (5 years or more). Since the satellite has been amortized, the space segment charges for using inclined satellites are only a fraction of those for stable satellites. In the past, inclined satellites could only be accessed by using very costly Earth Stations. The Orbitracs OPM systems provide access in an extremely cost-effective and reliable manner.

Which antenna models are supported?

All OPM systems are designed to carry offset antennas with approximately 22° offset angle. The maximum sizes are: 1.2m for OPM-1, 2.4m for OPM-2 and 3.8m for OPM-3. As to the actual make, Orbitracs has some recommended suppliers: (Visiosat, Channel Master, Skyware, Prodelin etc.). But when users have specific requirements, Orbitracs will consider other makes and provide mechanical adaptation if needed.

Can OPM systems be used close to the equator?

Yes! Unlike « classical » Az-over-El systems, operating an OPM even right on the equator poses no problem whatsoever. In fact, several systems have been operational on or close to the equator in the past for many years. In the installer documentation, special paragraphs are included for equator installation, which is slightly different from a « high latitude » installation.

What happens in case of power outage?

The system will automatically restart after power restoration. Depending on the moment of power failure, the system will make a warm or a cold start. If the station was not in motion when the power dropped, a warm start will be made. The station will re-initialize (some 30 seconds) and will remain pointed at the same satellite that was accessed before the power failure. The motors will not move other than for re-optimizing in case an inclined satellite is tracked.

If the power dropped when one of the motors was in motion, a cold start will be made. Each actuator will move to it’s extremes in order to re-calibrate (some 3-4 minutes). After that, the station will move to the same satellite as before. If this satellite is inclined, tracking will resume as before.

Does the firmware need updating?

The OPM systems are delivered with a firmware that in principle can serve for lifetime. However, sometimes features are added, mostly on customer request. In order for all clients to take advantage of these, updates are and will be published on this website for registered clients. Uploading new firmware is an extremely easy process that can be performed remotely, as for the satellite data.

How is the Real Time Clock maintained accurate?

In order to be able to calculate inclined satellite positions accurately, the RTC needs to have a precision in the order of seconds over lifetime. To achieve this in the most cost effective manner, a GPS receiver in incorporated on the controller board. With this, the RTC is synchronized every 2 hours.