Abstract: A ring focus antenna system has an ultra-wide bandwidth for receiving and transmitting electromagnetic (EM) signals. The system includes a main reflector having an axis of rotation and a splash plate feed assembly consisting of a waveguide and a sub-reflector which is substantially aligned with the axis of rotation. The sub-reflector has surfaces that include segments of a displaced ellipse, having a first focal point which coincides with an ISO phase center located inside the waveguide and a second focal point located on a ring focus of the main reflector. A dielectric support for the sub-reflector has a shaped boundary which eliminates refraction at the dielectric-air interface. In one embodiment, the ultra-wide bandwidth includes EM frequencies belonging to Ku-band and Ka-band communication frequencies. The waveguide may be configured as a quad-ridged polarizing waveguide.

Abstract: A system for measuring blockage facilitates automated measuring using an installed antenna as a measuring device, providing more accurate and reliable results as compared to conventional methods of measuring blockage. The system eliminates the need for meticulous and tedious manual measurements as well as the time consuming search for structural drawings, necessary to perform conventional blockage measuring. The system features an efficient and accurate way of establishing the angular direction points in which an antenna view is obstructed by recording the obstruction reflections standing out of the clear sky noise floor. Embodiments are particularly useful when installing a satellite communications antenna on a ship having metal structures obstructing the antenna's view such as communication masts, funnels, and smokestacks.

Abstract: Control of dual (two) antennas, for satellite communications (satcom) with satellites in one or more constellations in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO). The dual antennas are typically part of a ground-based antenna system, in particular using the Satrack single pedestal with split antenna design, housed efficiently under a compact radome. Features simultaneous pointing toward two separate satellites during the satellites' handover/switching periods with instantaneous transition between the satcom modems for assuring real-time, continuous data communication over a LEO/MEO satellite link. The dual (two) antennas system can also be used in a “monopulse/electronic scan” mode where a first antenna is used for tracking according to ephemeris data, while a second antenna on the same pedestal will scan for offset/compensation to the first antenna path.

Abstract: A method for operating a ring network includes the steps of configuring the ring network with static configuration information and then deterministically exchanging operational data between a plurality of nodes on the ring network, while operating the ring network in accordance with the static configuration information. This system facilitates communications that meet the high reliability and performance requirements of vehicle communications, in particular in aircraft data networks (ADNs), while reducing the cost, weight and complexity of conventional implementations.

Abstract: A method for operating a ring network includes the steps of configuring the ring network with static configuration information and then deterministically exchanging operational data between a plurality of nodes on the ring network, while operating the ring network in accordance with the static configuration information. This system facilitates communications that meet the high reliability and performance requirements of vehicle communications, in particular in aircraft data networks (ADNs), while reducing the cost, weight and complexity of conventional implementations.

Abstract: A method for operating a ring network includes the steps of configuring the ring network with static configuration information and then deterministically exchanging operational data between a plurality of nodes on the ring network, while operating the ring network in accordance with the static configuration information. This system facilitates communications that meet the high reliability and performance requirements of vehicle communications, in particular in aircraft data networks (ADNs), while reducing the cost, weight, and complexity of conventional implementations.

Abstract: A multi band antenna feed, for supporting multiple frequency bands, is coupled to a reflector and includes a cylindrical core waveguide and at least three coaxial cylinders, encircling said cylindrical core waveguide and forming at least three coaxial waveguides, bounded between pairs of consecutive coaxial cylinders. The cylindrical core waveguide and the at least three coaxial waveguides provide a pair of sum and difference radiation patterns, for each frequency band: a C-band, an S-band and an L-band.

Abstract: A multi band antenna feed, for supporting multiple frequency bands, is coupled to a reflector and includes a cylindrical core waveguide and at least three coaxial cylinders, encircling said cylindrical core waveguide and forming at least three coaxial waveguides, bounded between pairs of consecutive coaxial cylinders. The cylindrical core waveguide and the at least three coaxial waveguides provide a pair of sum and difference radiation patterns, for each frequency band: a C-band, an S-band and an L-band.

Abstract: A system and method for combining multiple media types for demanding mobile communications environments, such as airborne and ship borne communications. The system facilitates integration of multiple media types into a common system, enabling use of the optimal communication system for each media type when possible, and transfer of media between communication systems as necessary. The system facilitates convergence of various media types to a common communications system, for example transferring voice and data over a common IP communications system, integrated control and management of the communications systems including interconnection configuration, priority, and accessibility with integrated management of shared resources. The system is designed to meet all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulatory requirements.