CPI 13.2m Ka-band Enhanced Limited Motion Antenna

Overview

A 13.2 meter Ka-band antenna — often referred to as “limited motion” or “full motion, enhanced” — is a large ground‑station dish designed for satellite communication in the Ka-band frequency range (~26–40 GHz). It typically features capabilities for precision tracking, high data-rate transmission, and variable polarization control.

Key Features

1. Antenna Dish: 13.2 m diameter, high‑gain parabolic reflector, optimized for Ka‑band.
2. Motion Capabilities:
   • Azimuth: ±270°, allowing up to 540° total sweep.
   • Elevation: Covers 0°–90°, from horizon to zenith.
3. High‑Precision Drive System:
   • Slew speed: ~2°/s; Acceleration: ~1°/s².
   • Tracking accuracy better than 0.005°.
4. Encoders & Controls:
   • ≥25‑bit absolute encoders for precise positioning.
   • Brushless motors with hand-crank backup.
5. Polarization:
   • Linear polarization with ±90° rotation capability.
   • Ability to switch between linear and circular polarization.
6. Control System (ACU & M&C):
   • Supports NORAD (satellite ephemeris) tracking, preset positions, geosynchronous tracking, star tracking.
   • Includes scanning modes: box scan, spiral scan, raster scan.
   • Extensive diagnostics, time‑sync input (IRIG‑B), remote monitoring, log functionality (signal level, pointing error, commanded vs actual angles).
7. Safety & Access:
   • Multiple emergency-stop stations around platform.
   • Limit switches for both motion axes.
8. Ka‑band Signal Interface:
   • Supports sum and delta channels, suitable for tracking receivers and converters (18.3–21.2 GHz range).
9. Upgrade Focus: Built to integrate into modern Management & Control (M&C) systems, replacing older legacy control systems.

Pros

• High Tracking Accuracy: < 0.005° tracking error yields excellent performance for data transfer and precise antenna pointing.
• Flexible Polarization: Ability to switch between linear and circular polarization enhances compatibility with different satellite requirements.
• Full Motion: Broad azimuth and elevation range allows operation across wide sky coverage without needing antenna repositioning.
• Advanced Scanning & Tracking Modes: Useful for scientific, telemetry, and tracking applications.
• Robust Control & Diagnostics: Facilitates remote monitoring, fault detection, and maintenance.
• Safety-Oriented Design: Emergency stops and hand-crank backups enhance personnel safety and operational reliability.

Cons

• Size & Complexity: Large 13.2 m structure requires significant foundations, space, and structural engineering.
• High Cost: Both equipment and installation cost are substantial; upgrades also require calibration and training.
• Power & Maintenance Demands: Servo motors, cooling systems for Ka-band gear, and M&C hardware need regular maintenance.
• Limited Frequency Scope: Designed for Ka-band; adding Ku or other bands would require additional hardware or separate antennas.
• Environmental Sensitivity: Ka‑band performance is sensitive to weather (rain fade, atmospheric attenuation), requiring site-specific mitigation.

Typical Applications

• High‑Throughput Satellite Communications: For broadband, data backhaul, enterprise or government comms via Ka-band.
• Telecommunication Ground Stations: Supporting high-speed uplink/downlink services.
• Earth Observation Relay: Especially LEO or MEO missions requiring fast data downlink.
• Scientific & Tracking Networks: Ground station networks tracking Earth science or meteorological satellites.
• Military or Security Use: Secure, high-bandwidth Ka-band comms, real-time situational data transfer.

Summary Table

Skybrokers can source a pre-owned system with complete RF-chain and tracking systems. Antenna is currently erected and need to be taken down by one of our professional installation teams. Please contact us for more information or a detailed quote.