PAGE CONTENTS
Objectives
The ultimate goal of SAT4NET is to define a roadmap, feasible in both economic and technological terms, for the deployment of hybrid xDSL/satellite networks, where downstream satellite communications are enabled only when the performance perceived by the end user using the xDSL network is not deemed to be sufficient. Such document can be used to define a common European strategy which is line with the Horizon 2020 objectives and is of practical interest for both citizens and economic operators.
More specifically, the project proposes a reference architecture, also detailing interfaces, signalling protocols, and algorithms, that is suitable for a number of scenarios with high business and social impact which are representative of the current European xDSL situation. The effectiveness of the proposed solution has been assessed in quantitative manner through numerical simulation.
Challenges
There are many challenges associated to the proposed study, including the following: unknown impact of crosstalk phenomena (both NEXT and FEXT) and frequency-dependent attenuation and dispersion of the networks typically deployed across Europe on Quality of Service perceived by end users; need for new interface protocols between the ground and the satellite network; analysis of synchronization and other interfacing issues (including modes of operations, specific protocols, etc.) between the satellite network and the ground-based DSL network; identification of proper signal solutions (modulation, multiple access, etc.) to meet the system requirements while trading off system complexity and user receiver complexity.
Plan
Further development following ESA program.
Current Status
The project has been completed providing a description of the steps to be performed for the implementation of the HSTB and the revenue analysis. A first integration of terrestrial downlink path in to a satellite modem has been also provided.
