Man-Made Noise in the 136 to 138-MHz VHF Meteorological Satellite Band

Robert J. Achatz; Yeh Lo; Peter B. Papazian; Roger A. Dalke; George A. Hufford

Abstract: Satellite radio system performance in the 136 to 138-MHz VHF meteorological satellite band is compromised by man-made noise external to the receiver. Methods used for predicting man-made noise power in this band are based on measurements conducted in the 1970's. These methods may be inaccurate due to technological advances such as quieter automotive ignition systems and the proliferation of consumer electronic devices such as the personal computer. This report describes noise power measurements the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences performed in the 136 to 138-MHz VHF meteorological satellite band. Statistics of average noise power were compared to those of measurements conducted in the 1970s. The noise power measurements were also used to model instantaneous noise power for simulation of radio links.

Keywords: satellite communications; noise measurement; non-Gaussian noise; man-made noise; radio channel; impulsive noise; meteorological satellite; simulation of communication systems; noise modeling

(TR-98-355.pdf)

Disclaimer: Certain commercial equipment, components, and software may be identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses.

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