Robert D. Cass and Martin J. Miles

Abstract: This report describes the steps for designing experiments to quantify the performance of a communication satellite system according to the methods specified by ANS X3.l4l. Performance is described in terms of performance parameters that are user–oriented and system– independent. The design is intended to efficiently obtain estimates of performance parameters that are relatively free of bias and can be stated with known precision. Service, traffic, propagation path, and propagation impairment are the primary factors. Factorial designs are recommended for the experiment.

Keywords: performance parameters; American National Standards; advanced communications technology satellites (ACTS); dependence; experiment design; factorial factors; precision; sample size

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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