Company & Product

Overview
Advanced
Communication Solutions
Comtech EF Data Corporation, a subsidiary of Comtech
Telecommunications Corporation (NASDAQ: CMTL), is the
recognized global leader in satellite bandwidth efficiency and
link optimization. Our advanced communication solutions
encompass satellite modems, modem accessories, advanced
VSAT series, performance enhancement proxies, bandwidth
& capacity management, encapsulator, receivers, converters,
transceivers, amplifiers, block up converters (BUCs) and
terminals. The solutions enable commercial and government
users to reduce OPEX/CAPEX and to increase throughput
for fixed and mobile/transportable satellite-based applications.

Bandwidth Efficiencies
Products are designed and manufactured at our Tempe,
Arizona USA plant. Our facilities are well maintained and
configured to support current and planned production We are recognized as a technology innovator, and have
requirements. We employ formal quality management a reputation for product quality and reliability. Examples
programs and training, including the International Standard of our technologies that optimize satellite communications
Organization’s (“ISO-9000”) and Aerospace Standard are:
(“AS9100”) quality procedure registration programs.
• DoubleTalk® Carrier-in-Carrier®
Bandwidth Compression
• VersaFEC® Forward Error Correction
• Adaptive Coding & Modulation
• DVB-S2
• Low Density Parity Check Coding (LDPC) &
8-QAM Modulation
• 2nd Generation Turbo Product Coding
• Advanced IP Functionality
• Radio Access Network (RAN) Optimization
• Dynamic Single Carrier per Channel
• Daisy Chain Redundancy Switching

Link Optimization
Comtech EF Data’s products are installed in 160+
countries. We provide “around the clock” customer
support and have authorized service centers globally.
We are prepared to help you optimize bandwidth, reduce
operating and capital expenditures associated with
satcom, and lower the total cost of ownership.
 Satellite Modems

We offer two industry-leading brands and the widest range

of bandwidth-efficient modems in the satellite industry.
Our modems use technologically advanced components,
innovative designs and application software for superior
performance and features. Whether used to support satellite-
based cellular backhaul, to enable broadcast transmissions,
to power mission-critical military communications, or to
connect remote offices, our innovative technologies offer the
performance, flexibility, security and control you require.
The functionality provided by our modems enables users to:

• Maximize satellite resources

• Increase satellite link throughout & service quality
• Reduce operating expenses and capital expenditures
associated with satellite communications

Forward Error Correction (FEC) & Modulation

We offer traditional and advanced methods of forward error
correction to improve performance of error-prone channels.
Examples of our advanced FEC are:

• DVB-S2 – Provides near Shannon Limit performance

over a wide operating range
• VersaFEC® – Patented system of high performance,
short-block, low-latency LDPC codes; provides excellent
coding gain with lowest possible latency
• Low Density Parity Check Coding – Enables near
Shannon limit performance and additional coding gain
• 2nd Generation Turbo Product Coding – Offers much
lower delay than legacy FECs

We have both ASIC and FPGA modulator and demodulator

designs with a range of modulation techniques, including
BPSK, QPSK, OQPSK, 8-PSK, 16-APSK, 32-APSK, 8-QAM,
16-QAM and 64-QAM.

The combination of advanced FEC and higher order

modulation provides increased coding gain, lower decoding
delay, plus significant bandwidth and power savings.
 Satellite Modems RAN Optimization
Modems featuring RAN optimization can significantly
reduce the wide area network (satellite) bandwidth
required to carry an E1 bearer used for cellular
backhaul. RAN optimization allows users to control the
desired level of optimization and link quality.

Redundancy
To support your mission-critical applications, we offer 1:1
and M:N redundancy solutions. Options include external
DoubleTalk Carrier-in-Carrier switch compatibility and on-board, built-in redundancy
Our award-winning DoubleTalk Carrier-in-Carrier is with either fully automatic or manual switching operations.
based on Applied Signal Technology’s patented “Adaptive
Cancellation” technology that allows transmit and receive
carriers of a duplex link to share the same transponder
space. When combined with our advanced FEC
and modulation, DoubleTalk Carrier-in-Carrier delivers
unprecedented savings in transponder bandwidth and
power utilization. Therefore, this revolutionary technology
can be successfully deployed in both bandwidth-limited
and power-limited scenarios. In addition, this technology
reduces earth station BUC/HPA power requirements
allowing the use of a smaller BUC/HPA and/or antenna.

Adaptive Coding and Modulation (ACM)

Rain fade, inclined orbit satellite operation, antenna
Flexibility
pointing errors, noise and interference can all degrade
satellite link conditions. These conditions determine Enabling deployment in remote and hub environments,
the overall link margin of a system. When utilizing ACM we offer both L-Band and 70/140 MHz systems plus
operation in our modems, link margin can be converted data rates from 2.4 kbps to 238 Mbps. We provide the
into increased throughput of satellite links. The greater the options you need for operation with single or multiple
link margin, the more your links can benefit from ACM. transponders, and configurations to accommodate
low noise block converters and block up converters.
Our product line includes open and closed network
Advanced IP Functionality modems. For open network operation and framing, we
are compliant with Intelsat IESS-308, -309, -310, -314
Modems with our advanced IP functionality allow
and -315, as well as broadcast DVB-S and DVB-S2
seamless network convergence for data, voice and video
standards. We offer several variants of a Drop & Insert
traffic. Available options include header compression,
multiplexer to transmit/receive fractional parts of an E1/
payload compression, ultra low overhead streamline
T1 data stream. And, a wide range of data interfaces is
encapsulation and quality of service. When utilizing the
available to support low and high-speed data transmission.
advanced IP functionality, real-time traffic and other low
priority traffic can seamlessly coexist on the same link
without impacting the voice quality or delivery of mission
critical data. The functions provide high bandwidth
efficiency, information security and simplified network
design/configuration.
Government Networks
We offer modems ideally suited for military and government applications,
engineered to meet a range of standards, including:

• MIL-STD-188-165A
• AES-256 TRANSEC / FIPS-140-2 Level 2 NIST
• DISA Certified for operation on Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) and
Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS) satellite networks

Management & Control

A number of methods are available for controlling and managing our
satellite modems:

• Front panel, remote M&C port & the 10/100Base-T Ethernet port
• Support for Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), web server
(HTTP) and Telnet enables integration into an IP-based management system
• Secure management via Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and Secure Shell
(SSH) protocols
• W hen integrated with the powerful Vipersat Network Products, satellite
bandwidth and capacity can be controlled, monitored and optimized

Modem Accessories
Available to enhance the functionality of both brands of our satellite modems
are a variety of accessories, including 1:1 and M:N redundancy switches,
interface converters, IP-enabled monitor & control interfaces, and more.

Our subsidiary, Memotec, provides complementary solutions to our satellite

modems. Memotec is an innovative supplier of optimization solutions for
cellular backhaul networks. They provide satellite and terrestrial 2G/3G and
DCME optimization solutions for GSM and CDMA networks, as well as disaster
recovery solutions for mobile applications.

Its flagship product, the CX Series, enables GSM operators to dramatically

reduce network operating expenses by cutting transmission costs and
extending the service capabilities for evolving networks. Memotec’s solution
is proven globally with equipment deployed in over 200 cellular network
operations throughout the world. www.memotec.com
 Advanced VSAT Series

The Advanced VSAT Series offers industry-leading solutions for

cellular backhaul, Universal Service Obligation (USO) networks,
corporate networks, ISPs and other applications requiring high-
performance IP transport in a hub-spoke network environment.
Incorporating advanced technologies developed by Comtech EF
Data, Comtech AHA and Memotec, these products enable capital
expenditure and operating expense savings.

The Advanced VSAT Series incorporates industry-leading WAN

bandwidth optimization to provide the most efficient:

• Physical layer transport without compromising latency

• Link layer transport
• Higher layer transport
• Transport for Radio Access Network (RAN) backhaul

The product line features:

• Advanced FEC for maximum spectral efficiency with minimal

latency – DVB-S2 for the high-speed shared outbound traffic &
VersaFEC for return traffic
• ACM capable to convert available link margin into increased
throughput
• RAN optimization with pre-emptive bandwidth management
enabling superior voice and service quality
• Seamless E1 and IP/Ethernet operation
• Integrated router with header compression, payload compression,
low overhead encapsulation and QoS
• G.703 clock extension

Leveraging our global leadership in cellular backhaul solutions,

the Advanced VSAT Series provides unmatched hub-spoke
network efficiency.
 Encapsulator & SkyWire™
Receivers
Designed to accommodate true mesh and hybrid IP-
Enabling broadcast of IP/Ethernet traffic, MPEG centric network solutions, the SkyWire platform uses
audio and video, our encapsulator and receiver products a highly efficient time division multiple access (TDMA)
use the highly efficient and open network Digital Video bandwidth-on-demand, shared, multi-carrier platform to
Broadcasting standards DVB-S & DVB-S2. The products provide Layer 2 connectivity between sites. SkyWire is a
optimize end-to-end solutions for stand-alone and overlay self-healing platform optimized for use in small networks
broadband IP networks in the entertainment and corporate and does not require a Network Management System,
enterprise markets. A range of interfaces, redundancy central controller site or high stability reference for TDMA
options and IP-based management are provided to timing.
accommodate diverse network configurations.

With single hop bandwidth-on-demand capability, SkyWire

minimizes system response time to changes in traffic flow.
The small, efficient burst sizes and ultra low overhead
allow SkyWire to provide unprecedented bandwidth
efficiency and increased network throughput. The system
The combined solution of encapsulators, receivers and combines the throughput and robustness of a single
our bandwidth-efficient modems can enable operating channel per carrier (SCPC) system with the bandwidth
expenses to be minimized for service providers delivering savings of a TDMA system. SkyWire leverages the
IP-based broadcast connectivity. benefits of each to provide the ultimate in mesh network
connectivity.

The SkyWire system is easy to configure and the auto-

everything 10/100/1000 terrestrial data ports provide
instant connectivity for any IPv4 or IPv6 application.
 Performance Enhancement Proxies
With the convergence of voice, data and video over Our turboIP-G2 performance enhancement proxies are
satellite, networks are more fragmented and geographically designed to tackle the challenges associated with
dispersed than ever before. Typical satellite links exhibit these intricate satellite-based wide area network (WAN)
high latency and bit error rates, which can be challenging complications. The turboIP-G2 units include industry-leading
for the transmission of TCP/IP. However, there is mounting and effective WAN optimization features. Acceleration and
demand for local and remote “content” and file transfer caching are used to improve network responsiveness,
sizes are ever-increasing. Yet, users have expectations keeping the user experience optimized. And, the advanced
about network performance. And, meanwhile, networking compression techniques offered in turboIP-G2 minimize
costs must be contained. data traversing the satellite link, resulting in reduced
bandwidth expenses.

½-wide turboIP-G2 Full-width turboIP-G2

 Vipersat Network
Products
Vipersat Network Products are a suite of software
applications that optimize SCPC bandwidth utilization and
provide powerful network management features when using
Comtech EF Data modems.

The primary applications of Vipersat Network Products are:

• V
 ipersat Management System (VMS) –
Automates carrier switching & bandwidth management

• Virtual Network Operator Support (VNO) –

Enables the Vipersat operator to create a web
application with custom views of the entire network

• R
 oaming Oceanic Satellite Server (ROSS) –
Facilitates on-the-move satcom for oceanic vessels

• V
 ipersat File Streamer (VFS) –
Provides efficient & reliable file transfers

Examples of
Vipersat User Interfaces

The combined solution of Vipersat Network Products and

Comtech EF Data bandwidth-efficient modems offer unique
features that minimize operating expenses and maximize
transponder utilization. It is flexible, scalable and able to
adjust to changing networks.
 RF Products
Comtech EF Data is a recognized leader in RF
products. Our extensive product line provides
frequency conversion and amplifier solutions for both
environments – indoor and outdoor. Our RF products
can be further segmented into:
Amplifiers & BUCs
• Amplifiers
• Frequency Converters Amplifiers
• Block Up Converters (BUCs)
We offer a complete line-up of solid state power amplifiers
• Transceivers
(SSPAs):
• Terminals
Outdoor SSPAs
Featuring a versatile chassis, field replaceable power
supplies and phase combining for higher power, these
Frequency Converters products are available in C-, X- and Ku-Band.
Our converters set the standard for consistent reliability Indoor SSPAs
and cost-effective, high-performance frequency Available in C-, X- or Ku-Band versions and a wide
conversion. The line-up includes 70/140 MHz models range of output power levels, our line of indoor SSPAs
(C-, Ku-, X-Band) and L-Band converter systems. are reliably constructed and designed for use in satellite
Suitable for a variety of applications, the products feature: uplink systems.
• L
 ow phase noise
Low Noise Amplifiers
• H
 igh gain
C-, X- and Ku-Band models with options for redundancy
• G
 ain compensation are offered. Compact design and rugged construction
• D
 aisy chain switching (patented) make them ideal for transportable applications and se-
• Synthesizer technology (patented) vere environments.

Terminals
Designed as integrated, single thread single channel per carrier, VSAT systems, the DST terminal systems can function in
single or multiple site installations. The terminals include three major components:

• BUC – weatherproof unit including an integral L-Band up converter and amplifier

• Low Noise Block Converter – low noise receive element with an L-Band interface
• Indoor Unit – selected from our range of bandwidth-efficient, variable data rate satellite modems
Block Up Converters (BUCs) Transceivers
Supporting uplink transmission of satellite signals are the BUCs. The transceivers are commonly used in
These products cross over into our other product lines (amplifiers, mobile, transportable and fixed station
terminals and transceivers) and provide transceiver features and environments. Flexibility and ease of installation
performance at BUC prices. Key functionality includes: are integral to the transceiver line. Redundant
systems are an option, and a number of full
• D
 ata logging – 30 days of performance data (RF output power,
monitor and control methods are available,
temperature, mute/amp status, etc.) is stored in non-volatile
such as convenient handheld terminals, EIA-
RAM for remotely troubleshooting intermittent field issues.
232 or EIA-485 connections, and FSK control
• Internal reference and LNB bias option – DC or 10 MHz is not through our companion satellite modems.
required on the L-Band coax from the modem. This eliminates
possible slip-ring issues on agile antennas and greatly simplifies Performance is key – our line of transceivers
both multi-carrier and redundant operation as only standard delivers RF performance typically available
combiners/dividers/switches are required. only with independent SSPA and frequency
• 4
 8 V DC or AC powered units are provided in streamlined and inte- converter topologies. The conservative P1 dB
grated single box solutions, eliminating additional cabling require- power specifications combined with low phase
ments and simplifying installation and sparing. noise and the high third order intercept of our
CSAT, XSAT and KST transceivers ensure
• E
 ffective and field-proven operation on various ship-borne platforms. spectral purity and seamless support of multi-
carrier links.

C- & X-Band Transceivers Multi-Band Transceiver Ku-Band Transceiver

More Information
For additional information on our advanced communication solutions, visit our web site: www.comtechefdata.com.
You will find detailed product specifications, white papers, manuals, industry-specific solutions, sales contacts, and more.
 2114 West 7th Street
Tempe, AZ 85281 USA
Voice +1.480.333.2200
Email sales@comtechefdata.com

www.comtechefdata.com
June 2010

© Copyright 2010 Comtech EF Data Corporation

Comtech EF Data reserves the right to change specifications of products described in this document at any time without notice and without obligation to notify any person
of such changes. Information in this document may differ from that published in other Comtech EF Data documents. Refer to the web site or contact Customer & Technical
Support for the latest released product information.