Elektrobit (EB) Develops A Multiple Antenna (MIMO) Test Environment For Next Generation Satellite Networks

Elektrobit (EB) has completed a multi-year study with European Space Agency (ESA), analyzing the benefits of using multiple antennas (MIMO) in satellite communications. During the study EB developed a sophisticated, software-defined radio (SDR) based test environment, which is now globally available for satellite operators and infrastructure vendors. This advanced test environment can be utilized by EB's customers to study the RF link performance on their existing or planned satellite networks, as well as ancillary terrestrial links.

MIMO techniques are among the most important technologies in improving capacity and reliability of radio communications links. Various MIMO techniques are commonly employed in current terrestrial communication standards such as LTE. Despite the clear advantages, MIMO techniques have not yet been widely deployed in satellite communications. In this study with ESA, EB studied the challenges and benefits of MIMO techniques in satellite systems by carrying out a literature study, computer simulations and finally practical lab experiments of an existing satellite system to reveal the benefits of MIMO techniques on the radio link performance.

The developed EB MIMO test environment is based on EB's earlier development of EB RACE, a software defined radio platform for wireless technology development, evaluation and demonstration. The EB RACE platform connects computer simulations to real RF interface and provides a smooth transition from simulation up to real implementation in small controllable steps. The MIMO test environment also includes a high-end radio channel emulator.

"MIMO test environment demonstrates the EB's world class radio expertise, and our experience in building next generation satellite solutions. The benefits of using multiple antennas in satellite communications are now proven, and we welcome customers to experience how using MIMO can help to improve their spectral efficiency, data rates and overall quality of the communications link. The test environment also expands to other use cases, such as studying new waveforms, and this way is highly beneficial in designing new satellite systems" says Jarno Majava, Director of EB's Wireless Segment, Business Development and Sales.

EB is participating in the Satellite 2014 event in Washington DC, March 11-14, 2014. Please contact our main representatives below to setup a meeting.

About Elektrobit Corporation (EB)
EB creates advanced technology and turns it into enriching end-user experiences. EB is specialized in demanding embedded software and hardware solutions for wireless and automotive industries. The net sales from continuing operations in 2013 totaled EUR 199.3 million and operating profit was EUR 8.1 million. Elektrobit Corporation is listed on NASDAQ OMX Helsinki. For more information, visit http://www.elektrobit.com