Satellite and microwave trucks are essential tools in modern newsgathering. These mobile units enable broadcasters to transmit live video and audio from remote locations, bringing breaking news and events directly to viewers.

Each type of truck has unique capabilities and components. Satellite trucks use orbiting satellites for long-distance transmission, while microwave trucks rely on line-of-sight links for shorter ranges. Both play crucial roles in delivering timely, high-quality content to audiences.

Types of satellite trucks

• Satellite trucks are mobile units equipped with satellite dishes and transmission equipment used for remote newsgathering and live broadcasting
• Different types of satellite trucks are classified based on the frequency bands they operate in and the specific technologies they employ

Ku-band vs C-band trucks

• Ku-band trucks operate in the 12-18 GHz frequency range, offering smaller dish sizes and lower power requirements compared to C-band
• C-band trucks use the 4-8 GHz frequency band, requiring larger dishes but providing better resistance to rain fade and signal interference
• Ku-band is more commonly used for satellite newsgathering due to its compact size and lower cost, while C-band is preferred in areas prone to severe weather conditions

SNG vs DSNG trucks

• SNG (Satellite News Gathering) trucks are equipped with analog transmission equipment, using FM modulation for video and audio signals
• DSNG (Digital Satellite News Gathering) trucks employ digital compression and modulation techniques, such as MPEG encoding and QPSK/8PSK modulation
• DSNG trucks offer improved video quality, more efficient bandwidth usage, and the ability to transmit multiple channels simultaneously compared to analog SNG trucks

Analog vs digital trucks

• Analog satellite trucks use traditional analog video and audio transmission techniques, such as FM modulation and subcarrier audio
• Digital satellite trucks leverage digital compression and modulation technologies, providing better video quality, lower bandwidth requirements, and enhanced flexibility
• The transition from analog to digital satellite trucks has been driven by advancements in compression algorithms, modulation schemes, and the need for more efficient spectrum utilization

Satellite truck components

• Satellite trucks consist of several key components that work together to enable reliable and high-quality transmission of video and audio signals from remote locations

Satellite dish and mount

• The satellite dish is a parabolic reflector that focuses the transmitted signal towards the satellite and receives the downlinked signal from the satellite
• The dish is mounted on a motorized system that allows for precise pointing and tracking of the satellite, ensuring a stable and consistent signal lock
• Dish sizes vary depending on the frequency band and power requirements, with Ku-band dishes typically ranging from 0.75 to 1.5 meters in diameter

Encoders and modulators

• Encoders compress the video and audio signals using digital compression algorithms, such as MPEG-2 or MPEG-4, to reduce bandwidth requirements
• Modulators convert the compressed digital signal into a format suitable for transmission over the satellite link, using techniques like QPSK, 8PSK, or 16APSK
• Advanced encoding and modulation technologies, such as HEVC (H.265) and DVB-S2X, offer improved compression efficiency and transmission performance

Transmission electronics

• The transmission chain includes various electronic components, such as upconverters, power amplifiers, and RF switches, which process and amplify the modulated signal before it is sent to the dish
• Redundancy is often built into the transmission electronics, with backup units and automatic failover mechanisms to ensure uninterrupted operation in case of equipment failure
• Monitoring and control systems allow operators to adjust transmission parameters, monitor signal quality, and troubleshoot issues remotely

Power and HVAC systems

• Satellite trucks require reliable power sources to operate the transmission equipment, lighting, and other onboard systems, often using a combination of generators, batteries, and shore power
• HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems maintain a stable temperature and humidity environment inside the truck, ensuring optimal performance of the electronic components
• Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) and power conditioning units protect the sensitive equipment from power fluctuations and outages

Microwave truck overview

• Microwave trucks are mobile units that use microwave radio links to transmit video and audio signals from remote locations to a receiving station or satellite uplink

Differences vs satellite trucks

• Microwave transmission is limited to line-of-sight (LOS) paths, requiring a clear path between the transmitter and receiver, while satellite links can cover much larger distances and overcome obstacles
• Microwave links typically operate in the 2, 7, or 13 GHz frequency bands, offering high bandwidth and low latency, but are more susceptible to signal attenuation and interference compared to satellite
• Microwave trucks are generally smaller, more agile, and less expensive than satellite trucks, making them suitable for short-range, quick-deployment applications

Suitable applications for microwave

• Live news coverage of events within a relatively short distance from the receiving station, such as city-wide incidents or sports venues
• Providing a wireless camera link from a remote location to a nearby satellite truck, allowing for more flexible camera placement and movement
• Establishing a backup or redundant transmission path in case of satellite link failure or congestion
• Covering events in areas where satellite connectivity is limited or not available, such as dense urban environments or indoor locations

Microwave truck components

• Microwave trucks are equipped with specialized components that enable the transmission and reception of high-quality video and audio signals over microwave radio links

Microwave mast and antenna

• The microwave mast is a telescopic or pneumatic structure that elevates the microwave antenna to a suitable height for line-of-sight transmission
• The antenna is a directional, high-gain device that focuses the microwave signal towards the receiving station, typically using a parabolic dish or a horn antenna design
• The mast and antenna system is designed to be quickly deployable and retractable, allowing for rapid setup and teardown of the microwave link

Transmitter and receiver units

• The microwave transmitter generates the high-frequency signal and modulates it with the video and audio data, using techniques such as FM, COFDM, or DVB-T
• The receiver unit at the receiving station demodulates the incoming microwave signal and extracts the original video and audio content
• Advanced microwave systems may employ dual-polarization, space diversity, or adaptive modulation techniques to improve signal reliability and performance

Encoder and modulator

• Similar to satellite trucks, microwave trucks use encoders to compress the video and audio signals before transmission, minimizing bandwidth requirements
• The modulator converts the compressed signal into a format suitable for transmission over the microwave link, using modulation schemes appropriate for the specific frequency band and channel conditions
• Some microwave systems may integrate the encoder and modulator functions into a single unit for a more compact and efficient design

Power systems and generators

• Microwave trucks require reliable power sources to operate the transmission equipment, cameras, and other onboard systems
• Generators, batteries, and shore power connections are used to provide the necessary electrical power, with backup and redundancy options to ensure uninterrupted operation
• Power conditioning and distribution units regulate the voltage and current supplied to the various components, protecting them from fluctuations and surges

Satellite truck operations

• Operating a satellite truck involves a series of steps and procedures to establish a reliable satellite link and transmit high-quality video and audio signals from remote locations

Satellite acquisition process

• The first step in setting up a satellite link is to locate and acquire the desired satellite using the truck's satellite dish and tracking system
• Operators use satellite finder tools, such as spectrum analyzers and signal meters, to identify the satellite's beacon signal and optimize the dish alignment for maximum signal strength
• Once the satellite is acquired, the operators fine-tune the dish pointing and polarization to ensure a stable and robust connection

Uplink and downlink basics

• The uplink refers to the transmission path from the satellite truck to the satellite, carrying the video and audio signals from the remote location
• The downlink is the transmission path from the satellite to the receiving station or network operations center, where the signals are processed and distributed to the end users
• Satellite operators coordinate the allocation of transponder frequencies and bandwidth to avoid interference and ensure optimal signal quality

Redundancy and backup systems

• Satellite trucks often incorporate redundant components and backup systems to minimize the risk of signal loss or interruption due to equipment failure
• Redundant encoders, modulators, and transmission chains allow for seamless switchover in case of a primary system malfunction
• Backup power sources, such as secondary generators or batteries, ensure continued operation during power outages or generator failures

Crew roles and responsibilities

• A typical satellite truck crew consists of a truck operator, an engineer, and a transmission technician, each with specific roles and responsibilities
• The truck operator is responsible for driving the vehicle, setting up the dish and mast, and managing the overall deployment and logistics
• The engineer configures and monitors the encoding, modulation, and transmission systems, ensuring optimal signal quality and troubleshooting any issues that arise
• The transmission technician coordinates with the satellite provider, books satellite time, and manages the uplink and downlink schedules to ensure successful transmission

Microwave truck operations

• Operating a microwave truck involves setting up a line-of-sight microwave link and managing the transmission of video and audio signals from the remote location to the receiving station

Line of sight requirements

• Microwave transmission requires a clear, unobstructed path between the transmitter and receiver antennas, known as line of sight (LOS)
• Operators must assess the terrain, buildings, and other potential obstacles to determine the optimal placement of the microwave truck and receiving station
• In some cases, multiple microwave hops or relay stations may be used to overcome LOS challenges and extend the transmission range

Frequency bands and licensing

• Microwave links operate in specific frequency bands, such as the 2, 7, or 13 GHz ranges, which are allocated by regulatory agencies for broadcast and media applications
• Operators must obtain the necessary licenses and permits to use these frequency bands, ensuring compliance with local regulations and avoiding interference with other users
• Frequency coordination and spectrum management are critical aspects of microwave truck operations, particularly in congested urban environments

Interference avoidance techniques

• Microwave links are susceptible to interference from other microwave users, as well as from physical obstructions and weather conditions
• Operators employ various techniques to minimize interference, such as using directional antennas, adjusting transmission power levels, and selecting appropriate polarization (horizontal or vertical)
• Advanced microwave systems may incorporate adaptive modulation, error correction, and diversity reception techniques to mitigate the impact of interference and signal fading

Deployment and setup process

• Setting up a microwave link involves deploying the microwave truck at the remote location, raising the mast, and aligning the antenna towards the receiving station
• Operators use GPS coordinates, maps, and compass bearings to determine the proper orientation and elevation of the antenna
• The receiving station is set up at a suitable location, with a clear LOS path to the microwave truck, and equipped with a compatible receiver and antenna system
• Once the link is established, operators optimize the signal strength, quality, and stability by fine-tuning the antenna alignment and adjusting the transmission parameters

Satellite and microwave integration

• In modern newsgathering and broadcasting operations, satellite and microwave technologies are often used in combination to create flexible, reliable, and cost-effective transmission solutions

Hybrid satellite/microwave setups

• Hybrid setups involve using microwave links to connect remote cameras or production units to a centrally located satellite truck
• This approach allows for greater flexibility in camera placement, enabling coverage of multiple angles or locations without the need for multiple satellite trucks
• Microwave links can also serve as a backup or redundant path for the satellite transmission, ensuring continuity of coverage in case of satellite signal loss or interference

IP-based workflows and bonding

• The adoption of IP-based workflows in broadcasting has enabled the convergence of satellite and microwave technologies, allowing for seamless integration and resource sharing
• IP bonding techniques, such as cellular bonding or multi-path streaming, combine multiple transmission paths (satellite, microwave, cellular) into a single, resilient connection
• This approach improves reliability, increases bandwidth, and enables more efficient use of available transmission resources

Interoperability with newsroom systems

• Satellite and microwave transmission systems are increasingly designed to integrate with modern newsroom computer systems (NRCS) and production workflows
• This integration allows for remote control and monitoring of transmission equipment, real-time metadata exchange, and automated scheduling and resource allocation
• Interoperability standards, such as MOS (Media Object Server) and NMOS (Networked Media Open Specifications), facilitate the seamless integration of satellite and microwave systems with other broadcast equipment and software

Emerging technologies

• The satellite and microwave transmission landscape is continually evolving, with new technologies and innovations emerging to address the changing needs of the broadcast industry

Ka-band and HTS satellites

• Ka-band satellites operate in the 26.5-40 GHz frequency range, offering higher bandwidth and smaller antenna sizes compared to traditional Ku-band and C-band satellites
• High Throughput Satellites (HTS) leverage advanced technologies, such as spot beams and frequency reuse, to provide significantly higher capacity and throughput than conventional satellites
• These advancements enable more efficient and cost-effective satellite newsgathering, particularly in regions with limited terrestrial infrastructure

Cellular bonding and 5G

• Cellular bonding technologies aggregate multiple cellular data connections (3G, 4G, LTE) to create a high-bandwidth, reliable transmission path for video and audio signals
• The advent of 5G networks, with their increased speed, lower latency, and improved capacity, is expected to revolutionize cellular bonding and enable new possibilities for mobile newsgathering
• 5G-enabled devices and bonding solutions will allow journalists to transmit high-quality video and audio from virtually anywhere, without the need for satellite or microwave trucks in many cases

Phased array antennas

• Phased array antennas consist of multiple small antenna elements that can be electronically steered and focused, eliminating the need for mechanical pointing and tracking
• This technology enables faster satellite acquisition, improved signal stability, and the ability to track multiple satellites simultaneously
• Phased array antennas are particularly well-suited for mobile applications, such as newsgathering vehicles and drones, where rapid deployment and tracking are essential

IP-based codecs and modulation

• The transition to IP-based workflows in broadcasting has driven the development of advanced, software-defined codecs and modulation techniques
• These technologies leverage the flexibility and scalability of IP networks to enable more efficient compression, transport, and processing of video and audio signals
• Examples include HEVC (H.265) and AV1 codecs for video compression, DVB-S2X and DVB-T2 standards for satellite and terrestrial modulation, and adaptive bitrate streaming for optimized delivery to various devices and platforms
• IP-based codecs and modulation techniques offer improved performance, lower latency, and greater interoperability compared to traditional hardware-based solutions