Limited Motion Antenna System
The OHB DC limited motion antenna system for satellite communication offers restricted movement, typically covering a constrained range of angles in azimuth and elevation. Unlike full-motion systems, which can track satellites continuously across the sky, or turning head antennas that only rotate in one axis, limited motion antennas are designed for applications where satellites remain relatively stationary or where limited repositioning suffices. This system is cost-effective and ideal for situations with consistent or semi-fixed satellite positions.
LMA dimensions range: 4m – 13m
- Dimension range:
[4m to 13m] - Frequency bands:
[S, C, X, Ku, Ka] - Feed system:
[mono-band, dual-band]
Key Applications
Fixed Satellite Communication for GEO Satellites:
Limited motion antennas are frequently used in ground stations communicating with geostationary (GEO) satellites. Because GEO satellites appear fixed in the sky relative to the Earth, limited motion is sufficient to establish and maintain a stable connection with only occasional adjustments.
This setup is commonly used for TV broadcasting, internet backhaul, and telecommunication infrastructure, where antennas only need minor periodic repositioning to adjust for satellite drift or minor alignment issues.
Small to Medium-Sized Satellite Earth Stations
In small and medium earth stations (VSAT, for example), limited motion antennas provide a low-maintenance, economical solution for satellite communications, especially in corporate, government, and rural connectivity applications.
These systems often serve sectors like banking, education, and healthcare by supporting applications like point-of-sale transactions, telemedicine, and distance learning, particularly in remote areas with limited terrestrial network access.
IoT and M2M (Machine-to-Machine) Applications
Limited motion antennas are also employed in IoT and M2M communication, where connectivity demands are low and only periodic or low-bandwidth data transmissions are needed.
In industries like agriculture, mining, and energy, limited motion antennas are set up at remote sites to relay telemetry data, sensor information, and environmental metrics via satellites. They provide reliable connectivity without the need for continuous realignment, which keeps operational costs down.
Disaster Response and Temporary Communication Setups
Limited motion antennas are valuable for temporary satellite communication installations in disaster response scenarios. They can quickly be set up to establish communication with GEO satellites, providing essential services to areas where terrestrial infrastructure is damaged.
While they may lack full dynamic tracking, limited motion antennas are sufficient for re-establishing internet, phone, and data communication links during recovery operations.
Fixed Maritime or Offshore Communication
For semi-fixed installations, like anchored offshore oil rigs, limited motion antennas are a viable option for GEO satellite connectivity. Although not suited for mobile ships, these systems provide reliable communication for largely stationary platforms needing internet and voice connectivity.
The limited motion design allows for adjustments due to small positional changes from environmental forces, ensuring a stable communication link without needing constant tracking.
Benefits
- Cost-Effective and Energy Efficient: Less complex and more economical than full-motion systems, both in terms of initial costs and ongoing energy consumption.
- Low Maintenance: Fewer moving parts reduce maintenance needs, lowering operational costs and extending lifespan.
- Simplified Setup: Easier to configure and deploy, especially for stationary or semi-fixed communication needs.
- Reliable in Fixed Positioning: Ideal for GEO communications, as the system reliably holds a stable connection without continuous repositioning.