Satellite Glossary: S-Z
Satellite communication terminology and definitions from S to Z.
This glossary provides definitions for common terms used in satellite communications. This article covers terms S through Z.
S
SCPC (Single Channel Per Carrier)
An access method where each user is assigned a dedicated, continuous carrier frequency.
SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio)
The ratio of signal power to noise power. Often used interchangeably with C/N in satellite communications.
Spot Beam
A focused antenna pattern covering a specific geographic area, allowing frequency reuse across multiple beams.
SSPA (Solid-State Power Amplifier)
A type of HPA using solid-state semiconductor devices (typically GaN or GaAs).
T
TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access)
An access method where users share a frequency channel by transmitting in assigned time slots.
Transponder
A satellite payload component that receives, amplifies, and retransmits signals. Named for its function: TRANSmitter-resPONDER.
TWTA (Traveling Wave Tube Amplifier)
A type of HPA using a vacuum tube for amplification, offering high power and efficiency.
U
Uplink
The transmission path from an Earth station to a satellite.
V
VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal)
A class of satellite Earth station with small antennas (typically 0.6m-2.4m), used for enterprise and consumer applications.
Related Articles
- Glossary A-F - Terms A through F
- Glossary G-L - Terms G through L
- Glossary M-R - Terms M through R
- End-to-End Architecture - System overview
Author
Independent editorial team covering satellite communications with source-based technical explainers and practical calculators.
Editorial policyCategories
More Posts
Satellite Ground Segment Architecture: Gateways, Teleports, and Network Control
System-level guide to satellite ground segment architecture covering centralized and distributed design patterns, HTS/LEO gateway scaling, virtualized baseband, cloud-native ground infrastructure, and network control plane design.
Satellite Gateways, Teleports, and Points of Presence | Design, Redundancy, and Procurement Guide
Technical guide to satellite gateways, teleports, hubs, and PoPs. Covers terminology, reference architecture, site design, redundancy patterns, operations, and procurement checklist.
Satellite Interference Explained: Causes, Types, and Mitigation in SATCOM Systems
Engineering guide to satellite interference covering adjacent satellite interference, cross-polarization, co-channel, and terrestrial interference types with detection and mitigation techniques.