Satellite Communication Glossary: S-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.

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