- Swissto12, a manufacturer of satellites and radio frequency (RF) payloads, has opted for Keysight Technologies’ PTS test system to validate the RF payloads of the Intelsat 45 satellite, based on its HummingSat geostationary satellite range.
- This small telecommunications satellite is being developed in collaboration with the European Space Agency as part of a public-private partnership with customers such as Intelsat and Viasat.
Once a telecommunications satellite is in orbit, its systems and payload must function flawlessly. Satellite manufacturers must therefore meticulously test every component during production and assembly to validate payload performance before the satellite leaves the launch pad.
Scheduled for launch in 2026, the Intelsat 45 satellite will provide broadcast services for media companies and broadband connectivity for telecoms providers via a Ku-band transceiver.
Keysight’s PTS solution supplied to Swissto12 consists of integrated instrumentation, signal conditioning and calibration hardware combined with control software to test the satellite’s RF payload.
The PTS connects to the satellite payload using a modular switch-matrix platform featuring switchable CalPod assembly modules that enable calibration of uplink and downlink channels without disconnection. This feature creates a software-driven mobile calibration plan that aims to simplify workflow by eliminating the interruptions that typically accompany periodic calibrations. In addition, the Keysight CodeOne software suite interfaces with Swissto12 system controllers to provide automated measurements for all payload test cycles.
The PTS configuration supplied to Swissto12 includes the E8257D PSG analog signal generator, the M9837A PXIe vector network analyzer and the N9030B PXA signal analyzer.
