Rohde & Schwarz UK supports renowned satellite communications research centre

Fleet, Aug 25, 2008 - Rohde & Schwarz UK Ltd. has supplied test equipment to Surrey University and is to sponsor a new satellite communications research lab, after welcoming Surrey’s Centre of Communication Systems Research (CCSR) into its UK University Partnership scheme.

The collaboration came about when Surrey University’s CCSR Group chose Rohde & Schwarz test and measurement equipment for a satellite network test bed being created in a new lab on its campus. Rohde & Schwarz UK has supplied key elements of the test bed, including a R&S DVM400 digital video measurement system, an R&S SFU broadcast test system, and a portable R&S EFL100 that will be used to assess satellite service delivery, with a focus on DVB-S/S2.

Surrey University’s CCSR Group is the UK’s largest centre for mobile and satellite communications research, home to some 150 research posts, including approximately 100 PhDs. Involved in numerous major European IST FP5/FP6 projects related to satellite communications, the CCSR Group is also a member of the DVB Forum, actively participating in standardisation efforts.

Dr Paul Thompson, a senior researcher within CCSR, commented: “Expansion of the satellite communications test facility stems from a general desire to give students experience of the entire design, build and test process, whilst increasing their familiarity with instrumentation in use currently by industry. However, the test bed will also extend our research capabilities in satellite network testing.”

Noted Phil McCluskey, Rohde & Schwarz UK’s University Programme Manager: “CCSR has an impressive track record in satellite communications research and Rohde & Schwarz UK looks forward to supporting future efforts.”

Through the University Partnership scheme, Rohde & Schwarz UK will provide further educational support via e-learning material, seminars, and input as a Steering Committee member into the University’s MSc in Satellite Communications. Rohde & Schwarz UK will also award an annual prize for an appropriate MSc project and provide application support to students via Rohde & Schwarz headquarter in Munich.

Use of the new facility won’t be limited to Surrey University’s students. CCSR is part of the Satellite Communications Network of Excellence (SATNex) initiative, funded by the European Commission to co-ordinate and share research resources. The satellite test bed is being network enabled and will be used by SATNex members across Europe.

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