Mission

The Satellite Multimedia Applications Research and Trials (SMART) Program demonstrates new satellite communications services and applications, a collaboration between national and international partners. The program contributes to projects and field trials in several ways.

It contributes through the deployment and commissioning of satellite terminals in remote areas. It also trains end users on the use of the technology. The work consists of integrating hybrid satellite and terrestrial networks to provide better access to broadband technologies for remote and under-served communities.

As a result, applications such as tele-medicine and tele-education for remote communities have already become commercialized in some regions.

Currently, work is focused on demonstrating more advanced multimedia applications that will become commercially feasible with the next generation of Ka-Band satellites. In addition, it participates in the development of the next-generation ground station for COSPAS-SARSAT, the international satellite system for search and rescue.

Facilities

Satellite Communications Test Facility - Fixed

Our primary purpose is to provide proof of concept, test, trial, and demonstration capabilities for CRC researchers and industrial users.

Our complex consists primarily of C, Ku and Ka band transmit / receive satellite communications systems (some of which can be relocated), L-band and S-band receive only, as well as tracking antennas. The facility may be used either as a test bed or a trial facility. Access to public switched telephone and data networks can be arranged. Broadband access to CaNet 4 and to commercial networks is available. We have a considerable range of baseband and I.F. equipment to meet a variety of applications.

To date, we have partnered with and served many organizations with industrial development and assessment activities, as well as many service development trials. Organizations ranging from small emerging companies to major ones such as OmniGlobe Networks, COM DEV, Advantech, Telesat, Skywave and EMS Technologies.

Availability

The lead time is totally dependent upon the complexity of the requirements and upon the degree of reconfiguration required. This could potentially be zero. Normal operation is during the regular business day, with scheduled extended hours. Supervision is dependent upon the activity. It can be scheduled if- and as-required. The basic facilities are in use daily, while ancillaries range from very periodic to continuous use.

Contact

Dr. Daniel Boudreau
Research Program Manager
Satellite Multi-Media Applications and Demonstrations
Satellite Communications and Radio Propagation Research
Tel: (613) 993-3081
Fax: (613) 990-0316
E-mail: daniel.boudreau@crc.gc.ca