The Communications Signal Processing group performs leading-edge research and development in signal processing aspects (e.g. modulation, error control coding, multiple access and synchronization) of data transmission via satellites.

The Communications Signal Processing research program provides advice, guidance and expertise primarily on signal processing algorithms and techniques for the digital transmission of services via satellite and other radio channels, but also on other signal processing intensive areas of interest to Canadian industry and to the Government, such as spectrum monitoring techniques, measurement and modeling of mobile satellite channel impairments, and electronic compass applications. While longer-term research is maintained, this program emphasizes client-driven research and development, with clients being from both the government and private sectors. The resulting knowledge, analysis tools, and new techniques are used to support small and medium-sized Canadian high technology companies, and to provide advice and support to our government clients, Industry Canada, Department of National Defence, and the Canadian Space Agency.

The research program encompasses five fields: signal processing and design, computer modeling and simulation, mobile satellite systems, DSP algorithm design and implementation, and system development. The program's activities include:

• Long-term theoretical research. These activities have often been in collaboration with Canadian universities (e.g., through joint supervision of graduate student thesis research or by hosting a sabbatical professor) or with other internationally renowned research teams,
• Algorithm development, systems analysis, and computer simulation. Over the years, the program has developed an extensive set of analysis and simulation skills and tools for the evaluation of data transmission over satellite and other wireless links. This has lead to an on-going series of contracting-in opportunities with international organizations such as Inmarsat and ESA, sometimes as a major sub-contractor to a Canadian high technology company.
• Proof-of-concept system and subsystem implementation. The program is recognized both nationally and internationally as leading experts in the DSP implementation of modems and error control codecs for mobile satellite applications, and is frequently requested to license some of its technology to Canadian high technology companies. It also is receiving a high level of support from National Defence and Industry Canada for its modular spectrum monitoring system development, and on-going industrial interest in its self-calibrating electronic compass technology.

More information on the spectrum monitoring technologies can be seen at www.crc.gc.ca/spectrum-explorer. For more information on some of the group's forward error correction technologies visit www.crc.gc.ca/fec. 

Further Information:

Dr. John Lodge
Manager
Communications Signal Processing
Tel: (613) 998-2284
Fax: (613) 998-1686
E-mail: john.lodge@crc.gc.ca