ETL Test Loop Translators (TLT)
Test & align earth stations
Test Loop Translators (TLT)
Comprehensive testing for any frequency
Test Loop Translators are engineered to replace satellite links for testing and aligning earth station systems across S, C, Ku, K, Ka, and Q frequency bands. These devices utilise fundamental frequency phase-locked oscillators and double-balanced mixers to block convert frequencies from uplink to downlink, enabling instantaneous monitoring of frequency, power levels, and modulation.
ETL’s Test Loop Translators offer a versatile solution with options for manual control, Ethernet control, battery operation, portable and ruggedised designs, dual-channel configurations, and reversible signal paths. These features ensure comprehensive testing capabilities for various applications and environmental conditions.
Versatility across frequency bands
Real-time performance monitoring
Flexible control options
Secure remote control & monitoring
The GENUS habitat offers improved security aspects (SNMPv3 and HTTPS) while maintaining an industry-leading module density, with 17 module slots available in the 1U chassis. These upgrades make GENUS a highly secure and efficient solution for demanding applications.
Save rack space & cost
The GENUS chassis integrates StingRay RF over Fibre, ETL’s Falcon frequency converters, ALTO amplifiers, switches, splitters, and small RF matrices/routers, all within a single indoor or outdoor chassis. This consolidation reduces costs, saves rack space, and enhances system resilience.
GENUS Chassis Compatible
The smart chassis concept allows for the housing of multiple RF modules within the same shelf, providing space savings, reduced costs, and increased rack space efficiency.
All of the above modules can be housed in outdoor units.
2 Families Available
GENUS and Ruggedised Test Loop Translators
ETL’s Test Loop Translators (TLT) cover a broad frequency range, including S, C, Ku, K, Ka, and Q-bands, offering exceptional flexibility for various testing scenarios. These TLT provide crucial benefits such as real-time performance monitoring, accurate frequency conversion, and versatile control options including manual, Ethernet, and battery-operated models.
TLT Family Ranges
ETL’s Test Loop Translators (TLT) are versatile solutions available in several formats to suit various operational environments. For those needing integration into a standard setup, the TLT are available in the GENUS rack system, providing seamless integration with other equipment in a robust and scalable chassis. For more flexible and mobile applications, the benchtop model offers ease of use and portability, ideal for laboratory and field testing. Additionally, our ruggedised TLT are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, ensuring reliable performance in challenging outdoor or industrial settings. This variety ensures that ETL’s TLTs meet the needs of diverse testing requirements, from controlled environments to demanding field conditions.
Hot Swappable Modules
Hot swappable modules offer significant benefits in ground segment systems by enabling the replacement or upgrade of hardware components without interrupting service or powering down equipment.
This feature is crucial for maintaining continuous operation, particularly in mission-critical environments such as satellite communication, where downtime can lead to data loss or disruption of services. Hot swappability ensures swift and efficient maintenance, reducing repair times and operational costs while enhancing system reliability and uptime. Additionally, it allows for easy scalability and flexibility, enabling ground stations to adapt quickly to changing technology and capacity requirements.
Secure protocols with SNMPv3 and HTTPS
Implementing secure protocols like SNMPv3 and HTTPS in network management provides substantial benefits by ensuring the safety and integrity of data communications. SNMPv3 (Simple Network Management Protocol version 3) enhances security through robust authentication and encryption mechanisms, protecting network devices from unauthorised access and tampering. It also supports fine-grained access control, allowing administrators to precisely manage user permissions.
Meanwhile, HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) encrypts data transmitted over the internet, safeguarding sensitive information from interception and attacks during remote access and control of network devices. Together, these protocols help protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats, enhance compliance with security standards, and foster trust in network management practices. By securing both local and remote communication channels, they provide a resilient foundation for reliable and secure operations in modern networking environments.
Local & Remote control & monitoring
Local and remote control and monitoring capabilities provide essential advantages in managing complex systems and networks. Locally, operators can directly oversee equipment status, troubleshoot issues promptly, and make real-time adjustments to optimise performance. This immediate access is critical for maintaining operational continuity and responding swiftly to changing conditions or emergencies.
On the other hand, remote control and monitoring extend these capabilities beyond physical proximity, allowing administrators to manage devices and systems from virtually anywhere. This flexibility enhances operational efficiency by reducing the need for on-site interventions and enabling proactive maintenance and upgrades. Additionally, remote monitoring provides insights into long-term performance trends, enabling data-driven decision-making and predictive maintenance strategies. Overall, the combination of local and remote control and monitoring empowers organisations to maximise uptime, ensure regulatory compliance, and deliver reliable services to end-users.
Free Technical Support
ETL’s product support service offers comprehensive assistance to ensure optimal performance of your equipment. Customers receive free access to our UK-based technical support team, staffed by experienced engineers with in-depth knowledge of ETL products. Our support includes advice on installation, configuration, operation, and maintenance, as well as diagnostic and troubleshooting help. We also provide identification and supply of replacement parts, along with free software updates to keep systems running smoothly.
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Test Loop Translators (TLT)
GENUS TLT
ETL’s Test Loop Translators offer efficient testing and alignment by simulating satellite links, enabling real-time performance monitoring across multiple frequency bands.
- S, C, X, K, Ku, and Ka-Band frequency ranges
- Multiple modules per chassis
- Block or Agile variants
- Hot swap
- Variable attenuation control
- Optional modules are available for L-Band inputs or outputs.
- Outdoor Chassis housing option
- Secure protocols with SNMPv3 and HTTPS
- Local & Remote control & monitoring via RJ45 Ethernet port and web browser interface
Ruggedised Bench (TLT)
ETL’s Ruggedised Bench TLT offer multi-band support, modular design, secure remote monitoring, and are built for challenging environments with a rechargeable battery.
- X, Ku, DBS & Ka-Band operating frequency options
- Weatherised portable instrument
- Variable gain control
- Local (base unit) or remote control
- Linear and circular polarisation options
- Base unit & transponder included
- AC supply
Datasheets
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FAQs
ETL’s Test Loop Translators support a wide range of frequency bands, including S, C, Ku, K, Ka, and Q-bands, providing versatile solutions for various testing and alignment needs.
Test Loop Translators (TLTs) connect to a system, such as an antenna, via coaxial cables, allowing for precise measurement and calibration of uplink power. This setup enables highly controlled tests with a high level of accuracy. In contrast, a Satellite Simulator is a cable-free RF test solution that uses integrated, appropriately polarised antennas to complete a system loop-back without needing a satellite. This approach simplifies testing and provides a more comprehensive evaluation of the system.
Satellite Simulators (Satsims) and Test Loop Translators (TLTs) are essential for evaluating the performance of satellite earth systems, offering a simple, quick, and cost-effective testing solution.
Key applications include:
– Pre-launch loopback tests and system checks
– Diagnosing hardware faults under controlled conditions
– Accurate calibration and measurement of system parameters
– Training tools for satellite earth station personnel
– Testing mobile systems with tracking antennas, including drone-mounted Satellite Simulators
Key features of ETL’s TLTs include real-time performance monitoring, accurate frequency conversion, and multiple control options such as manual, Ethernet, and battery-operated models. They are also available in GENUS rack systems, benchtop, and ruggedised formats.
ETL’s TLTs replace satellite links for test and alignment of earth station systems. They convert uplink frequencies to downlink frequencies for accurate monitoring of signal performance, power levels, and modulation, facilitating effective system testing.
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