Interdependence on other subsystems

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Satellite consists of many subsystems and when these subsystems come together they make a system “Satellite”. These subsystems exist due to the idea of distribution of work across the large system hence allowing each group to specialize in their work. These subsystem are required to fulfil the requirements of other subsystems which are involved in the system.
Communications subsystem is obliged to fulfil the requirement imposed by the other subsystems while simultaneously generating its own sets of requirements.

Requirements by Communications Subsystem on other Subsystems

  • Electrical Subsystem: As communication is responsible for transmitting and receiving signal from satellite and ground it require power for these purposes. It also involve some computation for which it requires power. Power subsystem should make the required power available to the communications subsystem. Communications subsystem requires data that needs to be transmitted to ground and also needs to analyse the data that it received through uplink. Electrical subsystem is responsible for data acquisition and controlling the operation of communication i.e when to initiate transmission of signal.
  • Attitude Determination and Control Subsystem: It is responsible for the attitude (orientation) of the satellite. Proper attitude is required for proper signal reception (high gain) at ground and at satellite. Hence ADCS has to maintain proper attitude of satellite for proper functioning of satellite. More specifically, ADCS needs to maintain the angular rates and Euler angles within bounds and keep the antenna earth-pointing (if required).
  • Mechanical Subsystem:
    • Integration:
      • It has to properly place the antennae such that they can withstand Vibration loads and should be mechanically rigid
      • PCB should be mounted on satellite in a way to transfer all the vibration loads to the structure
    • Thermals: Should maintain the operating temperature of the satellite within the operating range of the electrical components.

Requirements on Communications Subsystem by other Subsystems

The only major requirement on Communications is to transfer the data generated by the satellite to ground. This data can be analysed further, hence fulfilling the purpose of the satellite.

Note: All the requirements mentioned above are from the perspective of a general satellite, these requirements can vary from satellite to satellite depending on the mission and payload of that satellite.


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