X-band EO BDC with Multiple Local Oscillators - Superior

At the forefront of innovation, Orbital’s Superior EO X-Band BDC delivers the highest level of performance, resilience, and control for strategic Earth Observation (EO) and satellite communication systems. Inspired by the proven design of our Ku- and Ka-Band BDCs, this model is engineered for 24/7 operations, high-throughput missions, and remote deployments where reliability is non-negotiable.

Covering the full 7 to 9 GHz X-band range for military SATCOM and EO downlink bands, the Superior BDC offers up to four factory-configurable LO frequencies, with user selection via voltage, tone + voltage, or push-button controls. An internal step attenuator allows users to to control up to 32.5 dB of attenuation with a customer specified max gain of 30 to 40 dB.

Designed for operational assurance, the unit features an external reference with automatic failover to a high-stability internal OCXO, and a loss-of-lock alarm with LED indicators or current-based fault detection.

What sets the Superior model apart is its remote monitor and control (M&C) interface, accessible via RS485 or Ethernet (SNMPv2c). This allows users to remotely monitor key telemetry and set performance alarms to ensure uninterrupted, optimal operation.

Key Features

• Remote M&C via RS485 or Ethernet (SNMPv2c)
• Monitor input voltage, current, temperature, output level, and power supply status
• Alarm settings for telemetry points outside desired thresholds
• Multiple preset LO frequencies (up to 4), selectable via M&C
• Internal step attenuator gain control of up to 32.5 dB
• External reference with auto-failover to internal OCXO
• Ultra-low phase noise and excellent linearity (DVB-S2X ready)
• IP67-rated sealed enclosure with enhanced RF shielding
• Extended temperature options available for extreme conditions
  

Applications

• Strategic EO ground stations with 24/7 availability requirements
• Government, defense, or commercial high-throughput infrastructure
• Advanced SAR and optical imaging missions with tight RF tolerances
• Remote terminals needing real-time monitoring and system-level fault recovery

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