Comtech EF Data CDS-100 - Manual (Page 21)

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Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Overview
Figure 1-1. CDS-100 Diversity Switch Module
The CDS-100 Diversity Switch Module is designed to support switched diversity applications.
Figure 1-1 shows the Modem Connectors Side (bottom left) and Configuration Side (bottom
right) of the module, and as assembled to its available optional rack mounting kit (top).
Switched diversity systems are those employing two (or sometimes more) antennas for the
purpose of maintaining a communications link, should the signal from one of those antennas
becomes blocked or severely degraded. In satellite communications, a switched diversity system
is frequently employed in situations where:
• The ground station is mobile (such as a ship) and direct line-of-sight is blocked by buildings,
bridges, fjords, etc.
• The ground station is fixed, but where there is frequent blockage of an antenna (such as an
oil drilling platform where helicopter traffic interrupts the line of sight view to the satellite
• The ground station is fixed, but the nature of the communication link is deemed critical so
fully redundant communication chains (modems, RF equipment, antenna, and even
satellites) are incorporated to provide very high availability.