Microwave Transmission Characteristics of Solar Power Satellites
A summary of the analyses and performance characteristics of a high-power microwave system for transferring energy from solar power satellites in geosynchronous orbit to the earth is given. Design tradeoffs, problem areas, and simulation results for various configurations are presented.
Environmental considerations for the microwave beam from a solar power satellite
Solar power satellite (SPS) systems in geosynchronous orbit are possible future energy sources. The SPS concept uses a highly focused microwave beam to transmit the energy to the earth. The microwave power transmission system parameters are summarized, emphasizing those parameters which may affect the earth's environment. Environmental impacts of the microwave beam are discussed. The power levels for the main beam, sidelobes, grating lobes, and ground receiving antenna reradiation patterns are presented. Ionospheric/microwave beam interaction studies, experimental and theoretical, are reviewed. Possible radio frequency interference sources and the magnitude of expected interference levels are discussed.
Testing digital circuits using a Mixed-Signal Automatic Test Equipment
This paper presents the results of parametric testing of digital ICs using a dedicated Mixed Signal Automatic Testing Equipment. Due to the prohibitive price of the ATE equipment and dedicated Device Interface Board (DIB) for digital Integrated Circuits (ICs), a DIB for analog circuits was used to perform the testing. Despite the challenges presented by the experiments, the results prove to be accurate for the performed tests, according to the data sheet of the digital ICs and production test data provided by the manufacturer.