Dual KSAT and Fail-Op

Installation of a two Ku/Ka-band satcom systems (KSAT) on airliners has become commonplace. Modems are being integrated into the Outside Antenna Equipment rather than in the Modman.  These dynamics are opening the door to fail-operational (Fail-0p) KSAT.  Fail-Op KSAT, in turn, opens the door to possible use as a required radio service (safety communications - ATC data link). That may provide for a tradeoff between installing a second L-band satcom (Viasat/Inmarsat or Iridium) and a second KSAT. 

I have prepared a presentation that gets into these issues.

Download the Slide Deck

I also prepared a video to go through these issues. 

VIDEO LINK

https://youtu.be/Fv7AMJGmqsc

 

Stay tuned!

 

 

Peter Lemme

 

peter @ satcom.guru

Copyright 2025 satcom.guru All Rights Reserved

 

Peter Lemme has been a leader in avionics engineering for 43 years. He is the thought leader to the Seamless Air Alliance. He offers independent consulting services largely focused on avionics and L, Ku, and Ka band satellite communications. Peter chaired the SAE-ITC AEEC Ku/Ka-band satcom subcommittee for more than ten years, developing ARINC 791 parts 1, 2, and 3; ARINC 792, Project Paper 793, and continues as a member. He also contributes to the Network Infrastructure and Interfaces (NIS) subcommittee.

 

Peter was Boeing avionics supervisor for 767 and 747-400 data link recording, data link reporting, and satellite communications. He was an FAA designated engineering representative (DER) for ACARS, satellite communications, DFDAU, DFDR, ACMS and printers. Peter was lead engineer for Thrust Management System (757, 767, 747-400), also supervisor for satellite communications for 777, and was manager of terminal-area projects (GLS, MLS, enhanced vision).

 

An instrument-rated private pilot, single engine land and sea, Peter has enjoyed perspectives from both operating and designing airplanes. Hundreds of hours of flight test analysis and thousands of hours in simulators have given him an appreciation for the many aspects that drive aviation; whether tandem complexity, policy, human, or technical; and the difficulties and challenges to achieving success.