Category: Hiltron

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Hiltron Reports 2023 as a Continuing Year of Satcom Innovation

Accompanying image shows the recently introduced Hiltron Drive-Away transportable satellite link.   

Backnang, Germany, January 17th, 2024

Hiltron Communications, globally active satellite system integrator, manufacturer, distributor and refurbisher of satellite earth stations, reports ongoing technical innovation throughout 2023. Recent additions to the wide range of Hiltron-developed systems were the HMAM LEO motorised satcom flyaway, latest generation HDCU2 satellite antenna de-icing sensor and heating controller and recently announced Drive-Away transportable satellite link. In the area of research and development, Hiltron has been awarded an incentive from the state of Baden-Württemberg. This relates to a future-oriented project which will expand the HMAM product portfolio to include full LEO capability (HMAM X-Y-Mount) in a fixed  system supporting antennas of up to 2.5 metres diameter.

Promoted at the GovSatCom conference in Luxembourg, February 2023, Hiltron’s HMAM LEO motorised satcom flyaway is capable of accommodating parabolic antennas of up to 2.4 metres diameter. This incorporates the computing resources needed to track satellites using the NORAD TLE (two-line element) data format which defines satellite locations based on their location and velocity. The flyaway can lock onto the desired LEO satellite within the approximately 10 minute timespan where the target satellite is in sight. HMAM LEO systems can be specified from a wide range of options. The HMAM LEO mount can be controlled and oriented within more than 360 degrees of azimuth and 80 degrees of elevation at the required tracking speed. All elements of the antenna control unit are accommodated inside a weatherproofed outdoor housing. Control and monitoring are performed through an Ethernet link with a web interface or via a directly connected handheld unit. HMAM LEO is fully compatible with Hiltron’s HSACU4 compact antenna control unit, designed specifically for use with flyaway antennas.

Hiltron’s HDCU2 de-icing sensor and heating controller made its first European exhibition showing at the September 2023 International Broadcasting Convention in Amsterdam. “The HDCU2 is developed from our HDCU and HDCU-E heating controllers which are performing well in many locations around the world,” says Hiltron Project Manager Guy Van Bambeke. “Accommodating satcom antennas of up to 3 metres diameter, it provides IP66 protection against heavy rain or snow. Heating circuits of up to 2.3 kilowatts can be monitored and controlled. The complete unit occupies a compact 180 x 180 x 90 mm weatherproof housing and is rated for operation in environments of -30 to +50 degrees Celsius at 5% to 95% non-condensing humidity. Conforming fully to the relevant CE safety, EMC, emissions and immunity standards, the complete unit has a standby power consumption of just 4 watts.”

Most recent addition to the Hiltron product range is the Drive-Away transportable satellite link. Designed for use in applications requiring very high precision uplink, downlink or bi-directional connectivity, this new system comprises a 3.7 metre diameter segmented parabolic reflector on a specially developed motorised steering mount. The entire unit, including control electronics plus antenna heating and de-icing, is housed on a 2.4 metre wide rigid platform. An onboard loading crane allows the platform to be loaded easily onto a standard container truck. Other ground fixings are possible on request. All related electronics are housed in a weatherproof steel cabinet. System supervision is via Hiltron’s HACU4 antenna control unit with an additional fully monitored antenna heater option for operating under snow and ice conditions. The Hiltron Drive-Away is built to withstand standard atmospheric pollutants and to operate from zero to 95 per cent humidity over a temperature range of 35 Celsius (optionally 55) down to -25 Celsius. It can also be specified to withstand pollutants such as salt encountered in coastal and industrial areas.

Among major projects completed during the year was a satellite television uplink for one of Germany’s largest public service broadcasters. This encompassed the design, planning, installation and commissioning of a dual redundant HPA system feeding a 3.7 metre TV uplink antenna. Each system (one for horizontal and one for vertical polarisation) is based on two 750 watt traveling-wave tube amplifiers in a 1:1 redundant configuration. An integral phase combiner allows the active amplifiers to transmit in tandem if higher output power is required. Supervision and operation are performed via a Hiltron HCS4 satellite communications controller. A compact fully air-conditioned shelter was also provided by Hiltron to ensure a high level of weather protection. The shelter is equipped with air intake and exhaust ducts which can be used to perform forced-air cooling of the amplifiers. The cooling system is itself configured with main-plus-secondary protection. Motorised vents allow warm exhaust air to be directed into the shelter to heat the shelter in winter.

For further requests, please contact

Antonio Monteverde
Email: antonio.monteverde@hiltron.de | Tel: +49 (0)7191 343 570
Website: www.hiltron.de

Hiltron Communications, Emil-Rathenau-Str., 71522 Backnang, Germany
Tel: +49 (0)7191 343 570 | Fax: +49 (0)7191 3435 750 |

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Hiltron Communications Strengthens Management Team with New Board Appointments

Backnang, Germany, 2 February , 2024

Hiltron Communications announces the strengthening of its management team. Joachim Kärcher steps up to the position of Chairman, succeeded as Managing Director by Jochen Ermel.

Joachim Kärcher joined Hiltron in March 2019 where he held the role Financial Director as well as, from 2022 until today, Managing Director. In addition to the chairmanship of Hiltron, he continues as Managing Director of ESA Microwave GmbH – a position to which he was appointed when the assets of the former ESA Microwave were purchased by Hiltron in January 2021.

“Joachim Kärcher is highly efficient administrator who has contributed strongly to the progress of Hiltron Communications and ESA Microwave,” says Ole Clausen, co-Geschäftsführer of both companies. “His commercial experience and team leadership skills continue to be very greatly appreciated. In addition to his new role as Chairman of Hiltron Communications, he remains Managing Director of ESA Microwave GmbH.”

“Hiltron Communications and ESA Microwave have both proved their resilience as innovators across the satellite systems development and manufacturing sector,” Joachim Kärcher adds. “I am confident that the two companies will sustain their commercial and technical momentum in both the broadcast and wider telecommunications sectors.”

Hiltron’s new MD, Jochen Ermel, graduated in civil engineering and environmental technology at Bundeswehr University Munich, followed by 10 years working in the field of finance. Subsequently joining Rosenberger Hochfrequenztechnik GmbH & Co. KG, he specialised in the development of product strategies and promotion across a wide range application areas and geographical regions. “Hiltron Communications has an excellent reputation as an internationally active designer and producer of high-precision satellite communication equipment and systems,” he comments. “Satellite communication technology is developing rapidly, particularly in LEO sector with its ability to supplement ground-based telco networks across large areas of sparsely inhabited terrain. We will build on Hilton's proven capabilities in broadcasting, defence, secure communications and science through a consistent growth strategy.”

For further requests, please contact

Jochen Ermel
Email: jochen.ermel@hiltron.de | Tel: +49 (0)7191 343 570
Website: www.hiltron.de

Hiltron Communications, Emil-Rathenau-Str., 71522 Backnang, Germany
Tel: +49 (0)7191 343 570 | Fax: +49 (0)7191 3435 750 |

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Hiltron to Show Latest-Generation HMAM LEO Motorised Satcom Flyaway at GovSatCom 2023

Accompanying image shows the front and rear of a Hiltron HMAM LEO configuration with the Hiltron HSACU4 control unit attached to the antenna.    

Backnang, Germany, february 6th, 2023 – Hiltron Communications has chosen the upcoming GovSatCom 2023 in Luxembourg at which to promote its latest-generation HMAM LEO high speed motorised tracking antenna mount. The event will be held in the European Convention Center on February 23rd.

Based on over 10 years of Hiltron experience in designing, manufacturing and integrating motorised satellite mounts, HMAM LEO is capable of accommodating parabolic antennas of up to 2.4 metres diameter. Supported on a high-stability ground pillar, it incorporates the computing resources needed to track satellites using the NORAD TLE (two-line element) data format which defines satellite locations based on their location and velocity. The system can lock onto the desired LEO satellite within the approximately 10 minute timespan where the target satellite is in sight.

The HMAM LEO mount can be controlled and oriented within more than 360 degrees of azimuth and 80 degrees of elevation at the required tracking speed. All elements of the antenna control unit are accommodated inside a weatherproofed outdoor housing.

HMAM LEO systems can be specified from a wide range of options. These include a feed changer allowing the antenna to be switched between up to four microwave bands. Customers can choose between standard steel mounts designed to screw directly to a base surface, or non-penetrating mounts. Control can be performed via an integrated web interface or SNMP. Other options include de-icing, extended temperature range tolerance and increased protection from salt water.

A low Earth orbit (LEO) is an orbit around Earth with a period of 128 minutes or less, making at least 11.25 orbits per day, and an eccentricity less than 0.25. Most of the artificial objects in outer space are in LEO below an altitude of 2,000 km, about one-third of Earth's radius.

Fully compatible with with HMAM LEO, the Hiltron HSACU4 is a compact antenna control unit designed specifically for use with flyaway antennas. Control and monitoring are performed through an Ethernet link with a web interface or via a directly connected handheld unit. A GPS sensor determines the antenna's latitude and longitude, allowing the exact azimuth and elevation angles of each satellite to be calculated; an integral fluxgate compass confirms the antenna direction. The motorisation kit includes 17-bit optical SSI encoders to ensure precise angle measurement of azimuth and elevation. An auto-pointing function can be activated using the web interface which displays the coordinates of the target satellite. After locating the satellite, the HSACU4 progresses to fine-adjustment mode. It can also scan a predefined area and search within this area for a satellite.

For further requests, please contact

Antonio Monteverde

Email: antonio.monteverde@hiltron.de | Tel: +49 (0)7191 343 570

Website: www.hiltron.de

Hiltron Communications, Emil-Rathenau-Str., 71522 Backnang, Germany

Tel: +49 (0)7191 343 570 | Fax: +49 (0)7191 3435 750 |

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Hiltron Experiences Year of Satcom Systems Innovation

Backnang, Germany, december 7th, 2022 – Hiltron Communications, a globally active satellite system integrator, manufacturer and distributor, reports a year of technical innovation throughout 2022.

A highlight project in Q2 was the completion of a satellite uplink and downlink system for one of Germany's largest television news broadcasters. This project included six antennas and related control infrastructure for communicating with the network's associate organisations around the world. Hiltron software allows the system to be supervised via a single display screen showing all relevant performance parameters, confidence lights and alerts. De-icers in the antenna panels can be activated automatically if the rooftop temperature creates any risk of freezing. All six of the new antennas are being used to capture incoming signals. Hiltron also refurbished three existing antennas which function both as uplinks and downlinks. That part of the project included the provision and integration of Hiltron ACU antenna control units which are used to set the dish azimuth and elevation. Once a satellite is selected, precise access parameters can be determined by pressing a single button. The system is remotely operated via an IP data stream from a standard PC.

Introduced in June, Hiltron's HSACU4 is a compact antenna control unit for flyaway antennas. It is based on the same hardware and software platform as the HACU antenna control unit which is used for earth station antennas at hundreds of stations worldwide. The HSACU4 can be configured with modules such as a polarisation driver, an integrated beacon receiver or power supply modules for the LNBs. Auto-pointing and tracking are based on data from a beacon receiver. The optional HP_HCS4-NET module provides LAN/IP connectivity and full remote access via a browser-based user interface. Also included are a sensor box with a fluxgate compass, a GPS receiver and an inclinometer for adjustment of elevation and polarisation. Tracking functions like step-track and TLE for NORAD data are supported and can be automatically activated after fine pointing of the antenna. Prediction tracking is included to follow inclined-orbit satellites.

August saw the introduction a service allowing 3D laser scanning and evaluation of teleport antennas. Based on technology developed by Hiltron's ESA Microwave GmbH partner, this resource allows reflectors of practically any size to be measured quickly and accurately. The 3D laser scanning service is available for any brand and model of satellite antenna up to 35 metres in diameter. Satellite teleports have massively expanded in number since the mid 1980s. The new laser scanning technique is far more accurate than traditional photogrammetry and can be performed while the antenna is actually in operation. It is also much more efficient because photogrammetry requires manual attachment of measurement targets to the reflector, a time-consuming process and one which results in only a few hundred points being measured. The ingested data are used to calculate alignment, registration and any required fine-tuning such as surface restoration. Measured specifications and related performance parameters are delivered to the antenna operator or owner with recommendations clarifying whether the antenna would benefit from upgrading, conversion or the addition of a multi-band feed system.

Also announced during August, Hiltron's HMAM LEO is a complete motorised antenna mounting system combining the strength, precision, smoothness of operation and internal computing capabilities necessary to monitor low Earth orbit satellites. Capable of accommodating parabolic antennas of up to 2.4 metres diameter, it incorporates the computing resources to track satellites using the NORAD TLE data format. HMAL LEO can lock onto the desired LEO satellite within the approximately 10 minute timespan where the target satellite is in sight. The mount can be controlled and oriented within more than 360 degrees of azimuth and 80 degrees of elevation at the required tracking speed. All elements of the antenna control unit are accommodated inside a weatherproofed outdoor housing.

Q4 saw the introduction of the Hiltron HDCU2 de-icing sensor and heating controller. Optimised for use with small to medium sized antenna reflectors, VSAT oriented, this represents a new generation of Hiltron's established HDCU and HDCU-E. Enclosed in a 180 x 180 x 90 mm weatherproof housing, the complete unit conforms to IP66 protection against heavy rain or snow. The HDCU2 incorporates an ambient PT 100 temperature sensor plus an optional reflector in addition to a snow precipitation sensor. Up to three 2.9 kilowatt heating circuits in three-phase 400 volt AC configuration can be controlled. The HDCU2 can alternatively be configured for single-phase 230 volt AC operation where the combined output load for all three power feeds does not exceed 2.9 kW.

For further requests, please contact

Jean-Luc George van Eeckhoutte

Sales Manager

jeanluc.george@hiltron.de

Tel: +49 (0) 7191 34357-27

Website: www.hiltron.de

Hiltron Communications, Emil-Rathenau-Str., 71522 Backnang, Germany

Tel: +49 (0)7191 343 570 | Fax: +49 (0)7191 3435 750 |

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Hiltron Introduces Latest-Generation Satellite Antenna De-Icing Controller 

Backnang, Germany, october 27th, 2022 – Hiltron Communications, a globally active satellite system integrator, manufacturer and distributor,

announces a new addition to its range of satellite communication equipment with the introduction of the HDCU2 de-icing sensor and heating controller.

"Optimised for use with small to medium sized antenna reflectors, VSAT oriented, the HDCU2 represents a new generation of our established HDCU and HDCU-E which have operated very successfully over the years in many locations around the world," comments Jean-Luc George van Eeckhoutte, Sales Manager at Hiltron GmbH. "Enclosed in a 180 x 180 x 90 mm weatherproof housing, the complete unit conforms to IP66 protection against heavy rain or snow."

The HDCU2 incorporates an ambient PT 100 temperature sensor plus an optional reflector in addition to a snow precipitation sensor. Up to three 2.9 kW heating circuits in three-phase 400 volt AC configuration can be controlled. The HDCU2 can alternatively be configured for single-phase 230 volt AC operation where the combined output load for all three power feeds does not exceed 2.9 kilowatts.

Load control can be performed individually for each of the three circuits. Each heater circuit can supply one or more antenna heater pads. The permitted current for the three heater circuits is controlled and monitored independently via LAN or SNMP.

The controller comes complete with an intuitive web-based interface and supports automatic as well as manual control operation. In manual mode, the heating function for each circuit can be switched on or off. Detected currents and temperatures can be monitored remotely. Monitor and control parameters displayed include heater circuit current thresholds, safety switchoff limit, heater activation/deactivation temperature thresholds and related timing.

The HDCU2 is rated for operation in -30 to +50 degrees Celsius temperature environments and 5 to 95 per cent non-condensing humidity. It has a standby power consumption of 4 watts and conforms fully to the relevant CE safety, EMC, emissions and immunity standards. Connectivity ports along the underside of the housing are provided for a rain and snow sensor, dish temperature sensor, ambient temperature sensor, local area network, mains power input and heater output feeds.

For further requests, please contact

Jean-Luc George van Eeckhoutte

Sales Manager

jeanluc.george@hiltron.de

Tel: +49 (0) 7191 34357-27

Website: www.hiltron.de

Hiltron Communications, Emil-Rathenau-Str., 71522 Backnang, Germany

Tel: +49 (0)7191 343 570 | Fax: +49 (0)7191 3435 750 |

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Hiltron Sustains Momentum in Communications Technology with Latest Advances in LEO Satellite Tracking, Satcom Control and 3D Laser-Based Satellite Antenna Scanning

Backnang, Germany, october 10th, 2022 – Hiltron Communications, a globally active satellite system integrator, manufacturer and distributor, reports continuing the expansion of its range of products and services. The mid September IBC 2022 show in Amsterdam was chosen for the first European promotion of Hiltron's HMAM LEO motorised antenna mount, HSACU4 antenna control unit and 3D laser-based satcom antenna scanning service.

Hiltron HMAM LEO low earth orbit satellite tracker

"Low-earth-orbit satellites occupy the sharp edge of communications technology, as evidenced by the strong investment in satellite constellations offering low-latency internet access from practically any location," says Jean-Luc George van Eeckhoutte, Hiltron Sales Manager. "Our recently introduced HMAM LEO is a complete system combining the strength, precision, smoothness of operation and internal computing capabilities necessary to monitor low Earth orbit satellites. LEO satellites typically have an orbiting period of 128 minutes or less, making at least 11.25 orbits per day. Precise tracking is essential."

Supported on a high-stability ground pillar, HMAM LEO incorporates the computing resources to track satellites using the NORAD TLE (two-line element) data format which defines satellite locations based on their location and velocity. HMAM LEO is capable of accommodating parabolic antennas up to 2.4 metres diameter and can lock onto the desired satellite within the approximately 10 minute timespan where a low earth orbit satellite is in sight. The mount can be oriented within more than 360 degrees of azimuth and 80 degrees of elevation at the required tracking speed."

Hiltron HSACU4 compact antenna control unit

The Hiltron HSACU4 is a compact antenna control unit for use with flyaway antennas. It is based on the same modular architecture as the HACU antenna control unit which is used for antennas at hundreds of earth stations worldwide. Elements such as a polarisation driver, an integrated beacon receiver or power supply modules for the LNBs can be integrated. Control and monitoring are performed through an Ethernet link with an intuitive web interface, or via a directly connected handheld unit. An auto-pointing function can be activated using the web interface which displays the coordinates of the target satellite. After locating the satellite, the HSACU4 progresses to fine-adjustment mode. It can also scan a predefined area and search within this area for a satellite. Steptrack and TLE for NORAD data are supported and can be automatically activated after fine pointing of the antenna. Prediction tracking is included for inclined-orbit satellites.

Hiltron ESA 3D Laser-Based Satellite Antenna Evaluation

3D laser scanning and evaluation of teleport antennas is service based on technology developed by Hiltron’s subsidiary partner, ESA Microwave GmbH. It allows reflectors of practically any size to be measured quickly and at very high resolution as part of a complete performance evaluation. This is especially important when teleport antennas are upgraded to higher frequencies such as the Ka-band.

"The 3D laser scanning technique we use is far more accurate than the commonly employed photogrammetry method and can be performed while the antenna is actually in operation," comments Peter Kneissl, Head of Research & Development at ESA Microwave. "It is also much more efficient than photogrammetry which requires manual attachment of measurement targets to the reflector, a time-consuming process and one which results in only a few hundred points being measured. Our technique can capture a million surface reference points per second with a geometric accuracy of less than 1 mm. The resultant information is integrated into a cloud of approximately 60 million points from which a computer-aided design model is created. After digitisation and computation of the reflector and sub-reflector topography, we use the ingested data to calculate alignment, registration and any required fine-tuning such as surface restoration. Measured specifications and related performance parameters are delivered to the antenna operator or owner together with recommendations clarifying whether the antenna would benefit from upgrading, conversion or fitting with a multi-band feed system."

The 3D laser-based satellite antenna scanning service is available to new and existing Hiltron customers for any brand and model of satellite reflector, up to 35 metres in diameter..

For further requests, please contact

Jean-Luc George van Eeckhoutte

Sales Manager

jeanluc.george@hiltron.de

Tel: +49 (0) 7191 34357-27

Website: www.hiltron.de

Hiltron Communications, Emil-Rathenau-Str., 71522 Backnang, Germany

Tel: +49 (0)7191 343 570 | Fax: +49 (0)7191 3435 750 |

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