Very Small Aperture Antenna Subsystems (VSAT) include solid state power amplifiers with integrated block up-converters, low noise block down-converters, TDMA modems, and auto tracking control systems. VSAT is used as a Satellite Interactive Terminal and Satellite User Terminal that operate as part of a bi-directional satellite network. In such a network a Network Control Facility is responsible for the monitoring and control of the transmit functions. Three VSAT variant systems, VSAT-L, VSAT-M, and VSAT-S have similar function and subsystem composition and use High Power Amplifiers, Low-Noise Block up/down-converter, Antenna Controller, and Power Supply to maintain operational connectivity with combat and combat support elements.
A robust, seamless, and secure Marine Corps Enterprise Network is at the root of USMC operational communications. In an effort to better serve deployed forces by improving seamlessness, reach back, interoperability, and security, the USMC directed an analysis of VSAT and the potential for developing Test Program Sets (TPS) on the AN/USM-657 V(4) Virtual Instrument Portable Equipment Repair/Test (VIPER/T) Radio Frequency/Electro-Optical Variant. VIPER/T is designed to operate in extreme temperatures, is often deployed for battlefield support, and is used to test and diagnose electronic, electro-mechanical and electro-optical systems, modules, and circuit cards with isolation to the lowest level circuit card component.
PIDESO was instrumental in developing VSAT AN/PSM-126 APS Test Program Sets (TPS) providing development support for the test strategy and fabricating nine sets of Test Program Hardware for use on the VIPER/T. PIDESO also assisted in designing and developing preliminary drawings, schematics, and family tree documentation to cover 15 initial Units Under Test (UUTs).