Friedberg, Hesse, Germany – February, 2024
DEV Systemtechnik is developing a pioneering proof-of-concept (PoC) to demonstrate the feasibility of converting wideband analog RF signals to digital RF signals and vice versa in satellite communications. The aim of the project is to create the technological basis for a commercial product development that meets the growing requirements for security and interoperability and enables new, cloud-based applications.
The project is supported by the European Union and the State of Hesse.
DIFI
As cruical part of the PoC, the DIFI standard (Digital Intermediate Frequency Interoperability) will be integrated as the central interface between the signal source and the signal sink. The DIFI standard ensures interoperability between different participants in the signal processing chain and represents an international standard for secure and efficient satellite communication.
High Perfomance Signal Conversion
A key innovation driver of the PoC is the use of extremely fast, leading edge analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters. These high-performance converters make it possible to process high-frequency signals with large bandwidths in real time and therefore offer the greatest possible flexibility in the application. They ensure that digital signal processing offers reliable performance even for complex and demanding communication requirements, while also enabling scalability for future developments. 
The switch to digital transmission of RF signals is a fundamental step in the further development of global satellite communication. With this proof-of-concept, DEV will demonstrate the technical feasibility of advanced digital signal processing and lay the foundations for future commercial products that meet the highest standards of security, speed and interoperability. The cutting edge analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters ensure high performance and flexibility in signal processing.
The DIFI standard plays a key role as it enables seamless and secure communication over digital broadband fiber optic networks between systems from different manufacturers. DEV Systemtechnik’s PoC will demonstrate the capabilities of this technology and provide a basis for future-proof satellite communication solutions.
The DIFI standard offers the flexibility and security required by future digitzized signal chains in the satellite ground segment. The fast signal conversion of the advanced converters will also enable future evolving system requirements. The PoC will make an important contribution to secure, interoperable and efficient satellite communication.
DEV Systemtechnik relies on the most advanced technologies and innovative solutions to shape the satellite communications of tomorrow.
The development of the PoC is expected to be completed by the second half of the year 2025.
About DEV Systemtechnik:
DEV Systemtechnik, part of the AXING Group, develops and manufactures a complete range of products and systems for the optical and electrical transmission of Radio Frequency (RF) signals via coaxial cable or fiber (RFoF). For over 28 years DEV has designed, engineered, and manufactured RF transmission and signal management equipment for satellite, broadcast, and cable applications. All products are built to meet the highest standards of system availability, reliability, and manageability.
DEV Systemtechnik GmbH
Email: info@dev-systemtechnik.com
Tel.: +49 6031 6975-100
Fax: +49 6031 6975-114
www.dev-systemtechnik.com