An RF device mounted on a satellite dish that takes an intermediate frequency signal from the indoor modem and shifts it up to the final transmission frequency, such as Ku-band or Ka-band. It simultaneously amplifies the signal for the trip to orbit. Combining the frequency conversion and power amplification at the antenna feed minimizes signal loss over the coaxial cable run.
Grab a ladder and check if the block upconverter is getting its DC voltage from the modem.
Also heard as
- BUC
Related terms
Uplink
The communication path originating from a remote device and traveling toward the core network.
Communications satellite
An orbital spacecraft equipped with transponders to receive, amplify, and redirect radio signals back to Earth.
Coaxial cable
A copper transmission line built with a central conductor surrounded by an insulating layer and a braided metallic shield.