ViaSat ArcLight, User Manual, Page: 54 / 368

ArcLight Hub User’s Guide
General System Description
1-18 1081006 Rev. 001
1.3 ArcLight Network
1.3.1 Satellite Resource Utilization
From a space segment perspective, the ArcLight network consists of a
single spread-spectrum forward channel with associated, direct
sequence spread spectrum, CRMA Return Channels.
1.3.1.1 Partial Transponder Operation
The ArcLight system is compatible with both full and partial
transponder operation.
1.3.1.2 Nominal (PCMA) Mode
In general, the same physical transponder frequencies are used to
simultaneously support the network Outlink and all associated Return
Channels. The Hub terminal employs PCMA technologies to allow
Outlink/Return Channel bandwidth reuse.
1.3.1.3 Non-PCMA Mode (Cross-Strapped)
The ArcLight system is capable of operating in a non-PCMA mode. In
non-PCMA mode the Outlink and Return Channels occupy separate
satellite transponder bandwidths for the same satellite.
1.3.2 Network Terminal Population
The system is designed to provide service to a maximum of 10,000
VMTs per network at broadband speeds.