Known beacon systems are functioning with frequencies in the cm range. They require either a permanent power supply, or the batteries which are being used must be exchanged or reloaded at regular intervals. The range of the known beacon is most cases limited to only a few meters. The mm-wave beacon developed by AEG-TELEFUNKEN uses a frequency in the 60 GHz range. The oxygen absorption in the atmosphere prevents an uncontrolled far-reaching signal propagation. It also helps to prevent interferences by superranges and reflections from other beacon systems. On the other hand, atmospheric attenuations due to climatic influences, formation of smoke and dust are not yet affecting the short-range system. Since the mm-wave beacon has a particularly low power consumption it can be operated by means of solar cells using floating batteries. During its useful life, neither a change of battery nor an external power supply is thus required. The mm-wave beacon can be either programmed by radio or fixed in its information. Alternatively, the stored information can be changed by wire control so that the beacon may also be used for controlled signal generation. The max. memory content normally amountes to 1.2 kbit and can be extended to 8 kbit.
mm-wave beacon
Millimeterwellen-Leitstrahlsender
1984
18 Seiten, 5 Bilder
Conference paper
English