FA-120
FA-120 System operating in Antarctica
At the time of writing the FA-120 antenna is believed to be the
lightest most compact 1.2m flyaway antenna available. It is intended
primarily for Satellite Newsgathering, but is equally well suited to
any other application where a one man lift is mission critical or
transportation as checked baggage is vital.
The FA-120 is almost
entirely manufactured from moulded carbon fibre and durable light
weight plastics to ensure that even with 3 axis motorisation, packed
weight comes in at less than 32kgs and the highly innovative “Russian
Doll” reflector design has kept the packed dimensions to easily
manageable proportions comparable with many much smaller antennas.
At
GigaSat we understand the difficulties faced by operators in the field
and this is reflected in the attention to detail found in the FA-120
antenna.
Composite legs, integral to the overall dimensions of
the antenna when packed, fold down and ratchet into multiple positions
for high stability on any terrain with an incline up to 15 degrees and
stake holes allow the antenna to be pinned down for high wind
operation. The mount case, empty when the antenna is deployed can also
be loaded with ballast.
As a manual antenna the FA-120 can easily
be pointed using the three axis vernier adjusters. A spirit bubble is
provided to level the antenna and clear scales are provided for
azimuth, elevation and pole.
When specified, motors,
inclinometer, potentiometers and digital control unit all fit neatly
within the weatherproof housing and allow comprehensive control via
RS485, using either the GigaSat STC-100 antenna controller or a range
of third party controllers.
A convenient +12VDC primary power
allows the antenna to be powered from the standard accessory socket on
a car or an external weatherproof power supply can be provided if
required.
Within minutes of arrival at site the FA-120 can
automatically point, peak and track, even on highly inclined
satellites. However, in the unlikely event that the motorisation or
power should not be available the antenna can easily be manually
overridden at any time using the 13mm/1/2" hand crank supplied.