Adesto, ESA Develop Next-Generation Mobile Satcom Technology

Semiconductor visualization. Photo: Adesto

Adesto Technologies, a provider of semiconductors and systems for Internet of Things (IoT) applications, is engaging with the European Space Agency (ESA) through the ARTES Competitiveness and Growth (C&G) program to develop technologies for next-generation mobile satellite communications. The initiative is focused on technology developments for the Ku- and Ka- frequency bands, which provide higher bandwidth communications for applications such as commercial aviation broadband, satellite mobile broadband, and residential broadband enabled by full digital beamforming.

Under the co-funded contract, Adesto will develop technologies including a new receiver architecture, IP blocks for satellite, and 5G millimeter wave frequencies, a new Analog to Digital Converter (ADC), and unique discrete time analog filtering. Based on these complementary technologies, as a follow-up of the activity, Adesto will develop an ASIC product that its customers can use to create configurable satellite terminals with full digital beamforming capabilities and support for multiple satellite networks, including Geostationary Orbit (GEO), Medium-Earth Orbit (MEO) and Low-Earth Orbit (LEO).

“We’re delighted to collaborate with the European Space Agency to create innovative technologies that will provide a foundation for delivery of future broadband services,” said Adesto VP and General Manager of ASIC and IP Division Dermot Barry. “Our team has deep expertise in developing and delivering ASICs for satellite communications, with commercial deployments through multiple providers. We can leverage the new funding to continue to build our IP portfolio in this area, addressing growing customer needs. We can further expand our opportunity by accelerating time to market for our ASICs. The technology also fits well with our roadmap for standard product development.”