SatPod
SatPod™ Unit
The SatPod™ is the base unit that performs the satellite communications and network configuration. The unit acts as an efficient, multi-channel relay station for commands and data between sensors in the field and the Command & Control center. The unit is capable of commanding 10 SensorPods and reporting their data back to the base station.

Using bi-directional communications the user is able to configure the network to meet their needs without the requirement of stopping data collection or retrieving the sensors from the field. This is achieved using the Mission Control Software (MCS) or their own proprietary control architecture.

That data is transmitted via the Iridium satellite network, allowing worldwide access. The SatPod transmits SensorPod data in SensorPod format, while the MCS provides the ability of automatic reformatting depending upon the application requirements.

The SatPod will operate for 30 days on batteries and indefinitely by utilizing solar panels with 2 full days of sunlight per week.

FEATURES
BENEFITS
  • Battery powered
  • Rechargeable using solar panel or AC adaptor
  • Auto-networking allows data retrieval from wide areas
  • Compact, lightweight (2.2 lbs), rugged
  • Quick, easy & inexpensive installation
  • Wireless communications
  • Add-on chemical & radiation sensors (in development)
  • Monitoring battlefield environmental conditions
  • Environmental monitoring & research
  • Monitoring perimeters of hazardous materials facilities
  • Tracking dispersion of toxic materials & CWA when
  • used with atmospheric plume models
  • Emergency response to forest fires, chemical
  • releases and other disasters
  • Shipboard weather monitoring


Overall system architecture: Data is collected at the sensor pods and relayed to either the Mobile Field Controller (MFC) laptop in the field or the SatPod. Data relayed to the SatPod is sent via the Iridium satellite to any other Internet connected PC as a DirectIP. The ADA Mission Control Software, called PodCommander, running on a Windows XP PC:

From PodCommander it is possible to control the hardware in the field. The current generation system is for hand deployment.

Download SatPod datasheet