Signals can also be transmitted using microwaves via satellite links. The two major types of satellites are geostationary, also called GEO, and low earth orbit, also called LEO. Both types serve as radio relay stations in orbit above the earth that receive, amplify, and redirect signals. Microwave transceiver dishes are aimed at the satellite, which has antennas, amplifiers, and transmitters. The satellite receives a signal, amplifies it, and retransmits it to the destination.GEO satellites are placed in orbit 35,784 kilometers (about 22,282 miles) above earth. At this distance the satellite is geosynchronized (synchronized with the earth); that is, once it starts orbiting, the satellite stays above the same point on earth at all times, without being propelled. Thus, a GEO satellite is stationary relative to earth. Because they orbit at such a great distance above the earth, three GEO satellites can provide service for every point on earth by relaying signals among themselves before transmitting them back down to their destinations.Because of the distance from earth to satellites, the communication is fine for transmitting data because delays of a few seconds make no signifi- cant difference. However, a delay of even 2 or 3 seconds (due to the trip to and from the satellite and the time of processing the data) might be disturbing in interactive communication, such as when voice and pictures are communicated in real time. You might have noticed such delays when reporters use devices that communicate to a television station. When an anchorperson asks a question, the reporter on location receives the question with a noticeable delay.LEO satellites minimize this shortcoming. These lower-cost satellites are placed about 800–1000 kilometers (500–600 miles) above earth. The signals’ round-trip is short enough for mobile telephone and interactive computer applications. Unlike GEOs, LEO satellites revolve around the globe every few hours. Multiple LEOs are required to maintain continuous coverage for uninterrupted communication.
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