Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation
Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation
Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation
Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation
UDC 004.383.3
This paper presents modern digital signal conversion systems used for radio telescopes of the Quasar VLBI network. We briefly trace the evolution of signal conversion equipment from analog and hybrid solutions to a multifunctional digital backend system (MDBE) providing fully digital processing of received signals over a wide frequency range. The architecture, main technical characteristics, and operating modes of MDBE are described, along with specific features of its application on the RT-13 and RT-32 radio telescopes. It is shown that the use of MDBE enables unification of signal conversion hardware, supports both broadband and narrowband very long baseline interferometry modes, and allows spectral and radiometric observations to be implemented within a single hardware–software platform. We give examples of practical applications demonstrating the system’s efficiency, stability of signal path parameters, and compatibility with national and international data recording and transmission standards. Prospects for further development of the system and expansion of the range of scientific and applied problems are also discussed.
radio telescope, radio astronomical equipment, signal conversion system, digital signal processing
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