Monday October 21st
Mark McWhorter, Lumistar, Inc.
Course Description
This course begins with an overview of electromagnetic theory and the many common uses of RF microwaves today. Concepts such as the frequency spectrum, basic physics of electro-magnetic wave reflection and propagation, standing waves, power density, phase and polarity are discussed. The second section discusses RF microwave components typically found in telemetry systems, touching on design and applications. Consideration of antennas, transmissions lines, couplers/splitters/combiners, hybrids, RF amplifiers, VCOs, isolators, attenuators, modulators, etc. is given. Concepts such as intermodulation, dynamic range and linearity are introduced. The final section of the course addresses the application of an end-to-end digital telemetry transceiving system. A typical airborne to ground station radio link is presented with emphasis placed on RF-centric issues impacting radio link performance.
About Mark
Mark holds a BS in Electrical Engineering and has been associated with microwaves and RF technology for over 35 years. He also serves as V.P. of Sales and Marketing for Lumistar, a small business specializing in providing end to end telemetry ground systems and engineering expertise to help solve complex flight test problems. Mark has on several occasions lead teams of experienced engineers to develop mobile telemetry and command destruct systems for MDA mission. He has written many articles over the years for publications like RF Design Magazine, Microwave Journal, Microwaves and RF, and Aerospace International Test. Mark has been teaching his ITC Short Course every year since 2004. Mark is also an experienced musician, plays several instruments and has been a “front man” for several classic rock bands over the years since childhood.
