Iridium Optical Link
Global Foxcom’s Iridium Optical Link by is a high-performance fiber optic solution designed to extend Iridium satellite connectivity deep into enclosed, underground, or isolated environments. By eliminating the need for a direct line of sight to the sky, it ensures uninterrupted, mission-critical communications inside military bunkers, submarines, maritime vessels, underground facilities, and offshore oil rigs when primary networks fail.
Features & Benefits
- Operates across the 1616–1626.5 MHz Iridium frequency range
- Handles downlink RF input signal levels up to -20 dBm
- Handles uplink RF input signal levels up to +30 dBm
- Maintains noise figure below 5 dB on both uplink and downlink paths
- RF input/output VSWR performance of 1:1.6
- Uses single SMF-28 or equivalent single-mode fiber
- 1310 ±10 nm optical wavelength for fiber transmission
- Minimum IDU/ODU optical power output of -3 dBm / 0.5 mW
- FC/APC optical connector for low-reflection optical connectivity
- Fiber length up to 3 km with 2 dB optical budget
- Indoor unit uses single SMA female RF connector
- Outdoor unit uses dual N-Type female RF connectors
- Pre-connectorized fiber cables available in different lengths as an option
Iridium Optical Link bridges the gap between isolated indoor environments and external satellite constellations. In complex structures where traditional, bulky coaxial cables suffer from severe signal attenuation, optical fiber delivers near-zero transmission loss, superior signal quality, and complete electrical isolation against lightning risks.
Optical fiber helps reduce RF transmission loss, improve signal quality, provide lightning protection, and support safer, easier installation. The core system kit features Global Foxcom’s ruggedized Sat-Light G4000 Series outdoor unit (ODU), a compact indoor unit (IDU), dual high-gain outdoor Iridium antennas, and all necessary RF coaxial jump cables. For facilities requiring comprehensive situational awareness, the system is fully expandable; Global Foxcom can integrate or co-deploy separate GPS and Inmarsat systems alongside the Iridium link to create a unified, multi-constellation satellite coverage footprint.
Basic Details
| RF Specification | Value |
| Frequency Range – Bandwidth | 1616-1626.5MHz |
| Noise Figure | < 5dB |
| Input Signal Range – Total Power | up to -30dBm |
| RF Output Signal Range – Total Power | 1:1.6 |
What applications is the Iridium Optical Link designed for?
The system is ruggedized and optimized for environments stripped of direct sky access, including:
- Military bunkers and command centers
- Underground mining and transit facilities
- Submarines and naval maritime vessels
- Offshore oil rigs and energy platforms
Can we expand this system to support other satellite services over the same infrastructure?
Yes. Global Foxcom builds expandable architecture. If your facility expands its operational requirements to include GPS/GNSS tracking or Inmarsat communication alongside Iridium voice and data, this setup integrates cleanly into our broader satellite repeater portfolio.
What are the mechanical dimensions of the indoor and outdoor units?
The system is designed with compact indoor and outdoor units suitable for practical installation:
- Indoor Compact Unit (IDU): 13.2 cm (L) x 20.8 cm (W) x 58.6 cm (H)
- Outdoor Unit (ODU): 36.0 cm (L) x 29.0 cm (W) x 13.5 cm (H)
What operating temperatures can these units withstand?
The system is built to survive harsh deployment environments:
- Indoor Unit: -20°C to +55°C
- Outdoor Unit: -30°C to +55°C
Are the fiber optic cables included in the standard kit?
No, fiber cables are not included by default because deployment lengths vary wildly. However, Global Foxcom offers optional pre-connectorized fiber cables in multiple standard and custom lengths to fit your specific architecture.
Which product kit is available for ordering?
The standard ordering part number is IRIDKIT02 C, commercially known as the Compact Iridium Optical Link Kit.
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