How to Combine Two TV Antennas for Better Signal

Lumistar receivers support three primary diversity combining modes: polarization diversity, frequency diversity, and spatial diversity. Both Pre-Detection (Pre-D) and Post-Detection (Post-D) combining are available. The combining algorithm uses a complex real-time Eb/N0 calculation with a combiner break frequency greater than 50 KHz, ensuring rapid response to signal fade events during dynamic flight test scenarios.

Pre-Detection (Pre-D) combining merges the two antenna IF signals before demodulation, providing better performance in low SNR environments. Post-Detection (Post-D) combining selects or blends the demodulated data streams after each receiver processes its channel independently. Lumistar systems support both modes, and the optimal choice depends on link margin, channel conditions, and the specific telemetry format in use.

The LS-35-R IF Receiver/Combiner supports data rates up to 40 Mbps, while the LS-28-DRSM Telemetry Receiver Systems support data rates from 1 kbps up to 60 Mbps. Rates vary by demodulation format — PCM/FM supports up to 30 Mbps, SOQPSK and QPSK up to 60 Mbps. Higher data rate options beyond standard specifications are also available upon request.

Lumistar systems support a broad range of formats including PCM/FM, PM, BPSK, QPSK, OQPSK, SOQPSK, AQPSK, AUQPSK, Multi-H CPM, and Analog Video FM. Formats are enabled via firmware license upgrades, allowing users to purchase a base configuration now and electronically add modulation formats as mission requirements evolve, without returning hardware to the factory.

Yes. Lumistar receivers comply with IRIG-218, ARTM Tier II phase noise requirements, CCSDS data format standards, and IEEE 1588 PTP for precision timing. The LS-28-DRSM series also meets IP-67 waterproof and dustproof ratings, ATA Specification 300, Military Standard C-4150J, and optional LDPC implementation per IRIG 106, making it suitable for both ground-based and field-deployed test range operations.

Yes. Lumistar's firmware licensing model allows customers to purchase a base hardware configuration and electronically upgrade demodulation formats, decoding options (Viterbi, Reed-Solomon, LDPC), and DSP algorithm improvements via email-delivered firmware files. This eliminates costly hardware replacements and minimizes downtime, making it straightforward to adapt systems as new telemetry standards or mission profiles are introduced.