FPGA-Based Resolver Emulator for a Polar Mount Satellite Antenna

Satellite tracking techniques are important for efficient communication links. However, the performance evaluation of satellite tracking techniques is currently limited because algorithms embedded in commercial equipment cannot be systematically evaluated. This paper discusses a solution for this problem by emulating a resolver, which is a key component on determining the antenna pointing direction. The resolver is based on electromagnetic sensors used to determine the angular position of an antenna through an axis. This paper presents an FPGA-based resolver emulator that uses an audio codec and a conditioning circuit to connect the developed system with the antenna control equipment. It discusses the implementation of such emulator using the Quartus II software and shows competitive results when compared to a commercial resolver installed on an antenna control unit.