The Federal government wants to install new secure wireless data network linking each of its embassies to an orbiting satellite. A request for proposals was issued, several companies submitted bids, and ACME Communication Systems of El Tercero, CA was awarded the contract to be the prime contractor.

Now ACME Communication Systems is seeking sub-contractors and plans to use a head-to-head competition to select the sub-contractor for the physical layer (antenna, modulation/demodulation, RF processing). You have just formed a small company with two or three of your professional colleagues and plan to compete for the sub contract.

ACME Communication Systems has published a list of Technical Specifications and a deadline: 12 April 2007. Your job is to produce a prototype demodulator/detector and win the sub-contract. Due to operational conditions, the received power will vary over a wide range.

Follow the links at the left to learn more about the technical specifications, the schedule, the milestones, and some examples from previous years' designs.