What is BUC in satellite Communication : Top Manufacturers

A Block Upconverter (BUC) is a key component in satellite communication systems that converts low frequency intermediate frequency (IF) signals into higher frequency microwave signals for transmission to a satellite. Commonly used in VSAT terminals, satellite gateways, broadcast networks and broadband communication systems, BUCs enable efficient uplink communication with reliable signal amplification and frequency conversion.

BUC Block Diagram

BUC is the short form of Block Up Converter. It’s essentially a module that combines an Up Converter and a Power Amplifier. The BUC takes an input IF (Intermediate Frequency) signal, converts its frequency upwards, and then amplifies its power.


BUC = Up Converter + Power Amplifier

The primary application for BUCs is in VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) systems. They typically convert an IF input frequency of around 70 MHz to an RF carrier frequency in the range of 6 GHz for C-band VSAT applications.

If you’re interested in learning more about RF Frequency Up Converters, check out our article on the Design of RF Frequency Up Converters.

BUC (Block Up Converter) Manufacturers

Here’s a list of some prominent BUC manufacturers:

Vendor or Manufacturer	Website	Notes
Communications & Power Industries (CPI)	www.cpii.com
Teledyne Paradise Datacom Ltd.	www.paradisedata.com
Codan	www.codan.com.au	BUC manufacturer.
General Dynamics Satcom Technologies	www.gdsatcom.com
Singapore Technologies Electronics Limited (ST Electronics)	www.stee.stengg.com	BUC (Block Up Converter) Manufacturer.
Servsat Communications, Inc.	www.servsat.com
Comtech EF Data Corporation.	www.comtechefdata.com	Popular BUC (Block Up Converter) Manufacturer.

Summary

BUCs are essential for satellite uplink transmission, providing accurate frequency conversion and signal amplification with leading manufacturers offering high performance solutions for VSAT, broadcast, defense, maritime, aviation and broadband satellite communication applications.