ETL Systems joins interoperability consortium for world-first Digital IF technology

ETL Systems is pleased to announce that it has joined the Digital IF Interoperability Consortium (DIFI), a working group comprised of commercial and government organisations. DIFI's aim is to set an interoperability standard for the new wave of digital interfaces between satellite modem and outdoor unit that is on the horizon. As a part of DIFI, the company will help to shape this new standard and retain its position as a world leader in its field.

The Consortium operates under the mantle of the IEEE Industry Standards and Technology Organization, and includes members from the Defence, Satellite, and Software industries, as well as government bodies including the US Space Force and the US Navy.

Interoperability will form a critical part of bringing this world-first technology, which ETL Systems is working on alongside the European Space Agency (ESA), to commercial viability. DIFI's standard - IEEE-ISTO Std 4900-2021: Digital IF Interoperability Standard - is based on the existing VITA 49 protocol. 

As a leading manufacturer of ground segment equipment with over 30 years' experience in the satellite industry, ETL was delighted to be selected by ESA to receive funding and support with the development of its new Digital IF technology.