Return-Link Processor PCI Card

The return-link processor card (RLP) performs all of the fundamental data-processing functions involved in the return of satellite telemetry, in real time at rates up to 400 Mb/s, using industry-standard interface circuitry and connectors with standard sizes and shapes. Previously, four cards, each containing a central processing unit (CPU), were needed to do what the RLP now does. CPU-based cards are complex; are expensive to build, operate, and maintain; are susceptible to malfunction; and require a great deal of power and cooling.