AUPC
Pronunciation: ay-you-pee-see
Also written as: AUPC — Automatic Uplink Power Control
A closed-loop system that automatically adjusts a ground station's transmit power to compensate for signal fading, most commonly rain fade.
Full Definition
Automatic Uplink Power Control (AUPC) is a technique employed in satellite ground systems to maintain a constant received signal level at the satellite or hub despite varying atmospheric conditions on the uplink path. The system typically measures the downlink fade level as a proxy for uplink fade and increases transmit power accordingly. AUPC is essential for high-frequency bands such as Ka-band and Q/V-band, which are susceptible to significant rain fade. Editors should render the acronym in all capitals; the full form is spelled out at first mention in technical documents. AUPC should not be confused with APSK, which relates to modulation.
Usage
Usage note: Spell out in full at first mention: Automatic Uplink Power Control (AUPC). Subsequent references use AUPC. Do not confuse with ACM (Adaptive Coding and Modulation), which is a complementary but distinct fade-mitigation technique.
In Context
- "The AUPC system raised uplink power by 3 dB to compensate for the convective storm cell over the teleport." — Operations log
- "Section 4.2 should clarify whether AUPC or ACM is the primary fade-mitigation strategy." — Technical review comment