Techniques for interference mitigation in satellite communications

In this thesis, we consider three different scenarios of interest in modern satellite communications. For each scenario, we will propose the use of advanced solutions aimed at increasing the performance of the communication links. First, we will investigate the synchronization aspects in the extensions of the current standard for digital video broadcasting, proposing a new non-data-aided receiver architecture able to mitigate the distorsions introduced by the increased baud rate. The second scenario still addresses broadcast transmissions, but in a scenario in which multiple carriers share the same satellite payload. We will face the problem of the interference coming from the intermodulation distortions among carriers, adopting a new digital multicarrier predistorter. Applying the frequency-packing technique, we will determine the optimal transmission parameters. Finally, we will compare some receiver architectures with different performance and complexity. The third scenario deals with the coverage extension of sensors networks through satellite links. We will present a feasibility study analyzing both the physical layer and the network protocol employed in these widely used terrestrial networks. We will propose the use of an innovative receiver and the network performance in a real operative scenario will be evaluated.