Using opnet with satcom planning

This paper presents a methodology for developing OPNET simulation models representing a wide range of SATCOM deployment scenarios. The model development process includes: developing a set of OPNET process models representing SATCOM network elements, mapping SATCOM link performance analysis results to the simulation model, and automatically generating an OPNET network model representing a SATCOM deployment scenario. The process also includes integrating the SATCOM model with other OPNET network scenarios, which are separately created using the OPNET Modeler. The methodology has been applied to developing the SATCOM Network Planning Toolset (SNPT). Illustrating the capabilities of SNPT, this paper presents the feasibility and effectiveness of the technologies based on the methodologies developed. It shows that an accurate RF layer analysis can be brought to building a simulation model. In comparison with a typical OPNET modeling building process, the amount of effort needed to generate a complex scenario model has been illustrated to show the applicability to SATCOM network planning and evaluation.