MathWorks, a leading developer of technical computing software, is expected to simplify satellite-related development work by enabling satellite communication scenario modeling and system and link analysis through MATLAB and Simulink.

MathWorks announced on the 5th 'Release 2024a (R2024a)' of its MATLAB and Simulink product lines.

This R2024a includes new features that streamline the workflows of engineers and researchers working on AI and wireless communication systems.

With approximately 6,000 low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites currently in orbit and billions of dollars of private sector funding flowing into space companies, interest in satellite communications has grown significantly.

Satellite communications engineers can model scenarios and design, simulate, and verify satellite communications systems and links with standards-based tools through updates to the Satellite Communications Toolbox in R2024a.

Furthermore, the toolbox can generate physical layer algorithm designs and test waveforms along with RF components and ground station receivers, and supports golden reference design verification.

This update includes Matlab and SiIt also includes major updates to the Computer Vision Toolbox, Deep Learning Toolbox, and Instrument Control Toolbox, which are primarily used in Mulink.

Computer Vision Toolbox provides algorithms, functions, and apps for designing and testing computer vision, 3D vision, and video processing systems. It includes algorithm design, data labeling, and code generation for 2D and 3D vision tasks.

Deep Learning Toolbox provides a framework for designing and implementing deep neural networks using algorithms, pre-trained models, and apps.

The toolbox supports architectures such as Transformer and can perform simulations with PyTorch and TensorFlow models.

The Instrument Control Toolbox connects MATLAB directly to instruments such as oscilloscopes, function generators, signal analyzers, power supplies, and analytical instruments. The Instrument Explorer app lets you manage instruments that support IVI and VXI Plug&Play drivers without writing code.

“Engineers need highly versatile communications tools for design, simulation, and verification to keep pace with the rapid evolution of wireless systems,” said Dominic Viens, director of technical product marketing at MathWorks. “The R2024a update will make it easier to implement and support next-generation communications systems.”