Pizza Box

What does Pizza Box Mean?

In the world of computer networking, a “Pizza Box” refers to a large, rectangular-shaped antenna used for satellite communications. It derives its name from its resemblance to a pizza delivery box. Pizza Boxes are typically mounted on rooftops or other elevated surfaces to provide clear line-of-sight to satellites in geostationary orbit.

Pizza Boxes operate on the principle of parabolic reflection, where incoming satellite signals are reflected and focused onto a feedhorn located at the focal point of the antenna. The feedhorn then converts the signals into electrical signals, which can be processed by satellite receivers.

Pizza Boxes are characterized by their relatively low Profile and wide beamwidth, making them suitable for applications that require high bandwidth and coverage over a large area. They are commonly used in rural areas, remote locations, and for mobile satellite communications.

Applications

Pizza Boxes are used in a variety of applications, including:

• Broadband internet access: Providing high-speed internet connectivity to remote and underserved areas.
• Satellite television: Delivering television signals to homes and businesses in areas without access to cable or fiber networks.
• Mobile communications: Enabling voice, data, and video communications for mobile users on the go.
• Disaster relief: Establishing temporary communication links in disaster-stricken areas.
• Military and government: Providing secure and reliable communications for military and government operations.

Pizza Boxes are an important technology for providing connectivity and communication services in areas where traditional infrastructure is limited or unavailable. Their low profile and wide beamwidth make them ideal for applications where line-of-sight to the satellite is essential.

History

The development of Pizza Boxes can be traced back to the early days of satellite communications. In the 1960s, engineers began experimenting with large, flat antennas for satellite signal reception. These antennas were typically made of fiberglass or metal and had a parabolic shape to focus signals onto a feedhorn.

In the 1970s, a new type of antenna known as the “pizza box” emerged. These antennas were smaller, lighter, and more Portable than previous designs. They were also more aerodynamic, making them suitable for mobile applications.

The first pizza box antenna was developed by Scientific-Atlanta in 1976. It was a 2.4-meter (8-Foot) antenna designed for direct-to-home satellite television reception. The pizza box antenna quickly became a popular choice for satellite communications due to its low cost, ease of installation, and high performance.

Since the 1970s, pizza box antennas have undergone continuous development. Today, they are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes, and can be customized to meet specific application requirements. Pizza Boxes remain an important technology in satellite communications, providing reliable and efficient connectivity in areas around the world.