Error performance on satellite circuits A typical uncoded bit error rate (BER) figure for satellite links is often cited as approximately one bit error in how many transmitted bits?

Introduction / Context:
Bit error rate (BER) benchmarks help designers specify link budgets, coding, and modulation. Satellite links without heavy forward-error correction historically achieve BERs around 10^-5 to 10^-7, while modern coded systems may reach 10^-9 or better.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• “Typical” satellite circuit with reasonable carrier-to-noise and modest coding.
• Comparative options span poor to excellent BER values.

Concept / Approach:
For legacy or minimally coded links, BER ≈ 10^-6 to 10^-7 is a common planning value. Therefore, “one error in 10^7 bits” is a representative figure frequently quoted in introductory texts and exams.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Translate phrasing: “one error in N bits” → BER ≈ 1/N.Select N consistent with typical uncoded or lightly coded satellite links: N ≈ 10^7.

Verification / Alternative check:
Link budget tools often target post-demodulation BER ≤ 10^-6 for voice/data acceptability before higher-layer error detection/correction.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 10^3 or 10^2: unacceptably high BER for most services.
• 10^10: extremely stringent and usually requires strong coding and high C/N.
• 10^5: achievable but not the “typical” textbook figure requested here.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing pre-FEC and post-FEC BER targets.
• Assuming a single universal BER; practical values depend on service class.

Final Answer:
10^7 bits