Unlocking Superior Satellite Communication with the Comtech CDM-570AL Satellite Modem

by Hamid Bagheri  |  June 11, 2025

In an age where communication resilience and bandwidth efficiency are paramount, satellite modems play a pivotal role in enabling connectivity across vast and challenging environments. The Comtech CDM-570AL Satellite Modem stands out as one of the most advanced, feature-rich, and flexible solutions in the satellite communication landscape. Developed by Comtech EF Data, this next-generation modem caters to enterprise networks, mobile operators, maritime users, government operations, and more.

At VSATPlus, we are proud to offer the CDM-570AL, a modem that doesn’t just meet expectations but exceeds them with powerful performance, adaptive technologies, and robust management capabilities. Whether you’re looking to reduce OPEX, improve throughput, or achieve carrier-grade reliability, this is the modem designed to support your mission-critical networks.


The CDM-570AL belongs to Comtech’s renowned 570 series and represents an enhancement in capability and design over its predecessors. It is a 1RU rack-mountable modem, offering L-Band IF, a wide data rate range (2.4 kbps to 10.239 Mbps), and highly flexible modulation and FEC options.

What sets it apart is support for DoubleTalk® Carrier-in-Carrier®, a patented Comtech technology that enables transmit and receive carriers to overlap in frequency, allowing optimal spectrum usage. With VersaFEC® and VersaFEC-2 for low latency and high coding gain, plus advanced compression, QoS, and ACM features, it delivers cutting-edge satellite connectivity for modern IP-centric applications.


Here’s a breakdown of the core features that make the CDM-570AL an industry leader:

1. DoubleTalk® Carrier-in-Carrier® Bandwidth Compression

  • Enables full duplex communication in overlapping frequency bands.
  • Saves up to 50% of bandwidth compared to legacy modems.
  • Reduces amplifier and antenna size requirements.

2. Adaptive Coding & Modulation (ACM) with VersaFEC-2

  • Delivers low-latency, high-performance LDPC-based FEC.
  • Supports BPSK to 32-ARY modulation, ensuring broad flexibility.
  • Includes long and short block codes to adapt to link conditions.

3. Extensive Modulation and FEC Support

  • Modulation: BPSK, QPSK, 8PSK, 16-QAM, 32-ARY
  • FEC options include VersaFEC, Turbo Product Codes, Reed-Solomon, and Viterbi.

4. L-Band Operation (950 - 2250 MHz)

  • Compatible with a wide range of BUCs and LNBs.
  • Enables seamless integration with modern satellite terminals.

5. High Performance Packet Processor

  • Available in CDM-570AL-IP version.
  • Supports routed and managed switch modes.
  • Features header compression, payload compression, and QoS.

6. Flexible Power Supply Options

  • 100–240 VAC, -24 VDC, or -48 VDC.
  • Optional BUC power supply (24V/48V) with up to 180W support.

7. CarrierID Support

  • MetaCarrier® spread spectrum technology to uniquely identify transmitters.
  • Ideal for interference detection and regulation compliance.

Whether you're deploying for offshore rigs, enterprise backhaul, or emergency communications, the benefits of this modem include:

Bandwidth Efficiency

Its ability to deliver high throughput with reduced spectrum means better performance at lower operational costs.

Scalability

With FAST code upgrades, the modem can evolve with your network needs – adding features like DoubleTalk, higher data rates, or advanced FECs on the fly.

Reliability in Harsh Environments

Operating from 0°C to 50°C, it’s built for use in tough field conditions. The unit is also equipped with excellent thermal stability and internal diagnostics.

Carrier-Grade Security

Optional AES-256 encryption ensures secure transmission of sensitive data.

Centralized Network Management

With SNMP, Telnet, CLI, and web interfaces, network operators can manage hundreds of units easily through Vipersat Management System (VMS).


The Comtech CDM-570AL is not just a modem — it’s a highly adaptable tool ready for a range of mission-critical environments.

🔹 Enterprise Networks

Supports data-heavy services like video conferencing, VoIP, cloud applications, and remote desktops with robust QoS.

🔹 Mobile Backhaul

Integrates easily into cellular backhaul systems, offering low-latency performance even in rural deployments.

🔹 Offshore and Maritime

Supports BUC and LNB powering and tracking — ideal for dynamic mobile environments such as ships and oil rigs.

🔹 Disaster Recovery

With rapid deployment and high uptime, it ensures communications are restored quickly in emergencies.

🔹 Satellite News Gathering (SNG)

Offers guaranteed bandwidth and low latency required for live video broadcasting.


FeatureDetails
Data Rate Range2.4 kbps to 10.239 Mbps
Symbol Rate4.8 ksps to 3.0 Msps
ModulationsBPSK, QPSK, OQPSK, 8PSK, 8-QAM, 16-QAM, 32-ARY
FEC OptionsVersaFEC, VersaFEC-2, Turbo Product Code, Reed-Solomon, Viterbi, TCM
IF Frequency950 to 2250 MHz (L-Band)
Interfaces10/100Base-T Ethernet, G.703, EIA-530, V.35, EIA-232
Power Input100–240 VAC, -24/-48 VDC
Power Consumption~29W (typical) without BUC
BUC Power Supply24VDC (90-100W), 48VDC (150-180W)
LNB Support13/18 VDC with 10 MHz reference tone
ManagementSNMP, Telnet, CLI, Web Interface, Front Panel
Size (W x D x H)19” x 16” x 1.75” (48.3 x 40.6 x 4.4 cm)
Weight7.2 - 8.5 lbs (3.27 – 3.86 kg)
Operating Temp.0 to +50°C
Storage Temp.-25 to +85°C
Humidity5% to 90% non-condensing
CertificationsCE, FCC Part 15, RoHS

With Field Application Software Transformations (FAST), the CDM-570AL can be enhanced with the following:

  • Higher Data Rates (up to 10.239 Mbps)
  • Advanced Modulations (8PSK, 16-QAM)
  • DoubleTalk Carrier-in-Carrier
  • Adaptive Coding & Modulation
  • Turbo Product Coding (TPC)
  • G.703 clock extension
  • Enhanced IP Processing (QoS, compression)

Conclusion

The Comtech CDM-570AL Satellite Modem is the ultimate solution for anyone requiring reliable, efficient, and scalable satellite communication. Its combination of cutting-edge modulation techniques, robust error correction, and innovative bandwidth-saving technologies like DoubleTalk Carrier-in-Carrier® make it a cornerstone in modern satellite infrastructure.

For industries that depend on always-on, always-optimized connectivity — this modem delivers. And it’s not just the performance; it’s the flexibility, the upgradeability, and the long-term ROI that make the CDM-570AL stand out.


At VSATPlus, we provide direct access to the latest and most advanced satellite communication equipment on the market. The Comtech CDM-570AL is available now, and our team is ready to help you configure it to your unique application.

👉 Order now from VSATPlus
📞 Need support or guidance? Contact our experts at sales@vsatplus.com

Let us help you bring your network to the next level.

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