VSAT EQUIPMENT

This can encompass a broad spectrum of components. Typically the satellite VSAT equipment includes everything from the antenna to the satellite modem, basically everything needed in order to complete the connection. This would entail an antenna, up to 2.4m, BUC, LNB and satellite modem. The type of service selected with affect this as well. There are a number of manufacturers including iDirect, Comtech, Paradise, Prodelin, AVL, Norsat, NJR, Mitec and Agilis. The exact remote VSAT equipment will be determined by the satellite service provider. There are additional items that might be of interest including switches, wireless gear, VoIP devices and webcams.

With consider of the locations which require VSAT internet equipment, it is important to ensure there isn’t anything missing that would cause any delay in connectivity. Communication is difficult enough in most remote areas, without having issues with parts or pieces of your VSAT equipment not fitting together correctly. Without prior knowledge to VSAT equipment, determining compatibility would be difficult. How does everything connect? How is it powered? Does it need a gasket? These are all important questions when ordering satellite VSAT equipment, and even more importantly when it’s going to a remote location to be installed.

In addition to the required equipment there are additional considerations. Shipping freight such as satellite antennas requires special handling and attention. What about customs paperwork and export licenses? Do you have all the connectors and cables you need to connect your laptop to the modem? Do you have the firmware and/or options file needed? These are details you should feel comfortable with your VSAT and service provider ensuring are done and done correctly.

Who do you trust to provide your equipment VSAT?

VSAT NETWORK

What is a VSAT Network?
A VSAT network is a broad term that can be used to describe a range of VSAT networking. These networks consist of a teleport, satellite and remote VSAT systems. These VSAT networks can be complex or simple, public or private. VSAT networks are

• Flexible
• Reliable
• Efficient
• Diverse
• Versatile

The most common VSAT network is a shared service platform. This would use the hub to communicate with the remote VSAT systems at locations within the satellite beam. The hub would then provide the IP or fiber backhaul. It is capable of handling a high number of remote sites

• Star topology
• TDMA
• MFTDMA
• FTDMA
• DAMA
• Point to point or SCPC
• Point to multipoint

The basic principle behind VSAT network services is that the teleport is used to connect to IP or fiber backhaul, combined with satellite space. A remote VSAT makes a request for information, a phone number, IP address, webpage or a file. This information is sent to the satellite, received by the hub, processed and retrieved. The file, page or connection is then sent to the satellite and then back to the remote location which requested it.

VSAT systems are developed specifically for the remote requirements. They are determined by link budget analysis based on the service type, data rate and location. These can be built around existing equipment as well. Ask us if your system is compatible with our services!

NOT ALL VSAT PROVIDERS ARE CREATED EQUAL.

With the remote locations that require satellite service, just getting there can be a battle, something seemingly small, a missing screw or rusted connector, could mean avoidable unnecessary downtime. Where are you going to run for the piece you need, hardware store? Your VSAT provider should have thought of all the little things so you don’t need to know the engineering of the VSAT. We have developed our VSAT solution around this understanding and have accommodated for a range of potential issues. Let’s face it, no one is perfect, things get missed, we just offer a buffer to make sure if it does it doesn’t cause downtime. This is a part of what has set us aside as a VSAT provider.

As the demand for satellite service grows, so does the number of providers of VSAT services. Beware, not all VSAT service providers are equal. There are many manufacturers of satellite modem technology and even more satellite service providers. Each manages, or doesn’t manage, their networks to meet different standards and criteria. There are also differences in the abilities of the modems. All these details are important to discuss with your VSAT provider. We chose technologies because they were and continue to be, the most advanced and efficient. With the required investment in the gear, no one wants to have to switch VSAT service providers once there is finally access to the internet because there are typically expenses involved in changing some part of the equipment or possibly new activation fees. We do our best to ensure this will never be the case. We take a hands on approach to customer support on all levels, this is why we excel as a VSAT provider. Understanding the project scope and unique needs has allowed us to meet and exceed expectations as a VSAT service provider. We intend to keep this reputation.

In order to maintain, we continue to strive to be efficient and effective. This must be the case at all levels from a VSAT provider with all necessary components and connectors, to monitoring the freight to ensure no avoidable delays to a smooth service activation and personalized customer service and support through the entire life of the service.

What do you expect out of your VSAT provider? What do you expect from your VSAT services?