By Jon Douglas
Over the years, satellite networks have undergone a number of transformations. Historically, satellite was used as a last resort when no other telecommunications service was available. Satellite has adopted next-generation protocols to support new applications such as VoIP, two-way video or virtually any IP application. Currently, satellite is part of a new generation of communications solutions and provides a reliable, secure and cost-effective network solution with 99.9-percent availability. The technology offers faster speeds, advanced functionality and support for new applications compared with past satellite services.
The new generation of satellite networks combines IP telephony with a number of advantages inherent to satellite transmission for a unique set of user benefits. Satellite communications provides one of the most efficient means of transmitting and receiving across a large geographic area. A single satellite transmission can cover all of North and South America, for instance. This ability to multicast information from a single point is a fast and efficient way to deliver one or multiple messages to large groups across a widely dispersed area. Because only one copy of a packet needs to traverse a link, it’s also a more cost-effective method to deliver information to a large number of users. Satellite also insures there is only one network to manage; other options with comparable footprints likely require multiple terrestrial connectivity vendors. Satellite is also unique in its ability to quickly establish a broadband network virtually anywhere and isn’t susceptible to damage of physical lines or cables like terrestrial options are.
The ability to deliver communications capabilities anywhere independent of terrestrial assets makes satellite a key component of connectivity in rural areas for mobile users, as well as emergency communications or first responders. Satellite networks are no longer a compromise between geographic reach and functionality; they are fully integrated IP networks able to support critical applications anywhere users require them. Advances in satellite technology make the transport completely transparent to users and allow network operators to extend the edge of their networks seamlessly without constraints from geography or existing network infrastructure.
In the past, satellite networking and very small aperture terminal (VSAT) satellite technology in particular, was seen as limited in capabilities. Satellite services offer organizations a reliable, secure and cost-effective network solution with near 100 percent availability to support even the most remote locations. The latest generation of satellite services support converged voice, video and data applications; deliver less than 1-second response times; and offer built-in network redundancy for high availability. Satellite networks support advanced communications including VoIP, radio backhaul and virtual private network (VPN) Internet access. Following are advantages of the latest generation of satellite technology.
1. Inexpensive. As VSAT services become more widespread, prices have reduced dramatically. Service providers can pass on cost savings from economies of scale, improved functionality and new service models. For example, many service providers offer shared-hub services, enabling customers to use VSAT networks without investing in a more costly private hub solution. In addition, satellite is often less expensive than landline alternatives, especially in expansive geographic footprints where large amounts of traffic can be aggregated.
2. Faster Speeds. A few years ago, VSAT could only provide low-speed communications, and the slow channels were not efficient. The latest generation of VSATs can provide higher and more efficient speeds, essential for demanding networking requirements, especially when it comes to applications such as two-way videoconferencing, VoIP and other real-time applications with higher bit-rate requirements.
3. Remote Monitoring. In the past, some VSAT software needed to be installed on a PC. But customers currently have access to full routers that use embedded hardware and feature more memory, higher CPU, faster speeds and support high-speed encryption. At the hub, the base-band equipment controls the satellite transmission and interfaces with the customer’s data equipment. A user-friendly network management system (NMS) provides centralized monitoring and control, using statistics, alarms, network configuration and report generation. As a result, updates to the VSAT and troubleshooting can be done more easily and cost effectively.
4. Easy Integration. Satellite communications systems are easier than ever before to integrate into existing IT infrastructures. For example, Cisco Systems’ VSAT network module is essentially a satellite modem on a card that can easily be slipped into the routers already at a location. And because the satellite software is integrated into the router’s operating system, any Cisco-certified network engineer can manage the satellite link — just like any other IP connection.
5. Flexible Service Models. Recent innovations in technology enable providers to offer more flexible VSAT service models, including usage-based and part-time services. These services enable cost-effective backup connectivity for mission-critical communications. Customers pay a reduced flat-rate monthly usage fee lower than full-time services with the option to purchase additional usage on a site-by-site basis. Backup can be tracked by daily usage hours, and the megabytes transferred can track multicast distribution.
6. Diverse Services on a Single Platform. In the past, VSATs supported a limited number of applications, such as data versus telephony services, and customers were required to purchase multiple VSAT systems to widen communications solutions. Now VSAT can integrate a wide range of solutions on a single hub system and VSAT terminal. A single system supports broadband Internet access, VoIP, videoconferencing and IP multicast.
7. Flexible Deployments. Advances in transportable satellite communications systems have enabled mobile solutions that support faster deployments, advanced applications and more cost-effective offerings. Services can be integrated into many form factors, including vehicle-portable mounts that can be set up in less than five minutes with the push of a button.
8. Overcoming Line of Site. Typically, a completely clear line of sight between the dish and the satellite in the sky is required for a system to work. However, new standards in wireless LAN (WLAN) communications have enabled increased flexibility with satellite line of sight. Currently, satellite can be integrated with new wireless technologies (802.11 and 802.16), decreasing the need for terminals to be at an immediate line-of-site location.
9. Diminished Latency. Latency is the time it takes for a packet of data to get from one point to another. In older satellite generations, latency caused long delays. In new-generation satellite, advanced packet acceleration technologies help diminish the effects of latency.
10. Barriers to Rain Fade. Rain fade occurs when heavy or freezing rain absorbs the RF signal radiated from a satellite hub or antenna. The signal strength is a function of two factors: dish size and transmitter power. Older generation satellites used lower-power systems. New, high-power systems with larger dishes and adaptive link control technologies protect against rain fade.
Improvements in satellite communications have been dramatic. VSATs have always been recognized for their ability to be easily deployed to thousands of sites anywhere in the world, and current VSATs offer more benefits. The dominance of IP and new bidirectional services make VSAT services more appealing to a wider audience, and the increase in usage has lowered the price, making it a more affordable alternative than in the past.
Jon Douglas is director of marketing for Spacenet and brings more than 15 years of marketing communications expertise in the telecommunications and IT sectors. Prior to joining Spacenet, Douglas directed all global strategic marketing initiatives for Aruba Networks’ public sector division. E-mail comments to editor@RRMediaGroup.com.
