Satellite

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This article covers the practical aspects of wireless access to the Internet via Satellite.

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Introduction to Satellite Internet

Satellite Internet comes in two flavors:

• One-way systems use a conventional Internet link (usually telephone) for upload and the satellite link for high-speed download.
• Two-way systems add a transmitter to the satellite modem and upload via the satellite.

Satellite speeds are typically in the 0.5 to 2.0 Mbps range for download, and approximately 1/10th of the download speed for upload in a two-way system. In addition, there is about a 400 millisecond latency involved in sending a signal from a base-station to a satellite and back to Earth. Consequently, satellite connections aren't fully competitive with other home broadband Internet options.

Discussion Groups

• Newsgroup [news:alt.satellite.internet alt.satellite.internet] (all Satellite Internet)
  • Google access to alt.satellite.internet
• Newsgroup [news:alt.satellite.direcpc alt.satellite.direcpc] (specific to HughesNet/DirecWay/DirecPC)
  • Google access to alt.satellite.direcpc

HughesNet (formerly DirecWay, DirecPC)

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Connection Types

4000 Series modems

These modems are used for both one- and two-way links. They require a connection to a Windows computer.

DW6000 modem

These modems are bidirectional. They are configured through an internal web server, and so may be connected to any computer or network. The modem provides an integrated DHCP server and router. There have been some complaints that throughputs are actually slower than with the 4000 modems, though this is not universal. The added value of the internal router for home or small business networking makes them a better choice than a 4000 modem in almost every case.

DW7000 modem

Similar to the DW6000, the 7000 modems promise higher throughput and uplink speed.

Starband

• Home Page
• Resellers
  • Portable Satellites For Less

STARBAND NOVA

Always On, Satellite Broadband Internet Access - Faster and More Affordable Than Ever!

The new StarBand Nova Series provides cost-effective satellite connectivity for residential and small office/home office (SOHO) customers nationwide. StarBand Nova services use VSAT technology a generation ahead of the previous 480 series to deliver faster speeds and improved service quality for reduced prices. Engineered using Spacenet's experience providing mission-critical enterprise and government networks, the StarBand Nova services are aimed at users looking for higher reliability, professional-grade broadband Internet connection that is still affordable for home and small office users.

The new Nova modem is the first consumer grade satellite modem with a native 24VDC or 120VAC power input making it the perfect modem for remote solar off grid applications. It uses a low 2.8 amps @ 24VDC (actually that's only it's name plate rating it uses a lot less than that, especially when idle and not transmitting).

Wild Blue

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