WHAT IS VSAT

VSAT stands for "Very Small Aperture Terminal" and refers to receive/transmit terminals installed at dispersed sites connecting to central hub via satellite using small diameter antenna dishes (0.6 to 3.8 meter). VSAT technology represents a cost effective solution for users seeking an independent communications network connecting a large number of geographically dispersed sites. VSAT networks offer value-added satellite-based services capable of supporting the Internet, data, LAN, voice/fax communications, and can provide, dependable private and public network communications solutions.

IS THERE AN ADVANTAGE OF VSAT OVER CABLE

When it comes down to cost, making general comparisons between VSAT services and their terrestrial equivalents is almost impossible. Charges for terrestrial services are nearly always distance-dependent, while VSAT connections cost the same whether sites are 1 or 1,000 miles apart. And with most VSAT services, the cost per connection comes down considerably when a customer adds users.

Installation:

A satellite network can be installed and operational in a matter of weeks, since there are not countless miles of wire to be installed. Geography: Versatile satellite networks provide the capability to span rain forests, deserts, and mountainous terrain, or connecting remote islands locations. Bandwidth: Satellite networks offer bandwidth advantages that provide a bigger “pipe” for transmitting video, voice, and data. WHAT THE BOTTOM LINE VSAT networks provide an efficient, cost effective method for reliable distribution of data through a multiple site organization, regardless of location.  

HOW DOES A NETWORK LOOK LIKE

VSAT networks come in various shapes and sizes ranging from point to point, point to multipoint, and on demand for thousands of site. Mesh systems have traditionally been somewhat smaller in size than star systems to 30 sites used to be good rule of thumb but since prices have come down, some networks now comprise as many as several hundred or even thousands of sites.

WHAT KIND OF COMPANIES USE VSAT

Oil exploration companies, car dealership, gas stations, lottery systems, banks, insurance companies, drug stores, general stores, supermarket, health care companies, manufacturers, couriers, hotel chains, car rental businesses, food manufacturers, heavy industries, mines, electrical utilities, oil and gas pipelines, energy production and exploration, timber companies, plantation, various government departments and agencies.