VSAT Internet Connection

 

 

VSAT stands for very small aperture terminal. It is a small-sized earth station used to transmit and receive data, voice, and video signals over a satellite communication network; however, it is not used to broadcast television. A VSAT comprises two components: an external transceiver with a clear line of sight to the satellite and an inside device that connects the outdoor transceiver to the end user's communications device, such as a PC. An external satellite transponder receives or receives a signal from the transceiver. A ground VSAT is a two-way, low-cost, advanced satellite communication technology that transfers data from one station to another station on the Earth by accessing the satellite in the geostationary and geosynchronous orbits around the planet. VSATs are used to transmit narrowband as well as broadband data and also for maritime communication purposes.

VSAT satellite is a dual-way ground station with a small antenna to transmit and receive data to and from the satellite orbiting the Earth. It is used by home users and big and small private companies as VSAT offers several advantages over other terrestrial alternatives.

Components of VSAT

A VSAT system usually consists of the following two components:

  • The outdoor unit, which consists of- a dish antenna, block up-converter (BUC), low noise block downconverter (LNB), and Ortho Mode Transducer (OMT), is placed in direct line of sight to the satellite outdoors.

  • The indoor unit consists of a satellite modem and IP routers that connect to the end user's device.

VSAT Working Principle

VSAT works on the principle of satellite communication. There is a Central Office also called the HUB station. The HUB station is connected to all the End Users via satellite. The HUB station controls the communication between all the End Users.

How are the signals sent and received?

A VSAT user needs a box that interfaces between the user’s system, i.e., computer, TV, or any other device, and an outside antenna with a transceiver.

  • The transceiver receives or sends signals to a transponder placed on the satellite in orbit.

  • The satellite then sends and receives these signals from an earth station called the HUB station of the VSAT system.

  • All the end users are interconnected through the HUB station via the satellite.

  • The end users can communicate with each other only through the HUB station.

  • Every transmission first goes to the HUB station, which transmits via the satellite to the desired end user.

Types of VSAT

VSAT has applications in two-way satellite communication that does not teleport to earth stations. VSAT generally is classified into four types listed below:

Marine VSAT

  • Marine VSAT is used for maritime communication purposes at distant seas.

  • These are gyroscopically stabilized VSATs. It helps the movement of boats or ships. It does not affect the precision of the VSAT antenna.

  • Marine VSAT antennas are placed in a special fiberglass radome to prevent the antenna from the windy and harsh environmental conditions at sea,

Vehicle Mounted Mobile VSAT

  • Their size varies from 0.75 m to 1.2 m, which can cater to almost all commercial requirements.

  • Vehicle Mounted Mobile VSAT allows the quick establishment of on-screen voice, video, and data communications. Used commonly by emergency management professionals like Media houses.

  • These VSATs are so agile that they can be deployed in minutes with the push of a single button on the automatic satellite controller located in the vehicle.

Fixed VSAT

  • Fixed VSAT can be installed in various ways, like nonpenetrating roof mounts, ridge mounts, and a steel pole buried in concrete.

  • They are commonly used for local-level broadcasting.

  • Fixed VSATs are the best and sometimes the only way to bring communication services to remote and underdeveloped areas.

  • A fixed VSAT antenna should be installed in a location having a clear view of the southern sky.

Functions of VSAT
VSAT usually functions in the C, Ku, and Ka frequency bands, and the data flow rate is between 4 KBPS to 16 MBPS. Its primary function is establishing a private and secure fast communication system to send and receive data, including voice and video calls. 

  • VSAT technology bridges the digital divide and provides connectivity to underserved rural areas.

  • VSAT systems are used to establish reliable data communication networks over large distances. 

  • They enable the transmission and reception of data, including internet connectivity, between remote locations and the central hub. 

  • VSAT technology supports voice communication services, including telephony and voice over IP (VoIP) applications. 

  • VSAT systems can transmit video content, making them suitable for video conferencing, surveillance, and broadcasting applications.

  • VSAT is crucial in providing internet connectivity to areas with limited or unavailable terrestrial infrastructure.

  • VSAT systems are used to monitor and control equipment, devices, and systems remotely. 

  • VSAT networks are resilient and can be quickly deployed in emergencies or areas affected by natural disasters. 

  • VSAT systems can be mounted on mobile platforms such as vehicles, ships, and aircraft to provide communication capabilities. 

Finally

At present, VSAT technology offers consumers quality and comfort and can be a game changer in the communication field in remote areas. It also has a low per unit cost, provides immediate global coverage for hard-to-reach locations, and is economical. But at the same time, the latency issue is a significant concern. It should be addressed with innovation and technical knowledge to make VSAT more reliable and valuable and can also play a crucial role in making Digital India Mission a success.
 
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