VSAT Technology for Maritime Communications
Narrowband and broadband data are transmitted via VSATs, including point of sale, RFID, and SCADA data, as well as satellite internet access, VoIP, and video. Maritime VSAT services use Ku-band and C-band for commercial purposes, with satellites located at GEO orbital location. Steady antennas are needed for tracking ship and satellite movement, and stabilized VSAT antennas with circular domes of 2.4 meters or less in diameter are used. VSAT antennas range from 75 cm to 1.2 m with data rates from 4 kbit/s up to 16 Mbit/s. Sharing bandwidth between ships is traditional, but it can lead to data loss. For large data communications in offshore, exploration, cruise or ferry segments, VSAT provides guaranteed bandwidth, making it essential technology.