What is VSAT?

VSAT stands for Very Small Aperture Terminal – it’s a catchy acronym and as such it has been adopted by all for every type of satellite product from small components of a system to complete systems. Because the term really hinges around the small size of the antenna it has been used to describe both one-way and interactive systems. Typically, interactive Ku-band antenna sizes range from 75 centimetres to 1.8 metres. One way systems can use antennas as small as 45 centimetres.

Who uses VSAT?

VSAT is used by anyone in rural and remote areas. Car dealerships, gas stations, lottery systems, banks, insurance companies, pharmacies, general stores, supermarkets, healthcare 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, plantations, various government departments and agencies… and any others you can think of. Satellite internet can reach nearly any place on Earth!

What are the site requirements for a VSAT installation?

Depending on site location within the satellite’s footprint, a dish will normally be between 1.2m and 4.5m diameter and mounted on a flat roof or solid base. Suitable space and strength will be required to hold the dish, and line of sight with the satellite is necessary.

An external mains power source is required for the ODU. The Indoor Unit requires a stable mains power supply and suitable dry location. The customer will be fully advised to the exact requirements upon successful survey.

Who can install the VSAT system?

The terminal has to be installed by a certified installer. Indeed special skills for installing and commissioning are needed, which go well beyond the installation of a satellite reception-only system.

What is a star VSAT network?

This form of star network allows any number of VSAT sites to have two-way communication with a central hub. Juch-Tech Inc. uses this for all satellite internet services it provides.

What is a point to point VSAT network?

A point to point network allows two-way communications between two VSAT sites.

What is one-way satellite?

One way systems rely on a transmitting station which transmits one or more carriers to the satellite which re-broadcasts the signal over its coverage area. All receive-only VSATs under the satellite footprint can then receive the signal or the user/operator is able to define groups of VSATs from one to all on the network. Broadcast systems are used for data and audio. The most popular application for data is the transmission of financial feeds