Satellite Broadband Explained

If you live in a remote area of Australia, then you may already be familiar with satellite broadband. For most urban users, broadband arrives through a cable, usually the existing telephone cable network, but in remote areas where cables are not possible, satellites have provided internet capability for a while. The popularity of satellite broadband is increasing, for a variety of reasons.

Satellite broadband

Satellite broadband is exactly what the name suggests; broadband that is provided by geostationary satellites (satellites that are in a constant position relative to Earth). It works much like wireless, in that signals are bounced from earth to satellites, then to the end user's receiver (computer). Some of the features of satellite broadband include;

• Satellite broadband connections are fast, as there are no cabling issues to slow transmission
• They are currently mainly used for remote rural areas where cable broadband is an impossibility, However, in recent years the cost of satellite broadband has decreased to the point where it is becoming a real option for many people, and more providers are offering it
• There are currently only a few providers offering satellite, but the range is increasing constantly. It is predicted to be available at a competitive rate to land based broadband in the near future.

There are a number of factors that can interfere with satellite broadband, and certain terrestrial features may limit the type or reliability of satellite broadband in your area.

• Rain Fade is a phenomenon in which the signals are slowed down by heavy precipitation on Earth. Areas which receive heavy precipitation generally rely on the lower frequency 'L' and 'C' bandwidths (which travel through precipitation and heavy cloud more reliably) for their satellite broadband
• Signal latency describes the lag time between a signal leaving Earth, bouncing off the satellite, and hitting the user's computer. This time is longer in satellite broadband than terrestrial types because the signal has to travel over 35,000kms into space and back again!
• Satellite broadband also relies on a clear 'line of sight', as the signal may experience interference from objects such as trees and hills

If you are interested in receiving satellite broadband, contact your local provider to find out whether it is available in your area, and to negotiate the best plan for your needs.

Satellite Broadband options

Satellite broadband is an option worth considering, particularly if you live in or spend some time in remote areas. The beauty of it is that it is available in areas where cables could never reach, and may suit travellers for this reason. Contact your service provider to discover whether the cost and availability of satellite broadband make it a realistic option for your needs.