Network upgrade involving VCSM technology by ViaSat
Latest network expansion supports mariners with faster, affordable broadband service in important shipping and oil and gas regions.
In the latest stage of its ongoing expansion of the global mini-VSAT Broadbandsm network, KVH Industries, has more than doubled the network’s capacity in the Brazilian and African regions. The ongoing global network upgrade involves deployment of Variable Coding, Spreading, and Modulation (VCSM) technology provided by ViaSat, KVH’s partner in the mini-VSAT Broadband network. This is the third major capacity increase in less than five months, following upgrades in the Caribbean and EMEA regions in late 2012.
“Brazil and Africa are key regions for our customer base, as they are important for both the shipping and oil and gas industries,” explains Brent Bruun, executive vice president of KVH’s mobile broadband group. “The new VCSM technology enables us to handle transmissions much more efficiently, increasing the amount of data that our network can carry, which is important for both safety and business operations onboard. Thanks to our unique, end-to-end design, we can upgrade the software for our large base of fielded TracPhone? V-series systems over the air. This is a future-proof solution that we will continue to improve, adding new features and network enhancements that provide tangible benefits to mini-VSAT Broadband subscribers.“
Currently, the mini-VSAT Broadband network uses 17 leased transponders to cover the globe with a unique hybrid network including both C-band and Ku-band coverage. As KVH’s customer base grows, the company plans to lease additional capacity covering exactly the areas of the world where it is needed.
“Brazil’s importance as an oil and gas producing region is increasing rapidly, and the global shipping industry is in dire need of reliable communications throughout the African region to help combat piracy and ensure the safety of crew members,” said Mr. Bruun. “KVH’s solution provides outstanding communications for all of these mariners, with downloads as fast as 4 Mbps and uploads as fast as 1 Mbps, as well as crystal clear Voice over IP (VoIP) telephone lines with optimized service and prioritization of applications. Expanding network capacity in these regions is the most recent illustration of our commitment to delivering services that mariners need, when and where they need them, in the most convenient way possible.“
Source and Image Credit: KVH
