Category: Blog

Industrial control systems generate huge amounts of data, traditionally monitored by information technology personnel. The introduction of BGAN M2M communication has made possible increased automation of monitoring and settings changes in supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems used in factories, large office buildings, water and electrical utility systems and oil and gas pipelines and installations.

This automation can alleviate the necessity for often expensive and arduous travel to remote locations. BGAN M2M applications can link smart meters to a utility grid, collect oil well data, monitor the condition of oil and natural gas pipelines or communicate the equipment state of a wind farm to a central location. The increased flow of data allows a pre-emptive and pro-active approach to equipment maintenance which can only favor increased safety and security.

The BGAN network extends the reach of M2M communication to the entire globe, even to very remote locations where the communications infrastructure has failed or never existed. The BGAN satellite network offers simultaneous voice and data connections and covers the whole planet, except for its polar regions. This extensive coverage makes BGAN M2M devices ideal for disaster response and telemedicine programs, as well as for news coverage and business continuity after natural disasters and during periods of political unrest, when communications outages are likely.

Unlike previously bulky satellite terminals, BGAN’s highly portable receivers are rarely larger or heavier than a laptop and are extremely simple to install, point and activate. A Sky News correspondent used the BGAN Satellite network to cover the fall of Tripoli in August 2011, for example, much of it while in motion and from the back of a truck. Shipboard installations are also possible, and specialized BGAN M2M receivers exist as well for use in aircraft, overcoming the problems that doppler shifts pose for traditional receivers.

BGAN M2M models offer features specifically geared to SCADA installations, for instance automatic restart in the event of a power outage, keep-alive link supervision to maintain data connections even for periods of inactivity as long as 12 hours, and auto context activation allowing static orDHCP connections over either TCP or UDP networks. An optional battery provides power backup if needed.

BGAN M2M receivers do require a line of sight to one of the three I-4 geostationary satellites, most likely from out of doors. Assuming the user already knows the general direction of the satellite, a connection typically only requires about two minutes, one for experienced users. In addition, BGAN M2M receivers are ruggedly built and designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.

BGAN M2M devices can minimize travel needs for data collection and management, allowing information technology personnel to focus on the broader picture and implement planned maintenance strategies. Onsite personnel can transmit and receive data after only minimal training, improving communications with off-grid and other remote location. Field personnel like mining engineers and rescue workers can get information to base in a more timely manner, improving operational efficiency and the likelihood of desired outcomes.

Certainly the BGAN M2M along with the Inmarsat network deserves a look from any organization that operates in backcountry and remote locations, both from the point of view of safety and improved operational efficiencies.

Broadband Global Area Network (BGAN) satellite terminals provide an effective meansof communication to remote locations where terrestrial connectivity may prove inefficient or inaccessible for use in such locales. Although BGAN devices are promoted for use in areas with underdeveloped or nonexistent telecommunications, these devices are also invaluable in situations that require prompt establishment of contact between those within the field and the base of operations. The following offers ten excellent reasons why BGAN satellite terminals are suitable for industries and organizations that rely on remote site monitoring and management of networks and equipment.

-BGAN satellite terminals offer reliable voice and data communication links between remote locations at a lower cost than other forms of terrestrial communication.

-BGAN devices can be configured to collect and transmit data for remote monitoring applications, as well as transmit command and control instructions to offsite equipment. Remote access can be facilitated without expending personnel or other valuable resources.

-Service coverage for a BGAN device extends globally, with exception to the poles. Maritime communication is also available via BGAN, with some limitations.

-BGAN terminals are built to operate under a wide variety of adverse weather conditions, providing reliable connectivity even in the most extreme weather.

-External battery devices allow the BGAN satellite terminal to continue operation after it loses its main power source in the field.

-BGAN terminals feature a compact form factor that allow for a greater degree of versatility regarding the placement of these devices. This compact form also allows for greater ease of deployment, as installers no longer have to deal with bulky equipment during the deployment process.

-Setup of a BGAN terminal only takes a matter of minutes to complete, making these devices valuable for disaster response, military operations and other applications where prompt deployment is critical. Many BGAN devices can connect to a nearby satellite signal and attain full connectivity with just the push of a button.

-BGAN terminals offer the fastest speeds of any satellite-based global data link, with a lower latency than most other systems.

-Users can connect to their BGAN satellite terminal using a wide array of devices, including Bluetooth, USB and Ethernet cables. Some terminals are also equipped to handle ISDN telephone calls, faxes and SMS text messages.

-The cost of purchasing and owning a BGAN terminal makes it worthwhile for organizations with strict fiscal budgets. BGAN Satellite terminals do not require a heavy initial investment, nor do they require expensive upkeep.

BGAN satellite terminals are a cost effective and flexible method of monitoring and communicating with remote work sites where ordinary terrestrial communications are simply not an option. Those within the oil, utility, mining and defense industries, as well as disaster response, telemedicine and world travelers have experienced the benefits of utilizing BGAN Satellite Communication Technology for effective and reliable communications in remote places around the world.

Race team uses connectivity to tackle the elements in the Solar Challenge.

National pride was at stake when students from the University Of New South Wales (UNSW) took their solar powered vehicle tom the ultimate test. Equipped with nothing more than a BGAN Satellite and an IsatPhone Pro, they drove 3,000km across the unforgiving Outback.

The drive was all part of the World Solar Challenge in which 37 teams, representing 20 different countries, made the trek from Darwin to Adelaide.

The partnership team with Sunswift IV

Addcom Contact Solutions were on board to support the solar efforts of UNSW’s Sunswift Team. Addcom provides Inmarsat services as solutions for businesses across the country.

The state-of-the-art vehicular terminal was comprised of a pair of IsatPhone Pro satellite phones, generously provided by Addcom, as well as an Addvalue Wideye Safari land vehicular BGAN terminal. Those items added a real touch of technology to the Sunswift IV carbon fibre vehichle.

Those additions were not just for show though, and were put in place to provide internet access and voice calls that were critical to running the race. This is especially true when you consider that 3G networks are virtually nowhere to be found in the Australian Outback.

The equipment was so efficient the team was able to stay connected even at speeds of up to 100km/h.

The Sunswift team used BGAN terminals to access a supercomputer located at the UNSW. From there they were able to access hourly weather data that helped them attain top speeds without killing their battery.

Other BGAN Satellite uses included Keeping race followers updated via social media, and Updating their web-based Sunswift Live map which allowed fans to track the team’s exact location

They were also able to use the IsatPhone Pro to keep in contact with their support team and the race HQ.

All the teams were forced to battle dust storms, bush fires and extreme temperatures. By the time it was all over only 7 of the original 37 teams made it to the end, with Sunswift taking sixth position.

Robert Lewis, national channel manager at Addcom Contact Solutions praised the team and the technology they used. He claimed that it was a credit to both that they were able to finish the races despite cloudy skies and temperature changes, pointing out that the data that the Sunswift team was able to download played a major part in their success.

The Satellite Optimizer Hotspot is a new product that might revolutionize the satellite communication industry. Far too many times we have wanted to slam our faces into the desk in desperation when things just wouldn’t load quickly enough. Fortunately, the satellite optimizer hotspot has introduced a whole new level of innovation. The benefits are endless. The whole concept just might be the greatest thing since sliced bread!

To begin with, the satellite optimizer hotspot practically travels at the speed of light. Your web browsing experience can load up to 3-5 times faster when in use with the product. Along with this, email can be accessed about 20 times faster than it would with a standard network. With all this speed and optimization, up to 85% of your airtime bill can be saved!

To begin with, the satellite optimizer hotspot practically travels at the speed of light. Your web browsing experience can load up to 3-5 times faster when in use with the product. Along with this, email can be accessed about 20 times faster than it would with a standard network. With all this speed and optimization, up to 85% of your airtime bill can be saved!

In addition, The Satellite Optimizer Hotspot can be used with satellite phones such as the IsatPhone Pro, the Iridium 9505A, and the Iridium 9555. It can also be used with certain types of devices via BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network.) BGAN is a global satellite network that operates through terminals, which are portable, reliable, and efficient. The Satellite Optimizer Hotspot uses BGAN to the advantage of its user, enhancing it for incredible speed and liability. When using BGAN through these kinds of handhelds with the hotspot, the odds of dropping calls is significantly reduced. There is no doubt that the Satellite Optimizer Hotspot has the advantage when it comes to convenience and stabilization.

Also, the Satellite Optimizer Hotspot can also be used globally with maritime services such as FleetBroadband. The service is cost-efficient, using a compact antenna to connect with satellites. The Optimizer Hotspot is not only used for luxury, though. It can be used in the time of emergency. There are phone tracking stations available such as MSAT-G2 (which is provided by various organizations), that feature a dispatch push to talk option via satellite. Through these stations, you can communicate through a reliable connection when networks on land are unavailable.

In times of need, you can be assured a stable method of communication. Who knows- the Satellite Optimizer Hotspot might just save your life!
All in all, the Satellite Optimizer Hotspot is an extraordinary, innovative product. It is the solution to enraging lag, pricey bills, and so much more! So what are you waiting for? Call ISS for more information today, you don’t want to miss out on this technology.

On many vessels in this day and age communication in offshore waters is essential to the smooth function of the ship. The Oceana 800 helps simplify this ease of remote communications by providing a efficient, fast, easy way to communicate via satellite an all-in-one IP54 maritime interface. It’s adaptable to take anywhere from two to five corded/cordless phone or integration into a PABX system which also includes built-in intelligence to support standard ring, busy, and dial tones via an intelligent RJ11/POT interface. The Oceana 800 provides options for Bluetooth capabilities, as well as a full color LCD screen for easy viewing of information such as phone numbers stored on the device. The system includes up to 2000ft of cabling so placing it on hard to reach places such as lower decks isn’t a problem. Ease of installation means that even the least technically savvy individual can install this system.

This satellite phone comes equipped with a internal SIM for easy storage of phone numbers and SMS messages as well as a secondary SIM socket for easy transfer of information that overrides the internal memory. It also includes such amenities such as hands-free speaker phone, wall-mounting, USB data ports, and a privacy handset. This phone is aimed at larger vessels such as cargo haulers or pleasure ships but even in the smallest fishing ship could find it’s use invaluable. This all-in-on system operates with Inmarsat “Fleetphone” telephony service that includes a dedicated marine class antenna system for instant use at anytime.

Fleet calls are as low as 55 cents per minute which incorporate 505 emergency calling, a complete set location tracking information as well as periodic location messaging (including heading, speed, and speed) with the ability to send and receive e-mails via the LCD screen by using an intergrated GPS engine system. The system helps provide crews with an additional safety net when operating on the high seas by allowing communication with emergency services when out of the range of terrestrial services such as land-based cellular towers that provides an unprecedented reliability in ship-based communications that can save your life in the event of an emergency.

Overall this phone provides excellent value (only retailing 2,300 USD)for a wide-range of applications and uses. From the smallest tug to the largest freighter the Oceana 800 has a place and use on any vessel with value that’s pretty unprecedented in phones of it’s class.

Broadband Global Area Network (BGAN) is a broadband satellite internet network providing connectivity via portable and fixed terminals. International Satellite Services, Inc is introducing the BGAN 9502 satellite IP solution. The BGAN 9502 provides real-time high-speed access for fixed locations through the Inmarsat service. This BGAN 9502 Satellite terminal is best suited for Machine to Machine (M2M), Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) specifically designed for TCP-IP applications.

The BGAN 9502 Satellite SCADA terminal is ideal for applications in environmental monitoring, video surveillance, Smart Meter, pipeline monitoring, compressor monitoring and any other projects which involve communication with remote assets. This terminal is power consumption friendly as it only draws 3 – 4 watts for an always open TCP-IP network connection. In idle or hibernation mode the terminal’s power consumption can be as low as 0.01 watts. Given that most of these applications are located in remote locations, power consumption is a major priority. With this model, it is easy to use solar power which can be installed at a very low cost to power the device.

Apart from savings in power consumption, the airtime costs are specific to SCADA applications and competitive with terrestrial service plans. Unlike other service providers where connection charges include overhead from registering and other network costs, this service is only billed according to actual data transferred.

Installation of the 9502 is quite easy especially given that no technical expertise is needed to establish connection with the stationary Geo-satellites. Any experienced technician can set-up the system. The only requirement is that the antennae is placed out in the open. Connection to the satellite is established when the antennae is positioned relative to the location of the satellite. The installer will hear an audible sound and the faster the beeps, the closer the terminal is to locking onto the BGAN satellite network. The terminal includes a 10 meter RF antennae cable for flexibility in positioning the unit.

One of the greatest concerns in M2M communication is data security. Many VSAT options and other non L – Band solutions can be vunerable to hacker attacks. The first level of protection on this SCADA Satellite terminal has security enhancements with extended layers of security.

The quest for a national smart grid to reduce energy costs has led to the exploration of satellite SCADA as the technology of choice. Satellite SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data

Acquisition) solutions have an upper hand over other networking technologies because of its availability, path diversity, support system and ubiquity. The technology is an innovative form of IP based communication. Smart grid requirements dictate that their applications need a strong network with a remote communication infrastructure. In addition, an IP based satellite platform can provide real time data exchange, broadband reach and operational visibility.

Flexible Solutions for Smart Grid Communications

M2M Satellite SCADA technology offers flexible solutions for smart grid communications through facilitating control over energy costs and consumption. One of the key areas of the smart grid is the integration of two way communication making it an interactive and dynamic infrastructure. The operational efficiency and network reach across the utility territory is increased through:

– Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) – smart grids require smart meters to assist consumers to regulate and manage their energy consumption and provide utilities with visibility of demand. The meters are connected to an assembly point through a local interlocked wireless network. These assembly points collect information on usage within geographical area and send the data to the utility centers backup through a cellular link.

– Distribution automation- Electricity utilities can use BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network) or BGAN M2M services along power distribution channels as primary or secondary links to the data center. A single IP data connection, also two way, provides automated monitoring and control of switches and devices. This enables the utilities to maintain constant surveillance of their distribution network. The surveillance reveals voltage fluctuations, service demands and outages. The build of the BGAN and BGAN M2M terminals makes them ideal for pole mounting in most locations.

– Substation connectivity- this is ideal for hard to reach areas where fixed line communications may be too expensive to install. Immarsat provides satellite SCADA for the electricity substations either as a standalone solution or together with VSAT. BGAN is flexible enough to serve both low volume and high frequency and can therefore be used as a backup for communications at any substation.

There are common operational requirements that all utilities have to support service crews while on the field. Communication is one of these operational requirements. Satellite SCADA helps in two ways to offer reliable communication for daily operations:

– Workforce mobility- constant communication between engineers and maintenance crews with the headquarters is essential for seamless workflow. Whereas cellular networks are capable of providing this, they are rendered useless in remote areas and in exchange of large data volumes due to limited bandwidth. Using the BGAN network, it is easy to use the satellite SCADA facilities both for bandwidth and voice enabling seamless communication on the field and the headquarters.

– Disaster recovery- continuity in business is vital for utilities that provide essential services in this case electricity. Therefore, responses during natural and artificial disasters that affect the working of terrestrial networks are vital to the continuity. The alternative communication path provided by satellite SCADA helps maintain the channels of communications. For example, Immarsat offers a secure fully equipped communication network that protects the resources and data on the smart grid. The network can also be used to direct operations or restore them completely independent of cellular technology.

The ubiquitous nature of satellite SCADA is the perfect option for utilities that are looking for a bridge between their smart grids and terrestrial network coverage hence achieving a significant improvement in smart grid applications and their communication needs across their entire service jurisdiction.

Land Mobile Radio communication has been integral to a variety of industries for years and continues to be important today. However, as technology changes, existing terrestrial radio networks are starting to reach the end of their lifespan. This satellite service is a cost effective alternative to installing, maintaining, and relocating land-based two-way radio communications systems. Professionals in many industries including construction, forestry, and electrical utilities are making the transition from terrestrial radios to the G2 dispatch mobile satellite radio for reasons outlined in this article. There are several key benefits to using satellite radios over terrestrial land mobile based solutions:

Reliability of the Satellite Network

The network of this geostantionary satellite covers North American and tip of Central America, the Caribbean, Hawaii, and coastal waters. While users of terrestrial land mobile radios have to depend on the coverage of cell towers, satellite dispatch radio users rarely experience service interruptions because of the singular network structure. During emergencies, should terrestrial land based communications become compromised, satellites are the only viable option for communications.

Ease Of Setup and Use

Satellite radios are extremely easy to install and program for immediate access to the network. The MSAT-G2 mobile satellite radio is comprised of three core component parts: the transceiver unit (the small black box), the antenna system (white domes), and the handset. An optional external speaker may be connected to the TU for remote monitoring. Serial and ethernet ports are provided for external interfacing, debugging, software upgrading, and future expansion capabilities.

The antenna unit is composed of the antenna element array, necessary high power and low noise amplifier systems, and a tracking system. Two AU versions exist: a 2-axis unit intended for land-mobile and fixed-site installations and a 3-axis unit for the maritime environment. Connection to both AUs is made by a TNC connector. The single co-axial cable carries RX,TX, power and tracking information. There is only one power connection for the entire radio. This must be connected to a 12 VDC power supply. The G2 also allows for the interfacing of devices with current terrestrial communications, so there is no need to worry about excessive downtime when implementing these systems.

Satellite Radio Security

G2 dispatch mobile satellite radio implements the IMBE, or Improved Multi-Band Excitation codec, which was created in the early 90s. IMBE is the current standard for many digital communication networks across the globe. Thanks to digital scrambling and coding technology, communications are safe from eavesdropping and call monitoring. This is especially important for those in certain industries, such as law enforcement and electrical utilities, where it’s essential to have confidential transmissions.

Today, a diverse group of end users, from oil professionals communicating on opposite ends of a job site to police officers in rural areas of the US reporting information back to headquarters, are making the switch to satellite dispatch radios.