Inmarsat’s Regional BGAN satellite IP modem is the world’s first low-cost, portable satellite modem. Similar in size to a modern laptop, the recently launched modem uses an IP-based packet data service to transmit data over a satellite connection.

Regional BGAN delivers GPRS-compatible data services in up to 99 countries worldwide (stretching from western Europe and the northern half of Africa, across central and eastern Europe, the southern CIS countries, to the Middle East and the Indian sub-continent) using 144Kbit/s shared channels.

The device is particularly well suited to international travellers who visit areas where GPRS roaming is unreliable, or even unavailable. Inmarsat also touts its potential effectiveness for multinational companies looking to set up rapid deployment offices in less developed countries, as it doesn't rely on traditional wired telephone or wireless communications, yet allows you to set up an instant IP infrastructure to connect independently and securely to both the Internet and corporate networks.

Key features of the 1.6kg satellite IP modem include continuous coverage within the satellite footprint, connectivity at more than twice the speed of current terrestrial GPRS services and ‘always-on’ access to the Internet and corporate data networks. The Regional BGAN’s good value for money for larger businesses, too, as users are charged only for the amount of data sent and received rather than time spent online.

The modem comprises an integral antenna, compass, SIM card, battery, external power connector, status lights, USB 1.1, Ethernet and Bluetooth connectors. It’s compatible with Windows 98, ME, 2000, XP, NT and Mac OS 10.1. It also provides remote LAN and intranet access and enables dedicated, secure links to be set up over a virtual private network (VPN).

Satellite communication devices have a reputation of being irksome on corporate LANs, and many IT managers refuse to use them. One of the mains reasons behind this belief is that satellite technology is difficult to integrate into business networks. Inmarsat reassures administrators that integration onto a network won’t be an issue because the Regional BGAN satellite IP modem uses IP technology as well as popular connectivity interfaces, such as USB, Ethernet and Bluetooth.

Inmarsat’s data-centric strategy, starting with its current generation of Global Area Network (GAN) services and BAGN 'Internet anywhere' offering, will extend to 3G-compatible Broadband Global Area Network (BGAN) in 2004.

Christian Harris, Jan 23, 03 | Print | Send | Comments (0) | Posted In Modem