Satellite Internet Information
Satellite Internet was developed as a means to provide Internet access in rural and remote areas where conventional broadband Internet service is not available. It provides a broadband connection with high-speed access so users aren't limited to slow dial-up service.
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History
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The first attempt to use a satellite to communicate data between Earth-bound computers occurred in 1973 when researchers in Europe synced two computers with a network in the United States. In 1996, DirectPC (later to become HughesNet) offered the technology for consumer use.
Benefits
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Satellite Internet provides for high-speed communication to the Internet using a computer or network (similar to that found with broadband through a DSL line or cable modem). Once the equipment is set up and your computer is connected, you access the Internet in the same way you would via other high-speed methods.
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Significance
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Download speed of satellite Internet can be as fast as 1.5 mbps, which is similar to that offered by conventional DSL and cable modem systems. However, the upload speed---when data is sent to the satellite---can be as slow as 50 kps, compared with 500 kps for other types of high-speed connections.
Setup and Execution
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The setup is similar to that of satellite TV; a 2- to 3-foot dish is placed outside in a spot with a clear, unobstructed view of the southern sky (as the satellites are above the Earth's equator). Coaxial cables run from the dish to a modem provided by the satellite Internet provider, with the computer or network router attached to the modem.
The modem transmits data from the computer (uplink) to the dish, where it communicates with a satellite that then communicates with a ground station that accesses the Internet. The reverse (downlink) occurs when data is transmitted from the Internet/ground station to the satellite and then to the satellite dish and the modem and computer.
Satellite Internet Service Providers
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There are a number of satellite Internet providers available, including HughesNet, WildBlue and Skyway USA (see Resources for links).
Providers differ in pricing, which as of 2009 is around three times the cost of conventional Internet access. Most providers offer varying rate packages, however, so you can often pay a lower rate for slower connection speeds.
Fun Fact
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Satellite Internet used to require the telephone line for its "uplink." This added to the cost of the satellite Internet service, as well as complicating its use. This is no longer in effect.
Consideration
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Satellite Internet is available in most of the United States, but some areas or homes cannot be serviced. Contact a satellite provider to check.
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References
Resources
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