Idea Paper for DISS 740 Term Report Titled Satellite Broadband Communication Networks

Idea Paper for

DISS 740 Term Report Titled

Satellite Broadband Communication Networks

Ronald G. Wolak

wolakron@scis.nova.edu

A paper submitted in fulfillment of the requirements

for DISS 740 - Assignment Two, Task Three

School of Computer and Information Sciences

Nova Southeastern University

November 1998

Idea Paper for

Satellite Broadband Communication Networks

Rationale for Selecting

Over the next five years, satellite broadband communication networks will begin global operation. These networks will help redefine high-speed networking in the next century by providing point to point data transfer rates of 2 Mbps, 20 Mbps, and even 155 Mbps anywhere on Earth. Investigation into these unborn networks will prove both interesting and revealing.

Brief Introduction

The enormous demand for high-speed networking, recent advances in technology, and new regulations have made high-speed satellite networks a real possibility. Conservative estimates suggest that more than 500 broadband satellites will be in service in the next 10 years. The bulk of these satellites will operate in the newly released Ka-band.

The paper will begin with a brief history of satellite communications. This will be followed by a look at current digital satellite broadcasting services such as Hughes Communications' DirecPC and EchoStar Communications' ESS Network. Next, advances in technology brought about by NASA's ACT project will be discussed.

At this point, the differences between LEO and GEO satellites will be discussed prior to taking an in-depth look at the following broadband networks, their backers, and a few their technical characteristics:

CyberStar

Teledesic/Celestri

Astrolink

Spaceway

Skybridge

In conclusion, issues such as network security, loss of service, and satellite congestion will be discussed.

Role of Satellite Broadband Communication Networks

Satellite broadband communication networks will have a definite impact on data communication in the 21st century. In well-developed areas such as the U.S. and Europe, satellite systems will compete primarily in the "last mile" where very little high-speed infrastructure exists today. However in underdeveloped and rural areas, broadband satellite systems will provide the total network infrastructure.

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