How can you explain satellite and microwave systems to non-technical customers?

1 Satellite Systems

A satellite system uses a device called a satellite that orbits the Earth and receives and sends signals to and from a ground station. The ground station is a facility that has a large antenna, a transmitter, and a receiver. The satellite acts as a relay or a repeater that amplifies and redirects the signals to the intended destination. For example, when you make a phone call using a satellite phone, your phone sends a signal to the nearest satellite, which then sends it to the ground station, which then connects it to the public switched telephone network (PSTN) or another satellite phone.

2 Microwave Systems

A microwave system uses electromagnetic waves with high frequencies and short wavelengths to transmit information. Unlike satellite systems, microwave systems do not rely on any orbiting device, but rather on a network of microwave towers or stations that are placed at regular intervals on the ground. Each tower has a transmitter and a receiver that send and receive signals to and from the adjacent towers. For example, when you watch a live TV broadcast from another country, the TV station sends a signal to a microwave tower, which then sends it to another tower, and so on, until it reaches your local TV station or cable provider.

4 Choosing the Right System

When selecting the right system for your communication needs, it is important to consider the type of information you want to transmit (e.g. voice, data, or video), the volume and frequency of information you want to transmit (low, medium, or high), the size and location of your target audience (local, regional, national, or global), the quality and speed of information you want to deliver (low, medium, or high), the availability and accessibility of the system (constant, intermittent, or occasional), and the security and privacy of the system (low, medium, or high). All these factors should be taken into account when comparing satellite and microwave systems based on your specific requirements, preferences, and budget.

5 Tips and Tricks

To make the most of satellite and microwave systems, it is important to use a compatible and quality device that can support the system you choose, such as a satellite phone for satellite systems and a microwave antenna for microwave systems. Additionally, you should use a clear and direct language to avoid any potential communication barriers or misunderstandings due to latency, noise, or interference. As well, it is wise to have a backup or alternative system in case of system failure or disruption. For example, you can use a cellular phone or landline phone for voice communication and fiber optic cable or wireless internet for data communication. Finally, selecting a reputable and reliable service provider that can offer you the best value, performance, and customer support is essential for the system you choose.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?