How do you choose the right satellite communication tool?

1 Types of satellites

The first factor to consider is the type of satellite that you want to communicate with. There are different types of satellites based on their orbit, function, and frequency. For example, geostationary satellites (GEO) are fixed in relation to the Earth and provide continuous coverage over a large area, but they require high power and large antennas. Low Earth orbit satellites (LEO) are closer to the Earth and offer lower latency and higher bandwidth, but they have limited coverage and need multiple satellites to form a constellation. Medium Earth orbit satellites (MEO) are in between GEO and LEO in terms of distance and performance. You should choose the type of satellite that best suits your application, budget, and availability.

2 Types of terminals

The second factor to consider is the type of terminal that you want to use to communicate with the satellite. A terminal is the device that sends and receives signals from the satellite, such as a phone, a modem, or a dish. There are different types of terminals based on their size, mobility, and functionality. For example, handheld terminals are small and portable, but they have limited features and performance. Fixed terminals are larger and more powerful, but they are stationary and need a clear line of sight to the satellite. Mobile terminals are adaptable and versatile, but they are more expensive and complex. You should choose the type of terminal that meets your requirements, preferences, and environment.

3 Types of services

The third factor to consider is the type of service that you want to access through the satellite communication tool. A service is the specific function or feature that the satellite communication tool provides, such as voice, data, video, or internet. There are different types of services based on their quality, speed, and cost. For example, voice services are basic and reliable, but they have low bandwidth and high latency. Data services are more advanced and diverse, but they have variable bandwidth and latency depending on the traffic and congestion. Video services are the most demanding and expensive, but they offer high-quality and real-time transmission. You should choose the type of service that matches your expectations, needs, and budget.

4 Types of providers

The fourth factor to consider is the type of provider that you want to contract with for the satellite communication tool. A provider is the company or organization that operates and maintains the satellite network and offers the satellite communication tool to the customers. There are different types of providers based on their reputation, coverage, and pricing. For example, global providers are well-established and reputable, but they have higher fees and more regulations. Regional providers are more specialized and flexible, but they have lower coverage and less support. Niche providers are more innovative and affordable, but they have limited services and availability. You should choose the type of provider that delivers the best value, quality, and reliability.

5 Types of regulations

The fifth factor to consider is the type of regulation that applies to the satellite communication tool. A regulation is the rule or law that governs the use and operation of the satellite communication tool, such as licensing, frequency allocation, or interference management. There are different types of regulations based on their source, scope, and impact. For example, international regulations are issued by global bodies and affect all satellite users, but they are more general and harmonized. National regulations are issued by local authorities and affect specific satellite users, but they are more specific and diverse. Industry regulations are issued by associations and affect voluntary satellite users, but they are more flexible and adaptable. You should choose the satellite communication tool that complies with the relevant regulations and respects the rights and obligations of other satellite users.

6 Types of challenges

The sixth factor to consider is the type of challenge that you might face when using the satellite communication tool. A challenge is the problem or difficulty that hinders or affects the performance or operation of the satellite communication tool, such as weather, terrain, or security. There are different types of challenges based on their source, frequency, and severity. For example, weather challenges are caused by natural phenomena and occur randomly and unpredictably, but they can be mitigated by using backup systems or alternative routes. Terrain challenges are caused by physical obstacles and occur constantly and predictably, but they can be overcome by using higher elevation angles or directional antennas. Security challenges are caused by human threats and occur selectively and intentionally, but they can be prevented by using encryption or authentication. You should choose the satellite communication tool that can cope with the potential challenges and ensure the continuity and quality of the communication.

7 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?