The digital divide is growing as terrestrial network developments outpace those of satellite. EADS Astrium has designed a new generation of satellites that enable the convergence of satellite and terrestrial broadband services. These satellites make use of large numbers of narrow spot beams, Ka-band transmission frequencies and the use of high-speed digital signal processing technologies to route traffic between the beams. These satellites enable the delivery of low-cost broadband satellite services directly to subscribers using small, low power two-way satellite terminals. They also enable evolutionary growth of business plans through support of distributed ground network architectures and multiple independent service providers. Finally they support the evolution of standards through the use of transparent, bent-pipe transmission channels. The satellite designs and network architectures are described. The benefits are explained. The paper concludes by outlining a programme to realise these benefits.
From digital divide to digital inclusion
2005-01-01
12 pages
Article (Journal)
English
ka-band transmission frequencies , high-speed digital signal processing technologies , telecommunication traffic , route traffic , Internet , telecommunication network routing , broadband networks , digital divide , narrow spot beams , signal processing , satellite communication , distributed ground network architectures , terrestrial broadband satellite services , independent service providers
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