Easier implementation of satellite broadband services
will be possible with the adoption of the first broadband satellite
standard on both sides of the Atlantic.
Both the US-based Telecommunication Industry Association (TIA)
and the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) have
adopted the Internet Protocol over Satellite (IPOS) standard.
Satellite data links are an alternative to wired links in poorly
connected rural areas or for business operations that regularly
move location.
IPOS-based equipment and software used to build satellite
broadband will now be available from a variety of companies who
support the standard.
These include Hughes Network Systems, Microelectronics
Technology, Texas Instruments, TriQuint Semiconductor, Wind River
Software, Intelsat and Telefonica.
"Now ratified and approved by the two major standards bodies,
IPoS opens the door for greater optimisation and economies of scale
throughout the satellite industry," said Pradman Kaul, chief
executive officer of Hughes Network Systems.
"IPoS is the only air interface specifically designed for the
efficient delivery of broadband satellite services and offers the
best means to expand satellite's addressable markets
worldwide."
IPOS will be competing against the likes of WiMAX in the fixed
broadband wireless market.
WiMAX trials have been started by AT&T at companies in the
US and Europe is expected to experience the first WiMAX services
from providers next year.