VSAT – Definition and Pronunciation
What is VSAT?
VSAT is a complete terminal (typically with a small 4–5 ft antenna) that is designed to interact with other terminals in a satellite delivered data network, commonly in a “star” configuration through a hub. The occupied bandwidth of the VSATs’ transmitted carrier is typically only a few kHz wide. The VSAT terminal uses a special and often proprietary modulation, scrambling and coding algorithms; this allows the Hub or Network operator to control the system and present billing based on a data throughput, or other form of usage basis. Communications typically include the Network Layer of the protocol stack, that is, IP. VSATs are utilized in a variety of applications and are designed as low cost units. Commonly several VSATs networks are operated through the same hub (shared services) which reduces the initial installation/set up costs.
Examples of VSAT
(Mini) Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) Antennas. These are tracking antennas used for Ku-band and Ka-band that for M2M-related applications (especially in the broadband range) are typically 1 m or smaller.
From “M2M Developments and Satellite Applications”.
Maritime broadband satellite services have seen growth over the past 10 years with the market being served by lower bandwidth L-band solutions (Inmarsat, Iridium) and regular C-and Ku-band Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) services.
From “Maritime and Other Mobility Services”.
In-flight connectivity systems represent a nontrivial investment for airlines, with Very Small Aperture Terminals (VSATs) equipment costs at approximately a-quarter-of-a-million dollars at this time and a comparable expenditure for installation.
From “Aeronautical Mobility Services”.
Pronunciation of VSAT
