Ku-band satellite systems for large scale data communications networks

The Ku-band satellite communications network using very small aperture terminals (VSAT) has emerged as a cost-effective means for reliable data communications. The authors describe how the Ku-band satellite can satisfy the user´s performance criteria for data communications for a variety of network designs. Two subsystems are considered, the access and the backbone of the Ku-band satellite network architecture. It is noted that various forms of design of the Ku-band satellite network can exist depending on the user´s traffic characteristics and geographical coverage, and that the Ku-band satellite system provides dynamic adaptive accommodation of long- or short-range traffic demand and noninterference with the terrestrial system. It is expected that the Ku-band satellite communications´ dynamic handling of both high and low data rate, along with voice communications, will also provide cost-effective solutions for ISDN (integrated services digital network) networks.<>