Satellite Internet Service Primer

The 18 inch mini-dish and digital receiver revolutionized the subscription television market, and it was only a matter of time before this same technology was used to deliver always-on Internet access. Today there are several companies using this technology. Some offer download only Internet access (or upload access through a separate telephone connection), while others, such as the StarBand^SM system, offer two-way service.

The StarBand system consists of a 24x36-inch satellite dish mounted on or near your home. As with most satellite systems, the dish must have a clear unobstructed view of the southern sky. Two standard coaxial cables connect the satellite dish antenna to a PC or a StarBand "satellite modem."

The StarBand antenna both sends requests to the Internet and receives Internet content via the satellite, which is in orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator. The satellite, in turn, communicates with StarBand's hub facility, which has a direct connection to the Internet

The StarBand system can also be configured to receive satellite television service from EchoStar's DISH Network® - in addition to your two-way satellite Internet service from StarBand - using a single dish antenna. The DirecPC system is similar and uses the DIRECTV subscription service for television and music access.

Service Advantages

Always-on: As long as your computer is on, you have instant access to the Internet

High Speed: Speeds vary per system and during peak usage hours, but can reach download speeds of up to 500 kbps and upload speed speeds up to 150 kbps.

Nationwide availability: Unlike many cable and DSL systems which offer limited availability, some satellite Internet systems offer service from virtually anywhere in the continental United States. Again, a clear unobstructed view of the southern sky is required.

Disadvantages

Satellite Internet services can suffer performance degradation during peak usage hours (typically weekday evenings). The company may have a performance goal for lowest peak hour performance listed somewhere on their website.

Also, the local television channels for your city may or may not be available through the television service that is available with your system.

Equipment

Equipment varies per service. See each company's website for details..