Are you looking for a reliable internet connection that can be accessed almost anywhere without the hassle of dealing with inconsistent
copper or ADSL data speeds? In that case, satellite internet technology may be the perfect solution for rural households, particularly those
unable to connect to fibre internet networks.
Today we'll look at how satellite internet works and explore some options Woi offers across New Zealand. So if you're new to satellite technology and want to learn more about how it works before investing in hardware or services, lets dive right in!
How Does Satellite Internet Work?
Imagine living in a remote area, surrounded by mountains and forests, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. While it may sound idyllic, staying connected with the rest of the world may be a real challenge. Thankfully, satellite internet comes to the rescue!
So, how does satellite internet work? Lets break it down into a few simple steps:
Step 1: Transmitting Signals from the User's Equipment to the Satellite
To access satellite internet, the initial step involves the installation of a satellite dish at the user's location, which is aimed towards the satellite orbiting the earth. A modem is then connected to the dish and subsequently linked to the user's computer or router, granting them access to the internet.
To establish an internet connection, the user sends a request to the satellite via the dish and modem, which is transmitted to the satellite through radio waves.
Step 2: Relaying Signals from the Satellite to the Ground Station
After the satellite receives the request, it is transmitted to a ground station which acts as an intermediary between the user's equipment and the internet. The ground station receives the signal from the satellite and forwards it to the network of the user's internet service provider (ISP).
Step 3: Sending Data Back from the Ground Station to the Satellite and the User
After receiving the data, the ISP processes it and forwards it to the ground station, relaying it to the satellite orbiting the earth. The
satellite receives the data and sends it to the user's equipment. The modem, connected to the user's computer or router, receives the data,
allowing the user to access the internet.
Applications of Satellite Internet
Did you know that two types of satellites provide internet access to people worldwide? The first type is called a geostationary orbit (GEO) satellite, and it's located way up high in the sky in a special orbit around the earth. This means it moves at the same speed as the earth rotates, so it stays in one spot in the sky all the time.
The second type of satellite is called a low earth orbit (LEO) satellite, and it's much closer to the earth than a GEO satellite. It moves around the earth quickly, meaning it orbits the earth in a shorter time. This type of satellite is great for providing internet access to people in remote areas or for mobile applications because it can be moved around easily.
So, whether you're living in a big city or remote area, you can still enjoy the benefits of satellite internet thanks to these amazing satellites!
Geostationary Orbit Satellites vs Low Earth Orbit Satellites
Both GEO and LEO satellites have advantages and disadvantages. Understanding their differences is crucial in determining which type of satellite is best for a particular application. GEO satellites orbit at an altitude of about 36,000 kilometres, which makes them ideal for providing global coverage. However, the latency can be high due to the distance from the Earth, potentially resulting in reduced internet speeds.
On the other hand, LEO satellites are much closer to the Earth, resulting in lower latency and higher bandwidth. However, due to the limited coverage area, LEO satellites require many satellites to provide global coverage. Ultimately, the choice between GEO and LEO satellites depends on the application's specific requirements, such as coverage area, bandwidth, and latency.
Woi satellite internet is powered by Kacific1 geostationary satellites, which can cover distances as large as continents. This wide coverage makes internet access quick and easy, even with geographical obstacles.
How Satellite Internet Is Being Used Across New Zealand
Satellite internet can revolutionise various industries, including agriculture, education, and rural business. In agriculture, satellite internet can help farmers access critical weather and soil data, monitor crops and livestock remotely, and improve efficiency through precision farming techniques. In education, satellite internet can provide access to online courses and resources, bridging the gap for students in remote or underserved areas. For rural businesses, satellite internet can enable connectivity and access to online tools and services, helping to increase productivity and reach customers beyond their immediate area.
Additionally, satellite internet can support disaster relief efforts, providing connectivity in areas affected by natural disasters or other emergencies. Overall, satellite internet has the potential to connect people and industries in previously unimagined ways, helping to bridge the digital divide and improve the quality of life for individuals and communities across New Zealand.
