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Industry Trends, News Analysis, Market Intelligence and Opportunities
Vol. 5 No. 10 November 2012
Satellite Executive Briefing
Next Generation Systems: Now’s the Time
by Dan Freyer
N ext-generation high throughput satellites
(HTS) and Ka-Band systems in production
and coming into service are bringing mas-
sive increases in bandwidth to orbit. Over twenty
new HTS and Ka-band satellites are in construction,
each carrying from 10 to 100 times the capacity of
today’s conventional C– and Ku-Band systems.
They run the gamut from operators like Hughes and
ViaSat, Eutelsat’s KA-SAT, to global
operators Intelsat, and Inmarsat, to
regional players like YahSat, to new
players like O3b Networks, Avanti in
the UK, and NewSat and NBB in
Australia. These next-gen and Ka-
Band systems could dramatically alter
the industry’s landscape. How will
they impact satellite markets in the
next two years, and what industry
players stand to gain from their suc-
cess?
“Game-Changers” Coming Fast
Everywhere
Bandwidth increases will be dramatic.
Roger Rusch, President of industry consultants
TelAstra, Inc. estimates that the HTS satellites in
construction will have a combined throughput of
over 800 Gbps so their addition could more than
triple the global bandwidth in space capacity in the
next two years.
There is bound to be strong downward pressure on
satellite bandwidth pricing for many applications
and in markets where HTS systems play. “The
throughput of the ViaSat-1 and Echostar XVII satel-
lites is staggering by present standards,” says Rusch,
noting that just these two satellites launched this
year alone more than double North American capa-
city.
Global MSS operator Inmarsat’s three initial Ka-
Band satellites would expand its capacity to over an
order of magnitude more than its limited global L-
Band spectrum today.
Technology Disruption –
the MEO Threat
In addition to potential
bandwidth supply shocks,
new technical architectures
could disrupt existing mar-
kets. For example, O3b
Networks could challenge
even next-gen GEO-based
services in maritime, wire-
less trunking, and other
markets in the developing
world.
“What’s unique about O3b is not just fiber-like data
rates in the 100s of megabits to 1 Gbps, but also low
latency, at less than 130 milliseconds round trip,”
explains Steven Blumenthal, VP for Solutions, O3b
Networks, Inc. “Low latency provides higher speeds
and faster startup for TCP applications, giving Inter-
net users fast downloads. GEO satellite latency has
a very negative impact on mobile smart phone user
handset throughput.”
Continued on page 4
What’s Inside
From the Editor…...3 Game Change in Satellite Services..10 Case Study: Measuring Satellite Signals …..……….16 Products/Services MarketPlace………20
Executive Roundtable Inflight Broadband Market……………..25 Industry Briefs…...28 Market Briefs……..31 Featured Event: SATCON 2012…….36 Vital Statistics…....38 Advertisers’ Index.38 Stock Index……….38
The influx of next generation HTS satellites such as the Echostar XVII will more than double existing North American capacity. (image courtesy of Space Systems Loral)
Satellite Executive Briefing 3 November 2012
EDITORIAL Virgil Labrador Editor-in-Chief [email protected] Elisabeth Tweedie Associate Editor [email protected] Contributing Editors: North America: Robert Bell, Bruce Elbert, Dan Freyer, Lou Zacharilla Latin America: B. H. Schneiderman Europe: Martin Jarrold, London Jan Grøndrup-Vivanco, Paris Roxana Dunnette, Geneva Asia-Pacific: Peter Galace, Manila Tom van der Heyden, Hong Kong Riaz Lamak, India For Advertising enquiries send an
e-mail to:
Satellite Executive Briefing
is published monthly by Synthesis Publications LLC and is available for free at www.satellitemarkets.com
SYNTHESIS PUBLICATIONS LLC 1418 South Azusa Ave. # 4174 West Covina CA 91791 USA
Phone: +1-626-931-6395 Fax +1-425-969-2654
E-mail: [email protected]
©2012. No part of this publication may be reprinted or reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher.
From the Editor
T o honor companies, individuals and products that have
demonstrated forward-looking and innovative outlook to-
wards the ever-changing satellite market, Satellite
Markets and Research with support from Application Technology
Strategy LLC will be presenting this month SATCON exhibition
in New York City the First Annual Vision Awards.
Awards will be given in three categories: Visionary Executive of the Year;
Most Promising Company of the Year and Innovative Product of the Year.
We have had an overwhelming response from our readers for nominations.
After tallying up all the nominations, the following were selected as finalists:
Most Promising Company of the Year: Amos Spacecom, Avanti Communi-
cations and Newsat.
Most Innovative Product or Service of the
Year: Newtec’s MDM6000 Satellite mo-
dem; Optimal Satcom’s Enterprise Ca-
pacity Manager and ASC Signal’s Next
Generation Controller.
Visionary Executive of the Year: Mark Dankberg, Founder and CEO, Viasat;
Paul Cohen, Vice-President Satellite Engineering, Fox Networks Group and
Gary Hatch, Founder and CEO, ATCi.
The winners of the Vision Awards will be awarded during a reception cere-
mony at SATCON 2012 on November 14, 2012 in New York City. The recep-
tion will be held from 6:00-7:00 pm at the Javits Convention Center in New
York City. Attendance to the reception is free to all registered SATCON atten-
dees. To reserve a space at the awards receptionsend an e-mail to
[email protected]. (Note that you have to be a registered SATCON
attendee to attend the awards ceremony. Use VIP Code CCE39 to register for
a free pass at SATCON 2012.)
We look forward to seeing you at SATCON and to celebrate with your peers
outstanding individuals, companies and products that has kept this indus-
try in the cutting-edge of technological develop-
ments.
The First Vision Awards
www.satellitemarkets.com
November 2012 4 Satellite Executive Briefing
Cover Story
Next Generation Satellite Systems... From page 1
Because of its low latency, O3b can
support satellite backhaul of broadband
mobile handset IP traffic for carriers
that want to introduce 4G type services
to un-fibered locations — applications
not feasible using GEO-based back-
hauls due to the high latency.
O3b’s eight-satellite constellation of
spacecraft will orbit at 8.062 km Me-
dium Earth Orbit (MEO), and the com-
pany projects a service start in Q3 of
2013. SES Global is among the inves-
tors.
If O3B’s
advertised
advantages
attract a big
share of us-
ers away
from GEO
in the next
several
years, then
we can ex-
pect “me-to”
MEO pro-
jects from
other opera-
tors. O3b’s
satellite sup-
plier, Astrium could also be well posi-
tioned to help other MEO ventures if
the program delivers on its promise.
For all its advantages, 03b poses no
threat to consumer and SOHO VSAT
markets. Its dual motorized terminals is
projected to cost as much as US$
30,000 at the low end. In addition, ser-
vice coverage is focused to within +/-
45° north and south latitudes of the
globe.
Cannibalization, Risks and Rewards
Since the cost per bit/second of band-
width on an HTS system can be an or-
der of magnitude lower, there are con-
cerns that steep downward pricing pres-
sures could hurt current C– and Ku-
Band revenues among FSS and MSS
operators, as some services migrate to
next-gen systems.
A recent Inmarsat investor presentation
included forecasts of traffic migration
of as much of 40% of some segments of
its L-Band business to its future Global
Xpress® Ka-Band platform.
The smaller and regional satellite opera-
tors may have the most to gain from
next-gen satellites, which can help them
expand services. “If they gain a lot of
new capacity at lower cost than they
have today, they don’t fear they will
cannibalize their market,” says Doron
Elinav, VP of Strategic Accounts for
Gilat Satellite Networks, which is pro-
viding its VSAT systems around the
world. “Larger operators are more
sensitive to cannibalization, so they are
looking at models that won’t cannibal-
ize their business.”
Because it has a huge portfolio of cus-
tomers with existing C and Ku-Band,
creating a backward compatible, “open
architecture system” is an important
part of Intelsat’s HTS strategy. Intel-
sat’s cautious expansion into HPT pre-
sents an emphasis on maintaining it’s
current ecosystem of partners, and will
start with two satellites.
The first, a Boeing-built 702MP model
spacecraft has an expected in-service
dates of 2015. “This design will have
8-10 times the throughput of a standard
satellites. Customers will see higher
performance through lower cost per
bit,” says Intelsat’s VP of Corporate
Strategy, Bruno Fromont.
“No new ground infrastructure is
needed, but to take advantage of the
performance, we are working with the
ecosystem of modem, antenna and other
manufacturers so they can roll out the
enhancements to take full advantage of
the performance and flexibility in the
future, he adds. “People will have free-
dom to select the terminal they want, by
and large, and it will be backwards
compatible with existing services.”
Supply Chain Gains
Success of operator services will mean
a solid outlook in demand for commer-
cial spacecraft and launch services, de-
spite migration
of many tradi-
tional services
off satellite
and on to ter-
restrial fiber
during the past
decade.
While Boeing
and SS/L may
boast a large
share of ex-
perience to
date, no single
satellite manufacturer has an exclusive
on Ka-Band. Astrium, Thales, Orbital
Sciences and Lockheed Martin are all
able to claim Ka-Band programs under
their belts.
More Payload Work
HPT satellites can cost typically 50%
more than conventional comsats, in
large part due to the complex multi-
beam payloads. Spot beam satellites
use large numbers of receivers, Travel-
ing Wave Tube Amplifiers (TWTAs),
filters and switches. Suppliers of these
components should continue to see
growing business prospects.
Thales Electronic Devices, Ulm Ger-
many, and L3 Communications of Tor-
rance, CA, which supply the lion’s
share of space-born TWTAs, have seen
a surge in demand for Ka-Band compo-
nents. They have reportedly even been
struggling to keep up with demand, and
enjoying big increases in quantity or-
ders driven by Ka-Band.
High Throughput Satellites In Service or in Production
Source: TelAstra, Inc.
November 2012 6 Satellite Executive Briefing
I n the traditional FSS VSAT or enterprise teleport service
market, service providers can shop for and lease band-
width from a satellite operator and manage their own
hub and network using their own selection of ground equip-
ment from a wide variety of sources.
“The change in ecosystem with high throughput satellites
means changes in the value-chain, and changes for the sup-
pliers in that chain,” says Doron Elinav, of
Gilat, which is a VSAT terminal supplier
for SES’ SBBS consumer service in
Europe, O3b, Optus, RT Comm, among its
HTS/Ka-Band customers.”
For example, in Europe with its KA-Sat
service, Eutelsat has moved down the
value chain by also providing hub services
and selling mbps directly to ISPs, bypass-
ing traditional teleport and VSAT service
providers in the process. “So the VSAT
service provider has less flexibility to choose ground seg-
ment,” according to Gilat’s Elinav. “The service provider
loses flexibility and
value is transferred to
the satellite operator.”
Another issue is spot
beams. With conven-
tional satellites, wide
area beams allow up-
links from a broad geo-
graphic area, providing
a lot of flexibility for
where an uplink teleport
can be located. But with a Ka-Band system, beams are
tightly focused on smaller “cell” areas, and only a few pri-
mary ground hubs may be able to access the system.
“The role of independent teleport operator, which is a rela-
tively large industry, will decline in this scenario,” say Eli-
nav “because they provide less value, and unless their tele-
port is in the feeder beam to the gateway
they have no play towards the Ka-Band
satellite.”
On the other hand, this can also make for
surprising teleport opportunities. Encom-
pass Digital was awarded a contract to
provide teleport services for Inmarsat’s
Global Xpress® system from Lino Lakes,
Minnesota, hardly a hub for national,
much less international telecommunica-
tions traffic exchange.
“In the North American Hughes and ViaSat model, satellite
operators own the ground gateways and only run one wave-
form on all the capacity. They are ‘closed systems,’ or what
we call a completely vertically integrated play, directly serv-
ing the end user,” says David Bettinger, CTO of VSAT tech-
nology supplier iDirect, which is involved in several HTS
programs’ ground networks. “Most satellites to date have
been launched for consumer services, but now we are seeing
what I think is the inflection point in our market, with opera-
tors aiming to support high end services,” says iDirect’s Bet-
tinger.
Intelsat’s EPICNG program is an example, with its support for
the existing service provider ecosystem and value chain.
“We are working with the ecosystem of modem, antenna and
other manufacturers to they can roll out the enhancement to
take full advantage of the system’s performance and flexibil-
ity in the future so customer will enjoy major improvements
in cost and performance,’ says Intelsat’s Bruno Fromont.
“We are primarily interested in business-to-business. Our
initial customers are cruise ships, oil and gas, and maritime
enterprise users, so reliability
is very important and the
positioning is very different
from a ViaSat or Echostar/
Hughes type consumer sys-
tems.”
Other examples of HTS sys-
tems
providing
flexibil-
ity to
work with traditional service provider
channels are YahSat and Avanti.
UK-based Ka-Band satellite operator
Avanti offers raw Ka-band space seg-
ment, bundled IP teleport and space ser-
vices, as well as broadband retail solu-
tions. Avanti launched Europe’s first
Ka-Band HTS satellite, HYLAS 1 in
November 2010, providing two-way coverage across
Europe, and its second satellite, HYLAS 2, launched in Au-
gust 2012, extending coverage to the Middle East and Af-
rica. Middle Eastern operator YahSat offers similar flexibil-
ity for operators to lease space segment, or bundled services.
No one model fits all, say industry players. And the growing
variety of business models evolving around the world, de-
pending on the target applications, region, and technology,
are creating new options for more players to get involved.
Threats and Opportunities for Teleports and VSAT Service Providers
Doron Elinav
Bruno Fromont
David Bettinger
“...No one model fits all, say industry players. And the growing variety of business models evolving around the world, depending on the target applica-tions, region, and technology, are creat-ing new options for more players to get involved…”
Satellite Executive Briefing 9 November 2012
Cover Story
Complex Antenna Systems
HTS and Ka-Band payload require-
ments and complexity can drive team-
ing arrangements. For example, the
Inmarsat-5 satellites being built by Boe-
ing will use gimbaled antennas pro-
vided Harris Corp. under subcontract,
while Lockheed Martin is subcontract-
ing to Astrium for Ka-Band beacon
equipment to fly on NewSat’s Jabiru-1
satellite for Australia.
MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates,
Ltd. (MDA), which agreed to a US $1
Billion-plus deal to purchase SS/L in
June, is another space subsystem pro-
vided that has found new growth mar-
kets thanks to Ka-band and HTS mar-
kets. MDA is building over 100 gim-
baled Ka-band antennas — twelve per
satellite — for 03b, under a subcontract
to Thales Alenia Space, the space sys-
tem prime contractor. MDA has also
built Ka-Band antenna feeds for ViaSat-
1 and Jupiter-1, among others, and was
selected to provide Avanti’s Hylas-3
Ka-Band “hosted” payload, and Israel’s
Amos-6 Ka-band payload.
Ground Systems and Terminals
HTS require extensive new RF ground
infrastructure, especially for the con-
sumer Ka-band systems, and networks
providing consumer/SOHO grade solu-
tions. These can drive very large-scale
network infrastructure and terminal
contracts, not to mention hundreds of
thousands of terminals demanded over
time. A recent example is ViaSat’s
US$ 240 mil. ground system for NBN
Co. in Australia. Hughes nabbed a US$
27 mil. contract with YahSat. In Sep-
tember, Gilat received an order from
one of Europe's largest satellite broad-
band ISPs in support of SES Broadband
Services' (SBBS) Ka-band consumer
service rollout.
Leading VSAT players like ViaSat,
Hughes, iDirect, Gilat stand to gain
ground as demand for higher capacity
broadband terminals comes with next-
gen satellite deployments. According
to Doron Elinav, VP of Strategic Ac-
counts for Gilat Satellite Networks, the
large equipment vendors stand to gain,
but shakeouts may occur: “There is a
lot of long term R&D required for these
systems and a lot of investment, so the
larger players will have a long term
advantage in this market. There will be
fewer VSAT players,” he predicts.
But the opportunities are not just in
consumer broadband networking. Ear-
lier this year, Inmarsat tapped iDirect to
design, manufacture, and install its
Global Xpress™ ground infrastructure
platform and provide core modules for
terminals that Inmarsat will deploy in
the maritime, aeronautical and other
markets “We are providing the com-
plete ground system, with teleport
dishes and building the terminals to go
to market. They launch the satellite the
middle of next year and we will be in
middle of testing in 2013, with the goal
of in-service by 2014,” said iDirect’s
Bettinger.
Inmarsat said recently it had booked
over 20% of its Global Xpress® Ka-
Band revenue goal through 2019, has
signed Cobham Satcom, Paradigm
Comm and Skyware Global as initial
land satellite terminal manufacturing
partners. iDirect is working with In-
marsat’s designated terminal manufac-
turers to develop each terminal option.
Last month, Inmarsat announced that
Honeywell will distribute services for
business aviation markets.
For its part, O3b selected ViaSat to
build its gateways, and its high-speed
(800Mbps) links. But for user termi-
nals, it has approved packages from
ViaSat (high speed modems), Comtech
(mid speed), and Gilat (lower speed)
along with GD Satcom tracking 1.8 and
2.4 antennas, Sea Tel maritime anten-
nas, and various sized Ka-Band HPAs
from a mix of suppliers including CPI,
Comtech Xicom, and new Japan Radio
Corporation. 03b is not selling termi-
nals itself. “Opportunities for others to
supply medium and low cost terminals
exists so long as they meet O3b’s speci-
fications, and we’d love to have other
sources available for our customers”
says O3b’s Steven Blumenthal.
Not Something To Ignore
The next few years are going to be ex-
citing and challenging times for the
satellite industry as Ka-Band and high
throughput satellite services create ma-
jor new opportunities. Markets are
global and opportunities abound to
serve ever-increasing demands for
broadband IP services from consumers,
businesses and governments around the
world. Companies that fail to position
and respond effectively to the changing
industry conditions — from cost, to
competition, to changing distribution
models — could see major strategic
opportunities pass them by.
“...Spot beam satellites use large numbers of receivers, Traveling Wave Tube Amplifiers (TWTAs), filters and switches. Suppliers of these components should continue to see grow-ing business prospects…”
Dan Freyer is the principal of AdWavez Marketing, a marketing agency serving the satellite industry. For over 20 years, he has as helped top satellite manu-facturers, operators, service providers, and equipment suppliers develop their businesses and brands. He can be reached at [email protected].
November 2012 10 Satellite Executive Briefing
Market Intelligence
Perspectives on the Game Change in Satellite Service Provision
by Martin Jarrold
B roadband is the hot topic around the world. Demand
for spectrum never abates. Profound statements in-
deed! Over the years, satellite systems have re-
sponded to the increasing demand for more-and-more spec-
trum, at lower-and-lower cost, in order to facilitate expanded
broadband access, by developing ever more efficient, power-
ful, and cost-effective space and ground segments.
Most recently the satellite market has responded to the de-
mand for spectrum by developing brand-new state-of-the-art
systems, using the Ka-Band frequency range. Most current
satellite systems operate in the C- and Ku-Band. Due to in-
creasing congestion in those bands however, there has been
considerable growth in the number of Ka band satellite sys-
tems being deployed and planned for fixed (FSS), mobile
(MSS), and broadcasting (BSS) services.
The Ka-Band is of the utmost strategic importance to the
satellite industry and most of the satellite operators around
the world have either already developed, or are developing,
Ka-Band satellite systems. Many new Ka-Band satellites
have already been launched, and yet more satellite operators
are developing Ka-Band systems to be orbited within the
next few years leading to the availability of Ka-Band satel-
lite systems globally.
Current and Planned Ka-Band Satellite Systems:
The list of the satellites with Ka-Band capacity already oper-
ating, and planned for future orbit, is extensive, featuring:
ABS 2 and 7 | Arabsat 5A and 5C, BADR 7 | Avanti Hy-
las 1 and Hylas 2 | Eutelsat W3 series and KA Sat, W3C
and 3B | Eutelsat/ictQATAR ES’HAIL | Hispasat 1E and
Spainsat, AG1 and Amazonas 3 | Hughes Spaceway 3,
Jupiter 1 | Inmarsat Global Xpress and Alphasat 1-XL |
Insat G-Sat 14 | Intelsat IAS 28 | Ipstar | Iridium (LEO) |
JAXA/NICT Winds | Measat 5 | NBN 1 and 2 | NewSat
Jabiru 1 | Nilesat 201 | O3B Networks (MEO) | RSCC
Express AM5, 6 and 7 | SES Astra 1H, 1L, 3B, 4A, AMC
15, AMC 16, NSS 6, 2E, 2F, 2G, 4B and 5B | SmartSat |
Spacecom Amos 3, Amos 4 and 6 | Telenor Thor 7 | Tele-
sat Canada Nimiq 4, Anik F3 | Turksat 4A and 4B | Vi-
asat 1, Wildblue 1, Anik F2, Viasat 2 | Yahsat 1A, 1B.
Assessing the Ka-Band Advantage:
Satellites are uniquely capable of providing communications
services over wide geographical areas, instantly connecting
large numbers of users over large, often remote and sparsely
populated areas. Ka-Band satellite technology offers equip-
ment at low cost, leading to Ka-Band satellites being a very
important part of the overall telecommunications infrastruc-
ture. With their high-power and broad coverage, satellites
have traditionally been optimized for video distribution and
professional data networks. Now, recent technological devel-
opments allow the Ka-Band to provide significantly in-
creased capacity and new services. This means the cost to
users has been reduced, and the throughput is dramatically
increased. Ka-Band user terminals are also very attractive in
terms of size (smaller) and price (cheaper), even when com-
pared to traditional Ku-Band satellite networks. With the
advent of higher functionality and lower costs, Ka-Band sat-
ellites can now support a broader range of domestic and in-
ternational communications than ever before.
These listings of operators and the applications/services
shown below in the Roundtable Assembly program of
themes/topics amply illustrate that Ka can no longer be con-
sidered a niche market. The 50% of the world’s satellite op-
erators that have either ordered or plan to order Ka-Band
satellites, the 14 million households, and the 50% of enter-
prise terminals predicted to be using Ka-Band by 2020 are
testament to that!
High-Throughput Satellites:
Typical/traditional C- and Ku-Band geostationary satellites
with broad beams used for consumer broadband provide
around 1 Gbps of throughput. Thanks to frequency re-use
made possible by using multi-spot beams in the Ka-Band,
this throughput can be increased 50 to 100 fold. Hence these
Ka-Band geo-stationary satellites are referred to as high-
throughput satellites (“HTS”). The massive increase in
throughput allows these geostationary satellite operators to
offer satellite capacity in support of direct end user terminals
and backhaul applications at considerably lower prices. In
addition, innovative approaches using non-geostationary
satellites to provide certain types of Ka-Band services, e.g.
Internet backhaul, have also now evolved and will become
operational shortly. The Ka-Band is a breakthrough satellite
communications technology for delivering cost-effective,
two-way broadband services with near 100% coverage of
world geography. The two-way capability means customers
do not need a traditional phone or cable line to receive high-
speed Internet access. This enables dramatic improvements
in access to two-way, high-speed Internet services for con-
sumers and businesses in rural and remote areas.
Mobile Applications via the Ka-Band:
Recently there has been a rapid increase in the use of Fixed
Satellite Executive Briefing 11 November 2012
Satellite Service (FSS) networks by Earth stations mounted
on mobile platforms. FSS networks are currently being used
to provide telecommunications services to aircraft, ships,
trains and other vehicles using both the C- and Ku-Band.
The growing demand for service to these mobile platforms
has caused service providers to turn to the Ka-Band to meet
the need for increased transmission speeds, capacity and
efficiency. Taking into account the growing demand for mo-
bile applications, studies are also on-going in ITU-R and
CEPT to determine under what technical and regulatory con-
ditions mobile earth station use in other parts of the Ka–
Bands could be accommodated and operated in Ka FSS net-
works.
Internet via the Ka-Band:
A high profile and important use of the Ka-Band is for
broadband Internet access via satellite. In many countries,
broadband access to the Internet has been identified as a key
enabler of national competitiveness and economic prosper-
ity. Furthermore, many countries have set targets to give
their entire population access to the Internet, whatever their
location, to overcome the digital divide. Many people living
in rural areas today simply do not have broadband Internet
access. In many such areas, terrestrial technologies will
never provide broadband coverage, and therefore it must be
satellite, specifically Ka-Band satellite, that will make the
difference.
A Dialogue on the Dynamics of Game-Changing:
As a reflection of the accelerating dynamics in the response
of the global satellite communications industry to demands
for frequency spectrum to support the requirement for
greatly increased Internet bandwidth from a wide range of
end-user communities, O3b Networks has announced that it
has taken the leadership position in the line-up of sponsors
for the forthcoming GVF Ka Roundtable Assembly 2012:
Satellite Service Provision Game-Changer in Action, an
event taking place in London on 5th & 6th December 2012.
In making the recent announcement of O3b Networks’ sup-
port for the Roundtable Assembly, Vice President of Product
Development, David Burr, commented “The GVF Ka
Roundtable Assembly is a perfect forum to debate the role of
Ka-Band today. Consumer bandwidth demands in every re-
gion are skyrocketing. It just isn’t possible to add enough
capacity using C- and Ku-Band since the orbital slots are
largely full. Ka band provides enough capacity to satisfy the
tremendous growth in bandwidth that can be seen from IP
trunking, mobile backhaul and enterprise, both today and in
the future.”
O3b will join a line-up of speakers from a wide-range of
organizations – including the other Roundtable sponsors
Inmarsat, Avanti Communications, iDirect, and Hughes.
For the latest details on the Roundtable speaker line-up
please visit www.uk-emp.co.uk/future-events-2012-13/.
In respect of Inmarsat’s support for the London Roundtable
Assembly, Mark Steel, Director, Product Development &
Services, Global Xpress, said “Inmarsat GX is pleased to be
supporting the Ka Roundtable Assembly in London. Inmar-
sat GX looks forward to this opportunity to present our per-
spectives, as a satellite operator, on expanding the portfolio
of satellite services for the industry utilizing our planned Ka
Global constellation. Global Xpress is Inmarsat’s visionary
response to this rapidly changing scene. As the next stage in
the evolution of remote communications, our new Ka-Band
satellite service will support broadband connections at
speeds comparable with terrestrial networks. And it will do
so from compact, highly portable devices – while further
enhancing Inmarsat’s reputation for outstanding quality,
global coverage and seamless mobility. Global Xpress will
be the first service to offer global mobile broadband cover-
age, delivering unparalleled speeds and bandwidth to cus-
tomers in remote locations around the world. It will be faster
and less expensive than current Ku-Band market offerings,
delivered to smaller and cheaper terminals and be the first
offered on a seamless, global, end-to-end basis, with high
quality of service and thanks to this cost effectiveness we
have driven with our partners, we will become a powerful
alternative for traditional VSAT networks.
“Users of our existing global services will be able to take
advantage of unique hybrid packages that use both our
Continued on page 15
Artist’s rendering of the Inmarsat-5 satellite sche-duled for launch in 2013. The satellite is part of Inmarsat’s Global Xpress service that aims to pro-vide downlink speeds of up to 50Mbps, and up to 5Mbps over the uplink, from compact user termi-nals. (image courtesy of Boeing Satellite Systems)
November 2012 12 Satellite Executive Briefing
Ka-Band: What’s All the Fuss About?
Opinion
K a-Band is one of the most popular topics at industry
conferences, and in trade newsletters and maga-
zines. What is all the fuss about? Is Ka really the
magic bullet for the satellite industry or are we in danger of
once again drinking our own bath water and letting our en-
thusiasm for new technology override our common sense?
Let’s face it, if you work in the satellite industry no matter
what your role whether you’re an engineer, accountant, law-
yer, marketer, analyst, administrator or anything else you get
excited by new technology and new capabilities – why else
would you be in this industry? So it’s easy for us to get car-
ried away by “technology push” and caught up in the excite-
ment of being able to produce a 100Gbps satellite for not a
lot more than it cost to produce a 30Gbps satellite a few
years ago. But if we don’t have customers to fill that
100Gbps satellite it might as well be a 30Gbps one! In other
words ‘technology push” alone will not close any business
case; there has to be “demand pull” as well.
In the case of Ka-Band the technology push has two prongs:
as well as the capability to provide more capacity for the
roughly the same cost there is also the very practical issue
that spectrum is a finite resource and one that is becoming
increasingly congested at Ku-Band. So for that reason alone,
in some parts of the world Ka-Band is needed to meet
“normal” incremental growth. However normal incremental
growth doesn’t include providing over 70Gbps of Ka capac-
ity where none has been available previously. But there is
no particular reason to single Eutelsat out, Avanti, Hughes,
Yahsat and ViaSat have also launched dedicated Ka-Band
satellites, although in the case of Hughes and ViaSat the high
capacity birds were follow-ons to existing Ka band satellites
that were fast filling up in some areas. Other dedicated Ka–
Band satellites such as O3b, Jaibaru-1, RSCC, Inmarsat,
Jupiter and NBN have yet to be launched. Elsewhere other
operators have taken a more incremental approach putting
Ka payloads on multi-frequency satellites.
O3b is taking an even bigger gamble than the other opera-
tors, launching a MEO Ka-Band constellation to serve users
located between 45o North and South, an area that includes
some of the highest rainfall on the planet. One of the main
criticisms of Ka-Band historically has been the degradation
that occurs in heavy rainfall. O3b is claiming to have solved
this issue and ViaSat have stated that ViaSat 1 is operating at 99.7%
availability which is the same as most cellular networks.
Part of the supply side of the equation is in place, the tech-
nology hurdles have been overcome and satellites launched
and brought into service. So the attention must now focus on
the end users, since they are the ones that will now determine
the success or otherwise of Ka-Band services. Generally
speaking most customers and not just consumers are techno-
logy agnostic, they buy a service – to satisfy a need or pro-
vide a solution to a problem. Whether that need is faster
internet to the home, a better system for SNG, local televi-
sion or more powerful and economical networks that is what
the user is looking for. Very rarely do end users bang on
satellite operators’ doors demanding Ka-Band!
That leaves two questions to be answered: Is there a demand
for the services that can be delivered by Ka-Band? And is
the industry geared up to satisfy that demand – both in terms
of the distribution systems and the physical ground equip-
ment? Obviously to close a business case demand has to be
satisfied profitably, but I’m not going to try and pick apart
the financial statements of the operators at this early stage,
so will put that on one side for now.
Initially following on the success of WildBlue in the US all
the rhetoric accompanying announcements of Ka-Band sys-
tems was focused on the consumer. Those that lived in areas
that could not be served economically by terrestrial systems,
the same argument that was used by the MSS systems in the
90s. However the big difference is that this time after the
satellites have been launched those consumers are still un-
served. 10 - 20M of them in Europe depending on whose
statistics you use and around 10M in the US; more than
enough to use up all the Ka capacity over those areas. Mean-
while demand for bandwidth by consumers continues its
exponential growth largely fueled by video. Nevertheless
take-up has been slower than expected, attributed by both
ViaSat and Eutelsat to distribution issues. In the meantime
other applications and customers have emerged, local televi-
sion distribution, Satellite News Gathering (SNG), emer-
gency response and cellular backhaul. Is this a technology
looking for a solution? Or are these going to develop into
viable segments?
There are many questions to be answered! The GVF Ka
Roundtable Assembly taking place in London on December
5th and 6th has an impressive line-up of speakers from all
parts of the Ka-Band value chain and will attempt to provide
answers to these questions and many others.
Elisabeth Tweedie is Associate Editor of the Satellite Executive Briefing. She has over 20 years experience at the cutting edge of new communication and entertainment technolo-gies. She is the founder and President of Definitive Direction, a consultancy that fo-cuses on researching and evaluating the
long term potential for new ventures, initiating their develop-ment and identifying and developing appropriate alliances. During her 10 years at Hughes Electronics she worked on every acquisition and new business that the company consid-ered during her time there. www.definitivedirection.com She can be reached at: [email protected]
Satellite Executive Briefing 15 November 2012
L-Band and Global Xpress networks. Offering unprece-
dented scalability, these will also ensure increased resilience
and reliability in remote and harsh environments. Our objec-
tives for the conference include offering our insight into
how the new GX system will operate, including our hybrid
packages that will offer higher availability, how it weighs up
against Ku band, we will address susceptible to rain fade,
and how the new smaller terminal will fare in the current
regulatory environment.”
An Avanti Communications spokesperson, commenting on
the company’s support for the Assembly said, “Avanti is
pleased to share its experience gained owning and operating
two Ka band satellites to the GVF Ka Roundtable Assem-
bly. We will explore the regulatory, design and vertical
markets implications for Ka and draw upon the lessons we
have learned delivering high speed data and broadband ser-
vices.”
From iDirect, Chief Technology Officer David Bettinger
added his support for the Ka Roundtable Assembly: “High
Throughput Satellites will launch a new era of business op-
portunity, but they also introduce new technical complexi-
ties and higher end user demands. To capture the HTS op-
portunity, satellite operators and service providers need the
right ground infrastructure platform - one that can connect
to any band or satellite architecture, scale affordably with
demand, deliver carrier-class reliability, offer a broad port-
folio of remotes designed for distinct end user needs and run
over a single network management system. iDirect is al-
ready actively engaged in many HTS projects as the pre-
ferred ground segment provider, and we will enable our
partners to capitalize on the HTS opportunity in whatever
ways are best suited for their business.”
In giving its support for the event, Hughes’ Senior Director
for International Marketing, Dave Rehbehn, added “The
introduction of so much Ka capacity around the world will
significantly alter the value equation for satellite broadband
in many ways. Forums such as the GVF Ka Roundtable as-
sembly are an important place for players in the satellite
industry to exchange ideas on how the industry can best
apply the tremendous capacity that Ka systems promise.”
With higher throughput having become of the utmost strate-
gic importance to the satellite industry, and to a multitude of
satellite service users, a range of key subject areas have so
far been identified for inclusion in the Roundtable program.
In addition the European Space Agency will be joining the
event dialog, with a representative of ESA’s Ground Seg-
ment Technology Section setting-out the Agency
‘Roadmap’ on the future of developments in Ka band.
Themes intended for Roundtable Assembly coverage during
the two-day program include:
Ka: The Technology & Market Context: The Satellite
Market – Past, Present, Future; Ka, High
Throughput, High Capacity – What Does It All Mean? Why
Now? Defining ‘HTS’ (High Throughput Satellites).
Satellite Operator & Provider Forum: Global Operators
& Encompassing the Global Ka Space; The Ka Global Con-
stellation; Regional Operator Ka Initiatives; Ka: New Op-
portunities from Revolution (or Evolution?)
The Hybridized L and GX Package; C band, Ku band...
What & Where Now? HTS: Operator & Service Providers
Development of Multi-band Service Strategies; HTS: Be-
yond the Consumer Play; High Capacity: Why Not All Ka
& High Throughput is Alike!
User Verticals Focus: Enterprise Services; Government
Services; Maritime Sector; Oil & Gas Sector; NGOs in Dis-
aster Recovery & Development; Internet Service Providers;
Satellite News Gathering; Airline Operators/Rail Operators.
OEM Forum: Equipment Design & Technical Innovation;
Equipment Manufacture & Economies of Scale; HTS-
enabled Terminals & New User Expectations.
Ka Engineering Forum: Planning, Designing, Deploying
& Managing Ka-Band Ground Terminals/Earth Stations;
Engineering the future of the Ka Satellite Payload (and Be-
yond!); Rain Fade: Understanding the Issues.
Ground Infrastructure Focus: Antenna Technologies;
Application/Market Specific Antenna Design; Antenna In-
stallation Training; Device Portability; Ground Infrastruc-
ture Evolution for High Performance Satellites.
Regulatory & Licensing Focus: Regulating for Ka band;
Regulation for the Small Terminal/Mobile Terminal; The
Ka band Licensing Environment.
In order to facilitate access to the event program to as wide
an audience as possible, GVF-EMP and Definitive Direction
are pleased to be working with the Broadcasting & Satellite
Network, the United Kingdom affiliate of the Society of
Satellite Professionals International (SSPI), in providing
a 25% reduction in the registration rate for the Ka Roundta-
ble Assembly for all accredited SSPI members.
Ongoing program updates may be viewed by clicking on
www.uk-emp.co.uk/future-events-2012-13/ka-
roundtable/. Speaking opportunities may also still be avail-
able by contacting either Paul Stahl, or one of the authors
of these perspectives, at either [email protected] or
Martin Jarrold is Director of International Program Development of the GVF. He can be reached at [email protected]
Market Intelligence
November 2012 16 Satellite Executive Briefing
S atellite operators are normally
interested in ensuring that trans-
ponder use corresponds to the
criteria agreed with users in terms of
quality and scope, which also includes
the detection of any interference sig-
nals. For this purpose, Narda Test Solu-
tions has a specific analyzer from its the
NRA series of spectrum analyzers, the
NRA-6000.
Teleport operators are concerned with
making the best possible use of the re-
sources with the communications sys-
tems, particularly the space segment.
This involves monitoring the transmit-
ted signals, which includes checking the
spectrum for
unwanted inter-
modulation prod-
ucts in the case
of multi-carrier
operation. It is
also necessary in
stations with
uplink power
control to ascer-
tain atmospheric
attenuation effects in real time if possi-
ble to use as input values for the power
settings. The power levels of the indi-
vidual signals radiated by the satellite
can also be determined at the teleport.
(NRA-3000)
SNG operators need assistance during
line-up for aligning the antenna and
during operation for monitoring the
transmitted signals. It is also useful to
evaluate the received signals in order to
identify impairments in the transmis-
sion path caused by obstacles, for ex-
ample. (NRA-2500)
Typical Measurement Configuration:
Satellite communications stations usu-
ally have internal interfaces at L-band,
i.e. in the frequency range 950 MHz –
2150 MHz. The spectrum of many
transponders can be displayed simulta-
neously in this broad range. In fact, this
1.2 GHz wide frequency range often
covers all the transponders in a satellite.
IF interfaces at 70 MHz or 140 MHz
are less common. The NRA can be con-
nected in both frequency ranges, al-
though measurements in the L-band
have the advantage of allowing contigu-
ous evaluation of the entire frequency
band including the gaps between the
transponders.
A particular asset of the NRA is the
very high number of samples (up to
27,000) per scan, which allows a very
fine frequency resolution for the meas-
urement, that can be completed in a
comparatively very short time (typically
0.2 s).
Due to the distinctly low noise figure
(< 19 dB in the L-band) an increase in
t h e
noise level is limited to < 0.2 dB in
measurements with the NRA when a 10
dB coupler is used as opposed to a di-
rect connection with a cable (see fig-
ure).
Typical Measurements:
- Monitoring the transmitted spec-
trum:
■ Operation using a single (wideband)
carrier signal per transponder (e.g. for
TV broadcasts): with the “Multi Chan-
nel Power” option there are three meas-
urement channels defined in such a way
that the center channel just covers the
nominal bandwidth of the signal and the
two channels on each side of it are
about 70% of this bandwidth to cover
the corresponding sidebands. The NRA
then determines the signal power in
each of these three channels. A fre-
quency shift of < 1 % of the signal
bandwidth increases the power of the
adjacent channel by ≥ 3 dB if the side-
band power is about ≥ 26 dB below the
nominal signal level.
■ Multi carrier operation, where usually
several stations generate the various
signals, which are then fed through a
transponder simultaneously. Increasing
the drive level of a non-linear amplifier
produces additional intermodulation
(IM) products of the signals. The most
useful measurement for monitoring the
power of the IM products and their off-
set from the actual transmitted signals is
to measure the levels of the weakest
signal and the largest IM product using
the “Multi Channel Power” option of
the NRA.
- Measuring, monitoring and evaluat-
ing the received spectrum/signal:
Measurement of the received spectrum
gives information about the quality of
the received signal. In par-
ticular the frequency range
of the received signals,
their power, and the indi-
vidual signal to noise ratios
along with a visual assess-
ment of the spectrum.
■ Determining the receive system fig-
ure of merit (G/T)
■ System noise temperature. The test
setup is particularly simple if the NRA
is equipped with the “LNB Control”
option, as no other instruments are
needed.
■ Antenna gain
■ Determining the atmospheric attenua-
tion from the received signal quality
- Time domain measurements with
the NRA (Scope mode)
Signal measurements with very high
time resolution using the Scope mode
of the NRA are useful among other
things for investigating pulsed payload
and interference signals. Such signals
are used in satellite communications for
time multiplex systems, i.e. in commu-
nications networks where the individual
stations transmit one after the other in
time.
Case Study
Measuring and Monitoring Satellite Signals
November 2012 18 Satellite Executive Briefing
Back and Forth
T he one flaw with Facebook and Linkedin is that nei-
ther has finger food or drinks. The satellite industry
is fed and advanced through a group of trade asso-
ciations and special interest groups which play an important
role in keeping this small, but influential and globally dis-
persed group of professionals intact. As new customers
embrace satellite, and potential markets begin to take inter-
est, the need to use associations to advance the benefits of
satellites grows. Satellite Nation also faces opportunities
and threats for which it must advocate and defend against if
it is to ensure its future.
Among the industry’s advocates and associations, the Soci-
ety of Satellite Professionals International (SSPI)
(www.sspi.org) is the “dean.” Its longevity and role as an
advocate for every individual whose work or interests touch
satellites, has made it the honest broker worldwide.
Throughout its long history, The SSPI has been led by the
most respected leaders in the industry. Each has contrib-
uted to make SSPI the voice for the entire industry and for
bringing it in line with the needs of future leaders. SSPI’s
method is education but also the industry’s most attended
event, the Gala.
As the industry heads into 2013, I asked three previous
chairpersons, Ellen Hoff (President, W.L. Pritchard & Co.),
Maury Mechanick (Counsel, White & Case LLP) and
Clayton Mowry (President, Arianespace USA) to share
their views on this most social of social networks.
Lou Zacharilla (LZ): Each of you has led the Society of
Satellite Professionals Interna-
tional. You also serve other
trade associations and groups.
What is the importance of these
groups today?
Mechanick: Their role is very
important. Despite social me-
dia, the interactions we enable
through SSPI’s programs pro-
duce networking, knowledge
transmission and collective action of great significance.
The best example was the way SSPI supported the work (of
GVF) and other groups as we came together to defeat the
first attempted expropriation of C-band by telecommunica-
tions interests.
Hoff: Having many affiliation groups is important. SIA
(Satellite Industry Association) is aimed at following legis-
lation on Capitol Hill in the USA and focusing on regula-
tory issues. Others ensure that members adhere to industry
standards. SSPI is unique and very different. We encour-
age anyone interested in our industry regardless of age,
training or rank, to mix with others. This is the virtue of an
organization with local chapters. SSPI reflects the democ-
ratization of the industry. Engineers, lawyers and CEOs, as
well as investment bankers and marketing people gather
face-to-face, with no pressure. There is no caste system.
So the trust developed through this association, like others
leads to good things. These are deals and advancements in
engineering. This is why the SSPI Gala is a terrific new
business investment.
LZ: And your companies could not
afford it alone. Clayton, do you
agree?
Mowry: I agree. Despite the fact that
virtual networks allow us to “friend”
scores of people remotely, there is no
substitute for real human contact be-
cause without it there is no way to
deepen relationships, share nuanced
information and, frankly, help one
another.
LZ: It’s interesting that you each emphasized the premium
of the “physical” network over the electronic one. Maury
acknowledged how associations can trigger collective ac-
tion. Another important aspect of this, it seems to me, is
mentorship. On November 13 another SSPI chairman (and
current chairman of Radio Frequency Interference-End
Users Initiative), Rich Wolf, of ABC Television in New
York, will receive the industry’s Mentor of the Year award.
How do you view mentorship and its role?
Hoff: It is critical. The old “employment for life” model is
breaking down. Mentorship is a way to help one adjust to
different work cultures. Believe me,
a good mentor can save you from a
bad boss. Even formal education
cannot substitute for a mentor. A
lifetime educator or “coach” helps
you advance faster.
Mechanick: Ellen’s right. In our
industry, mentoring is the foundation
because of the nature of our work.
Rich deserves this accolade because
he articulates this in every way.
Questions for Former SSPI Chairs
by Lou Zacharilla
Maury Mechanick
Clayton Mowry
Ellen Hoff
Satellite Executive Briefing 19 November 2012
Mowry: I would not have come to where I am today with
Arianespace without a mentor. A good mentor helps you
keep pressing on. I can’t tell you how important that is in
life, no matter what you do.
LZ: What I admire about Rich and Ellen as well is how they
mentor the industry. Rich is a customer to a number of SSPI
members. Yet he chose to lead the association - twice. He
told me that he did it as a way to keep learning and to make
people better vendors. I always found that amazing. That’s
a rare insight from a very busy guy.
Mechanick: Another aspect of mentorship is one that does
not get full recognition. It is the importance of establishing
an “institutional memory” between generations of leaders.
Passing along knowledge of how and why changes come
about is quite critical. Many lessons that were learned the
hard way can be shared and avoided. How much is that
worth?
(to be continued next issue)
“...Despite the fact that virtual networks allow us to “friend” scores of people remotely, there is no substitute for real human contact because without it there is no way to deepen relationships, share nuanced information and, frankly, help one another.…”
Lou Zacharilla is the Director of Develop-ment of the Society of Satellite Professionals International (SSPI). He can be reached at: [email protected]
Back and Forth
November 2012 20 Satellite Executive Briefing
Products and Services MarketProducts and Services MarketProducts and Services MarketPlacePlacePlace
A guide to key products and services showcased at SATCON 2012 exhibition in New York City from November 14-15, 2012.
Advantech Wireless Booth no. 609 www.advantechwireless.com Advantech Wireless is a world leader in satellite communi-
cations and terrestrial com-
munications delivering
equipment for thousands of
systems for over 20 years.
We are proud to present
World-Leading Technology Solutions, to exceed your re-
quirements and reduce your costs.
A-SAT™ and GaN: Big Savings in Energy, Size &
OPEX.
A-SAT™ stands for Adaptive Satellite Access Technology.
A-SAT™ is beyond dual mode RCS/TDMA-SCPC, devel-
oped by Advantech Wireless several years ago and well
ahead of the competition. A-SAT™ monitors channel utili-
zation and switches seamlessly the satellite access method
and mod code for the return channel to dynamically maxi-
mize the space segment utilization efficiency.
Add to this Advantech Wireless World Leading High Power
Amplifiers featuring GaN technology, and you have to most
powerful, cost-effective Satellite communications solution.
Advantech Wireless GaN advantages include: Up to 50%
Smaller, Up to 70% less power consumption, Up to 30% less
heat generation, A five- to ten-fold improvement in satellite
signal strength and data rates, Greater reliability, Best Noise
performance in the market…..enables higher order modula-
tion 8 PSK and 16 APSK with less power…save OPEX,
Best linearity and intermod performance.
A.G. Franz LLC www.agfranz.com
A.G. Franz, LLC is a wholesale logistics and business con-
sulting firm providing a broad range
of services to the satellite, broadcast
and cable industries, satellite users,
wireless and cable system providers,
system integrators, aerospace, gov-
ernment and electronics companies.
Our Sales Representation in the US includes Importer and
Distributor Services, as well as Marketing Activities and
Market Research. Our partners include:
Narda Test Solutions– specialized RF test equipment for
interference measurements: IDA (Interference and Direction
Analyzer) and NRA (Narda Remote Spectrum Analyzer)
Advanced Broadcast Components– XTASI and 4T2 fam-
ily of RF and digital video-stream analyzers
Peak Communications– high performance frequency con-
verters, block converters, uplink power controllers, line am-
plifiers and test-loop translators
Blankom Antennentechnik– digital encoders and headend
equipment
Hilkom Digital– multi-format receivers and digital video
processing equipment
To schedule a meeting at SATCON send an e-mail to:
[email protected] or call +-1-609-947-1459
Amos - Spacecom Booth no. 614 www.amos-spacecom.com
Spacecom operates the AMOS satellite fleet, currently con-
sisting of the AMOS-2, AMOS-3 and AMOS-5 satellites.
AMOS-2 and AMOS-3, co-
located at the 4°W "hot spot"
orbital position, deliver a wide
range of communications and
broadcasting services to Europe
and the Middle East. AMOS-5, located at the 17°E orbital
position, offers a pan-African C-band beam, connecting
Europe and the Middle East alongside three Ku-band re-
gional beams, enabling it to be a prime carrier of African
traffic in both broadcast and data services.
With the launch of the AMOS-4 and AMOS-6 satellites,
Spacecom will expand its reach to serve additional markets,
including Asia and Russia, positioning the company as a
genuine multi-regional satellite operator.
ATCi Booth no. 305 www.atci.com
ATCi enhances its customers’ opportunity for profit by pro-
viding custom global satellite communica-
tions systems and services. The company
is committed to delivering innovative
technologies to meet the emerging needs
of cable television, corporations, govern-
ment, educational institutions and small-
Satellite Executive Briefing 21 November 2012
and medium-sized enterprises. ATCi is headquartered in
Chandler, Arizona with operating sales offices in North
America and China.
For over 20 years, ATCi has been the world leader in multi-
beam technology and the ATCi proprietary Simulsat multi-
beam has been providing programming to over 30 million
cable subscribers in the U.S. market and abroad.
For further information on ATCi products and services,
please call +1-480-844-8501.
AVCOM of Virginia Booth no. 705 www.avcomofva.com AVCOM is an industry leader of affordable test equipment
within the satellite communi-
cations industry. For over 25
years we have produced rug-
ged, easy to use products that
have become the standard for
companies small and large.
At SATCON, AVCOM of Virginia will be highlighting its
new SBS-2 Single Board, an upgrade of its very successful
AVCOM SBS Single Board Spectrum Analyzer. The SBS-2
comes with more features in an even smaller, more compact
form factor than it's predecessor.
AVL Technologies Booth no. 501 www.avltech.com
AvL Technologies designs and manufactures mobile, mo-
torized antenna systems and positioners featuring high per-
formance carbon fiber reflectors, auto-
acquisition controllers, and the unique AvL
cable drive system. Ideal for small aperture
antennae, it boasts zero backlash, high stiff-
ness, light weight ruggedness, reliability, and cost effective-
ness.
AvL has designed and developed SNG antennae for
1.0M,1.2M, 1.4M,1.6M, 2.0M and 2.4M apertures and a
diverse product line of rugged motorized FlyAway pack-
ages, many available in back-pack configurations, some as
small as to meet airline requirements for cabin baggage.
AvL, now recognized as the leading producer of SNG an-
tenna systems in the USA and fast becoming known world-
wide, developed the first motorized, auto-acquisition Mobile
VSAT antenna system designed specifically for IP broad-
cast. AvL has over fifteen thousand high-quality antennae
for C-band, X,-band, Ku-band, DBS-band, and Ka-band in
service throughout the world for SNG, military, emergency
communications, disaster management, mobile medicine,
and other speciality applications.
Cobham Tracstar Booth no. 410 www.cobham.com/tracstar
Cobham TracStar Land Systems is an international pro-
vider of mobile satellite communications technology to Gov-
ernment (military and civil), Commercial Media, Energy and
Mining, and Enterprise markets. We have a comprehensive
offering of products and services including Comm-on-the-
Move, Comm-on-the-Pause, and
Man-Packable antenna systems de-
livering video, data and voice con-
nectivity worldwide.
The TracStar LVT Series of Manual
Backpack Terminals provides a
heavy duty, ruggedized, self-
contained mobile system designed
for easy portability and field-
swappable Ku-, Ka- and X- band
operations. Pictured here is the LVT
750P8, with an 8-segment carbon
fiber reflector and tripod. BUCs,
LNBs, and manual pointing tools for smartphones are also
available.
For more information, contact Cobham at +1 (407) 650-
9054 or [email protected].
Globecomm Booth no. 625 www.globecomm.com Globecomm offers broadcasters a pre-engineered, configur-
able system for analog-to-digital con-
version of terrestrial TV. The DTT
Solution Kit makes it possible to
upgrade digital TV systems without
impacting analog programming op-
eration. As a leading technology inte-
gration company, Globecomm takes
end-to-end responsibility from design
configuration to installation, testing
and lifecycle support.
As part of the transition, Globecomm
will upgrade multiple elements of the network. In short, it
covers the network from beginning to end. Everything starts
with the program acquisition subsystem; from there the up-
grade also includes the compression subsystem, followed by
transmission subsystem, ending with any required confi-
dence monitoring.
Lastly, Globecomm provides technical lifecycle support in
an effort to make sure everything not only meets, but ex-
ceeds our client’s expectations. Backed by our 24 X 7 NOC,
we will monitor your TV stations, provide remote support
when needed and include mandatory site visits.
Tracstar LVT 750P8 Terminal
November 2012 22 Satellite Executive Briefing
GlobeCast Booth no. 619
www.globecast.com
At SATCON 2012 GlobeCast will demonstrate solutions
that allow broadcasters to "take content further." Through
the company's strong global
presence and technological
expertise, GlobeCast empowers
content providers to generate
additional revenue and remain competitive across screens,
devices, and delivery platforms. GlobeCast will be demon-
strating the company's proven solutions across three main
areas:
C o n t e n t M a n a g e m e n t a n d D e l i v e r y A solutions provider for content management and delivery,
GlobeCast will be showcasing scalable playout and origina-
tion solutions that allow broadcasters to adapt content to
local markets anywhere in the world and simplify the overall
content distribution process.
G l o b a l S a t e l l i t e a n d F i b e r N e t w o r k In addition to taking content further technologically, Globe-
Cast takes content physically further — thanks to the com-
pany's diverse capacity on satellites covering all five conti-
nents and 92,000 km of fiber spanning the globe. Hybrid
solutions using both satellite and fiber ensure that broadcast-
ers get the most adapted and cost-effective solution possible.
C o n t e n t A g g r e g a t i o n a n d D i s t r i b u t i o n GlobeCast now offers solutions for the aggregation and dis-
tribution of content. With a specialty in international con-
tent, GlobeCast has long and established relationships with
hundreds of international channels as well with cable, tele-
com, and IPTV bouquet operators.
Hispamar Satélites Booth no. 719 www.hispasat.es
Covering all of the Americas,
Hispamar Satélites – a His-
pasat Group company – offers
an extensive range of satellite
communication services through the Amazonas 1 and Ama-
zonas 2 satellites: IP, Broadcast, Corporate, Telecom, Gov-
ernment, Distance Learning, Telemedicine and Digital Sign-
age.
Amazonas 1 and Amazonas 2 are two of the biggest and
most powerful satellites serving the American Continent and
operate collocated at 61º W offering both C- and Ku-band
capacity, with immediate availability of high quality Ku-
band capacity for North America.
NEWTEC Booth no. 416 www.newtec.eu At SATCON 2012, Newtec will be showcasing its new sat-
ellite modem portfolio. The range features a variety of specs
appropriate for consumers, enterprise markets, service pro-
viders, governments and large-scale operations over satellite
requiring even higher speed returns:
The Newtec MDM2200 IP Satellite Modem, designed for
consumers and SME’s, offers download speeds up to 22
Mbps and 3.5 Mbps upload alongside the lowest power con-
sumption avail-
able on the mar-
ket.
For high through-
put B2B applica-
tions the Newtec
MDM3100 IP
Satellite Modem will easily handle
up to 45 Mbps
download and 5
Mbps upload; with a future release increasing this to 10
Mbps.
Finally the highly anticipated Newtec MDM6000 Satellite
Modem completes the portfolio. This modem bundle is ca-
pable of handling speeds up to 2 x 380 Mbps, and already
has the upcoming S2-extensions candidates (including new
modulation codes up to 64 APSK and 72 Mbaud) on board.
These S2-extensions promise an efficiency increase of 15 to
37% on top of DVB-S2.
Walton De-Ice Booth no. 701 www.de-ice.com Walton De-Ice designs and manufactures the broadest line
of equipment available for preventing
the accumulation of snow and/or ice on
satellite earth station antennas.
Walton De-ice offers several options
for heating including, gas heaters with
their economical operation advantages or the low mainte-
nance Stainless Steel Electric Heaters.
At SATCON 2012, Walton De-ice will be showcasing its
new Rain Quake system specifically designed to reduce rain
fade on Ka-Band antennas. During heavy rain conditions,
Walton’s Rain Quake can reduce rain fade by up to 20 times
more.
Newtec MDM6000 Satellite Modem
Satellite Executive Briefing 25 November 2012
Executive Roundtable
Satellite Executive Briefing (SEB): How
do you see the market for your product
sservices that are focused in the avia-
tion industry in the next five years?
James Collet, Intelsat: Market esti-
mates forecast more than 5,000 aircraft
will be equipped with in-flight broad-
band connectivity (data rates >3Mbit/s)
with service revenues exceeding $1
billion within 5 years. Following our
launch of Intelsat EpicNG, Intelsat an-
nounced signed agreements with indus-
try leaders Panasonic Avionics and
Gogo to provide broadband services to
aircraft. Intelsat’s mobility infrastruc-
ture will allow customers to begin ser-
vices in the near-term and then comple-
ment that with Intelsat EpicNG high-
throughput platform in the future.
Alexander Guertz, SES: SES provide
satellite infrastructure capacity to a
wide range of customers across the
globe. With the dramatically growing
use of tablets and smartphones, we are
seeing a strong increase demand for
broadband access on-board aircraft, for
both regional and inter-continental ser-
vices, and we expect this to continue in
the next several years. Satellite solu-
tions are uniquely suitable for providing
broadband services to aircraft given the
wide coverage and substantial band-
width available. SES is very pleased to
work with a number of important play-
ers in this market already, such as Gogo
with whom we announced a partnership
earlier this year, as well as Row44, who
are using one of our customers' plat-
forms.
Travis Christ, Row 44: Demand
among airlines around the world for
inflight WiFi has risen tremendously
over the last couple of years. The de-
mand for streaming video in particular
has more than doubled between 2011
Ready for Takeoff: In-Flight Broadband by B.H. Schneiderman
In-flight broadband is set for takeoff. In our bandwidth-hungry world, consumers expect to have broadband access anywhere, anytime, including when they’re in the air on long-haul flights. To shed light on this growing market Satellite Executive Briefing contributor B.H. Schneiderman spoke with executives from two satellite operators and an in-flight broadband service provider. Follows are excepts of the exchange with James Collet, Director of Mobility Services Product Management, Intelsat; Alexander Geurtz, Vice-President Services Devel-opment, SES; and Travis Christ, Chief Marketing & Sales Officer, Row 44.
November 2012 26 Satellite Executive Briefing
and 2012 alone. Advancements in the
types of devices that passengers bring
onboard will undoubtedly continue, and
airlines will likely focus on the partners
that have the capabilities to remain the
most modern and forward thinking. The
key consideration for airlines now can
be choosing a provider who is in full
production, and past the point of
"bleeding edge." With 400 aircraft fly-
ing, we've worked out the kinks.
SEB: Do you have any new product or
service that you are planning to intro-
duce soon to focus in this market?
INTELSAT: The scheduled launch of
Intelsat 27 in the first quarter of 2013
will complete Intelsat’s global Ku-band
mobility coverage. This global Ku-band
fabric will deliver more than 60Mbit/s
per beam to aero sized antennas to the
busiest aero routes around the
globe. Panasonic’s services will be ex-
panded in the near term by capacity
using two of the satellites within Intel-
sat’s Ku-band global broadband mobil-
ity platform. These services will be
complemented by high throughput Ku-
band capacity on Intelsat 29e, the first
of the Intelsat EpicNG satellites when the
platform launches in 2015.
SES: The SES-6 satellite, to be
launched, will include coverage of the
Atlantic region, one of the most inten-
sively travelled international air routes.
We're also planning dedicated coverage
of the Indian Ocean region on the SES-
9 satellite. In addition to satellite capac-
ity, SES is also able to offer connec-
tivity services on the basis of the iDirect
platform technology
Row 44: In 2012 Row 44 rolled out a
wireless IFE offering — a device-based
inflight entertainment service delivering
stored content wirelessly to passengers'
WiFi-enabled devices. This solution can
be easily upgraded to a full inflight con-
nectivity system. In October, Row
44 announced our first customer
for Wireless IFE — Las Vegas-
based Allegiant Air.
SEB: Do you have any specific
Region in the Global Market
where you see this application
growth trends during the next 5
years ?
INTELSAT: The first of the Intel-
sat EpicNG satellites, our high-
throughput addition to our global
infrastructure, is scheduled for
launch in 2015. Intelsat 29e will
provide 200Mbps of throughput
per spot beam into typical aero
size terminals, thereby signifi-
cantly increasing capacity for mo-
bile services in high-density traffic
Atlantic Ocean routes. Intelsat 33e,
slated for launch in 2016, will
similarly augment Ku-band mobile
capacity in other high-density traf-
fic routes around the globe
SES: We expect initial demand to come
from the North American continent and
from the Atlantic region, driven by the
intensive air traffic between Europe and
North America. In the longer term we
expect the Asian and Latin American
regions to experience significant growth
for this application as well
Row 44: The Row 44 system is satellite
-based — we are by far the most widely
deployed satellite WiFi system in com-
mercial aviation — which means we
operate globally, and are in talks with
airlines in regions around the world.
SEB: How do you see the growth in
Ka-Band in the market place for the
aviation industry at this time?
Executive Roundtable
“...Market estimates forecast more than 5,000 aircraft will be equipped with in-flight broadband connectivity (data rates >3Mbit/s) with service revenues exceed-ing $1 billion within 5 years…”
Satellite Executive Briefing 27 November 2012
INTELSAT: Ka-Band ser-
vices have their role in cer-
tain sectors, such as con-
sumer broadband, and Ka-
Band will be part of Intelsat
EpicNG, but our analysis
clearly shows that Ku-Band
offered the best path for-
ward in terms of risk and
performance. World-wide
markets for Ku-Band are
well established, diverse and
highly competitive. Ku-band
technology is mature with a
large supplier base, and us-
ing Ku-Band spot beams to
increase communication
speeds is just as achievable
as Ka-Band spot beams.
SES: SES does not have a
specific preference for either
Ku-Band or Ka-Band for
this market. Indeed, SES has
made major investments in
Ka-Band capacity over
North America and Europe.
So far, the Ka-Band market
for aeronautical mobility has
been primarily regional and
with limited backup and alternatives.
We feel that customers may not want to
be locked into a regional or global solu-
tion with little or no redundancy or al-
ternatives. Therefore, while SES does
not exclude Ka-Band in the future, the
majority of our investments for the
commercial aviation market will be in
Ku-Band.
Row 44: Row 44 is a proponent of Ka-
band as a future technology and we are
in development today. We'll make the
transition when Ka has been thoroughly
tested and is proven reliable and eco-
nomical. We're taking the risk out of the
Ka/Ku decision for our airline custom-
ers by providing proven Ku service
today with a guarantee to transitioning
to Ka when it's ready.
SEB: What applications will be driving
demand for satellite services in the
aviation market?
INTELSAT: Demand in the civil avia-
tion market for satellite broadband con-
nectivity is stimulated largely by pas-
senger behavior. Passengers want to be
connected throughout their travels.
Bandwidth demand is driven by ad-
vances in mobile technology – includ-
ing smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
Passengers’ propensity for bandwidth
intensive multimedia applications, such
as streaming media, is increasing as
these mobile devices become more so-
phisticated and ubiquitous.
SES: We're seeing strong demand from
the commercial aviation sector for satel-
lite capacity, as well as from the mili-
tary sector, and we expect this to con-
tinue in the next few years.
SEB: Is there anything else you want to
add that we haven’t addressed?
INTELSAT: Intelsat has demonstrated
that it is committed to broadband mo-
bility. It is firmly embedded in our
long-term business growth strategy.
SES:We're concerned that regulatory
constraints in Europe may restrict the
success of this market over the Euro-
pean airspace, with the need for a wide
range of authorizations not only at na-
tional, but also at local level, and some-
times on a per aircraft and/or per airport
basis.
B. H. Schneiderman is the Principal of Telematics Busi-ness Consultants. He can be reached at : [email protected]
Executive Roundtable
Row44 offers a private label portal which provides a customized branding experience for airlines. (image courtesy of Row44)
November 2012 28 Satellite Executive Briefing
IndustryIndustryIndustryBriefsBriefsBriefs
Major industry news and developments
Rendall Appointed KVH CFO
KVH Industries announced that its
Board of Directors appointed Peter
Rendall, A.C.A., to serve as KVH’s
Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effec-
tive October 1, 2012, thereby replacing
the company’s previous CFO, Patrick
Spratt, who is retiring.
Spratt will continue to work with KVH
through a short tran-
sition period and
then as a consultant.
Rendall brings ex-
tensive financial and
operational leader-
ship experience to
KVH. He began his
career at Pricewater-
houseCoopers in
London before
moving to Massa-
chusetts in 1995 to
join Logica, an IT consulting firm, as its
Vice President of Finance and Opera-
tions. Rendall then served as CFO at
Elcom International, an international IT
products and services business and
SaaS supply chain software division. He
served as both CFO and CEO at Top
Layer Security and, most recently, as
consulting CFO to JobSmart Partners.
New Roles for Astrium Execs
Astrium is swapping roles for two of
its three divisional chiefs. On 15 Octo-
ber 2012 Evert Dudok took over as
Astrium Services CEO, with Eric
Béranger moved in the opposite direc-
tion to become Astrium Satellites CEO.
The switch will bring about even closer
cooperation between the two divisions,
according to the company.
Lars Thrane Leaves Cobham
Lars Thrane, the founder of Danish
satellite communications company
Thrane & Thrane A/S, has announced
his decision to leave the company at the
end of November – now called Cobham
Satcom after its recent acquisition by
Cobham plc and combination with Cob-
ham’s other satellite communications
companies.
Gilat Appoints GM for
North America Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. has ap-
pointed Michael Barthlow as General
Manager for North America. Previ-
ously, Michael served as VP Sales, Har-
ris RF Communications for the Depart-
ment of Defense and Federal Agencies
where he led a team that delivered sev-
eral hundred millions of dollars in an-
nual orders for tactical and land mobile
radio communications.
Barthlow has also held executive busi-
ness development and strategic capture
positions with Northrop Grumman Mis-
sion Systems,
working with
major US de-
fense agen-
cies. As a US
Marine Corps
co mmunica -
tions officer,
Michael has
served as a
battalion S-6
in the Fleet
Marine Force
and as the Chief of Joint Theater Data
Networks for US Central Command,
during Operations Enduring Freedom
and Iraqi Freedom.
Globalstar Appoints Bell As
President Of Global Sales &
Marketing
Globalstar announced that Frank J.
Bell II has been appointed President of
Global Sales and Marketing for the
Company effective October 1, 2012.
Bell will be responsible for Globalstar's
sales and marketing operations, world-
wide customer care, international gate-
way operator (IGO) partners and for all
aspects of the Company's worldwide
revenue growth.
Bell has over 25 years of sales and stra-
tegic management experience with a
number of wireless industry companies.
He served as General Manager at
MetroPCS for four years and prior to
that was Area Vice President for Sprint.
Most recently he served as the President
and COO of PR Wireless, a wireless
provider in Puerto Rico and President of
Wireless Consulting Services, Inc. He
has a Bachelor of Science in Business
Administration from Old Dominion
University and a Masters Degree in
Human Resources Management from
Pepperdine University.
Halsaa Elected Chairman of
ESOA
Cato Halsaa, CEO of Telenor Satellite
Broadcasting, has assumed the position
of Chairman of the Board of the Euro-
pean Satellite Operators Association
(ESOA), taking over from Eric
Béranger, former CEO of Astrium Ser-
vices and now CEO of Astrium Satel-
lites.
During its quarterly board meeting on
October 19, ESOA board representa-
tives formally elected Cato Halsaa as
Chairman of the Board with immediate
effect. Michel de Rosen, CEO of Eutel-
sat was confirmed as Vice-Chairman
and David McGlade, CEO of Intelsat,
was elected as second Vice-Chairman.
Roscosmos Appoints
Alexander as General Director of Khrunichev
Russia's space agency Roscosmos has
appointed Alexander Selivyorstov as
general director of space rocket maker
Khrunichev. Selivyorstov formerly held
the post of deputy general director. For-
mer director Vladimir Nesterov re-
signed in August after a failed satellite
launch that month caused by a failure in
a Briz-M booster rocket made by
Khrunichev.
EXECUTIVE MOVES
Peter Rendall
Michael Barthlow
Satellite Executive Briefing 31 November 2012
MarketMarketMarketBriefsBriefsBriefs
Key industry trends and opportunities.
Singapore, October 26, 2012--The
worldwide pay-TV market is growing
on all major TV platforms worldwide,
including cable, satellite, and IPTV.
Pay-TV service revenue is expected to
reach US$ 236 billion by the end of
2012, up from US$ 223 billion in 2011,
according to ABI Research’s pay-TV
Market Data, which looks at average
revenue per user (ARPU) and revenues
worldwide. ABI Research
expects the pay-TV market to
continue to grow 19% over
the next five years, generat-
ing US$ 281 billion in 2017.
Pay terrestrial TV services,
however, are losing steam
with a small drop in revenue;
the French pay-TV platform
TV Numeric is in receiver-
ship and likely to close at the
end of the year.
Cable-TV maintains the largest share of
the market through 2017, although it is
losing market share to both satellite and
IPTV. North American cable operators
have experienced drops in their sub-
scriber base over the past few quarters.
“Growth in satellite and IPTV services
in North America comes at the expense
of cable. This competitive shift, coupled
with a small drop in pay-tv penetration,
lead cable-TV revenues to fall about
1% in 2012 despite a small increase in
ARPU. Global Cable-TV service reve-
nue market-share is expected to drop to
47% in 2012 from 48% in 2011,” said
Jake Saunders, Vice President and prac-
tice director of core forecasting.
DirecTV tops ABI Research’s global
satellite TV market share ranking, both
in terms of subscriber base and service
revenue at the end of 2Q-2012.
“DirecTV experienced ARPU growth in
the United States as a result of higher
penetration in premium packages; it
saw significant subscriber and revenue
growth in Latin America, although
ARPU fell slightly as more customers
chose less expensive packages,” accord-
ing to Khin Sandi Lynn, research ana-
lyst.
ABI Research has recently completed a
quarterly update of its “Pay TV ARPU
and Revenues” Market Data which pro-
vides historical and forecast data for
ARPU, and service revenue
forecasts for satellite, cable,
and telco TV. The study is a
part of the company’s Pay TV
Database which also includes
ABI Insights, Market Data,
and analyst inquiry support.
ABI Research provides in-
depth analysis and quantitative
forecasting of trends in global
connectivity and other emerging tech-
nologies. From offices in North Amer-
ica, Europe and Asia, ABI Research’s
worldwide team of experts advise thou-
sands of decision makers through 70+
research and advisory services. Est.
1990. For more information visit
www.abi r e search .co m , or ca l l
+1.516.624.2500.
Industry Gearing up for Growth Driven by Record High
CAPEX Spending
Cambridge, Mass., October 11, 2012- NSR’s second in-
stallment of the Satellite Operator Financial Analysis study,
finds that the FSS sector remains robust in financial terms,
with continued revenue growth in the outlook, while immi-
nent IPOs and further industry consolidation (GE Satellite,
KT Satellite) continue to shape the industry. In addition, the
relatively recent and widespread trend of increased cost con-
trol is expected to improve margins further.
Through an in-depth analysis of key qualitative and quantita-
tive financial metrics, NSR assesses the operational position
and individual strategies of the satellite operator community,
finding that although growth slowed in 2011 compared to
previous years, satellite operators are gearing up to enter a
new phase of growth and face up to increased competition.
“Currently all operators are investing strongly in expanding
their fleets to spur future growth,” notes Senior NSR Analyst
and report author Regina Riegerbauer. “CAPEX spending
has increased 17% on average for the last five years and is
currently seeing record high levels. So far, this investment
cycle has resulted in further improved backlogs, which dem-
onstrate guaranteed cash flows going forward and confirm
Satellite Operators Reporting Solid Results
Worldwide Pay TV Revenues to Reach $236 Bil.
November 2012 32 Satellite Executive Briefing
MarketMarketMarketBriefsBriefsBriefs
Key industry trends and opportunities.
OTT Revenues to Surpass Subscription Services by 2014
Scottsdale, Ariz., November 2, 2012-- By 2017, ABI Re-
search expects over-the-top (OTT) revenue to quadruple to
$32 billion, up from the expected $8.2 billion in 2012. Sub-
scription services, like Netflix, have led the OTT markets the
past couple of years, which has helped push the market to-
wards healthy growth. By 2014, however, ABI Research
expects OTT rentals to surpass subscription revenues.
Practice director Sam
Rosen commented:
“Connected CE and
mobile devices con-
tinue to push consumer
behavior towards
newer forms of media
distribution like OTT
and multiscreen ser-
vices. Pay TV services
will continue to thrive,
by implementing mul-
tiscreen services and
supporting OTT con-
tent. In the end we
expect an amalgama-
tion of services that complement each other for many con-
sumers.”
In time, advertising, like OTT rentals, is expected to pick up
momentum as ad dollars increasingly shift to the OTT mar-
ket. Connected CE and mobile/portable devices in particular
present additional consumer touchpoints and enable more
creative ways to connect or interact with consumers. These
devices are capturing more of our attention as many consum-
ers claim to multitask while watching TV. Finding new ways
to better engage consumers through OTT experiences, there-
fore, will prove increasingly important as consumers adopt
new viewing behaviors.
Senior analyst Michael Inouye added, “While many consum-
ers today claim to use mobile and portable devices while
watching TV, most of us are in actuality poor at multitask-
ing. In many cases this means
consumers are more acutely
aware about the content on their
portable device than the TV.
While second screen advertising
is not necessarily OTT content it
does speak to the importance of
targeting these connected de-
vices that extend the reach of
content beyond the TV.”
These findings are part of ABI
Research’s OTT and Multi-
screen Services Research Ser-
vice, which includes Research
Reports, Market Data, Competi-
tive Assessments, and Analyst Insights.
ABI Research provides in-depth analysis and quantitative
forecasting of trends in global connectivity and other emerg-
ing technologies. From offices in North America, Europe
and Asia, ABI Research’s worldwide team of experts advises
thousands of decision makers through 70+ research and advi-
sory services. Est. 1990. For more information visit
www.abiresearch.com , or call +1.516.624.2500.
the satellite sector’s potential for those seeking solid long-
term investments.”
By combining reported financial data with in-depth knowl-
edge of the FSS sector, NSR has created an independent,
systematic, step-by-step financial analysis of the FSS sector
in greater detail than ever before available in the industry.
This report provides an industry-wide benchmark and is a
useful tool for all industry insiders and institutions that de-
sire a deeper understanding of the FSS sector’s financial
performance and need a complete utility supporting business
planning and decision-making, including possible future
transactional activities such as the potential sales of Hellas
Sat, KT Satellite and Measat.
Satellite Operator Financial Analysis, 2nd Edition is a multi-
client report now available from NSR. This report is a
unique assessment of the key financial metrics for the lead-
ing global and regional fixed satellite services (FSS) opera-
tors. The report offers a wealth of data, an operator-by-
operator assessment and cross comparison analysis of com-
mon and unique financial metrics that evaluate true perform-
ance and outlook of the FSS industry.
For additional information on this report, including a full
table of contents, list of figures and executive summary,
please visit www.nsr.com or call NSR at 617-576-5771.
Satellite Executive Briefing 35 November 2012
Featured Event
SATCON 2012: Connecting the Satellite Industry
SATCON 2012 Exhibition and Conference Jacob Javits Convention Center, New York City November 14-15, 2012
N ow on its 11th year, SATCON 2012 stands at the
crossroads of innovation and communications.
Thousands of attendees and exhibitors alike will
participate in the ever-changing conversation surrounding
satellite-enabled communications and content delivery.
Government/military, media & entertainment, telecommuni-
cations, commercial, mobile satellite and enterprise organi-
zations attend SATCON to see the latest products and tech-
nologies, network with peers and find potential partners and
solution providers.
SATCON provides you with action-
able information and knowledge to
keep pace with the ever-changing
global communications market. SAT-
CON is part of the Content & Com-
munications World (CCW) family
of events which includes HD World,
Produtcion+Post Expo and 3D
World, all co-located in the sprawling
Jacob Javits Convention Center in
New York City.
The SATCON Conference, which is
free to qualified industry executives,
features senior satellite industry ex-
ecutives and key military and govern-
ment officials tacking the most im-
portant issue facing the industry, cov-
ering such areas as:
Military and Homeland Security
Federal, State and Local Government
Government contractors
Broadcast, Media & Entertainment
Telcos & ISPs
Utilities
Education & Training
Emergency Response/Relief Agencies
Enterprise Markets such as Retail & Hospitality, Finan-
cial, Banking & Insurance, Energy, Oil & Gas, Health-
care & Pharmaceuticals, Maritime & Shipping, Transpor-
tation & Fleet Management
Service Providers, Integrators and Resellers
There are also numerous networking opportunities and spe-
cial events at SATCON including the Society of Satellite
Professionals International (SSPI) Future Leaders Awards
reception on the eve of
SATCON and Satellite
Markets and Research’s
First Vision Awards re-
ception at the end of the
first day of SATCON on
November 14.
The Vision Awards will be granted in the following catego-
ries:
Visionary Executive of the Year- Awarded to an out-
standing senior executive of a satellite company that demon-
strated a keen sense of mission for his company and a for-
ward-looking vision of where his company and the industry
is heading.
Most Promising Company of the Year- Awarded to a start-
up company that has experienced growth in the markets they
serve and demonstrated long-term viability of their enter-
prise.
Most Innovative Product or Service of the Year –
Awarded to a product or service launched during the year
that makes a substantial improvement to existing technology
or performs a vital service.
“You can really cover a lot of ground in just two days at
SATCON, in terms of meeting many of the most influential
people in the satellite industry in an intimate business envi-
ronment. Nowadays it is important for attendees to be as
productive as possible whenever they travel, and we want to
help attendees maximize their time spent at SATCON. New
York City is premier destination, which helps us to attract a
great quality audience,” said David Reynolds, Event Direc-
tor for SATCON.
“ We are the only show that provides free conference passes
to end-users and greatly reduced conference passes to indus-
try and vendors for as little as $175 (early bird pricing) for a
full conference pass. We want to serve the industry by mak-
ing attendance more affordable for our attendees. This is the
best way for us to help industry-leading exhibitors, industry
partners, speakers and end-users gather at the event and dis-
cuss business expansion in the most important global mar-
kets for satellite-enabled communications.” Reynolds added.
To register for SATCON go to: www.satconexpo.com.
Use VIP Code CCE39 to register for a free all-access exhi-
bition and conference pass at SATCON 2012.
Satellite Executive Briefing 39 November 2012
Advantech Wireless……………...…..back cover www.advantechwireless.com Amos Spacecom................................................8 www.amos-spacecom.com ATCi...................................................................36 www.atci.com AVCOM of Virginia............................................7 www.avcomofva.com AVL Technologies...........................................36 www.avltech.com Cabsat 2013......................................................29 www.cabsat.com Cobham Tracstar.............................................26 www.cobham.com/tracstar CommunicAsia 2013.......................................33 www.communicasia.com Globecomm Systems.....................................14 www.globecomm.com
Hispasat/ Hispamar..........................................19 www.hispasat.com Intersputnik.........................................................5 www.intersputnik.com Narda Test Solutions………….........................17 www.agfranz.com Newtec…………................................................23 www.newtec.eu O3b Networks...................................................33 www.o3bnetworks.com Space Tech Expo 2013....................................24 www.spacetechexpo.com The Spaceconnection........................cover & 13 www.thespaceconnection.com Walton Enterprises..........................................37 www.de-ice.com
ADVERTISERS’ INDEX
Sustained Growth Forecasts for Global Online TV
Global online TV and video revenues will reach US$ 28.72 billion in 2017, a massive increase from the US$ 3.79 billion recorded in 2010 and the US$ 11.14 billion expected in 2012, according to a new report from Digital TV Research.
November 2012 40 Satellite Executive Briefing
Stock Index
The Satellite Markets 25 IndexTM is a composite of 25 publicly-traded satellite companies worldwide with five compa-nies representing each major market segment of the industry: satellite operators; satellite and component manufactur-ers; ground equipment manufacturers; satellite service providers and consumer satellite services. The base data for the Satellite Markets IndexTM is January 2, 2008--the first day of operation for Satellite Market and Research. The Index equals 1,000. The Satellite Markets IndexTM provides a benchmark to gauge the overall health of the satellite industry.
© 2012 Satellite Markets and Research, Satellite Executive Briefing and the Satellite Markets IndexTM are trademarks of Synthesis Publications LLC. Synthesis Publica-tions LLC is the owner of the trademark, service marks and copyrights related to the Index. This newsletter does not constitute an offer of an investment product. Satel-lite Executive Briefing makes no representation regarding the advisability of investing based on the information provided in the Satellite Markets IndexTM. All information is provided ‘as is’ for information purposes only and is not intended for trading purpose or advice. Neither Satellite Executive Briefing nor any related party is liable for any informational error, incompleteness or for any actions taken based on information contained herein.