BGAN
From Tribewanted
Summary from the Tech Tikina
BGAN is a satellite system, also known as Inmarsat. The system is based on three satellites that provide coverage over much of the Earth's surface. At this time (January 2007) the satellite that will cover Fiji is not in orbit. It is scheduled to be launched later in 2007. This means BGAN is not currently an option for Tribewanted.
Once launched, BGAN will be a good option for high-speed Internet access on Vorovoro. Connection speeds up to 492kbps are supported, as well as streaming video and telephone. There is a significant cost to purchase the BGAN terminal and the tribe may wish to solicit sponsorship from BGAN to offset this cost.
The following information is from the BGAN website.
Introduction
BGAN enables users to access data applications at broadband speed and make phone calls at the same time - wherever they are on the planet.
Data
The standard IP service offers access to corporate networks via a secure VPN connection at speeds up to 492kbps. It enables you to access e-mail and other office applications, browse the Internet and send large file attachments.
Streaming IP
For applications where quality of service is paramount, such as live video or videoconferencing, BGAN offers an 'on-demand' Streaming IP service at speeds up to 256kbps. You can choose the data rate on a case-by-case basis depending on your application. BGAN also supports ISDN.
Phone
You can make phone calls at the same time as accessing data applications via a standard desktop phone, custom handset or Bluetooth handset/headset, depending on the BGAN terminal. Voice mail and other standard 3G supplementary services are also available.
Text
BGAN enables you to send and receive text messages via a laptop to or from any mobile phone. The service supports the standard 160 characters.
BGAN terminals
BGAN is accessed via a small, lightweight satellite terminal. A range of devices offers performance options to suit different operational needs. Terminals can be connected quickly and easily to a laptop or multiple laptops, with users choosing wired or wireless connections, including Bluetooth or WLAN, depending on their choice of terminal. The smallest devices are designed to suit single users whose primary concern is portability. Larger terminals offer higher bandwidth and are particularly suitable for small teams who may need to establish temporary offices for longer periods. Terminals can be used indoors and outdoors, being robust enough to withstand challenging environments and extremes of temperature.
