Agiosat Global Communications is a world leader in broadband satellite communications. Now Agiosat is establishing offices in Australia to support the Australian and ASEAN region.

Agiosat provides cutting edge satellite-based communication and network technologies with global reach. Agiosat is a vertically integrated satellite provider that owns and operates its own telecommunications facilities, shares infrastructure with other carriers, and distributes the services of other network operations. These solutions are delivered by a team with experience in turn-key, satellite-based connectivity.

Agiosat’s 3G network services are an IP based mobile satellite service utilising Inmarsat’s new I4 satellite system, established to provide 3G UMTS high-speed data (432 kbps) and voice telephony. 3G is an always-on always-connected service, with none of the per minute charges normally associated with mobile satellite telephones.

The service is currently available throughout Asia, Western Australia, the Middle East, Africa and Europe. As two additional satellites are launched, the service areas will expand to the Americas in February 2006, then the Pacific Ocean Region in mid to late 2006.

True 3G high speed services are slated to commence in 2006 and the first I4 satellite is in the sky and fully available for service. The Agiosat 3G Model 1 terminal, a 2.5G GPRS unit, providing 144 kbps full duplex IP connectivity to the network is available now and as of November, the 3G terminals with 432 kbps data rates will be available.

This technology has been in use for the past three years in a limited region as the prototype system to this new global network. It is robust, reliable and secure.

3G Model 1 Terminal – an advanced data system in a mini package

The terminal (2.5G GPRS) is the size of a small laptop computer, weighs just over 1 kg and is ‘point and shoot’ to get onto and use the 3G satellite network. The Inmarsat I4 satellite is geosynchronous orbiting, meaning it is not a moving target. Low Earth Orbiting (LEO) systems are inconvenient, requiring users to stay in full view of the entire sky to maintain connectivity. 3G offers greater ease of use as users can aim it once and forget about it.

As you point to the satellite and register onto the Agiosat 3G network, your terminal will issue a single IP address through one of three provided interfaces – USB, Ethernet or Bluetooth, for use with computer connected peripheral equipment. Users log on through a web portal and are on the air. If a user has multiple IP devices (several computers), a router can be placed into the chain allowing a number of pieces of equipment work with a single 3G terminal.

When the 3G terminal is registered onto the network, users are connected into the Global Information Grid, much the same as with a cable modem. The terminal idles on the network, awaiting the transmission of data, receipt of email or a VoIP telephone call. Usage charges are based solely upon actual transmission or receipt of data, giving peace-of-mind that nothing will be missed while connected.

Most people are used to paying for wireless services by the minute. With Agiosat 3G this is no longer the case. The Agiosat 3G service is charged to subscribers on a byte-by-byte basis, even though pricing is stated per Megabyte of use.

Users can surf the web, send and receive email and talk on the phone, all for much less than traditional satellite service, using the most modern IP based system. There are no VSAT licence issues either.

This service and equipment is suitable for business or pleasure. Individuals can use the system for staying in contact anywhere and anytime, and the costs associated are within the reach of most users. Individuals that could benefit from the system include mining industry employees, farmers and travellers, among others.

Business can afford to use Agiosat 3G and save money by allowing employees to access the broadband service anytime anywhere. Units are so small and cheap that they can be carried in every vehicle that needs to be away from the office.

The 3G terminal has a user interface with metering software to keep track of data consumed while using the system. Agiosat’s prepaid SIM cards maintain a system record of use and remaining data capacity that can be viewed on a web interface for each individual user.

Agiosat also provides Skyfile email software to 3G subscribers. Skyfile allows users to set up free personal email accounts with review and download controls to keep data use under control.

Benefits offered by the 3G terminal include the option to have more than one user, each with their own prepaid account and the chance to add your own VoIP phone to the terminal.

Agiosat 3G Terminals

New 3G 432 kbps terminals will be out in late 2005, although in the meantime customers may find that the 3G Model 1 2.5G 144 kbps terminal meets all their needs. If not, Agiosat will be able to offer upgrades and trade-in replacement units if the customer requests.

High performance, competitive pricing and total portability mean that Agiosat 3G is well suited to everyday business, not just for extreme locations, meaning that the benefits of mobile satellite communications can be enjoyed by a much broader range of users than before. Essentially delivering broadband on the move, the system provides all the vital services you have at home or in your office.

Agiosat Global Communications offer a wide range of communication services, including Agiosat 3G for the defence, mining, oil & gas, construction and media industries, or for individual use.