Vessel operators will be able to use satellites and cellular networks for communications with one terminal to reduce costs after a new service was launched.
NSSLGlobal introduced FusionIP, which combines VSAT and mobile phone network connectivity within a Cobham Satcom device. The Sailor VSAT 60 cm dome has the satellite communications antenna and a transceiver for 3G and 4G mobile networks.
Communications can automatically be switched between the two for lowest cost and higher bandwidth requirements. NSSLGlobal said communications can reach speeds of up to 100 Mbps. This would be over a coastal 4G and long-term evolution network, which can stretch to 20 km offshore.
NSSLGlobal said FusionIP would be ideal for coastal shipping, offshore wind installation and fishing vessels, yachts and crew transfer vessels. Last week, Cobham Satcom head Casper Jensen told Marine Electronics & Communications that his company was merging different communications technologies into marine terminals.
