Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the SkyBlue "Shared Access" and SkyBlue "CIR Services" ?
Skyblue Shared Access provides a Fast Internet Access Service on a shared basis, with three different data rates up to 2048 kbps downstream and up to 512 kbps upstream. SkyBlue CIR Service is a service with a dedicated (i.e. non-shared) data rate from 64 kbs to 8 Mbps allocated exclusively to one customer.
What are the advantages of SkyBlue LinkStar compared to terrestrial Internet services?
SkyBlue offers a broadband Internet service which is completely independent from local telco companies. The persuasive bandwidth is comparable and exceeds the performance of DSL and cable modems. The always-on functionality and the fair-use flat rate are other important features.
What can I understand by "Fair-Use Flat Rate"?
The concept of "Fair-Use Flat Rate" applies to the SkyBlue service: The subscription to the service is based on a monthly fee rather than on invoicing for the traffic on a volume basis. However, in order to guarantee a fair access for everybody in the user community sharing a common channel (one or more satellite transponders), excessive consumption (e.g. streaming media or file sharing on a peer-to-peer network for many hours) is not allowed. In case of excessive upload or download volume, the data rate will be temporarily limited and the user will downgraded on the priority level.
What are possible applications for the SkyBlue service?
SkyBlue CIR Services can be used in principle for all applications which are based on IP connectivity, including: Internet access, corporate network infrastructure (WAN, VPN), digital video streaming (DVB), distance education, videoconferencing, voice over IP (VoIP).
Can I use LinkStar to implement Voice over IP (VoIP)?
LinkStar offers the ability to implement VoIP. However, due to the long satellite path, there is an important round loop delay of typically 1.5 seconds (750 milliseconds one-way). This needs a telephone conversation rather to be simplex, i.e. only one person speaks at a time. Nevertheless, VoIP based on LinkStar can be an attractive alternative in geographical regions with non-existing or poor telephone infrastructure.
How do I connect a PC or a Local Area Network (LAN) to the LinkStar terminal?
The indoor unit of the terminal provides a 10/100 Mps Ethernet Interface which allows you to directly connect a single computer (via a crossed Ethernet cable) as well as a network hub, switch, router or proxy server.
Can I connect the LinkStar terminal to a wireless LAN (W-LAN) network?
Yes, through the Ethernet interface it is possible to connect directly a wireless access point or wireless bridge. No access PC or workstation is needed.
How many IP addresses do you provide with each system?
In addition to the IP address of the terminal, as an option up to 13 private (static) IP addresses can be provided per station. By attributing these IP addresses to individual PCs it is possible to set-up a small Local Area Network (LAN) without the need of a router.
Do you provide public IP addresses?
For applications based on the fast Internet access service (IP Access) public addresses are generally not needed. For special applications which would need a public IP address,a group of public IP addresses (4, 8, 16.) can be allocated to each terminal.
Is Linux possible as primary Operating System?
The LinkStar terminal is an independent station, with no PC needed for operation. Thus the operation system of the computers connected to the LAN is irrelevant, as long as it supports the Internet Protocol (IP). This is the case of all modern operating systems, including Linux and MAC OS.Who can install the system? The terminal has to be installed by a certified installer. Indeed special skills for installing and commissioning are needed, which go well beyond the installation of a satellite reception-only system.
Can I become a SkyBlue certified installer?
Professionals and resellers successfully completing a one-day seminar in Texas or California can become a certified installer. Prior experience in installing VSAT equipment is highly useful, but not a pre-requisite.
