Newtec Vets Ka-band Terminal For SES Services
Satellite specialist Newtec’s new high-speed Ka-band technology for Europe’s SES Broadband (previously called ASTRA2Connect) has passed testing muster on the ASTRA 1L Ka-band capacity at 19.2 degrees East. The test was completed with next-gen Ka-band Sat3Play terminals and related hub infrastructure, and service should begin later this year.
During testing, Newtec installed a Sat3Play hub at SES Broadband Services’ premises in Luxembourg and provided several Ka-band terminals working on Astra-1L Ka-band frequencies. It also allowed for remote operation of the Hub.
SES Broadband delivers broadband Internet and Voice Over IP (VOIP) services to private households and small businesses, and it plans to increase its offerings by using additional multiple spot-beam Ka-band capacity that will become available onboard its ASTRA 2F, 2E and 2G spacecraft. The first spacecraft, ASTRA 2F, launches later this year.
Newtec has shipped more than 100.000 Ku-band Sat3Play terminals for the SES service, and the next-gen Ka-band terminals feature download speeds faster than 10 Mbps. The company will be showcasing its High Speed Ku/Ka-band Sat3Play terminal, including a new modem and a new Ka-band interactive LNB unit, at next week’s Satellite 2012 show in Washington, D.C. CT Reports will be covering this event.
