UK science and technology research company, QinetiQ, and US broadband service provider, dataBahn, have revealed the result of collaboration to develop low cost ‘pop up’ satellite antennas, designed to provide cost-effective broadband connectivity for a wide range of global connectivity applications. The auto-aligning robotic satellite antenna platforms will provide data connections of up to 2 Mbps for ‘paused’ mobile users. These will include emergency vehicle operators, disaster recovery and border patrol, together with those operating vehicles for leisure or recreational purposes.
QinetiQ was chosen by dataBahn for this strategic alliance because of its proven track record in satellite communications for the UK Ministry of Defence and NATO. Speaking of the collaboration, Andrew Cheer, commercial director, QinetiQ Communications Division, said, “We are very pleased with this exciting partnership as QinetiQ is tasked with driving forward our military derived technology into the commercial marketplace and we need strong partners for this.”
dataBahn plans to introduce these auto-aligning robotic solutions during Summer 2005 in the US and will co-ordinate sales, service, installation and support through its nationwide network of dealers and installers. The company will also distribute the antennas through other channels on a global scale for use on Ka- and Ku-band satellites.