Newtec has successfully tested its new high speed Ka-Band technology for SES Broadband Services – previously ASTRA2Connect – Europe’s most successful satellite broadband service. The test was completed with next generation Ka-Band Sat3Play® terminals, which feature download speeds beyond 10 Mbps, and related hub infrastructure including a new high speed modem and outdoor unit. The new technology was tested on the ASTRA 1L Ka-Band capacity at 19.2º East.
During testing, Newtec installed a Sat3Play hub at SES Broadband Services’ premises in Luxembourg, provided several Ka-Band terminals working on Astra-1L Ka-Band frequencies, and also provided the ability to remotely operate the Hub.
“We have jointly tested and validated the Sat3Play Ka-band platform from Newtec with the objective of proving operational readiness for a rollout of SES Broadband Ka-band services later this year. The upgrade of existing end user terminals and the next generation Ka-band terminals, featuring speeds beyond 10 Mbps, are part of SES strategy to bring its successful broadband service to the next level. The test was very successful and we are pleased with the performance of the equipment. We look forward to the launch of our Ka-band services,” said Patrick Biewer, Managing Director, SES Broadband Services.
Serge Van Herck, CEO of Newtec, commented: “The testing has been a clear success. We have now completed the tests and look forward to the operational start of the SES Broadband Ka-band services later this year.”
SES Broadband currently offers download speeds up to 10 Mbps and delivers broadband Internet and Voice Over IP (VOIP) services to private households and small businesses. The company will further increase the performance of its service by using additional multiple spot beam Ka-band capacity that will become available onboard its ASTRA 2F, 2E and 2G spacecraft, with the first spacecraft, ASTRA 2F, scheduled for launch later in 2012.