Sentech is proud to provide wireless connectivity via WiFi for all visitors attending the INSITE exhibition, which takes place at Gallagher Estate, Midrand, between 1 and 3 November 2004.
The company is a leader in satellite and wireless communications in SA and is responsible for the distribution of radio and television signals in the region.
According to Winston Smith, Product Manager: MyWireless, Sentech will provide Internet connectivity making use of its VSTAR service offering. VSTAR represents the first of a large family of satellite and terrestrial wireless broadband communication services that Sentech has launched under its multimedia licence.
Being based entirely on satellite, the VSTAR service allows users anywhere in SA - irrespective of the availability of landlines - to get connected to the Internet. It is based on very small aperture terminal (VSAT) technology, which works like satellite TV, except that Sentech's VSAT technology is a state-of-the-art network that allows high-speed two-way communication and is always-on, like satellite TV. The VSAT platform also supports high-speed data communications for the large business and corporate markets and services can be fully customised to meet specific business needs.
For the duration of the exhibition, connectivity will be supplied through the VSAT unit, feeding into Sentech's MEU (Mobile Exhibition Unit), positioned onsite at INSITE. The VSAT dish (built into a trailer) will be aligned with the PAS7 satellite. This satellite will then communicate with Sentech's core network in Honeydew, Roodepoort, which is coupled to Sentech's IP network. Sentech provides Internet access from this satellite which links directly to British Telecom in the UK or via an MPLS network for local Internet connectivity.
Sentech's VSAT solution (known as VSTAR) is a highly reliable solution, providing on-air availability of 99.5%. Although the technology is not unique, Sentech's MEU solution with multiple connectivity options is. Connectivity is possible in any location within the southern African region, providing there is a clear view of the satellite 36 000km away and a clean power source. The solution offers scalability from as low as 8.6Kbps up to 10Mbps direct to the end-user.
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INSITE - the International Science, Innovation & Technology Exhibition - is organised in Gauteng by Exhibitions for Africa. This year's event takes place between 1 and 3 November 2004 at Gallagher Estate, Midrand. Exhibition visitors can register for their free entrance to the show at www.insitex.co.za.
INSITE is an initiative of the Department of Science and Technology which strives towards creating a better SA for all by facilitating the growth of these two major industries in such a way that makes a positive and noticeable impact on the sustainable development of our country. This is achieved through focused interventions, networking, and by acting as a catalyst for change in both components of our economy to ensure that SA makes its mark in a globally competitive environment while simultaneously addressing the huge development backlog that exists among the poorest components of society within our own borders.
The goal of realising this vision is underpinned by the department's development and resourcing strategies for the formation of science, engineering and technology human capital, the democratisation of state and society, the promotion of an information society, and ensuring environmental sustainability in all development programmes.
Sentech
Sentech is an independent and fully commercial state-owned enterprise. The company's signal distribution network forms the backbone of broadcasting in SA. In May 2002, the company was awarded two additional licences allowing it to provide international telephony and broadband wireless services. Since then, it has become a major force in the telecommunications and multimedia industries.
Sentech offers a range of high-end services such as business communications solutions, data and multicasting to corporations, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) small or home offices (SOHOs), organisations in Africa and telecommunications operators globally.
The company aims to be a leader in providing world-class broadband communications solutions and services to its customers. Sentech also want to define market niches in which it will be recognised as the brand leader, creating innovative, value-adding products that satisfy the need of customers.
Sentech offers terrestrial broadcasting coverage in analogue format to 98% of South African broadcasters; C-band capacity linking radio and TV transmissions as well as business broadcasting, datacasting and interactive distant learning. The company also introduced the first suite of broadband wireless services to SA - and this is all delivered via satellite or high-powered radio frequency with no need for a fixed phone line.
The first multimedia offering, VSTAR, based on VSAT technology, was launched in August 2003, creating a stir in the marketplace. There are more VSTAR products in the process of development and release, and the sales pipeline continues to grow.
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