The ViaSat / LinkStar System

The LinkStar satellite network relies upon technology developed by ViaSat Communications located in Silicon Valley in California. Unlike any of the other popular consumer satellite providers such as StarBand, HughesNet and WildBlue, this data-grade, secure network is capable of supporting voice over IP (VoIP), VPNs, VLANs, Citrix Metaframe clients and other mature network technologies and protocols.

The bottom line: If you need what LinkStar technology and network infrastructure does - that is, support for VoIP, VLANs, VPNs and remote access applications, then there is no other affordable substitute.

The ViaSat LinkStar RCST (Return Channel Satellite Terminal)

The LinkStar satmodem (otherwise know as a Return Channel Satellite Terminal or RCST) is the interface between your computer or network and the satellite dish. LinkStar uses one RCST for all of its available services. In other words, the same device supports all service levels from 128 kbps up / 512kbps down to 768 kbps up / 5+ mbps down. The LinkStar RCST supports 10/100 Ethernet connectivity without the need for PC-based software. Thus, this unit can be plugged directly into a router/firewall combination.

Even though the LinkStar RCSTs do not offer in-built firewall protection, the entire LinkStar network is itself behind Cisco-based enterprise-class firewalls. This affords your internal network or computing assets a layer of protection that is simply not available from any other satellite broadband service provider. Nevertheless, StarLAN Consulting Services strongly recommends that you defend the edge of your network with a suitable firewall/router combination for the sake of the safety and security of your private personal and business data.

LinkStar Satellite Modem
LinkStar Front View	LinkStar Rear Panel

LinkStar Antenna Systems

SkyVista offers four antenna systems:

• 1.0 meter (39.32 inches)
• 1.2 meters (47.18 inches)
• 1.8 meters (70.9 inches)
• 2.4 meters (94.5 inches)

The latter two are special-purpose - consultation is required before implementing the 1.8 meter and 2.4 meter systems.  The Andrew Corporation Type 100TX 1.0 m Class and 120TX 1.2 m Class I RxTx Antennas used by the ViaSat LinkStar system are rugged, commercial-grade products suitable for the most demanding applications. The reflector is thermoset-molded for strength and surface accuracy. Molded into the rear of the reflector is a network of support ribs which not only strengthens the antenna, but also helps to sustain the critical parabolic shape necessary for optimal transmit performance. The Az/El (azimuth/elevation) mount is constructed from heavy-gauge steel to provide a rigid support to the reflector. The Az/El mount secures the antenna to any 2.88”-3.00” (73-76 mm) O.D. mast and prevents slippage in high winds. A specially formulated powder paint process offers excellent protection from weather related corrosion.

Equipment Comparisons

What are the differences between the LinkStar equipment packages? They differ primarily in terms of transmitter power and dish size. Upload speeds in excess of 384 kbps require the 4 watt transmitter package AND a minimum 1.2 meter dish. In either case, LinkStar transmitter power exceeds that of all conventional satellite services except for WildBlue's transmitter operating at 3 watts.

Fixed site installations are those which are permanently attached to a home or business. All LinkStar installations are fixed site. Choose from wall mount, pole mount, non-penetrating roof mount or other custom mounting solutions available from StarLAN Consulting Services. For a quick guide to antenna mounting solutions, see LinkStar Installation Options for photos and more information.

ViaSat / LinkStar website - http://www.viasat.com/