Norsat Introduces Upgraded Fly-Away Satellite Terminal
13 February 2013
Norsat International Inc. announces the launch of GLOBETrekker 2.0, an upgraded and more feature rich model of their popular fly-away satellite terminal. Upgrades to the auto-acquisition terminal are the result of feedback from key military and enterprise customers, including the NATO Communications and Information Agency, with whom the Company worked to produce the DART+ line of fly-away terminals. The re-engineered GLOBETrekker is now lighter, more field serviceable and faster to deploy while maintaining the rugged design Norsat has become known for.
Important feature additions to GLOBETrekker make the terminal easier and more intuitive to use for operators of all skill levels. The GLOBETrekker now includes a one touch user interface and maintains its easy tool-free assembly process, enabling rapid deployment in less than 15 minutes. Auto-acquire technology is provided by Norsat's revolutionary LinkControl(TM) Software. Through LinkControl's sophisticated system of user configured profiles, operators can now switch satellites, equipment, or systems rapidly in the field. A USB recovery process saves a full system image, providing security, configuration storage and disaster recovery if necessary. LinkControl's automated troubled shooting also provides visible and audible alarms to guide the technician through an intuitive resolution process.
Design improvements make the already rugged GLOBETrekker tougher and more flexible in the field. A new modular architecture, developed to enable rapid sub-assembly swapping in the field, includes a removable base unit, which allows the modem and key electronics to be integrated with the terminal or removed and positioned indoors for maximum customer flexibility. The GLOBETrekker is multi-band capable (X-band, Ku-band and Ka-band), and band switching is possible in less than 10 minutes in the field. The development of quad pod legs keeps electronics well above snow, mud or running water when used in challenging environments, and automatic levelling enables rapid deployment in uneven terrain. The addition of a sunlight readable display (greater than 1200 NITS) provides visibility even in direct sunlight. The GLOBETrekker is undergoing Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) certification to allow for operation on the ten satellite WGS constellation for use by U.S. and other WGS-enabled military forces.
"The GLOBETrekker is one of Norsat's flagship products, and the improvements we've made now put the terminal in a class all its own," states Company President & CEO, Dr. Amiee Chan. "By focusing on our customers' needs, we've been able to deliver the most intelligent and user-friendly terminal in the market. Feedback from customers has already been overwhelmingly positive and we look forward to introducing the upgraded GLOBETrekker to new militaries, broadcasters and enterprise customers around the world."