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AfricaCom: VT iDirect announces release of the SatHaul Optimisation Suite

iDirect SatHaul helps mobile operators create a highly efficient and cost-effective solution for connecting rural and remote locations over satellite

SatHaul3KyApNwEfVT iDirect has announced the release of the iDirect SatHaul Optimisation Suite. This set of features is designed to enhance the cellular backhaul solution, iDirect SatHaul, which helps mobile operators create a highly efficient and cost-effective solution for connecting rural and remote locations over satellite. iDirect is a world leader in satellite-based IP communications technology.

Today, mobile operators are deploying networks to meet the strong end-user demand for greater bandwidth to support advanced services and applications. Innovations in satellite technology and ground infrastructure are making the technology a cost-efficient solution to extend network coverage and enable higher throughput capabilities at the edge of the network. The iDirect SatHaul solution is designed to help mobile operators expand coverage in a smart and profitable way. When used for 4G/LTE networks, the iDirect SatHaul Optimisation Suite enhances the end-user experience and at the same time reduces the amount of bandwidth needed for voice or data, redefining the business case for serving rural and remote markets or specialised environments like emergency services or mobile networks.

Key features of the iDirect SatHaul Optimisation Suite include:

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  • TCP Acceleration overcomes throughput issues caused by satellite delay, improving data speed and performance all the way down to the handset.
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  • IPsec is a security protocol that protects all data going through a 4G network. With iDirect SatHaul Optimisation, traffic can be optimized and secured throughout the entire satellite transmission link, ensuring that no data is exposed or compromised.
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  • Header Compression saves on bandwidth by removing irrelevant elements during transmission and compressing the LTE header stack.
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  • Payload Compression boosts the efficiency of user traffic and application data by optimising payload traffic while maintaining a good experience at the device level.

The iDirect SatHaul Optimisation Suite will run on the new X7-EC, a variant of the iDirect X7 satellite remote that has been enhanced with extended processing capabilities. The X7-EC has all of the standard iDirect features that make it a powerful remote, including dual demods, multicast and advanced mobility features, along with embedded computing capabilities to run high-speed applications at the edge of the network. Having the optimisation suite embedded within the satellite router delivers a single box solution to the mobile operator, providing a more cost effective solution, decreasing points of failure and lowering power requirements at the remote site.

“Global mobile data traffic continues to grow at an outstanding pace, with increased demand for 4G/LTE services in urban environments, remote and rural locations and even in situations on the move,” said David Harrower, Vice President Business Development, iDirect. “As mobile operators roll out their plans for servicing this growing demand, satellite will play a major part in the solution. The advanced capabilities of the iDirect SatHaul Optimization Suite ensures mobile operators can make the most of their satellite connected sites by saving bandwidth and providing a higher quality of service to customers.”