Satcoms Innovation Group (SIG) is working for the first time with CABSAT this year to develop its conference sessions. Some common themes that will be covered this year include 5G, both in terms of the threat to satellite and the opportunity it presents; cloud-enabled satellite networks and smallsats.
The entity is an Associate Partner of Satexpo and will run a number of sessions on topics such as 5G and the future of cloud-enabled satellite networks.
5G networks are being rolled out across the globe, promising better connectivity for consumers and a wealth of potential applications. On the one hand, this is a potential competitive player for satellite; on the other, satellite networks may be vital for keeping 5G running smoothly. At the same time, 5G has proven to cause interference to C-band networks. As roll-outs continue, many fear that this will become an insurmountable problem. The session will look at what 5G means for satellite; if it is all that it promises in terms of connectivity rendering satellites obsolete, if satellites will a vital role in enabling 5G technology; the impact on interference and managing interference.
On the second topic, satellite operators are going from mhz sales (buy, sell, lease bandwidth for point-to-point or point-to-multipoint) to bits – ethernet – point-to-point connectivity. There is an expectation of instant connectivity; however, satellite involves long coordination processes, and this transition is a challenge. There will also need to be a shift in the way services are managed and delivered, adopting a model much more akin to mobile service provision, giving users access to manage their own services if operators want to compete in this new world. The discussion will explore all of the above.
“Industry events such as the SatExpo Summit are crucial in keeping conversations going around satellite industry growth, business innovation and industry challenges. Our panel discussions bring together leaders in the satcom industry to share information, learning and thoughts for the future,” commented Helen Weedon, Managing Director at SIG.
“The challenges we tackle are globally relevant and significant, so it is important for us to be active in all regions. We are always looking to attract new members. Arabsat is a full member as well as a board member of the group.”
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