3Di provides the full array of VSAT installation services, including the following:

Site selection and preparation

Site selection is critical to ensure that the antenna has an unobstructed view of the satellite from the selected location. The physical location of the antenna must be able to support mechanical bracing of the antenna platform to prevent movement during high wind conditions.

System integration, testing, and shipping to the customer’s remote location

Equipment mobilization requires consideration due to the weight and size of the antenna components. The fiberglass antennas are delicate and the non-penetrating mounts are extremely bulky and heavy unless dismantled. The satellite modem equipment and supporting LAN equipment should be moved in ruggedized cases if remote locations will be subject to ‘fast-track’ or ‘military’ type deployment operations.

Installation of antenna equipment

The antenna base unit is assembled, after basic orientation is determined, using compass and inclinometer. The antenna reflector (‘dish’) is mounted. The Feed Arm unit is assembled along with the LNB and BUC unit. Test cables from the LNB to the Spectrum Analyzer are installed and the satellite signature is obtained and maximized for maximum Rx signal strength.

Installation of satellite modem, firewall, switch, and peripheral LAN equipment

The satellite modem and associated equipment (usually a UPS unit and LAN equipment) are installed and power activated. Proper configuration files (Image and Option Files) are loaded into the satellite modem.

Antenna synchronization with the orbiting satellite

Antenna pointing (the calibration of the Rx) is performed using diagnostic tools. Maximum Rx signal level is obtained. This process is often a very laborious task and requires multiple iterations of antenna adjustments into order to maximize the Satellite Rx level.

Cross polarization alignment with the Satellite Service Provider

Telephone contact is made with the Satellite Service Provider who assigns a ‘Test Tx Frequency’. That test frequency is manually programmed into the satellite modem and Tx levels are specified by the Satellite Service Provider. The Cross Polarization levels are adjusted to minimize the levels with constant feedback being obtained from the Satellite Service Provider NOC. Transmit compression level testing is performed at 1dB level increments and confirmed by the Satellite Service Provider. The Satellite Service Provider then authorizes the Remote Site to be ‘placed into service’ using the allocated Network frequencies.

Network activation and commissioning

The Network Operations Center (NOC) is notified that the remote site is ready for activation. Upon activation of the satellite-provider database, the satellite provider will begin looking for the new remote site. When found, the Site ID will be confirmed and the Site ‘officially’ is registered into the Network. DNS and IP structuring is performed to conform to the LAN requirements. Commissioning of the remote site is complete.

After sale, on ground technical support

3Di's commitment to poviding our customers with the highest quality of products and services does not stop after the sale. We ensure that customer satisfaction is met by providing on ground technical support wherever we operate.