Satcom Direct (SD) introduces new WiFi Hub

Wednesday 27th April 2016

Best standalone connectivity solution for small to mid-size aircraft and the perfect enhancement to the Satcom Direct Router (SDR) for larger aircraft

AEA Orlando, Florida / 27 April, 2016 - Functioning as both a router and a wireless access point, the SD WiFi Hub packs big technology into a small, easily-installed package. AEA attendees can view product demonstrations at exhibit 410.

The SD WiFi Hub is more than a wireless access point; it is the gateway for all voice and data communications on the aircraft. It is the ideal solution for operators who have a regional mission where email access and text messaging are top priority.  Additionally, it

serves to enhance the company's Satcom Direct Router (SDRTM) for ultra-long range aircraft where the SD WiFi Hub adds functionality to and enhances the performance in the cabin.

"By adding the SD WiFi Hub to our hardware lineup, SD now offers powerful connectivity solutions for any size aircraft. The Hub is the perfect platform for smaller airframes that previously were unable to utilize the SDR due to space constraints," said Ken Bantoft, Chief Technology Officer for SD. "Now, operators can access many premium services previously unavailable to narrow body aircraft."

The SD WiFi Hub serves as the onboard router and delivers many Satcom Direct value

added services to the cabin, including GlobalVT® which enables voice and text on the user's personal smartphone, at all phases of flight, anywhere in the world. At 1.6 pounds, the Hub has the smallest and lightest form factor in aviation. Installation is easy, making it the perfect replacement solution for legacy 802.11 b/g/n wireless access points.

The Hub was engineered to utilize the very best components and technology. Its advanced hardware and software features include two Arinc 429 interfaces, configurable discretes, it supports multiple SATCOM bearers and multiple Wi-Fi networks, and more.

When partnered with the SDR, the SD WiFi Hub provides up to an additional 900Mbps data rate to the cabin with both 2.4 and 5 GHz 802.11 b/g/n radios. The Hub expands capability and adds additional interfaces where they are needed, simplifying the installation and improving Wi-Fi coverage in the cabin. The SD WiFi Hub supports high definition media products and applications for all passengers, addressing buffering and gaps in cabin coverage.

About Satcom Direct:

Satcom Direct (SD) provides global connectivity solutions for business and general aviation, military, government, and heads of state aircraft, as well as operations in areas with connectivity limitations such as remote locations, large scale events, and disaster recovery. SD is a technology innovator. Since 1997, its teams have worked to advance the technology of connectivity, making SD the first in the marketplace to deliver numerous advancements and capabilities. The company is a premier Inmarsat Distribution Partner (including Jet ConneX), Iridium Service Partner, ViaSat's preferred reseller, and the Exclusive Service Provider for SmartSky Networks.

The SD world headquarters and primary operations center is located in Melbourne, Florida, with additional office locations in the United States, Canada, UK, UAE, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Australia, Russia, Brazil, and South Africa.

www.satcomdirect.com