[SatNews] Aircraft and ground segments are included with this GSM services solution for aircraft passengers...

TriaGnoSys has launched GSMConneX, an end-to-end solution that provides GSM services to aircraft passengers. The solution consists of the hardware and software parts for both the aircraft and ground segments, with the entire aircraft hardware being contained in only two lightweight and small units. The solution is displayed at Aircraft Interiors 2011 at TriaGnoSys’ booth 6C1. GSMConneX enables passengers to use their mobile phones, including smartphones, to make and receive calls, send and receive text messages and emails, and browse the Internet with EDGE/GPRS data rates. It uses advanced compression and optimisation techniques to make the most efficient use of available bandwidth, minimising satellite link costs. It can also be used for WLAN Internet services by adding an optional Wireless Access Point.

The airborne hardware consists of a Base Transceiver Station (BTS), with an integrated server. This is installed with advanced software for GSM control, satellite control and optional WiFi services which includes portal and payment functionality. The second unit is the Network Control Unit, which controls a wide range of GSM and UMTS frequencies. GSMConneX Aero can connect to the ground network via satellite, or any other backhaul link. A number of satellite systems are supported, including Inmarsat SwiftBroadband, Ku- and Ka-band, as well as direct air-to-ground.