STM… Hubenings… (SATCOM)

[SatNews] Bringing DVB-RCS standards into play are new Hub configuration systems.

STM Group, Inc. (STM) has introduced these two new SatLink(r) Hub systems optimized for private VSAT networks at small and medium enterprises, and for entry-level requirements at larger enterprises. The new SatLink Hub 9100 SE and 9200 SE provide non-redundant or fully redundant Hub configuration options. Both are fully compliant with DVB-RCS standards and employ the same standards-based OpenHub architecture as used in all SatLink Hub systems. These new SatLink Hub systems are targeted for networks from five to 200 VSATs with one DVB-S2 Forward Link carrier using Adaptive Coding and Modulation (ACM), up to 16 TDMA carriers in a single dynamically shared carrier group for the DVB-RCS Return Link, and total network capacities to more than 100 Mbps of IP traffic. Hybrid Mesh-Star networking is also an option. The new Hubs are available for immediate ordering. Prices vary dependent on the size of the network.

In concert, STM is also announcing the re-branding of its existing SatLink Hub systems and the specification for its standards-based “OpenHub” architecture, on which all SatLink Hubs are built. The OpenHub architecture specifies a complete TDM/TDMA Hub architecture with 100/1000 Mbps Ethernet switching for module inter-connectivity, and other standard interfaces. It allows for Hubs with complete flexibility in all configuration ratios, massive scalability up to millions of VSATs, and the optional integration of third party hardware modules for selected value-added functions. Also supported is integration with the customer’s Operational and Business Support Systems through standard Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and protocols. The OpenHub architecture stands in sharp contrast to the proprietary backplanes and the constrained chassis and management environments of other Hub systems.

The previous SatLink Enterprise Hub is now branded as the SatLink Hub 9300 LE and 9400 LE for non-redundant and redundant options, respectively. The SatLink Carrier-Class Hub is now branded as the SatLink Hub 9800 CC, which is always configured with full-redundancy and fast auto-failover for all active elements. With the OpenHub architecture, customers can upgrade from a low-cost, entry-level SatLink Hub 9100 SE to the SatLink Hub 9800 CC, either in stages or all at once, without any loss of investment and with re-use of the Hub hardware modules. The new SatLink Hub options and the OpenHub architecture will be featured in STM’s booth (#275) at the Satellite 2011 conference in Washington, D.C. March 15-17.