Ship operators can increase their vessel communications capacity over multiple networks after the launch of an extreme platform gateway.
Speedcast International has unveiled a network device that can manage connectivity and IT solutions over different satellite and coastal mobile phone networks.
Sigma Gateway Xtreme enables fully managed and remote communications over VSAT including Speedcast’s own Ku-band network and Inmarsat’s Fleet Xpress service. It can also manage connections to 3G or 4G and long-term evolution (LTE) cellular networks when vessels are in range. These networks can stretch to 20 km from shore, while some offshore production and drilling platforms in the North Sea and Gulf of Mexico have LTE or 3G networks as well.
Speedcast executive vice president for products, marketing and business development Tim Bailey said this improved reliability and redundancy of maritime communications networks. “Sigma Gateway Xtreme is designed to withstand harsh maritime conditions delivering the high availability and performance of Fleet Xpress in secure and integrated environments.”
It brings secure virtualised server environments, with duplicated hardware, including solid-state hard drives, multiple fans and remote power management, to maritime users. It is backed up by multiple automated systems to mitigate both hardware and software failures.
Sigma Gateway Xtreme’s cyber security protection capabilities are powered by Fortinet via an optional virtualised device on board vessels. The service includes… (Read More) Source: http://www.marinemec.com/news/view,greater-integrated-communications-unveiled-for-shipping_49777.htm