South Korean antenna manufacturer KNS has introduced an integrated and portable VSAT unit for maritime applications.
Its all-in-one model, Z8 MK3 Allinone, includes a Ku-band antenna, modem and control unit within the radome. This contrasts with conventional VSAT, which has a fixed antenna on deck and all of the other components in a below-deck rack.
KNS marketing manager Raphael Park said the Z8 MK3 Allinone is based on KNS's SuperTrack Z-Series MK3 body structure and the antenna has an 83 cm diameter reflector. There are only two cable connections for power and the ship's own communications network, he told Marine Electronics & Communications.
Z8 MK3 Allinone was designed for easy maintenance as service engineers "simply uncover the radome to inspect all compartments of the system," said Mr Park. There is also a hatch below the VSAT unit for access.
"Our system is supported on a tripod with lifting magnets for stability when the position is set and for moving easily when users want to seek different positions," he added. This may be required on vessels where there is limited exterior and interior space and where crew may need to move the antenna to a new location.
Hyundai Heavy Industry started trialling Z8 MK3 Allinone VSAT on its newbuildings in January. "Our system is being used to establish communications networks during the final tests of these newbuild ships," said Mr Park. The next step will be sea trials on these newbuildings.
Because this unit is portable, it could be used for testing radio frequency performance around a ship during final commissioning phases to identify an optimum position for the antenna. Mr Park expects Z8 MK3 Allinone would be suitable for commercial cargo ships, offshore drilling rigs, fishing vessels and passenger ships.
Z8 MK3 Allinone
Dish diameter: 83 cm
Weight: 105 kg
Height: 117 cm
Depth: 113 cm
Platform: 3-axis
Elevation angle: -12¢ª to +110¢ª
Input AC power: 100-240 V, 50-60 Hz, 4.8 A
Modem: iDirect X7
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