KVH Industries has introduced new satellite communications terminals for maritime applications enabling more integrated connectivity with cellular networks
Its TracNet H-series terminals connect with the KVH One hybrid network, including Ku-band VSAT, long-term evolution (LTE) and 4G/5G networks.
These terminals come in three different sizes and technology allows for automatic switching between networks, based on availability, cost and quality of data connection.
TracNet H30, H60, and H90 terminals use KVH One network, with 276M km2 of coverage using a global, layered network of Intelsat-owned high-throughput satellites. They can be linked to wifi services, support 5G/LTE cellular services in more than 150 countries and enable user-supplied SIM cards for local service.
“With the TracNet terminals and the KVH One hybrid network, we continue disrupting the maritime market with game-changing innovations,” said KVH new president and chief executive Brent Bruun.
“We are introducing a new standard for integration, convenience, speed and affordability for commercial seafarers and leisure boaters worldwide.”
He said the TracNet H-series terminals were “the first to offer a fully integrated hybrid maritime solution of this type to deliver connectivity performance for nearly all types of vessels, even in rough seas or at high speeds.”
TracNet H30 has an antenna diameter of 37 cm, TracNet H60 is 60 cm and TracNet H90 has a 1-m antenna. All TracNet terminals have tuned reflectors, multi-axis stabilisation, stabilised skew, digital inertial measurement units and a commercial-grade rotary joint with continuous azimuth for strong signal reception.
KVH said there is improved signal efficiency and high-performance tracking for fast boats and rough seas.
Below deck, there is a rack-mountable KVH TracNet Hub+ with a touchscreen graphical user interface, built-in wifi router and ethernet ports, two ports for voice over IP lines and SIM access points. All these run on AC power, while a DC-powered TracNet Hub is expected to be available for the TracNet H30 and H60 terminals later in 2022.
KVH One and TracNet terminals support an array of value-added services including: KVH Elite unlimited streaming service for yachts; KVH Link for maritime crew welfare and operational content services; and KVH’s new cloud-based email service.
For security, TracNet terminals have terminal-level protections and KVH’s multi-level network cyber-security program. An additional layer of protection will be available with an optional, enterprise-grade cyber-security upgrade via the Fortinet UTM subscription and a Fortigate Firewall below-deck unit.
“KVH has simplified installation and reduced costs for customers by consolidating three communication devices into one dome, while designing terminals as much as 51% lighter than leading competing terminals,” said KVH executive vice president of mobile connectivity Mark Woodhead.
“Users will benefit from the convenience of a single invoice and can take advantage of the hybrid design to maximise speeds and minimise costs at the dock, underway and offshore.”
