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Satellite Broadband Internet
What existed before the innovation?
Prior to the development of broadband the internet was accessed by dial-up connection. The user connected their computer to the internet provider by telephone using a password to prevent interference and provide security. The connection was relatively slow and limited by the quality of the telephone line system.
How does the innovation work?
The communication satellite traditionally ‘bounces’ streams of data from a transmitting earth station to a receiving earth station.
Satellite Broadband uses the technology to provide high-speed internet services. Installation includes a satellite dish and a special modem, which basically makes the user an earth station.
Like all Broadband technologies, satellites have plenty of available bandwidth, so they can transfer large amounts of data very quickly.
Users can choose to be a ‘receiving only’ earth station and experience super-fast browsing and downloads or they can install sending and receiving equipment so that emails and other uploads are as lightening fast as the downloads.How has the innovation impacted on the lives of people, both good and bad?
Technological
People are able to access information extremely quickly and so handle huge volumes of data. Larger sized files can be uploaded or downloaded than were possible with earlier technologies. The equipment required has increased in quantity, complexity and expense.
Environmental
The telephone line system is not only expensive to build and maintain but often impacts negatively on the environment. Large tracts of land need to be cleared to safely establish telephone lines and the changes to the environment affect the animals that live in the area.
Sociological
People are able to “talk” to individuals or groups instantly. Social interaction is possible across huge distances, across all races, countries and living standards.
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