Cobham SATCOM has launched its SAILOR XTR antenna platform, and introduced the SAILOR 1000 XTR Ku as the first unit in this new class of software-controlled antenna systems that integrate existing SAILOR VSAT technology with additional software and electronic capabilities in preparation for future satellite constellations in LEO, MEO, GEO and HEO orbits.

Developed and designed by Cobham SATCOM, the one-metre Ku-band antenna has a new simplified pedestal to improve antenna performance and allow simpler conversion between Ku- and Ka-bands if required. Built-in IoT data protocols such as Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT), Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) and RESTful API allow the antenna to act as a self-reporting system, providing up-to-date antenna information to support preventive maintenance.

A new Ethernet port will also be included inside of every above-deck SAILOR XTR unit to facilitate additional connectivity options, allowing third party providers to integrate devices such as cellular transceivers and Wi-Fi access points. The additional data from these devices gets securely routed at up to 1 Gbps to an Ethernet port on the SAILOR XTR Below Deck Unit.

The antenna comes with a new XTR Antenna System Control Module (ASCM) with a hardware encryption key chip mounted inside. The ASCM is networked to all other modules and motors via a star network topology and only accepts Cobham-signed software, to prevent access without the private key that is programmed into the key chip.

A single coax cable is used to manage Rx, Tx and power, but can also be used transfer high-speed data from a third-party device which could be mounted inside of the antenna to below-deck, Cobham SATCOM notes.

“Through the development of SAILOR XTR, a reliable, agile and high performing VSAT solution, Cobham SATCOM has once again set the standard for the future of maritime satcom,” said Jens Ewerling, Product Manager, VSAT, at Cobham SATCOM.

“In an era of unprecedented uncertainty and technological complexity, the new advanced science underpinning SAILOR XTR will drive greater simplicity for ship owners and operators while enhancing performance. This will ultimately give them more time to focus on business-critical issues, while handing them the data necessary to identify cost-effective solutions to address and analyse a myriad of complex issues; from transparency to environmental compliance and seafarer welfare.”

Cobham SATCOM says it has already successfully installed the first SAILOR 1000 XTR Ku on the M/V Pearl Seaways, operating in Scandinavian waters for owner DFDS.

 

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Cobham SATCOM launches latest antenna platform with XTR