Mobile Satellite Communications Handbook, 2nd Edition

Chapter 8Non-Inmarsat Geostationary Mobile Satellite Communications Systems

This chapter examines geostationary (GEO, geosynchronous equatorial orbit) mobile satellite communications systems other than Inmarsat's (described in Chapters 5 and 6). As previously explained, we examine these GEO systems separately from the LEO systems (see Chapter 7) for purposes of organization. As will be seen, however, non-Inmarsat GEO mobile satellite communications systems operate at both the L-band, generally the frequency band designated for mobile satellite services (MSS), and the Ku-band, which has been generally designated for fixed satellite services (FSS). As of 2013, there are multiple plans for satellites in the Ka-band to provide mobile communications satellite services as well.

8.1 OmniTRACS

Aside from Inmarsat, OmniTRACS is the longest operating commercial mobile satellite communications system. Founded as Omninet in 1984, it was acquired by San Diego-based QUALCOMM Corporation and began operations as OmniTRACS in 1988. It began with a business proposition to which OmniTRACS has basically remained faithful over several decades: long-haul trucking operators requiring mobile data services for trucks on the road for management, administration, cargo maintenance, regulatory compliance, and other functions. The ability of truck fleet operators to monitor and manage their vehicles, drivers, and cargo as these move across widely dispersed highway systems developed at about the same time ...