Deploying VSATs

In order to install and operate a satellite communications system a number of permissions must be secured.

Permission from the landlord to allow the installation on their building, for example. A structural survey may need to be completed for a large installation. However, the management of most large office buildings will be familiar with the requirements for installation of a satellite antenna.

Permission from the local planning authorities. This may not be necessary if the antenna is very small - perhaps less than 1m in any dimension.

Permission from the national radio regulation authorities to operate the transmitter or receiver.

This application process will usually be managed by BT on behalf of the customer. In some cases licences are only issued on a case-by-case basis and the standing of the customer in the country may be an important factor in gaining licence approval.

Permission to access the satellite. This process is simplified if the type of satellite terminal is used has been previously approved by the satellite operator.

Permission to import and operate the satellite equipment. Equipment will commonly be type approved for deployment in the majority of places around the world, but the choice of equipment might be influenced by the import and type approvals necessary to operate in a particular country.

The approvals process will be managed in the main by BT, however the customer will be required to provide some input to the process and to secure permisions from landlords and local authorities. As well as gaining approvals, the equipment will need to be physically installed and maintained. To enable this to happen, BT has cultivated a large number of partnerships around the world.

The first visit to site will usually be to survey the building and generate a list of possible installation sites. The site survey will take a number of factors into account, including:

Line of sight to the satellite.

Ease of attachment of antenna and any mounting requirements.

Ease of access for maintenance.

Avoidance of aesthetic impact on the site.

Proximity to sources of interference (Radar etc.).

Likelihood of vandalism or accidental damage.

Impact on the building users.

Exposure to the weather, including wind and lightning.

Running cables for the IFL and, if necessary, power.

Depending on the building and the scale of the installation, this information may be collated for further analysis, referral to a structural surveyor, or for licence application purposes. However, small simple installations might be completed in the same day.

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