ARCANET: a Ku-band CDMA VSAT network for high quality telephony to portable terminals

A CDMA Ku-band network providing voice, data and fax communication using lightweight portable terminals is described. Advanced digital technology achieves an unexpected high quality link utilizing existing Ku-band satellite transponders and a foldable 45 cm terminal antenna dish. Connection to the public switched telephone network with toll quality voice link enable the user to extend the terrestrial network coverage to remote regions of the globe providing an improved service quality at a competitive call charge compared to existing L-band systems. The same network is also supporting fixed micro-VSAT terminals.