Satellite Based Data Networks for Developing Countries

Developing countries usually lease satellite transponders from neighbauring countries/International bodies or at the most have a single satellite in the orbit due to high cost of the satellites. In such countries, satellite resources must be used efficiently. Data network examples have been discussed in this paper with Indian Satellite communication context. Authors have suggested most suitable and technically viable satellite based common data networke, using existing Satellite Earth station infrastructure, which conserve satellite and national resources. The paper describes present configuration of satellite based individual corporate data networks, its limitationes, optimum configurations (baaed CDMA/SSMA, AA/TDMA and SPADE technologies), Indian scenario, availability of the satellite equipment and future trends.