Managing shipboard satellite communications has, with evolving technology, become more complex, but with this complexity come new integrated solutions that optimize the ship's data traffic and satellite voice in a cost-effective manner.

MTN (News - Alert) Satellite Communications has introduced one such tool -StreamXcel Plus - a powerful solution that can more than adequately and effectively meet the emerging requirements for integration of shipboard and shoreside communication and IT networks.

A global provider of communications, connectivity, and content services to remote locations around the world, MTN has designed a suite of tools that provides vessels with two separate onboard corporate and crew morale communication networks. 

The much touted “Always on— Always Available” concept has been made possible by StreamXcel plus' ability to allow vessels to automate their switching capabilities to another Inmarsat (News - Alert) Fleet Broadband whenever the vessel moves outside the Ku-band beams. So long as vessels remain within the Ku-band range, MTN”s extensive Ku-band satellite coverage ensures global and seamless connectivity.

Hence, the corporate network includes two voice lines, data and Internet access essentially over VSAT with FBB as a backup system. In addition to this, StreamXcel Plus enable bandwidth data compression and optimization ensuring the smooth functioning of applications and networks, saving both time and money.

Similarly,. the crew morale communications network offers two voice lines utilizing MTN's OceanPhone stored value calling plans and Wi-Fi Internet access. The role of StreamXcel Plus provides the additional bandwidth required with no extra charge and most importantly it doesn't interfere with the corporate bandwidth. 

Bradford C. Briggs, senior vice president, MTN commercial shipping and energy services said that with StreamXcel Plus, they could provide a cost-effective solution that combines VSAT and FBB voice and data, providing a complete and optimized communications network.StreamXcel Plus has a lot more to offer. Remote administration of servers and computers on board, combating spam and providing anti-virus solutions and helping the shipping company to manage its data compression and links and also its ship-to-shore voice. MTN's optional bandwidth analyzer software also provides detailed VSAT traffic analysis for the ship operator.Briggs said that with StreamXcel Plus customers could stay connected anytime, anywhere, and the product was just one of the many innovative ways in which MTN added value to its suite of products and services. He was absolutely certain that MTN was unrivaled as far as network reliability, scalable bandwidth, excellent customer support and worldwide coverage were concerned and it guaranteed the best ROI for its customers. MTN is expected to showcase its full range of marine satellite communication products and services in Hall B6 Stand 488 at the SMM Hamburg 2010 exhibition in Germany, Sept. 7-10, 2010.

In a related news release, Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship, has been equipped with MTN Satellite Communications' state-of-the-art VSAT satellite communications system. The satellite communication requirements for such a massive ship presented special challenges, according to MTN.