Satcom Direct (SD), a key provider of global connectivity solutions for business, general aviation and military, said Airbus has become the first OEM (original equipment manufacturer) to install its suite of Satcom Direct Router (SDR), SD WiFi Hubs and Global.
 
The installation marks the first time that the SDR, two SD WiFi Hubs and SD’s GlobalVT will be integrated together, providing a complete cabin connectivity solution.

The work was performed by Airbus Corporate Jet Centre in Toulouse, France, on an Airbus ACJ320.
 
The newly released SD WiFi Hub is a wireless access point that, when installed together with the SDR in large cabin aircraft, expands capability and enhances connectivity performance – such as allowing the internet to be used to make telephone calls, said a statement from SD.

The Hubs adds additional interfaces where needed, simplifying the installation and improving Wi-Fi coverage in the cabin. The Hubs also support high-definition media products and applications for all passengers, eliminating buffering and gaps in cabin coverage by providing up to an additional 900 Mbps data rates to the cabin with both 2.4 and 5 Ghz 802.11n radios, it stated.

At 1-inch high, the SD WiFi Hub has the smallest and lightest form factor in aviation, which also contributes to the ease of installation, it added.

"We’re seeing increasing demand for our products on narrow- and wide-body aircraft. Clients choose SD not only for the performance and reliability of our products, but also because of our ongoing technical support," remarked Chris Moore, SD chief commercial officer.

"Many passengers rely on connectivity in the air so it needs to be robust, reliable and resilient. With this suite, Airbus is assured of providing a state-of-the-art solution to these needs,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service