We cover Africa with 3 VSAT C-band satellites. For C-band, you need a 2.4 or 1.8 meter antenna. C-band has a frequency band of 3.7 – 4.2 GHz for downlinks and 5.925 to 6.425 GHz for uplinks. If it is important to have the highest availability on your connection, then C-band is the ideal option.
C-band was originally defined by the ITU (International Telecommunication Union) as the first satellite band. Its frequencies range from 4 to 8 GHz. A range widely used today by terrestrial microwave backhaul links. This is mainly due to the fact that the sub-6 GHz band is license-free in many countries.
The signals of the VSAT C-band technology are less focused compared to higher satellite frequencies, as with KU-band technology. This is due to the longer wavelength in C-band. What this means? Signals that are less focused are less affected by rain. This is also known in the industry as ‘rain fade of satellite signals’. Because of this, C-band is more reliable than KU-band in rainy environments such as the jungle or DRC. With VSAT C-band technology, the lower focus of the band signals is only ranging from 0.4 to 1 dB. Another advantage of these lower focused signals: they offer a larger coverage area.
Compared to KU-band, C-band does require a larger dish to receive the signals from the satellite. The size varies from a diameter of 2.4, 3 to 3.7 meters. Therefore, when you make the choice for VSAT C-band you need more expensive equipment than when you choose KU-band.
Are you interested in knowing more about KU-band? You can read more here or contact us for more information.
VSAT C-band is perfectly suited for rainy environments, for example tropical areas in Africa. In addition, from a more commercial perspective, C-band technology is the best solution for satellite applications that require higher bandwidth. Why? License fees for C-band bandwidth are more affordable than fees for KU-band.
The C-band technology is often used in the mining, and oil & gas industry, but also banks in Africa are using this type of satellite internet. Castor Networks also provides effective satellite internet solutions for NGO’s. You can read more about this here.
Our staff is available to answer all your questions about C-band. Please contact us by phone, email or our contactform.
T: +31 (0) 88 646 0100 | E: request@castornetworks.com
