Executive Outlook

Patriot Antenna Systems

Bob Reitz, Director of Business Development

Just as the convergence of computers, audio/video and multimedia has transpired, a similar convergence is happening between transmission platforms. The service providers and vendors that can interface their services and products for use by all modes will be the companies that grow and prosper the most.

PetroCom/UpLit

Kenneth Wright, President

For 20 years, PetroCom has provided converged services to the offshore oil & gas industry by seamlessly integrating cellular and satellite systems into a highly reliable voice and data network. The key to continuing this success is to ensure customers receive the highest quality-of-service, regardless of transmission medium, through carefully designed solutions, redundant network operations and responsive field and customer support.

Radyne Corp.

Bob Fitting, CEO

The insatiable demand for more information continues to provide opportunities for service providers and equipment providers alike. There are already a large number of interface and transmission standards that have been created to enable interoperability between different technologies and products offered by manufacturers such as Radyne. Products that provide standardized, highly flexible interfaces will be essential as the market continues to evolve.

Satellite Engineering Group Inc.

Chris Childs, Director, Network Sales

As an integrator and equipment distributor, this convergence has impacted business positively. It will be important for equipment manufacturers to continue development of flexibility in equipment input/output configurations so that distribution systems are easily integrated. As this convergence evolves, it is always a challenge training sales, technical and field staff. Continued support from manufacturers will be crucial moving forward.

ST Electronics (Satcom & Sensor Systems) Pte Ltd.

Tang Kum Chuen, Senior VP and General Manager

Advancement of technologies in network efficiency, bandwidth utilization and support for real time applications as well as the realization of affordable, small integrated RF/baseband terminals have enabled seamless hybrid networks combining satellite and terrestrial broadband communications to deliver ubiquitous applications to users regardless of locations and bandwidth demand. Correct implementation of these hybrid networks offers network operators significantly improved bandwidth utilization, enhanced network management and ultimately better service to their customers around the world.

ViaSat Inc.

Mark Dankberg, Chairman and CEO

There are competing and converging interests among mobility, fixed delivery, real time delivery, non-real-time delivery (e.g. TiVo), streaming, downloading, and several other business models. Satellite has a good opportunity to capture a meaningful portion of the new value created because of favorable metrics in capital investments per coverage area. For satellite, that’s going to mean a willingness to experiment with new satellites, new payloads, new transmission technologies and new forms of ground equipment.