Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. introduced NetEdge, a high-performance satellite communications platform designed to meet the requirements of multi-star private networks for corporations and for cellular backhaul applications, the company announced.

    The solution is composed of remote sites using SkyEdge 2 Access/Pro VSATs, NetEdge Gateways and a SkyEdge 2 hub. Single-hop connectivity is provided network wide between the NetEdge components. The NetEdge Gateways support a forward channel of up to 10 megabits per second (Mbps) with up to eight return channels, providing a total of up to 8 Mbps and serving up to 100 remote sites.

    Separately, Gilat unveiled the Ericsson GSM MiniSite, a fully-integrated package for remote BTS sites incorporating Gilat’s satellite backhaul technology. The solution integrates a Gilat VSAT into a GSM Pico Site, creating a single, integrated unit that has low power consumption, allowing solar power to be used.

    The embedded VSAT is based on SkyEdge 2 and incorporates advanced Abis Optimization, Abis over IP and Abis Local Connectivity. Gilat’s SkyAbis cellular backhaul solution was certified by Ericsson as a key technology for GSM backhaul within Ericsson’s Radio Access Networks.