Global Xpress is the world’s first global high speed broadband service. It will offer the unique combination of seamless global coverage from a single operator, consistent higher performance data speeds, and the network reliability for which Inmarsat is renowned. The availability of higher bandwidth on a consistent, end-to-end, global basis is already generating significant interest in the industry.
Rossbacher spoke about the superior engineering behind Global Xpress and the partnership with Cisco to deliver a ‘state-of-the-art’ satellite applications Service Enablement Platform, and high-performance access network for GX.
Increased data speeds obviously form an important element of GX, however the service also introduces unique and innovative capabilities. Inmarsat has partnered with Cisco, iDirect and Boeing to build the “Service Enablement Platform (SEP)”, which will form an integral part of the GX maritime solution. Rossbacher explained how SEP has the potential to revolutionize the way in which applications are deployed using satellite communications.
SEP introduces the ability for individual applications to dynamically manage GX bandwidth. Rossbacher illustrated the power of SEP through several examples. A ship can be fitted with CCTV video cameras and in normal circumstances there is no need to view these video feeds from shore. However, during a security incident, GX allows the video surveillance application to open more capacity through the satellite, and the shipping company can view live feeds and retrieve security logs. Once the issue is resolved, bandwidth is returned to normal. Telemedicine can also be greatly enhanced by providing additional bandwidth when needed, ensuring high quality communications. The increase in bandwidth is also a benefit to the crew, which is enhanced through the ability to buy pre-paid products and services directly via the SEP platform.
For the shipping company, it means that communications can be used more effectively, as needed - reducing costs and dramatically improving operations.
For application developers, GX opens up limitless possibilities as to how bandwidth may be used, while GX portals provide the opportunity to present their applications directly to the ship operator and crew.
Rossbacher concluded his presentation by saying, “Customers are not interested in the variations of Ka, Ku, C, L-Band technology – in today’s business environment, their only criteria is a solution that is reliable, available, operationally effective and cost efficient. Our task is to deliver solutions that help improve their business, driving operational efficiencies between shore and ship. Inmarsat’s future strategy is to offer services beyond pure satellite connectivity.”