Re: best satellite provider?

"Patrick" <ptri.c.k.@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> hath wroth:

I currently have some idea of starband and pcdirect as satellite Internet
providers -- are there any others, and which do you feel is "best"?

It's called Starband and DirecWay/HughesNet. Also see WildBlue.

There are plenty of other providers but most are aimed at commercial
users. There are also resellers that specialize in mobile (RV,
vehicle, boating, etc) service. There are also a series of satellite
providers that serve countries other than the USA. Rather than list
all of them, could you disclose what country you are located and
whether you're looking for commercial or consumer grade internet,
fixed or mobile service? Meanwhile, you'll find a list of others at:
<http://dmoz.org/Computers/Data_Communications/Wireless/Satellite/>

By "best" I mean upload/download speeds, initial and monthly costs, and
required software for aiming and fine-tuning the aim.

I only have experience with DirecWay/Hughesnet systems. It works, but
has bad days due to weather and congestion. One customer just
installed Wild Blue service but I haven't had reason or time to visit.
In general, I would avoid satellite service unless you have no other
alternative.

I would prefer some
non-Microsoft connection software preferably open source, but don't insist
on it.

There is no connectivity software. The various satellite internet
services provide you with a modem/router combination. You configure
the router using your web browser over an ethernet connection. There
was a time when specialized software was required for modem return
systems, for USB satellite modems, and for bridge only devices. No
longer. However, there are some tweaks usually necessary for
non-Windoze users. See:
<http://www.dslreports.com/faq/satellite/7._Tips_for_Non-Windows_Users>

So, if you don't like Microsoft products, why does your news header
show that you're using Microsoft Outlook Express 6 for usenet news?

We must make a provider selection within the next month, so any help that
you can provide either pro or con any provider will be much appreciated.

I think you'll get better results if you:
1. Read a few satellite FAQ's to get a feel for what's available and
how things work.
2. Dig into the various satellite internet forums, blogs, and
newsgroups for opinions by users.

I suggest you start at:
<http://www.broadbandreports.com/faq/satellite>
<http://www.dslreports.com/forum/sat~also=wildblue+starband>

--
Jeff Liebermann jeffl@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
150 Felker St #D http://www.LearnByDestroying.com
Santa Cruz CA 95060 http://802.11junk.com
Skype: JeffLiebermann AE6KS 831-336-2558
.

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