MOBILE INTERNET & DATASTORM FAQ
Q. What is Mobile Internet?
A. Mobile Internet is the way and means to connect to the Internet wherever you are. MotoSAT provides mobile Internet service through a satellite link with the DataStorm mobile satellite system. The DataStorm dish on your vehicle points to a satellite orbiting Earth which in turn points and connects to another dish on the ground that can then connect you to the Internet. This connection can take place wherever you travel.
DataStorm F Series: F1, F2
DataStorm XF Series: XF2, XF3
DataStorm D Series: D2, D3
DataStorm TCC: Scout, Rover, Lander, Carrier, MCV
Q. What is the DataStorm satellite system?
A. The DataStorm satellite system is a automatic self-pointing system developed and manufactured by MotoSAT. The DataStorm system includes:
• A motorized satellite dish mount for pointing to the satellite.
• A controller unit which controls the satellite dish.
• A satellite modem for Internet connectivity once pointed.
• A computer to surf the web, email, blog, etc.
The DataStorm is simply a means of connecting to the Internet via satellite by automatically pointing your dish.
Q. Who provides Internet service for Mobile Internet?
A. There are many choices for satellite Internet service. Typically these different providers, their services, and hardware are referred to as satellite platforms. Some of these providers provide mobile internet and some do not at this time. Some satellite platform providers are:
• HughesNet-Provides mobile Internet [DataStorm ready]
• iDirect-Provides mobile Internet [DataStorm ready]
• WildBlue-Does NOT Provide mobile Internet at this time
• Starband-Provides mobile Internet.
Q. I keep hearing the word ‘VAR’ and ‘ISP’ what are these?
A. VAR stands for value added reseller. MotoSAT is a VAR for example for HughesNet, iDirect, and UNASAT in that MotoSAT resells the Internet service packages from these satellite platform providers. ISP stands for Internet service provider and usually refers to a VAR like MotoSAT as well. VAR and ISP are used interchangeably.
\\ MotoSAT Internet Service
Q. What compromises a satellite platform?
A. A satellite platform consists of the following:
• A modem that handles the Internet traffic for receiving and sending data.
• A dish system that includes all the necessary hardware [i.e. LNB*, OMT**, BUC*** dish size] to connect to that satellite platform’s satellite in the sky.
• A physical ground based operations center that acts as a gateway to the Internet while receiving and transmitting data from the satellite in the sky via the DataStorm dish.
• Service rate plans that charge for Internet access. These plans can usually be set up monthly, quarterly, and yearly.
*LNB-Low noise block; basically used to receive data.
**OMT [Waveguide] -Used to carry microwave signals into and out of microwave antennas.
***BUC-Block up converter [transmitter]; basically used to transmit data.
Q. How do these satellite platforms and the DataStorm system relate?
A. The satellite platforms provide all the equipment and means necessary to connect to the Internet via satellite. Usually, when a satellite provider installs a system on a non-mobile structure, a certified installer points it by hand. This is painstaking but needs to be done usually only once. A mobile system goes up and points to the satellite many-many times in different places. This necessitates the need for an automatic system; The DataStorm simply ads automatic pointing and go-anywhere mobility that makes physically finding the satellite a one-button operation.
Q. Are there limitations on where can I receive the Internet?
A. Generally all you need is a clear view of the southern sky to find the satellite and connect for Internet access. Limitations on where geographically you can receive satellite Internet are largely based on the dish size of the mount you have and the satellite footprint, or area where the satellite has optimal power enough to operate when sending and receiving data. For example a .74 meter dish has a smaller geographical area when connecting to the satellite then a 1.2 meter dish on the same satellite because the 1.2 meter dish has a higher gain, or the satellite’s dish ability see the satellite signal. The DataStorm can be used almost anywhere in North America and can also be used many places worldwide. Consult with your installer and satellite service provider for the best combination based on where you travel.
\\ HughesNet Mobile Satellite Footprints
\\ HughesNet Enterprise Satellite Footprints
\\ iDirect Satellite Footprints
Q. Who can install the DataStorm system?
A. The DataStorm system must be installed by a certified, professional installation expert. These individuals are trained by MotoSAT / the satellite platform provider to properly install and teach you the ins and outs of the DataStorm system.
\\ MotoSAT Certified Internet Installers
Q. Where can the DataStorm system be installed?
A. Generally, the DataStorm system is installed on a vehicle’s roof with enough space for the dish to rotate and move. Installations can be done virtually anywhere one needs an automatic pointing system. The DataStorm cannot be used in the marine environment at this time.
Q. How durable is the DataStorm system?
A. The DataStorm system is designed to go wherever you do. It can withstand rain, snow, cold, heat, and wind [depending on: dish face size and whether or not the DataStorm is stowed (folded down flat)]. Full specifications for the various dish sizes can be found on MotoSAT’s website.
\\ MotoSAT Product Specifications
Q. What are the DataStorm’s power requirements?
A. We will break up the power requirements based on component:
DataStorm D1 series controller and DataStorm F1: 12V 2A power supply
DataStorm D1 series controller and DataStorm F2: 15V 6.6A power supply
DataStorm D1 series controller and DataStorm F3: 15V 6.6A power supply
DataStorm D2, D3 series controller and DataStorm F1: 12V 4A/6.6A power supply
DataStorm D2, D3 series controller and DataStorm F2: 15V 6.6A power supply
DataStorm D3 series controller and DataStorm XF1: 15V 8A power supply
DataStorm D3 series controller and DataStorm XF2: 15V 8A power supply
DataStorm D3 series controller and DataStorm XF3: 15V 8A power supply
Modem: HughesNet DW4000: Black color, 19.5V 2.37A
Modem: HughesNet DW4020, DW6000, DW7000, DW7700: Grey color, 6.5V 1.3A & 19.5V 2.85A
Modem: iDirect: 24V 5A
Modem: ViaSat UNASAT: 3.3V 4A, 9V .8A, 30V 2A
Q. What are the differences in the various DataStorm systems?
A. The DataStorm system at this time is broken up into 2 different categories; the DataStorm controller called the DataStorm D series, and the dish mounts themselves called the DataStorm F or XF series. The following is a brief overview of these controllers and systems.
• DATASTORM D SERIES CONTROLLERS
These controllers provide power, and instructions to the DataStorm dish. They also interface with the satellite provider’s modem for accurate pointing to the correct satellite. A brief description will be given for each of these controllers.
»DataStorm D1- Discontinued
- Microsoft Windows computer dependent
- Connects through a serial port
- One button to turn the system on and off
- Compatible with the DataStorm F series mounts [F1, F2]
- Satellite Platform compatibility: HughesNet
»DataStorm D2-Discontinued
- Non-computer dependant [self-hosting; can be placed on a network]
- Connects through an Ethernet port
- Includes a search, stow button on the front panel and a toggle power switch
on the back panel.
- Compatible with the DataStorm F series mounts [F1, F2]
- Satellite Platform compatibility: HughesNet, iDirect
»DataStorm D3-In Production
- Non-computer dependant [self-hosting; can be placed on a network]
- Connects through an Ethernet port
- Includes a search, stow, and power button on the front panel
- Compatible with the DataStorm F and XF series mounts [F1, F2, F3, XF1, XF2, XF3]
- Satellite Platform compatibility: Finds any satellite independent of the satellite platforms
modem by using a DVB* to find satellites. Can currently interface directly to HughesNet, and iDirect.
* DVB stands for digital video broadcast. Basically DVB is a system that satellites use to distribute data. DVB also allows for the transmission of an identifier for locking on and knowing which satellites in the sky your dish is pointing at. The DataStorm D3 controller uses DVB to identify and lock onto satellites much like many modems do from various satellite providers.
• DATASTORM F SERIES MOUNTS
The DataStorm F series is a consumer/small business class automatic pointing type system. These mounts include all the equipment found on the DataStorm dish outside on your vehicle including the LNB, OMT, BUC, motors, gears, and dish face. The DataStorm F series mounts are designated by dish size. DataStorm F1=.74 meter dish face [around 3 feet wide], DataStorm F2=.98 meter dish face, DataStorm F3=1.2 meter dish face. Larger dish sizes allow for a larger geographical area in which you may connect to the Internet.
»DataStorm F1- In Production
- Consumer class
- .74 Meter dish face
- Dish face skews
- Weighs 105 lbs.
- Uses a traditional motor/gears system
- Can be fitted for simultaneous reception of satellite TV while receiving Internet
- Satellite Platform compatibility: HughesNet
- Typical Internet user: Surf the web, email
»DataStorm F2- In Production
- Consumer /Business class
- .98 Meter dish face
- RF assembly skews [LNB, BUC, OMT] while dish stays static
- Weighs 175 lbs.
- Uses a traditional motor/gears system
- NO available simultaneous reception of satellite TV while receiving Internet
- Satellite Platform compatibility: HughesNet, iDirect, UNASAT [virtually any platform]
- Typical Internet user: Surf the web, email, light VPN ¹ and VoIP ²
VPN ¹-A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, is a private communications network usually used within a company, or by several different companies or organizations, to communicate over a public network. VPN message traffic is carried on public networking infrastructure (e.g. the Internet) using standard (often insecure) protocols, or over a service provider's network providing VPN service guarded by well defined Service Level Agreement (SLA) between the
VPN customer and the VPN service provider.
VoIP ²- Voice over Internet Protocol (also called VoIP, IP Telephony, Internet telephony, and Digital Phone) is the routing of voice conversations over the Internet or any other IP-based network. The voice data flows over a general-purpose packet-switched network, instead of traditional dedicated, circuit-switched voice transmission lines.
• DATASTORM XF SERIES MOUNTS
The DataStorm XF series is a enterprise/government class automatic pointing type system. These mounts include all the equipment found on the DataStorm dish outside on your vehicle including the LNB, OMT, BUC, motors, gears, and dish face. The DataStorm XF series mounts are designated by dish size. DataStorm XF1=.76 meter dish face [around 3 feet wide], DataStorm XF2=.98 meter dish face, DataStorm XF3=1.2 meter dish face. Larger dish sizes allow for a larger geographical area in which you may connect to the Internet.
»DataStorm XF2- In Production
- Enterprise/light government class
- .98 Meter dish face
- RF assembly skews [LNB, BUC, OMT] while dish stays static
- Weighs 155 lbs.
- Uses an advanced motors/gears system for enterprise class satellite pointing and durability
- NO available simultaneous reception of satellite TV while receiving Internet
- Satellite Platform compatibility: HughesNet, iDirect, UNASAT [virtually any platform]
- Typical Internet user: Surf the web, email, VPN and VoIP, Light video data
»DataStorm XF3- In Production
- Enterprise/government class
- 1.2 Meter dish face
- RF assembly skews [LNB, BUC, OMT] while dish stays static
- Weighs 175 lbs.
- Uses an advanced motors/gears system for enterprise class satellite pointing and durability
- NO available simultaneous reception of satellite TV while receiving Internet
- Satellite Platform compatibility: HughesNet, iDirect, UNASAT [virtually any platform]
- Typical Internet user: Surf the web, email, VPN and VoIP, Video data
Q. Do I need to provide anything when having a DataStorm system installed?
A. Typically most installations require a vehicle and a computer provided by you, the end-user. Some installers and even RV OEM’s [manufacturers of RV’s] provide one or both. Many installers will also create a wireless network to access the dish interface and Internet from your computer [usually a laptop] outside of your vehicle. Consult your installer when asking about what exactly he provides and what you need to provide.
Q. What are the computer requirements for the DataStorm?
A. This depends on 2 aspects: one, which DataStorm D series controller you are using, and two, which modem you are using. The only computer dependant configuration is the DataStorm D1 serial controller, and the HughesNet DW4000 or DW4020 modems. These require a computer running Windows XP and a computer with an available serial port. All other configurations [HughesNet, iDirect, UNASAT, etc.] just need a computer with an Ethernet port/wireless card.
Q. Can more than one computer connect to the Internet at once?
A. Yes. Networking your computers together either wired, wirelessly or both, can be created by an installing dealer.
Q. How do I use the DataStorm system?
A. There are two parts to an installation; the physical or nuts and bolts installation, and the software configuration. Once the hardware installation is complete, your installer will configure the systems software so that the DataStorm D series controller, satellite platform modem, and your computer can communicate and get online. Once configured, a push of a button will automatically raise the dish and allow it to search for and connect to the satellite. Another push of a button will fold the dish down flat for traveling.
Q. Is Mobile Satellite Internet a dial up service?
A. No. Satellite Internet connects the same way that DSL or Cable Internet you can receive in your home. Speed wise it is very comparable to DSL typically, and with more dedicated Internet service packages and plans, it can be comparable to Cable or T1 speeds.
Q. How fast are the internet speeds on Mobile Internet?
A. This is dependant on which satellite platform you are using and which package you currently pay for. Typical HughesNet users compared with iDirect enterprise users see significantly different speeds based on the satellite platform and package they are using. The best way to assess you needs for speed is to write down general the top 5 things you perform while on the Internet. This will give a clear definition of what platform and package to use. Consult with your installer and MotoSAT for any options or questions you have. Typical HughesNet users [the bulk of DataStorm users] see speeds between 400kbps and 1000kbps downstream, with slowest speeds during prime time. Upstream speeds are modem-like, ranging from 20-80kbps.
Q. Are there any limitations on Internet service when it comes to downloading or uploading data?
A. As usual consult with your Internet service provider about your specific satellite platform. Generally speaking HughesNet has something called a FAP or fair access policy that allows for only a certain amount of data to be downloaded per day. The reason for this is so the bandwidth or amount of space that allows for data to be transferred is not taken up by a few individuals. Satellite differs from traditional land-based or terrestrial Internet service in that there is a specific amount of bandwidth available. This differs based on satellite platform so once again; consult with your Internet service provider for any questions regarding a FAP with your service package.
Q. How much is the DataStorm system?
A. Depending on which DataStorm dish you choose will determine the general price. Other considerations like where you want the dish to be installed, networking, running the cables, and overall installation cost by dealer can all affect the overall price. Typically, the DataStorm F1 has an MSRP of $4595. Installation costs usually run $1000 on top of the MSRP, with typical internet service starting at $79 a month.
Q. How do I buy a DataStorm system?
A. You can contact MotoSAT directly or visit MotoSAT’s website for a list of certified dealers in your area.
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