KDDI Corporation
February 23, 2009
KDDI is pleased to announce two new models for its Inmarsat BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network) service, a high-speed data transmission service making use of Inmarsat satellites. The 'Sable1', produced by Addvalue Technologies Ltd., is the first model displaying Japanese, making it easier to use. The 'Explorer727', produced by Thrane & Thrane, is the first BGAN product that can be installed in a car, making it possible to talk and exchange data when driving since it includes an automatic satellite tracking function.
At the same time, the third Inmarsat-4 satellite, launched in August 2008, is expected to begin operating in the Pacific region, including Japan, on February 25, 2009. This new satellite not only makes it possible to use the BGAN service throughout Japan but also expands coverage to the whole world.
These phones can be used in areas with poor communications both within Japan and overseas and are also expected to be used as a means of communication by corporations in emergencies since there is growing demand related to BCP [1].
With the Inmarsat BGAN service, it is possible to make phone calls and exchange data even in locations without communication infrastructure through Inmarsat geosynchronous satellites that are orbiting at an altitude of 36,000km. The light, compact models make it possible to talk and exchange data (maximum speed of 492kbps - best offer) simultaneously. Three satellites cover the full Earth - the first fourth generation satellite was launched in April 2005, followed by the second one in November of the same year and the third one in March 2008. The service for the Pacific, including Japan, is expected to be launched on February 25, 2009.
