Covers satellite communications basics, antennas, interconnections to ship's navigation systems, problem solving, safety, regulatory and licensing questions, and comparing VSAT with other broadband marine services.

Why should VSAT operators be trained?

Marine satcom terminals offer global broadband coverage to ships at sea. But for maximum up-time, crew members must be able to perform critical ongoing operational tasks after the installation technician has departed.

What will you learn in the course?

In this course, you will learn fundamental aspects of how to monitor, operate, and perform at-sea maintenance of marine satcom and VSAT systems. Topics covered include concepts of VSAT communications, microwave signal characteristics, satellite coverage zones and pointing angles, beam switching, stabilized antennas, blockage, interconnections to ship’s navigation systems, safety issues, critical licensing questions, preventing interference, and comparing VSAT with other marine communications services.

Audience:

This course is ideal for all radio operators, IT technicians, or other crew members who are responsible for a VSAT system while underway. The course also serrves as the first step towards specialist operator certifications, and is ideal for those who simply need a solid introduction to broadband maritime satellite communications.

Certification:

Completion of GVF561 serves as the first step towards specialist operator certifications.

Prerequisites:

General familiarity with computer and voice communications.

Delivery:

Animated & interactive HTML5, self-paced, on-line format. Requirements: internet access while studying the course material (high speed preferred ); current browser with JavaScript enabled; permission to access SatProf server and learning system websites; mouse.