Stellar Introduces DS100 Satellite Modem

Stellar has announced the introduction and commercial availability of the DS100 satellite modem.

The DS100, designed by Stellar and Delphi Electronics & Safety and manufactured by Delphi, is a two-way satellite communicator targeted specifically towards machine-to-machine applications that require data communications over the Orbcomm low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite network.

This modem brings together Delphi's expertise in building high volume electronics at automotive standards with Stellar's expertise in M2M markets, resulting in the combination of the most reliable and affordable 2-way satellite modems on the market.

The DS100 was developed as a robust satellite transceiver with a small footprint and efficient power consumption, making it ideal for a variety of applications including automatic utility meter reading, transportation tracking, oil and gas field monitoring, security and other applications requiring an affordable device offering highly reliable connectivity through Orbcomm.

With this new modem, satellite communications technology is well within reach to those markets that, for cost reasons, have typically relied on terrestrial-based technologies, such as cellular and paging networks.

Zvi Huber, general manager of Stellar, said in a statement: "This automotive-grade modem is a major breakthrough as an enabling technology in the remote monitoring and tracking markets. With its simplicity, extreme reliability and low price point, we expect it to start a paradigm shift as new customers begin adopting Orbcomm satellite technology.

"We are already hearing from many companies looking to join the race who previously felt that the price and reliability of earlier modems were barriers to using satellite services. The DS100 will change that perception."

"Delphi has extensive experience in providing telematics solutions for the transportation industry," said Bob Schumacher, business line executive for Delphi Electronics & Safety.

"We are excited about the potential for the transceiver that we are providing for Stellar. Linked with the Orbcomm satellite technology, it truly has the potential to revolutionize how companies can manage assets and services."

The features of the DS100 include; low power, voltage protection, temperature and shock/vibration control, 2 LEDs, multiple ports and an all-inclusive design that doesn't require internal cabling or jumpers in a small footprint (102mm x 72mm x 15mm).

The DS100 has received type approval from Orbcomm and the FCC to operate the Orbcomm network. It also has met the rigorous performance and reliability standards of Delphi products. The DS100 is the first in a series of modems to be jointly developed by Stellar and Delphi.

Soon to follow will be the model DS300 which will add GPS functionality, an on-board application processor, a rugged enclosure and additional I/O to the model DS100. The DS300 is anticipated to hit the market in the third quarter, 2005.

Copyright 2005 by Space Daily, Distributed by United Press International

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