Satellite internet is an effective solution for accessing broadband in areas where terrestrial infrastructure is insufficient or non-existent. It allows you to benefit from a stable, fast and secure connection, regardless of geographical location. To take advantage of satellite internet, you need a VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) antenna, which is a small parabolic antenna capable of receiving and transmitting signals to a geostationary satellite.

In this article, we will explain how to install a VSAT antenna, taking the example of AFRIKANET, a pioneering company in the field of satellite internet in Africa.

Steps for installing a VSAT antenna

Installing a VSAT antenna requires a few prerequisites:

• Have a subscription to a satellite internet service, such as those offered by AFRIKANET.
• Have a VSAT kit including antenna, modem, power supply, coaxial cable and fixing accessories.
• Have a computer or router to connect to the modem.
• Have a clear location to install the antenna, with no obstacles between the antenna and the satellite.
• Have a compass or a compass to orient the antenna towards the satellite.

Once these prerequisites have been met, the following steps must be followed:

1. Assemble the antenna following the instructions in the manual supplied with the kit. You have to fix the reflector (the concave part of the antenna) on the support, then fix the LNB (the sensor which receives the signals from the satellite) and the BUC (the transmitter which sends the signals to the satellite) on the arm of the antenna. You also need to connect the coaxial cable to the LNB and the BUC.
2. Install the antenna on a solid support, such as a mast, wall or roof. It must be ensured that the antenna is horizontal and that it can pivot freely. It is also necessary to fix the coaxial cable along the support to prevent it from being damaged or interfering with the rotation of the antenna.
3. Orient the antenna towards the satellite using the compass or compass. You need to know the satellite coordinates (azimuth and elevation), which are provided by the satellite internet service provider. Azimuth is the horizontal angle between north and the direction of the satellite, and elevation is the vertical angle between the horizon and the direction of the satellite. It is therefore necessary to adjust the antenna according to these two angles, using the adjustment screws located on the antenna support.
4. Connect the modem to the power supply and to the coaxial cable coming from the antenna. Also connect the modem to the computer or router via an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi connection.
5. Turn on the modem and wait for it to synchronize with the satellite. The modem generally indicates its status by indicator lights. When the “satellite” light is green, it means that the connection is established.
6. Open a web browser on the computer or router and access the home page of the satellite internet service. You usually need to identify yourself with a user name and password provided by the service provider.
7. Take advantage of satellite internet!

Who is AFRIKANET?

AFRIKANET is a UK based company, providing satellite internet solutions tailored to the needs and budgets of every customer in Africa. AFRIKANET uses VSAT technology in three forms: VSAT (using C-band and Ku-band), WAKA miniVSAT (using Ku-band) and Hi! Ka & GoSat (using Ka band). These solutions offer speeds ranging from 1 Mbps to 100 Mbps, with tailor-made packages and value-added services, such as VoIP , television, data storage or wireless equipment.

The AFRIKANET company has a qualified technical team, which ensures the installation, maintenance and support of VSAT antennas in the field. It also provides training in VSAT, to enable customers to master the use and troubleshooting of their equipment. To date, AFRIKANET has more than 15 years of experience in the field of satellite internet in Africa, and has already connected more than 10,000 customers, including banks, administrations, NGOs, schools and individuals.

Conclusion

Internet by satellite is an ideal solution for accessing broadband in isolated areas or areas poorly served by terrestrial networks. All you need is a VSAT antenna, which connects to a geostationary satellite, and which allows you to benefit from a stable, fast and secure connection. Installing a VSAT antenna is quick and easy, provided you follow the steps outlined in this article. To take advantage of the Internet by satellite in Africa, there is a reference company: AFRIKANET, which offers solutions adapted to each client, with quality service and personalized support.