Satellite Connection
A satellite connection, in simple words, allows data transmission using
satellite in space to provide internet connection. Instead of using cables or
cell towers, satellite internet sends data to a satellite orbiting
the Earth. This satellite then communicates with a dish on the ground, usually
installed at your home or office. This allows you to access the internet even
in remote areas where other types of internet connections might not be
available.
In terms of technology
and infrastructure, satellite internet relies on satellites orbiting the Earth
to provide internet connectivity. Traditional satellite internet used
geostationary (GEO) satellites positioned approximately 22,000 miles above
Earth. These systems suffered from high latency, often exceeding 600
milliseconds. However, modern satellite internet systems, like those from
SpaceX's Starlink, use Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, which orbit just
300-1,200 miles above Earth. This significantly reduces latency to as low as
20-30 milliseconds.
When talking about speed
and latency, LEO satellites offer download speeds ranging from 50 to 220 Mbps
and latency as low as 20-30 milliseconds, depending on the service plan. In
contrast, traditional GEO satellites had much higher latency, often exceeding
600 milliseconds.
The coverage and
availability of satellite connection provides global coverage, making it an
ideal solution for remote and underserved areas. Starlink, for example, is
available in over 100 countries and offers high-speed, low-latency internet
even in the most remote locations.
When it comes to cost,
satellite internet varies depending on the provider and plan. For instance,
Starlink's residential plan in the Philippines costs PHP 2,700 per month, with
a one-time equipment fee of PHP 28,000. Other plans, such as the Roam and Mobility
plans, have different pricing structures based on usage and location.
Cellular Connection
A
cellular connection is a type of internet connection that uses cell towers to
provide internet access. Your device (like a smartphone or tablet) connects to
these towers using radio waves, allowing you to access the internet while on
the move. This type of connection is common for mobile phones and can provide
internet access in many places, as long as there are cell towers nearby.
In
technology and infrastructure, cellular connection relies on a network of cell
towers that provide coverage over land areas called cells. Each cell is served
by a base station that handles wireless communication. Modern cellular networks
use advanced technologies like Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO),
beamforming, and small cells to enhance network capacity and efficiency.
When
talking about speed and latency, cellular internet speeds vary depending on the
generation of technology used. 4G LTE networks offer download speeds ranging
from 5 to 100 Mbps, while 5G networks can provide speeds from 100 to 2000 Mbps.
Latency for 4G LTE is typically around 30 milliseconds, while 5G can achieve
latency as low as 1 millisecond.
Cellular
connection’s coverage and availability depends on the density of cell towers
and the technology used. In the Philippines, major providers like Globe, Smart,
and DITO offer extensive coverage, including 3G, 4G, and 5G networks.
The
cost of cellular internet plans varies depending on the provider and plan. For
example, Globe's GPlan Platinum offers unlimited data with prices ranging from
PHP 3,799 to PHP 7,999 per month. Other providers like Smart and DITO also
offer competitive plans with varying data allowances and prices. It often comes
with the flexibility of pay-as-you-go or data-based pricing, which may be more
affordable for users with limited internet needs.
