Satellite Internet service provider VSAT Systems has deployed their latest technology to the hurricane-ravaged State of Florida. VSAT Systems made their Emergency Mobile Communications System available to Florida’s Department of Financial Services on very short notice.
The system includes vehicle-mounted satellite technology that delivers encrypted broadband access anywhere the specially equipped van parks.
While Senior Account Executive Richard McKinney worked out details with state officials, the VSAT Systems staff built the customized van last week. Special Projects Manager Tim Peterson delivered the vehicle to Florida just days after Hurricane Frances tore through the state.
On Thursday, September 16th, department personnel relocated the Emergency Mobile Communications van to the panhandle in order to begin relief efforts after Hurricane Ivan delivered the third strike of what is shaping up as one of the worst hurricane seasons on record.
The Emergency Mobile Communications System carries a 1.2-meter satellite dish for Internet connectivity at 2 Mbps down and 512 Kbps up. The system supports multiple Voice over IP (telephony) phones as well as a highly efficient, state-of-the-art end-to-end VPN encryption device.
According to McKinney, the Department of Financial Services first sends agents to areas hit hardest by a storm – locations where people need immediate assistance the most.
The VSAT Systems van provides state officials with an alternative to the conventional telephone, cellular, and other communications destroyed by the hurricane.
The mobile satellite link allows Florida Financial Services officials to quickly process and release emergency funds to residents who in many cases lost everything in the storm.
Joe Fekete, Operations Manager, summed up his impression of the Emergency Mobile Communications System in one word: “Fantastic!” Fekete continued, “This system is a tremendous aid to the disaster relief efforts. It allows department personnel to get help to victims of the hurricane much faster than ever before.”
Now all eyes are on Hurricane Jeanne. Regardless of its path, the Department of Financial Services will have immediate connectivity whenever and wherever they need it…
