World Dialogue on Regulation

According to a report from Business News Americas, Brazil's universal access agenda will present opportunities for European providers of satellite data communication services based on Digital Video Broadcasting –  Return Channel via Satellite (DVB-RCS) standard.

By integrating the satellite technology with GSM networks, satellite providers could install mobile phone antennae in remote locations and connect them to networks using satellite technology.

"There are big opportunities in taking mobile phones to locations not currently served," scientist Harald Skinnemoen of wireless equipment maker Nera said.

DVB-RCS permits the return channel – the communication between the user and service provider – to occur via satellite. The technology would permit broadband internet connections in locations where the terrestrial network does not reach.

Suppliers are attempting to win some of the approximately 3bn reais (US$ 1 billion) in the universal access fund (Fust), designed to extend internet access to schools, libraries, hospitals and remote locations.

DVB-RCS competes with two alternative solutions that permit high-speed data communication via satellite, although there are close to a dozen manufacturers that work with the standard. Nera is competing for a contract from Brazilian telecom operator Telemar to install 4,500 points of presence to meet its universal access commitments.

"We are participating in the competition with Siemens," said a Nera representative.

Intelecon Research & Consultancy Ltd. 27/10/2004