COM Satellite Begins New Service To Provide Internet Connectivity To Rural Areas

Communications Today, Dec 14, 2001

COM Satellite Systems Inc. [CMI] has launched a service designed specifically to offer two-way satellite based Internet connectivity to remote communities.

The company's C-COM Community Based Services allow Internet connectivity hubs to connect entire communities or medium size businesses for Internet access in areas not served by cable, DSL or wireless Internet connectivity. One hub antenna will support up to 200 users, depending on the bandwidth required. The service provides high-speed Internet connections directly into buildings through local-area networks, or via cable modems or wireless systems for longer distances.

The two-way service offers the flexibility to tailor bandwidth requirements to the specific needs of communities, medium size businesses, hospitals, hotels, universities and other private or public institutions. The C-COM Community Based Service offers download speeds up to 4Mbps and upload at speeds to 192Kbps.

C-Com's services would give remote communities the flexibility and reliability of a secured managed satellite and wireless service at cost- effective rates, company officials said. >TK