st227

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

WHAT IN THE WORLD? What is Starlink? Plainly put, it’s a satellite “constellation” – meaning many low-orbit satellites in a network – which delivers global internet coverage. It’s the most recent development in the storied history of internet transmission, in which we’ve gone from copper telephone wire to cable broadband to the fibre optic National Broadband Network (NBN), which was made available in Australia in 2011 (though it’s certainly not everywhere yet – more on that later). Now, Starlink has cut the umbilical cord and liberated netizens worldwide, allowing us to access the internet in literally any location on Earth.

Starlink modem

Very recently, in a galaxy very, very close, a new method of high-speed, low-latency satellite internet was born. Called Starlink, it’s operated by American aerospace company SpaceX, who you may have heard of or even seen the distinctive dishes installed on the roofs of houses, boats, or motorhomes. Read on for our explainer on this superb system – and how it can change the way that you internet. Words Zoë Radas A STARLINK IS BORN

TERRESTRIAL TIP Not sure if power is getting to your Starlink? Check underneath your router. There’s a small white LED light which, when lit, indicates your power connection is all good. If it’s not on, there’s a problem with your selected power point.

HOW DOES IT DO ITS THING?

The big difference between Starlink and all the other ’net options is that it uses the power of space! The Starlink system incorporates ’ground stations’ (that are located – you got it – on the ground) which broadcast signals to its orbiting satellites. Those satellites, in turn, relay the data back to internet users on Earth. The satellites orbit very close to Earth – around 550kms above sea level – which means internet speeds are super fast and latency problems are super reduced. While low Earth

TERRESTRIAL TIP

orbit satellites like Starlink’s each have a smaller coverage area than satellites in medium Earth orbit (such as GPS satellites) or Geostationary Orbit satellites (used for TV and

If you’re in the Southern Hemisphere (as we are in

Australia), your Starlink will want to point itself south. Bear this in mind when looking for a good final position for your dish.

58 SEPTEMBER 2023

jbhifi.com.au