S2 Extensions Boost Satellite Performance on SES-5

Newtec’s S2 Extensions technology is increasing the performance of the SES-5 satellite backhaul infrastructure in Africa

BETZDORF, Luxembourg & JOHANNESBURG & SINT-NIKLAAS, Belgium - Monday, June 10th 2013 [ME NewsWire]

CommunicAsia 2013

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Global satellite operator SES (NYSE Paris:SESG)(LuxX:SESG) and Newtec boost satellite efficiency in Africa. Mobile 3G networks in Africa are set to benefit from new-generation Newtec modems including, S2 Extensions technology that boost the performance and efficiency of the SES-5 satellite backhaul infrastructure.

SES has tested and implemented the Newtec MDM6000 Satellite Modems to increase the efficiency on its African SES-5 payload. The MDM6000 satellite modems are optimized for medium to high speed IP applications over satellite and are capable of delivering up to 37% in efficiency gains compared with the existing DVB-S2 standard, thanks to S2 Extensions. SES is one of the first satellite operators commercially using S2 Extensions.

The MDM6000 modems handle up to 380 Mbps bi-directionally. In this instance, the SES operated link transmits at 250 Mpbs over satellite, with the option to ‘pay as they grow’ in terms of demand.

“Fiber bridges the digital divide between the western world and Africa,” says Ibrahima Guimba-Saidou, SVP for SES in Africa, “but does not bridge the digital divide within Africa between urban and non-urban areas. This new technology boosts the performance of satellite power which transcends geographic challenges to provide that vital last mile connectivity in Africa.”

Speaking about the project, Newtec’s CEO Serge Van Herck comments: “I am pleased that by implementing our MDM6000 modems with S2 Extensions, SES and its customers are able to increase the amount of services within the same bandwidth, while reducing OPerational EXpenditure (OPEX) and increasing profitability. This is guaranteeing the best performance and optimal service availability for their 3G network.”

S2 Extensions

The satellite industry reached a consensus on the fact that a successor to the DVB-S2 standard would be required to accommodate increased interoperability and growth in the satellite communications market. Newtec has taken the lead and teamed up with other DVB members to define and develop the updates on the DVB-S2 standard. When comparing the current DVB-S2 standard against the full implementation of S2 Extensions efficiency gains up to 37% can be achieved.

To learn what S2 Extensions are about and to get an insight when and how the industry will migrate to the more efficient transmission, Newtec is hosting an S2 info session including a panel discussion, at CommunicAsia 2013.

Amongst the confirmed panel speakers is Mr. Glen Tindall, SES’ VP Sales Asia Pacific. For more information and registration visit http://pages.newtec.eu/sessioncommunicasia2013.html.

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About SES

SES is a world-leading satellite operator with a global fleet of 53 geostationary satellites and a well-connected network of teleports. Nine of those satellites cover Africa and provide satellite communications services to broadcasters, content and internet service providers, mobile and fixed network operators and business and governmental organizations across the continent.

SES stands for long-lasting business relationships, high-quality service and excellence in the broadcasting industry. The culturally diverse regional teams of SES are located around the globe and work closely with customers to meet their specific satellite bandwidth and service requirements.

SES (NYSE Paris:SESG)(LuxX:SESG) holds participations in Ciel in Canada and QuetzSat in Mexico, as well as a strategic participation in satellite infrastructure start-up O3b Networks. Further information under: www.ses.com.

About Newtec

Newtec is a global industry leader, shaping the future of satellite communications. Offering state-of-the-art products and scalable, integrated solutions for broadcast, broadband access and backbone and trunking applications, Newtec helps customers achieve greater efficiency, increase performance and expand market reach.

With its passionate commitment to R&D and its strong relationship with the European Space Agency (ESA), Newtec remains in the forefront of technological development, continuing the pioneering contributions that have led to industry standards including DVB, DVB-S2, DVB-RCS and iSatTV Cenelec pr EN50478.

Newtec’s worldwide customer base includes the industry’s most prestigious broadcasters, satellite operators, telcos, systems houses and broadcasting unions. Established in 1985 and headquartered in Belgium, Newtec has regional offices as well as additional R&D centres located in Stamford, Conn. (U.S.), Singapore (Singapore), Beijing (China), Dubai (UAE), São Paulo (Brazil), Berlin (Germany) and France.

For more information visit www.newtec.eu.

Contacts

Newtec

Kerstin Roost

Public Relations Director

Tel: +49 30 430 95 562

E-mail: Kerstin.Roost@newtec.eu



or

SES

Markus Payer

VP Market Communications & PR

Tel: +352 710 725 500

E-Mail: markus.payer@ses-astra.com