KVH has announced a major upgrade to its maritime VSAT service with the introduction of the KVH ONE hybrid network, launching a new TracNet range of antennas incorporating satellite, GSM and Wi-Fi connectivity options within a single dome, with intelligent automatic switching based on availability, cost, and quality of data connection.
KVH ONE includes satellite coverage using KVH’s global HTS network, powered by Intelsat, with VSAT speeds up to 20/3 Mbps (down/up) available. Subscribers will also have integrated support for 5G/LTE services in more than 150 countries, while user-supplied SIM cards can also be added to the unit for local services as required.
In addition, the TracNet terminals will have the capability to connect to shore-based Wi-Fi networks using an integrated Wi-Fi bridge where available, depending on the users’ own Wi-Fi subscriptions with third-party providers.
The new generation of terminals will come in three sizes – the 37cm TracNet H30, the 60cm TracNet H60, and the 1-metre TracNet H90. All terminals were created based on a single-cable design.
The H60 and H90 antennas will initially ship with a 1U rack-mountable KVH TracNet Hub+, featuring a touchscreen GUI, built-in Wi-Fi router and ethernet ports, two VoIP lines, user-supplied SIM access, and storage for KVH Link content so the unit can be used as a server for onboard media.
A wall-mountable, DC-powered TracNet Hub is expected to be commercially available for the TracNet H30 and H60 terminals later in 2022.
“With the TracNet terminals and the KVH ONE hybrid network, we continue our legacy of disrupting the maritime market with game-changing innovations. Today, we are introducing a new standard for integration, convenience, speed, and affordability for commercial seafarers and leisure boaters worldwide,” said Brent Bruun, KVH’s President and CEO.
“Together, KVH ONE and the ground-breaking TracNet H-series terminals are the first to offer a fully integrated hybrid maritime solution of this type. We believe that they will deliver the best possible connectivity performance for nearly all types of vessels, even in rough seas or at high speeds.”
KVH ONE airtime packages on the TracNet H30 will offer unlimited use or metered plans, while the H60 and H90 will have similar options plus a separate unlimited use channel. Network, terminal, and data controls will be accessible through the KVH Manager range of software tools, along with a new KVH Connect app for iOS and Android.
KVH Link, the company’s commercial maritime crew wellbeing and operational content service is expected to be available to commercial vessels and fleets through the service later in 2022.
“The KVH ONE and TracNet combination offer a new level of flexibility and consistent, affordable communications for leisure and commercial users,” said Mark Woodhead, KVH’s Executive Vice President of Mobile Connectivity.
“KVH has simplified installation and reduced costs for customers by consolidating three communication devices into one dome while designing terminals as much as 51% lighter than leading competing terminals. Users will benefit from the convenience of a single invoice and can take advantage of the hybrid design to maximise speeds and minimise costs at the dock, underway, and offshore.”
TracNet terminals will be available with an optional cybersecurity upgrade via a Fortinet UTM subscription, also expected to be available later in 2022, and a Fortigate Firewall belowdecks unit.
Rob is Chief Network Officer and one of the founders of Smart Maritime Network. He also serves as Chairman of the Smart Maritime Council. Rob has worked in the maritime technology sector since 2005, managing editorial for a range of leading publications in the transport and logistics sector. Get in touch by email by clicking here, or on LinkedIn by clicking here.
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