Why should I consider using Starlink?

If you're looking for an alternative to traditional home internet service, consider Starlink. Starlink is a satellite-based internet service with low latency, offering high-speed internet, making it ideal for gaming and streaming. Plus, it's available in rural areas where other internet options may be limited.

Read on to discover how Starlink works and more reasons why you should take the bold step to switch.

What Is Starlink, And How Does It Work?
Satellite internet is not new, but it has always been notoriously slow and expensive. That is why Space X's new Starlink service is so exciting. Starlink is a satellite-based internet service that is much faster than anything else on the market.

Here’s how it works: Space X launches a network of small satellites into orbit. These low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites then beam high-speed internet to special antennas in people's homes. The antennas connect to a router, which provides WiFi for the home.
Starlink is still in beta testing, but it is already proving to be a game-changer for rural and remote areas that struggle with slow internet options. If you are looking for an alternative to traditional home internet, Starlink is definitely worth considering.

Where Is Starlink Available?
Starlink launched the beta stage in Australia in northern Victoria and New South Wales before expanding to the rest of Australia. There are now 20 ground stations across Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales.

How to Connect to Starlink
For Starlink to deliver the best speeds, the dish needs access to about 100 degrees of sky, free from obstructions. Everything you need to enjoy the next-generation internet is inside the Starlink box, including:

• A dish
• Mounting base
• 75' cable
• Wireless router
• Wireless router power cord

To set up, first plug the 75' power cable into the Starlink dish, then connect the mounting base. The other end of the cable plugs into the router in your home, which you’ll power by connecting to a power outlet.

Once you switch on the router, the dish automatically powers up and re-aligns to search for the best signal.

What Are the Benefits of Starlink?

• Low Latency and High Bandwidth

The Starlink satellites boast a lower latency than Geo satellites (geostationary orbit) because they operate at a lower altitude of about 550km.

Latency is the duration that data takes to move from one place to the next via electromagnetic radiation. The latency in LEO satellites is below 27 milliseconds, compared to about 477 milliseconds in GEO satellites.

• Fast Data Transmission Speeds

LEO satellites use high-frequency bands within the Ka-band and K-under band to transmit data. These frequencies fall within microwaves and radio waves, which have a shorter wavelength. Although they cover shorter distances, they deliver faster transmission through a wider bandwidth.

• Easy-To-Setup User Terminal

Setting up your Starlink home terminal is straightforward. The main task is positioning the dish in an open place without obstructions to ensure a stable connection. The entire installation process can take less than half an hour.

• Reachability in Remote Areas

Starlink doesn’t need extensive infrastructure since the connection between your dish and LEO satellites is wireless. This ensures internet access from any location.

As SpaceX launches more Starlink satellites, the internet coverage extends to remote regions such as oil stations and mountain-top areas.

Potential Downsides

• Cost

Generally, Starlink's monthly payment plans are more expensive than NBN plans. Additionally, you’ll need to buy the Starlink package, which can be costly for most people.

• Reliability issues

One potential disadvantage of Starlink internet is service interruption due to bad weather. Severe weather conditions near the satellites could interrupt the connection.

If you're looking for an affordable and reliable internet option, Starlink is a great option to consider. With speeds of up to 1Gbps, it's perfect for streaming, gaming, and other online activities.

Considering Starlink? Talk to an experienced electrical installer to get started.