Integrated GSM/WiFi Backhauling over Satellite: Flexible Solution for Emergency Communications

This paper presents the development of a compact, ruggedized satellite terminal, to be used for communications in emergency situation. The terminal provides GSM coverage in disaster area, where existing communication infrastructure is destroyed or overloaded. It uses GSM backhauling over satellite to transport GSM signalling and data traffic to the core GSM network infrastructure in the disaster-safe area. Additionally, basic data services such as HTTP Web browsing and email are also provided via WiFi access. Issues related to the terminal design and the tests that have been undertaken are presented in the paper.