As of early 2024, Starlink’s Flat High Performance (HP) Kit no longer includes a bundled router, offering users the flexibility to choose their own networking equipment. The pricing remains unchanged, and users can connect a single device via the supplied ethernet cable or add a router or switch for managing multiple devices. This empowers businesses to customize their network setups for various applications, such as crew services on maritime vessels, passenger internet on cruises, IoT monitoring for oil rigs, vehicle tracking in mining, and safety services in government or corporate networks.
Watch our latest video ‘Unboxing the Flat High Performance Kit’ where we delve into the changes that have been made to Starlink’s Flat High Performance Kit. In this video, Speedcast’s Solutions Engineer provides a detailed overview of what is included in the kit and explores alternative options to the bundled router.
One Terminal for Diverse Applications
Previously, Starlink offered two distinct terminal designs for enterprise users on land and at sea. Now, they’ve streamlined their offerings to a single versatile terminal – the Flat HP terminal. The innovative wedge design of the Flat HP terminal provides stability in both mobility and open water scenarios, reducing shaking and improving performance. This design simplification means the Flat HP terminal is now the go-to choice for all markets, catering to a wide range of applications with ease, reliability and hardware consistency.
Everything in One Box
In our very first Starlink assessment video, you saw the Flat HP Kit arriving in two separate boxes. Now, Starlink has redesigned the packaging to fit everything into a single box for simplified handling. The all-in-one package includes the terminal, wedge mount, Power Supply Unit, and cables.
The updated packaging provides greater flexibility in installation, thanks to the 25 meter cable – three times longer than the original – connecting the terminal to its power supply. The antenna attaches to a well-engineered wedge mount, ensuring proper alignment for optimal operation. Designed for durability, the antenna and mount can withstand winds up to 280 kph (174 mph) and offer high protection against water ingress.
Unlocking Starlink’s Potential with SIGMA as the Router of Choice
The new Flat High Performance Starlink kits do not include a router. While users can still connect directly to Starlink, this setup is not ideal for business users or those who require control and flexibility. Using the internet without a router is like driving a car without a steering wheel—essential controls are missing, making navigation difficult and inefficient. The router serves as the central hub that directs and manages the flow of internet traffic within a network, allowing multiple devices to connect and communicate seamlessly.
For enterprise users, connecting to the internet without a router compromises network management, data flow control, and device connectivity. This can hinder resource allocation, security measures, and communication between devices. That’s why Speedcast’s customers rely on the SIGMA network management service for their remote operations. SIGMA seamlessly integrates Starlink with other connectivity paths, including other LEO services, along with GEO, MEO, L-band, cellular, and microwave, creating a single, virtual wide-area network. This diversity of routes ensures 100% uptime with optimized bandwidth usage.
Furthermore, SIGMA offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing users to easily visualize and customize their service at any time. It also provides value-added services, from cybersecurity to edge applications, enhancing overall network performance and security.
As the world’s first authorized Starlink integrator, Speedcast has led the way in Starlink deployments for enterprise customers across land and sea. As the largest global integrator and reseller, we’ve successfully integrated thousands of terminals into customer networks and continue to innovate and help strengthen and augment Starlink service for customers with critical operations.
Contact Speedcast today to learn more about how SIGMA can unlock the full potential of your Starlink service.