Satellite Communication - Assignment Example

Satellite Communication 1. Given the strengths and weakness of the different satellite bands, which one would you choose as an emergency manager and why? Disasters and emergencies can occur anywhere and at anytime. An emergency can either be manmade or an act of nature. Upholding effective communications through such a situation is very critical for successful disaster relief. Emergency managers would require full communication capabilities irrespective of the place and weather patterns. This calls for a satellite band that has the capability of being applied in adverse weather conditions or densely populated areas with ease to save the situation.

In this regard, Ku-Band seems best for emergency management (Satellite Industry Association. n.d). Despite the shortcomings it has in relation to the rain fade, I like the idea of having fast speeds prior to and following a snowstorm, rainstorm or hurricane. Satellite is more reliable than land-based connections and has proved to be very versatile. 2. Emergency managers almost rely on satellite as if it is flawless and magical. What warning would you give to EMs about the use of satellite technology?

Despite the advantages of satellites, it is important that emergency mangers put in mind that it is not as flawless and magical as they always think. This is so because even satellite technology has some weaknesses and can become inoperable. The Association of Public Safety Communications Officials President, Wanda McCarley, stated that no one technology can independently fulfill all public safety communications needs (Satellite Industry Association, n.d.). For example, satellite phones work outdoors and must be in the satellite’s line of sight to work (Satellite Industry Association, n.d.).

Thus, line of sight or directional signal being slightly askew can affect satellite capabilities (Opsahl, 2009). According to Professor Repertory’s commentary on the Opsahl article, “clear view of the sky” and “spot beam capacity” are additional weaknesses to satellite use. 3. Imagine you are writing a communications plan for a county emergency plan. What would your PACE be? PACE is an acronym meaning Primary, Alternate, Contingency and Emergency Planning (Silvernail par 2). Similar to SMART objectives in business, PACE planning should be simple, realistic, affordable, able to implement and understandable by all stakeholders.

Additionally, the plan should be adaptable or flexible. My primary communication plan is going to include cell and radio technology and the alternate will layered with satellite capabilities. Contingency plans will include use of portable cell towers or satellite linkages as needed. Considerations are my geographic region, the types of disasters or emergencies anticipated (tornado alley, earthquake or hurricane prone areas), and population. References Opsahl, A. (2009, July 27).

Satellite technology provides disaster communications when cell towers fail. Retrieved from emergencymgmt.com: http://www.emergencymgmt.com/disaster/Satellite-Technology-Provides-Disaster.html http://www.ice-pack.com/EP_news/2010/05/emergency-and-disaster-planning-pace-yourself/ Satellite Industry Association. (n.d.). First responder’s guide to satellite communications. Retrieved 20 Feb, 2012 from http://www.sia.org/frg_files/FirstResponder%27sGuidetoSatelliteCommunications.pdf