Spacenet announces new integrated all-weather VSAT communications system for mission-critical monitoring systems

McLean, VA, February 6,  2006— Spacenet today introduced its new Armadillo VSAT, a durable, environmentally controlled broadband satellite router system suitable for use in outdoor environments and extreme weather conditions. The Armadillo VSAT is the first satellite networking system designed expressly for all-weather operation and maximum survivability in utility/energy and government applications.

To serve the needs of monitoring/SCADA network operators, Spacenet previously introduced its Armadillo Enclosure, a rugged carbon steel case for use with the Gilat Skystar 360E and SkyEdge VSAT and Spacenet’s Connexstar satellite networking services. The new Armadillo VSAT extends the concept further by delivering a new-generation Gilat SkyEdge satellite router that is constructed with industrial-grade parts and completely integrated with the weather-proof enclosure.

The Armadillo VSAT can withstand temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius (-40° F) and up to 60 degrees Celsius (140° F) in full sun exposure, and it uses a unique design to minimize thermal loading from sunlight. The unit offers certain protection from lightning, contains an internal heating and thermostat unit and can be used with AC or DC power supplies. Unlike most industrial enclosures, the integrated Armadillo VSAT does not require an external heating unit, and has low power requirements that make it suitable for use with photovoltaic energy systems. The unit also has a smaller housing footprint than most similar devices and has easy mounting requirements. The Armadillo VSAT is available as part of Spacenet’s narrowband and broadband Connexstar network services designed exclusively for enterprise and government customers.

Spacenet President and CEO Bill Gerety said, “Spacenet understands the mission-critical network and application requirements of our utility and government customers, and we are committed to delivering a best-of-breed solution. The Armadillo VSAT offers key advantages for utility monitoring systems in remote areas and is the foundation of a reliable networking solution that not only increases reliability but also introduces new functionality and capabilities. Spacenet’s Connexstar satellite WAN services are now the clear number-one choice for available-anywhere networks for monitoring and SCADA applications.”


About Spacenet
Spacenet is the worldwide services group of Gilat Satellite Network Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILTF). Spacenet Inc., based in McLean, Virginia, offers connectivity, value-added applications and managed networks to customers in North America and worldwide, including its Connexstar satellite and hybrid terrestrial broadband networking solutions for enterprise and government customers, and StarBand residential and small-office VSAT services. Spacenet has more than 20 years of experience providing wide area networks, application support, customer care and network management for some of the largest satellite-based networks in the world. Visit Spacenet at www.spacenet.com

Spacenet Media Contact:
David Myers
Senior Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Development
(703) 848-1200
david.myers@spacenet.com