Satellite Computers: What exactly are they?
A satellite computer refers to a computer which is controlled from a main computer that is in a remote location. It functions under the control of the main computer to perform secondary operations in order to allow the main computer to fully perform primary operations. It can also be used in performing input and output routine as well as do offline tasks.
With the increasing growth of information technology, high technology tools to enhance knowledge sharing such as satellites, mobile phones and even satellite computers are being developed in order to create more efficient and effect means of connectivity. Recently, the upward surge of information and communications technology, plus the pivotal role of the Internet, has contributed towards transforming the world into a more compact global village. As a result, most computer systems nowadays normally work on a network or are connected to each other either through a local network or a physical Intranet network where computers in a single workplace are controlled through a server or from every part of the world computers may be connected through the World Wide Web. A network of satellite computers do not only allow sharing of information but also allow control by a host or main computer of other computers in another location.
Most satellite computers are interconnected through satellite Internet. Through high speed broadband Internet connection, computers from different parts of the world may be connected at a speed of about 10 times faster as compared to a normal modem. Unlike normal Internet connectivity that requires a physical connection such as telephone line or cable television line, satellite computers are used by transmitting uplink and downlink connections through a satellite dish and modem to a satellite orbiting the earth over the equator area. The high speed of satellite Internet connectivity is made possible by using Internet Protocol multicasting technology, where it is possible for the satellites to connect up to 5,000 communication channels. Another reason why satellite computers can be controlled simultaneously from one point to a number of remote locations since data is transferred in compressed format. By compressing the data format, the size of the data and bandwidth is reduced.
The use of satellite computers are starting to become widespread especially in areas where tasks are shared over a number of locations. For example it is used in a business chain where it is necessary to have computers from the different branches are interconnected through a main computer. It is also used in a number of government agencies where services such as tax payment or issuance of driver’s licenses can be done simultaneously in several locations. Satellite computers are also used in a number of professional and industrial fields such as computerized surgical operations that may be controlled by a doctor in another location or mining explorations. It is also used to manipulate satellite computer systems which control the different satellites and space stations orbiting the planet.
Satellite computers are sure to become the computer systems of the future. With a world getting smaller by growing bonds of connectivity, the next step is for computers to not only share data and information but also to perform tasks from where ever you are in the world.