SES has tested and implemented the Newtec MDM6000 satellite modems to reportedly improve the efficiency on its African SES-5 payload.

The MDM6000 satellite modems are optimized for medium to high speed IP applications over satellite and are capable of delivering up to 37 percent in efficiency gains compared with the existing DVB-S2 standard, thanks to S2 Extensions, said SES.

The MDM6000 modems handle up to 380Mbps bi-directionally. In this instance, the SES operated link transmits at 250Mpbs over satellite, with the option to 'pay as they grow' in terms of demand, the company added.

"Fiber bridges the digital divide between the western world and Africa," says Ibrahima Guimba-Saidou, SVP for SES in Africa, "but does not bridge the digital divide within Africa between urban and non-urban areas. This new technology boosts the performance of satellite power which transcends geographic challenges to provide that vital last mile connectivity in Africa." Speaking about the project, Newtec's CEO Serge Van Herck comments: "I am pleased that by implementing our MDM6000 modems with S2 Extensions, SES and its customers are able to increase the amount of services within the same bandwidth, while reducing OPerational EXpenditure (OPEX) and increasing profitability. This is guaranteeing the best performance and optimal service availability for their 3G network."