Satnews Daily
November 10th, 2014

iDirect Takes a Hike... Ends Up with a VSAT on Top of Mount Everest


[SatNews] ... enabling reliable communications amid harsh conditions, which include the combination of extreme cold, moisture, high winds and icing conditions. 


Mount Everest

VT iDirect, Inc. (iDirect), a company of Vision Technologies Systems, Inc. (VT Systems), today announced the iDirect Asia Pte Ltd team has partnered with Mercantile Communications Pvt Ltd to deliver VSAT communications to Mount Everest; a significant milestone in that it is delivering high-speed, reliable connectivity more than 6,000 meters above sea level.

Throughout its history, more than 5,000 climbers and trekkers have embarked on the climb of Mount Everest, the world’s tallest mountain. Now VSAT becomes part of this history by providing the high-speed Internet connectivity and voice services that allow these expeditionists to stay in constant contact with loved ones and rescue teams as they make their journey. VSAT has already displayed its unique capabilities in allowing international media teams to remain connected and deliver accurate and timely content. 

The use of VSAT communications also provides major benefits to local communities and businesses. Hotels, lodges, shops, Internet cafés, bakeries and other businesses will leverage high-speed connectivity to improve both operational efficiency and overall customer experience. 


Evolution® X1 Satellite Router

Mercantile Communications Pvt Ltd uses the iDirect platform coupled with a portfolio of iDirect Evolution X1 and X3 remotes, which will be installed at the Mount Everest base camp. These remotes are the ideal fit to meet the challenges that come with enabling reliable communications amid harsh conditions, which include the combination of extreme cold, moisture, high winds and icing conditions. 

“We were delighted at the opportunity to provide high-speed communications to the entire Everest Camp area this year. Not only did the professional climbers, sherpas and support staff benefit from this, but also media teams and the entire community," stated Sanjib Raj Bhandari, CEO, Mercantile Communications. 

“The importance of this project on Mount Everest is enormous in that it not only helps climbers and trekkers stay connected with their families, but also opens up enormous new business opportunities in the local community. iDirect is proud to play a significant role enabling the fast, reliable and high quality connections necessary to make it all happen,” added Tom Cheong,  Vice President, iDirect Asia