The authors discuss the applications of very small aperture terminals (VSATs) to the ISDN. Typical VSAT network architectures include point-to-point interactive, point-to-multipoint broadcast, and interactive star configurations. VSATs and satellite communications have found new applications for integrated network solutions yielding hybrid network architectures that mix terrestrial and satellite segments. These issues and their implications are examined in the context of ISDN. Six hybrid network configurations are described to address various applications. A proof of concept implementation utilizing a hybrid terrestrial/satellite ISDN network was performed. The demonstration showed the feasibility of using hybrid networks as a backup for terrestrial communications as well as for service extension via satellite. The architecture and implementation of this configuration are described.>

A survey of very small aperture terminal (VSAT) technology is provided, and systems and services using VSAT technology are described. Trends in VSAT technology and applications, the three general categories of VSAT networks (broadcast, point-to-point, and interactive), and system architecture and design are discussed.>