Multi-SATCOM system

SATCOM System Management

Multiple SATCOM solutions on a single platform can help ensure robust, reliable, and cost optimized connectivity. With the proliferation of new connectivity options, like LEO SATCOM systems (Starlink and OneWeb), upgraded L-Band systems (Iridium Certus and Inmarsat LAISR), and upgraded 5G Air-to-Ground systems (GoGo) multi-SATCOM solutions are becoming possible on even more aircraft types.

A Cabin Router is required to manage these different systems. They can to route traffic over different systems based on link quality and other criteria. All CCX Technologies Secure Routers provide industry-leading features required to securely manage multi-SATCOM systems.

Multi-System Routing

The SystemX Operating System continuously monitors the external connectivity of each SATCOM system and by analyzing traffic patterns and issuing periodic pings when no traffic is detected the system can identify connectivity and link quality.

The system uses real-time connectivity metric; such as signal quality, connection priority, and operational status of the monitored SATCOM links, as dynamic selection criteria to determine the most appropriate connectivity solution for specific traffic. This allows for optimized routing based on the current performance and availability of each network.

SystemX WAN status UI

Policy Based Routing

Traffic to/from the aircraft can be grouped based on interface, devices, or other more complex criteria and then routed to a specific connectivity system, or group of systems.

This makes it possible to route higher priority applications, devices, or users over specific systems.

diagram of policy based routing

SATCOM System Monitoring

The SystemX Operating System includes applications that enable real-time monitoring of the operational status of individual terminals. This status data is utilized to calculate signal quality, which can then be fed into the routing system for optimized traffic management. Additionally, this information is logged and made accessible to users for diagnostic purposes, helping to identify and resolve connectivity issues.

The SystemX OS supports collection operation state from: GoGo ATG Inmarsat SwiftBroadband, Inmarsat Jetwave, ARINCDirect LuxStream, Iridium Certus, Viasat, StarLink, and more.

GOGO
Inmarsat
Collins Aerospace
Iridium
Viasat
Starlink
SystemX GUI forwarding

Secure Access to Terminal Configuration

Most SATCOM and ATG terminals offer configuration interfaces via web browsers. The SystemX GUI can be configured to securely forward users to the configuration interface of any connected terminal, ensuring that access is restricted to authorized personnel with valid SystemX credentials. This centralized approach provides a secure, convenient location to manage and access the configuration GUIs for all connected systems.

Remote Access to Terminal Configuration

In addition to secure, centralized access to terminal configuration GUIs, the SystemX GUI facilitates remote monitoring and configuration of SATCOM and ATG terminals by support personnel. This is achieved through a SystemX Server to which the router is registered. This remote management capability helps to reduce operational delays and minimize costs when configuring or troubleshooting connectivity solutions, enabling faster resolution of issues without the need for physical intervention.

Integrated VPN

An integrated VPN can be established over any supported connectivity solution between SystemX equipment onboard the aircraft and a SystemX Ground server. This VPN adds an additional encryption layer, significantly enhancing the security of the communication link. Furthermore, the traffic can be monitored by an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) on the ground, providing an added security.

Seamless Switching

By routing all internet-bound traffic through the VPN, the IP address seen by web-services remains static, regardless of the connectivity solution in use. This ensures seamless, uninterrupted user experience during active switching between different SATCOM or ATG solutions, avoiding connectivity disruptions.

SystemX VPN diagram

Supported Platforms

All full-sized CCX Technologies Secure Routers—such as the AP-251, AP-250, and AP-150—support Multi-SATCOM System Management features. Additionally, the AP-561 Micro-WAP, a compact unit measuring just 3 inches by 2 inches by 1 inch, supports many of the same Multi-SATCOM management features in a micro form factor.