DBSS does not fit in with Ciena at all. One (CIENA), provides high speed terrestrial transmission of high volume data via fiber optic lines. The other deals with wireless, low volume, data collected from geographically dispersed radio transmitters via satellite.
DBSS is licensed to use Low Earth Orbiting birds. When deployed in small number (DBSS plans to launch 6)they excel in the receipt and re-transmission of small data packets for non real-time applications (assume you only needed to "read" the transmitter every 90 minutes at most). When deployed in large number they (see Iridium, etc.)can be used for personal communications.
DBSS has special, miniature, low cost, radios and technology that will enable them to use LEO's for their GEMS system. That is one that reads utility meters. Place a small radio in the meter (especially one in a hard to read location) let it transmit the usage results. DITTO for environmental sensors, asset tracking (where are trucks, boats, people, equipment, etc.?), vending machine status, etc. Darn near unlimited applications for "picking up" data via satellite and delivering it to a Client. A terrific form of data service utility is emerging. DBSS is well positioned, they just need funding to launch and a partner with enough marketing muscle to quickly establish an initial market presence. |
