QUESTION: What are the Minimum Requirements for the DataStorm? ANSWER: Nearly any computer, PC, MAC or Linux. With the introduction of the self hosted MotoSAT Datastorm Controller and the HughesNet HN7000S modem, the DataStorm will work with most any computer. The DataStorm is now fully compatible with the Macintosh platform and NO PC is required for proper operation.
QUESTION: Can anyone install the DataStorm? ANSWER: Not really. The DataStorm is fairly complicated and quite heavy. A professional installer has the tools and resources to put the dish in place. Certification by HughesNet and MotoSAT is required for all installers.
QUESTION: How does the antenna find the satellite? ANSWER: The DataStorm is completely motorized and software controlled. One button starts the action, and it finds and locks onto the satellite automatically. The HughesNet modem and the J1 controller are both totally self-hosted.
QUESTION: Is the antenna's transmission a danger? ANSWER: Not when properly mounted on the roof of a vehicle. The transmission wattage for a G74 is about 1 watt. XF2 and XF3 antennas have 2-watt and up transmitters. Don't stick you head between the LNB and the dish (Duh!) while the modem is turned on but otherwise, there are no health concerns.
QUESTION: Can I be traveling down the road and be online at the same time? ANSWER: No. You must be parked. In-Motion 2-Way satellite transmission will not be approved for many years to come. But we find that this is not a major problem for most people who are seeking Internet connectivity in a mobile environment.
QUESTION: How does weather affect the DataStorm? ANSWER: Even in moderate rain the system should remain operational. Just as with any satellite signal, a large rain cloud can cause a temporary signal loss. While the antenna hardware is rated to over 60 MPH winds, we recommend that you stow the antenna if winds in excess of 40 mph are expected.
QUESTION: Can the Datastorm be used in a mobile environment like an RV, Bus, Command Center or trailer? ANSWER: Yes, it was designed from the ground up for mobile applications.
QUESTION: Would the DataStorm fit on a small trailer? ANSWER: The Datastorm can fit on any mobile platform that gives it room to turn around in place. The G74 antenna weighs 80 lbs., requires 54" x40" of clear space.
QUESTION: Does the DataStorm work on a Marine Vessel? ANSWER: It is possible that a very large boat or barge may be able to utilize a Datastorm when at a fixed dock. The vessel cannot swing at anchor as the signal will be lost and even moderate waves would prevent the antenna from maintaining a signal lock.
QUESTION: How difficult is it to set up the dish? ANSWER: Simply click the "Search" button on the J1 Controller and the DataStorm will automatically raise up and lock onto the correct satellite in 5-10 minutes. No computer needs to be turned on at the time.
QUESTION: Is it easy to stow and redeploy the satellite dish when one moves from one location to another? ANSWER: Yes. Push "Stow" when you are ready to leave and "Search" once you are parked and ready to go on-line. It is completely motorized and finds the satellite automatically. There is no physical labor involved in setting up or stowing the antenna. Once the satellite is found, you are on-line. Simply run your web browser or e-mail program.
QUESTION: After moving the vehicle, how long does it take to set up? ANSWER: It takes about 3-8 minutes to find the satellite and get on-line.
QUESTION: What kind of visibility is required to connect to the satellite? ANSWER: A clear view of the Southern Sky. If there are objects between the antenna and the satellite, it will not lock on.
QUESTION: Can the antenna be used as a telephone? ANSWER: Just like any Internet Connection, there are applications that allow you to talk over the Internet. There is a delay inherent in satellite technology, (known as latency,) which makes talking on the phone over the Internet a bit strange. However, technically speaking, it can be done using VoIP.
QUESTION: What else comes with the system? ANSWER: In addition to the antenna there is a J1 Datastorm controller which is about 1/2 size laptop computer. Every thing is powered by 120 volt power. The other part of the system is the HughesNet HN7000S modem. These are all connected to a wireless router so that you can share your network with one or more computers.
QUESTION: Who is the ISP? ANSWER: HughesNet and iDirect are the ISP's, but mobile HughesNet service must be purchased through a VAR (Value Added Reseller). We use MotoSAT exclusively for all of our activations. They provide backup technical support to our own tech. support along with the 5 @Hughes.net e-mail addresses available to you. QUESTION: Does Datastorm use the Starband Network? ANSWER: Not at this time. The Datastorm uses the two-way satellite services from HughesNet and iDirect.
QUESTION: Do you have to dial up by phone to get on-line? ANSWER: No phone lines are needed either during setup or while surfing. Once the antenna is aligned and locked on to the signal, it supplies an always-on Internet connection. There are no cell phones, no land lines and no "per minute" fees, ever!
QUESTION: Can the antenna be used for TV as well as Internet simultaneously? ANSWER: Yes. With the G74 antenna we've developed a bracket that will allow you to receive DirecTV or Dish Network with the antenna. You will still need a satellite TV receiver and a DirecTV or Dish Network service plan to receive satellite television. The XF2 and XF3 antennas cannot receive a TV signal.
QUESTION: Can a local area network be used to share Internet access? ANSWER: Yes. The standard installation includes a wireless router to connect multiple computers to the internet either wired or wireless.
QUESTION: Does it work on Macintosh computers? ANSWER: Yes! With the introduction of the self-hosted MotoSAT Datastorm controller and the HughesNet HN7000S modem, the DataStorm is fully compatible with the Macintosh platform.
QUESTION: How fast is it? ANSWER: The DataStorm system achieves download speeds of up to 1000K (1MB). Upload speeds average 100-150K.
QUESTION: How is the DataStorm built? ANSWER: All major components are custom machined out of aluminum and powder coated. All stainless steel hardware is used. It uses DC motors to raise the antenna, adjust elevation, azimuth and skew. Plastic covers are custom molded. Every part is proudly made in the USA. Each dish is hand assembled by skilled technicians right here in the USA (Salt Lake City, UT)!
QUESTION: How often can I use my DataStorm. ANSWER: Always. 24/7. If the antenna is locked on to the satellite, and your computer is turned on, you are online. There are never any "per minute" or overage fees.
QUESTION: Does the computer have to be on to stow the antenna? ANSWER: No. The computer does not need to be on to raise or lower the antenna. Simply push the buttons on the front of the J1 controller.
QUESTION: Can I get a Static IP address? ANSWER: Yes. A Static (Public) IP address is available for an additional $20/month with the G74 service. A static IP can be included at no cost for all XF2 and XF3 services.
QUESTION: I plan on networking multiple computers to the DataStorm. Are there service plans that allow for higher usages? ANSWER: Yes. Multiple computers can use the internet at the same time on the basic plan. You have the option of higher priced packages and more bandwidth with the larger XF2 or XF3 antennas.
QUESTION: Does the DataStorm work anywhere in North America? ANSWER: Yes. The lower 48 States and Alaska, Mexico and most of Canada.
QUESTION: How much does the DataStorm cost? ANSWER: Our price for a G74 antenna is $5495 including installation, a Linksys wireless router and properly securing your network from other users. Check our Business and Government page for pricing on the XF2 and XF3 antennas.
QUESTION: What other choices are out there? ANSWER: The Datastorm antenna is truly one of a kind. There are no other mobile 2-way satellite antennas on the market that are as reasonably priced and affordable to operate. The next competitor is over $6,000 and simply has not proven itself in the field. There are well over 10,000 DataStorms in use today.
QUESTION: Where can I buy a DataStorm? ANSWER: Sales@InternetAnywhere.US , call us at 321-431-2276 or click on "Contact Us" for additional contact information.
