Frequently asked questions of the Ground Control Magellan MSS:
Who manufacturers the Magellan MSS?
Ground Control is both the satellite Internet provider AND the manufacturer of the MSS. They know this product inside and out and will support you 24-7 with their U.S. based technical support department.
What satellite system does the MSS use?
The Magellan mobile satellite Internet system uses the Direcway satellite platform with a special "business" class of mobile service that is the fastest Direcway provides for a .74 meter dish.
Who do I buy my monthly access from?
Ground Control is the ISP. Ground Control is the leader in mobile satellite internet access of Direcway. They know all the issues related to mobile satellite connectivity and have mobile trained technicians available 24-7 for any problems you may experience anywhere in the nation.
Can I connect any kind of computer to the MSS System?
Yes, both Windows and Macintosh users, as well as any TCP-IP based computer or device may connect to the MSS. If your computer has a wireless card, then it may access the MMS via its Linksys "G" wireless router.
I'm concerned about security with Wireless Access. Is it secure and can I turn Wi-Fi off?
Yes, absolutely. You may use 64 or 128 bit encrypted WEP security or you may at any time disable the wireless router to just become a router, where only network traffic connected by an Ethernet Cable will access your connection to the Internet. The Linksys "G" Wi-Fi router that is includes with the MSS contains standard networking features.
Can anyone physically install the Mobile Dish?
No. A certified installer must install the system. GMD Electronics has professional mobile satellite Installers nationwide. Or Save and come to us!
How does the dish find the satellite?
The dish is completely motorized and controlled by onboard electronics. Press one button on the MSS Remote Control panel and the dish deploys and locks to the satellite automatically in about 3 to 7 minutes. The MSS is completely self-contained and does not require any kind of computer to connect to the satellite and create a local area network. There is no physical labor involved in setting up the dish. Once the satellite is found, you are online. Simply run your web browser or e-mail program.
Is the dish transmission a danger?
No. Transmission strength is about 1 Watt, (a cell phone is .8 watts) ...And being on top of the rig, it is not an issue.
Can I be traveling down the road and be online at the same time?
No. You must be parked... We have found that this is not a major problem with many who are seeking broadband Internet connectivity in a mobile environment.
How do the AutoStow features work?
The AutoStow feature is for when you accidentally drive off and leave the dish up. For it to work, the MSS must be on. If the vehicle moves a significant distance, the onboard GPS will recognize the vehicle is moving and automatically stow the dish. If the dish is online, and the vehicle is moved, the dish will stow in 10 seconds after being off signal. While these autostow features is not a guarantee on your dish safety, they are a line of defense to protect your investment.
How does weather affect the dish?
It would have to be a heavy wind or rain to affect usability of the system. Transmission will be suspended if signal quality dips, which is rare and happens only in a downpour.
Would the MSS fit on a small trailer?
The system can fit on any mobile platform that gives it room to turn around in place. The bottom of the dish rim must be at least six feet off the ground to legally transmit. Stowed, the unit is only 13 inches high.
How difficult is it to use the system?
Press the "Power Button", then press the "Find Satellite" button. The system will automatically go up and lock onto the correct satellite between 3 to 7 minutes. Once that happens, your network will light up, and you may immediately connect to the Internet at high-speed. To stow the dish, simply press the "Stow" button. The dish will stow in about 2 minutes, and you may then drive away.
Is it easy to stow and reconnect the satellite dish when one moves from one location to another?
Yes. Just press the Stow button on the front panel and the dish will stow automatically. When you arrive at the new location, simply press on the Find Satellite button.
What happens if I drive off and the dish is up?
While nothing can be completely 100% reliable, the MSS has built in sensors to tell if the dish has moved or is offline and will begin a stow routine.
Can I be anywhere in the United States and connect?
You must have an unobstructed view of the Southern sky. If there are objects between the dish and the satellite, it will not find the satellite.
Can the dish be used for TV as well as Internet simultaneously?
Yes. The $199 universal bracket will allow you to watch TV at the same time you're surfing the Internet. Add a DVR Video Recording DirecTV Reciever for only $99.95 more.
Can the dish be used as a telephone?
Yes many of our customers are using our proprietary IG-VOIP software system that allows you to call anyone in the world from your computer. The IG-VOIP is optimized for satellite communication and there is no cost in starting your account. Ask more information on IG-VOIP.
Call any phone number in the world over your satellite connection with Ground Control's
IG-VOIP solution.
Do you have to dial up by phone to get on-line?
No phones are needed. Once dish is aligned and locked on to the signal, it supplies an always-on Internet connection. There are no "per minute" fees, or hidden bandwidth fees ever.
How fast are the upload and download speeds?
The MSS achieves download speeds of 500 to 1500 Kbps and upload speeds of 100 to 180Kbps.
How often can I use the dish?
Always. If the dish is locked on satellite, and your computer is turned on, you are online. There are no "per minute" fees, and no "idle disconnects". No extra ISP fees either.
Can I get a Static IP address?
Yes, One or more Public Routable IP addresses are available for only $20 more per month.
Does the system support VPN?
Yes... But you may need to use the IG-VPN solution to make your VPN client work over Satellite. Many VPN applications crash or become slow over a satellite connection. If IG-VPN is used, this effect may be removed. Read about IG-VPN
here.
Does the system work anywhere in North America?Take a look at the coverage maps that are located on this web site. These maps show the "footprints" of the three Direcway satellites on North America which includes the Caribbean, Canada, Mexico, and Hawaii.
View Coverage Area
Can I have the system installed close to where I live?
GMD Electronics has hundreds of installers nationwide. After you order the system, simply call us at 281-388-1941 to locate the installer nearest you.
What about dish software upgrades?
From time to time, Ground Control will make available new software releases that "Flash" your dishes memory with a new-improved version of code.
What is the Warranty on the Magellan MSS?
2 years parts & 1 year labor on Ground Control manufactured equipment at any certified repair facility.
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