California is a state that is always ahead of the curve. Whether politically, culturally or technologically, Californians believe in pushing the limits of what is possible. They are always the first to try new things and those seeking innovation. Frankly, the rest of the country looks to California to get a grip on things to come and get an idea of where the rest of us are headed. In terms of technology, California has become the capital of innovation and development. Silicon Valley, the area that houses some of the largest high-tech companies in the world and home to some of the greatest technological achievements of our time, is located in the heart of the San Francisco Bay. Consequently, California has become synonymous with technological progress. It is therefore not surprising that California was among the first to use the latest advances in internet technology: Internet via satellite. When the Internet was developed, it was definitely a service slow and inefficient, although seen as revolutionary at the time. This remote access system relied on a modem that is connected to a telephone line, which makes it slow and unreliable. Relationships were often abandoned and it could take all morning to simply log on to the world wide web. From this initial system has come to wireless Internet, a much more advanced technology that allows users to set up a modem at home, then access the Internet from any room without having to plug their computer cords or cables. Wireless has also provided access to the Internet via WiFi equipped locations such as restaurants or cafes. That was almost everybody in office until the local Starbucks, spending all afternoon, sipping Lattes and send emails. While wireless service is still very popular in most countries, it is not as advanced as broadband satellite. This technology connects your computer to a modem which is then connected to a satellite. The satellite signal is much stronger than any other Internet connection before it. Consequently, the service is extremely fast and reliable. Downloads and uploads a few seconds instead of minutes, or worse, all afternoon. Web pages load in a flash and files can be accessed quickly and without hassle. The satellite connection also allows Internet service, even the most remote. In the past it was almost impossible to get a reliable connection if you lived near a heavily populated place, or had a geographic obstacle in your way, like a mountain. With broadband Internet by satellite, you can receive a strong signal, no matter how remote your location. It is now surprising that residents of California have been switching to satellite services in record numbers. California is a state geographically diversified, with a satellite, residents living high in the Sierra Nevada or in the desert outside of Palm Springs can still get the fastest connection available. This is a matter of time before the rest of the country catches on.
May 232010