Kacific Broadband Satellites Group has launched CommsBox Ultra, a cutting-edge upgrade of its disaster resilience communications device, CommsBox. The refined version of the established system provides heightened readiness for disaster response, ensuring rapid restoration of communications, even in the most remote and challenging environments.
This development fortifies Kacific's suite of disaster communication technologies by presenting a superior version with additional features, creating a synergistic relationship with the existing and well-regarded CommsBox.
Launched in 2022, CommsBox was recognised with the esteemed Gold Stevie Award for 'Achievement in Product Innovation' and has been deployed by several government agencies across Asia and the Pacific. The device has proven valuable as a comprehensive, portable WiFi communication solution in managing disaster aftermath, with countries like Fiji, the Philippines, and Indonesia integrating CommsBox into their disaster resilience strategies.
Expanding on CommsBox's success, CommsBox Ultra was developed in response to feedback from regions frequently affected by natural disasters. The new model introduces unique features to enhance disaster response capabilities. Equipped with robust material for greater resilience, the device has a reinforced structure for enhanced durability when transported across difficult terrains. Additionally, it presents a flexible design that promises ease of transport, equipment compartmentalisation, and rapid access to components, thanks to three detachable modules, including an antenna module, an electrical component module and a dedicated wheel component.
Technologically advanced, CommsBox Ultra offers unparalleled signal reliability with a dual polarisation feature. The cutting-edge dual polarisation antenna ensures a seamless connection while optimising signal strength and reliability without necessitating manual adjustments. Connectivity-wise, the CommsBox Ultra links to the Kacific1 satellite, offering a 99.99% reliability factor and extensive coverage across 25 countries in the APAC region. It also facilitates the relay of essential multimedia information to the central relief operations via its WiFi access point. With up to 55Mbps speed and prioritised connections, it promises to maintain communication links during crises, crucial to disaster management.
The need for competent disaster response technologies is urgent, given the escalating economic impact of extreme weather events experienced in the APAC region. Between 1970 and 2019, losses surged from USD $37.4 billion to a significant USD $465 billion. In 2022 alone, the region grappled with 140 major natural disasters, resulting in 7,300 fatalities and affecting 62 million individuals.
Governments in the APAC region have consequently increased focus on boosting emergency preparedness. CommsBox Ultra emerges as a solution to this growing requirement, promising to ensure timely and accurate communication during crises. The launch of CommsBox Ultra underlines Kacific's commitment to innovation. Following the positive response to the original CommsBox, the company sought to develop a more advanced and resilient solution.
Kacific's Chief Executive Officer, Christian Patouraux, said, "Asia-Pacific is the most disaster-prone region in the world. The development of CommsBox Ultra, replete with new features to ensure it is even more user-friendly and resilient in disaster scenarios, reflects Kacific's dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements."
"Functions like dual polarisation and reinforced structure will ensure instant, reliable connectivity, enabling government, civil defence and first responders to reach the last mile."
The CommsBox Ultra includes a fire and water-resistant, shock-resistant, transportable container, a 65cm auto-pointing antenna, preconfigured modem and satellite electronics, solar power panels, an external battery charger, user tablet, and an optional drone integration for real-time aerial surveillance.