Cobham EXPLORER 8120 Ku (8w BUC)
The Cobham EXPLORER 8120 Ku (8W BUC) is a vehicle-mounted auto-acquire VSAT terminal designed to deliver reliable broadband satellite communications for organizations operating in remote or rapidly changing environments. Featuring a 1.2-meter carbon fiber reflector, integrated 8 Watt Block Upconverter (BUC), and Cobham's Dynamic Pointing Correction technology, it provides dependable Ku-band connectivity even when the vehicle experiences slight movement after deployment.
Built for emergency response teams, military units, broadcasters, government agencies, and mobile command vehicles, the EXPLORER 8120 offers rapid satellite acquisition, integrated Wi-Fi, and a rugged drive-away design that simplifies deployment in the field. It supports a wide range of broadband applications, including secure VPN access, VoIP, video conferencing, cloud services, and operational data transfer over major Ku-band satellite networks.
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Description
Reliable Broadband for Mission-Critical Deployments
The EXPLORER 8120 is designed for organizations that depend on broadband connectivity from temporary or mobile locations. Operating over Ku-band satellite networks, it supports internet access, secure communications, cloud applications, remote monitoring, live broadcasting, and business continuity when terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable.
Its larger 1.2-meter reflector delivers increased antenna gain compared to smaller mobile terminals, making it well suited for demanding communication requirements and challenging operating conditions.
Dynamic Pointing Correction
Unlike traditional "communications-on-the-pause" VSAT systems, the EXPLORER 8120 continues tracking the satellite when the parked vehicle shifts because of wind, uneven terrain, or personnel movement. Cobham's Dynamic Pointing Correction technology continuously compensates for these small movements, helping maintain a stable connection without requiring the antenna to reacquire the satellite.
This provides greater communication reliability during critical operations where interruptions are undesirable.
Fast Automatic Deployment
The terminal automatically acquires the selected satellite in less than four minutes, reducing setup time and allowing operators to establish communications quickly. Built-in Wi-Fi and a browser-based management interface simplify configuration from laptops, tablets, or smartphones without requiring specialized software.
The system also supports inclined orbit satellite tracking and advanced blocking zone functionality for improved operational flexibility.
Typical applications include:
- Emergency response
- Mobile command centers
- Government operations
- Military communications
- Broadcast and media
- Disaster recovery
- Oil and gas operations
- Utility restoration
Rugged Design for Field Operations
The EXPLORER 8120 features a lightweight one-piece carbon fiber reflector and precision harmonic drive gear system designed for repeated deployments in demanding environments. The rugged construction supports long-term field use while minimizing maintenance requirements.
Its modular architecture also supports optional conversion kits for Ka-band and Inmarsat GX operation, allowing organizations to adapt the platform as communication requirements evolve.
Features
- 1.2 m reflector
- Integrated 8W BUC
- Auto-acquire antenna
- Dynamic Pointing Correction
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Under 4-minute setup
- Vehicle-mounted design
- Ku-band broadband
Package
Cobham EXPLORER 8120 Ku (8w BUC) Includes:
- Cobham EXPLORER 8120 1.2 m auto-acquire antenna
- Integrated 8 Watt BUC
- Antenna Control Unit (ACU)
- Built-in Wi-Fi capability
- Standard power and interface cables
- Installation documentation
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
- 70 × 120 × 36 cm (66.9 × 47.2 × 14.2 inches)
Weight
- 68 kg (150 lbs)
Durability
- Vehicle-mounted drive-away design
- Rugged outdoor construction
- Harmonic drive gear system
- Carbon fiber reflector
Included
- Antenna
- 1.2 m carbon fiber reflector
- Auto-acquire antenna
- Dynamic Pointing Correction
- Precision polarization drive
- Inclined orbit satellite tracking
- Radio
- Integrated 8 Watt BUC
- Ku-band operation
- Modular feed architecture
- Optional conversion capability
Additional
- GPS-assisted operation
- Compatible with iDirect and other supported modems
- Optional Ka-band and GX conversion kits
Data Network
- Ku-band VSAT
- Broadband IP connectivity
- Compatible with major Ku-band satellite networks
Interfaces
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Ethernet connectivity
- Web-based management interface
- Compatible with supported VSAT modems
