Mobile satellite station

Pickens County, South Carolina is soliciting a contract for a Mobile Satellite Station through a procurement process focused on the 1890 Research & Extension Mobile Technology Center. The primary objective is to purchase a 1.2m Ku-Band DriveAway VSAT satellite antenna system with comprehensive installation, testing, and training services. The proposed satellite system must deliver mobile internet capabilities with specific technical requirements, including a minimum bandwidth of 10 Mbps download and 4 Mbps upload, nationwide commercial Ku-band satellite coverage, and auto-acquisition functionality. The system must demonstrate operational reliability in challenging environmental conditions, with capabilities to withstand winds up to 40 mph and maintain waterproof component integrity. Expedition Communications will be responsible for complete system installation, which includes removing existing satellite infrastructure, configuring new equipment in a rack-mounted format, conducting connectivity tests, and providing configuration files and user manuals. The contract opportunity was posted on March 27, 2025, with proposals due by April 25, 2025, giving potential vendors approximately 29 days to prepare and submit their comprehensive technical and operational responses.

While specific set-aside designations are not explicitly detailed in the provided documentation, the procurement appears focused on technical capability and system performance for the 1890 Research & Extension program. The contract requires vendors to provide comprehensive training to PSA personnel, covering system setup, operation, maintenance, and developing supporting technical documentation. The satellite system must seamlessly integrate with existing mobile technology infrastructure and demonstrate adaptability across various operational environments. Though a specific budget range is not disclosed, the detailed technical specifications suggest a sophisticated and potentially high-value procurement targeting advanced mobile satellite communication technologies. The scope of work implies a preference for vendors with extensive experience in satellite communication systems, mobile technology deployment, and professional training capabilities in technology implementation.