SpaceX Starlink KPIs | Latency, Throughput, Power Consumption
A Key Performance Indicator (KPI) is a measurable value which evaluates success of a system or process or product. KPIs should be clear and specific to the area of performance they are intended to measure. There are several KPIs associated with Starlink network including latency, throughput and power consumption. These KPIs help in measuring performance and efficiency of the Starlink System.
Starlink KPIs
Let us understand definitions of these KPIs and typical value requirements for SpaceX's Starlink network system.
Latency
Definition : It refers to the time it takes for data
to travel from the user terminal to the internet backbone server and back.
It should be as low as possible. Lower value is critical for applications
such as video conferencing, online gaming and real time communication.
Typical values : SpaceX aims to have latencies in the range from 20-40 ms.
Throughput (Bandwidth)
Definition : It refers to amount of data that can be transmitted through the network
in a given amount of time. High throughput ensures a good user experience.
Typical values : SpaceX aims for user download speeds of 100 Mbps to 200 Mbps and upload speeds of 20 Mbps to 50 Mbps.
Power Consumption
Definition : When not actively in use, the terminal should enter in
low power standby mode so that it consumes less power.
Typical values (User terminals) : The power consumption of a Starlink user terminal (dish)
is reported to be around 100 to 150 watts during normal operation.
• Each satellite's power consumption is designed to be efficient,
leveraging solar panels for energy.
Monitoring and Reporting of KPIs
➨SpaceX monitors these KPIs through a combination of on-board satellite systems,
ground station sensors and user feedback. Continuous monitoring helps ensure that the network
performs optimally and that any issues can be addressed promptly.
➨Following are considerations to meet latency, throughput and power consumption requirements.
• Deployment of ground stations at appropriate locations will help to
mitigate latency issues (if any).
• Technology upgrades will help to enhance throughput and
overall network capacity.
• Energy efficient hardware and software
should be designed/developed to manage power consumption effectively.
Conclusion
The KPIs for latency, throughput, and power consumption are critical to the success and user satisfaction of the Starlink network. SpaceX continues to refine and optimize these metrics through technological advancements and strategic planning. It aims to provide reliable, high-speed and low-latency internet service to users worldwide.