Q-KON's HotZone Solution to increase connectivity in Africa

The StarLight HotZone consists of a VSAT terminal, wireless access controller with a printer and a keypad. It comes pre-configured with 4Mbps downlink speed and 512Kbps uplink speed and works on a franchise basis.

In addition to being straightforward in terms of implementation and setup, Q-KON points out the solution's flexibility and adaptability to user requirements.

"As the business owner you can select your profile online once the satellite terminal is installed and functional. Monthly base bundles and top-ups can be purchased online without call centre intervention, and allows for total freedom to operate your business according to your own requirements," explains Juan Prinsloo, senior executive: Products of Q-KON.

"Lodge owners, hotel managers and campus managers can implement the solution and enable users on the premises to start using voucher-based WiFi internet with minimal complexity. Vouchers are issued by selecting the required data package on a keypad and the voucher is printed for the guest to use," he adds.

Logistically, a would-be investor or franchisee in internet services needs to install a VSAT antenna with a satellite modem, access controller, voucher printer and keypad at their premises. Once the site is activated by the Q-KON Networks Operating Centre (NOC), the franchisee engages Q-KON to purchase the pre-paid data bundle using the online user portal.

The site is now ready to distribute internet to patrons and guests. A guest can buy a voucher in any of the designated denominations. The desk assistant will issue the guest with a voucher by selecting the option on a keypad. The voucher will be printed with an access code and PIN which needs to be typed into the portal page when accessing the HotZone.

The guest will be allowed access to the internet and the access controller will manage the usage until the purchased bundle is finished. The purchased voucher will expire if not used within the same calendar month that it was purchased.

Data bundles do not roll over and a new bundle will have to be purchased every month. Bundles may be topped up when necessary.

"Our intention with this solution offering is to broaden access to connectivity across the continent and to address the requirement by entrepreneurs for quick, hassle-free, reliable and cost effective connectivity. We believe we have achieved our objectives with this release," Prinsloo continues.