THE BUSINESS
What do you do?
We design, develop and market satellite ground equipment which enables high speed transmission of data, audio and video over commercial and military satellites. Our equipment is located on earth and thus falls under the broad category of “satellite ground equipment”. We concentrate on ground equipment that is central to the transmission and reception of content for commercial and military applications, as opposed to consumer applications such as direct-to-home broadcasting.
What do you sell?
Our portfolio of satellite ground equipment comprises primarily of receivers, transmitters and power amplifiers (collectively, “Microwave Components”); and portable satellite systems, related accessories and services (collectively “Satellite Systems”). These Microwave Components and Satellite Systems are designed to interoperate with geostationary satellites orbiting the earth. Our products permit users to establish a broadband communications link (up to 9 Mbps) between any two points on earth. This broadband communications link is capable of transporting a broad range of content including voice, data and moving video.
Microwave components enable the transmission, reception and amplification of signals to and from satellites. The Company’s product portfolio of microwave components includes a comprehensive range of satellite receivers (LNBs), transmitters (BUCs), transceivers, solid-state power amplifiers (SSPAs) and other customized products.
Portable satellite systems provide rapidly deployable broadband connectivity over satellite where traditional communications infrastructure is insufficient, unreliable, damaged or non-existent. The Company’s product portfolio of portable satellite systems includes the Norsat GLOBETrekker and OmniLink satellite systems.
The GLOBETrekker is an intelligent, ultra-portable satellite system that enables users to establish a reliable broadband connection on short notice. It is designed to be carried in a backpack, is airline checkable, and fits in small vehicles. The GLOBETrekker is ideal for users who are highly mobile. Examples of such users include special forces, first responders, business continuity managers, Search and Rescue personnel and journalists.
The OmniLink™ product family also addresses the demanding needs of users seeking to establish broadband connectivity on a temporary basis but for longer periods of time. This product line is ideal for use by government and peacekeeping agencies, broadcasters, resource exploration companies, distance education institutions, financial institutions, and large corporations.
How do you market your products and services?
We sell most of its microwave components and portable satellite system, other than those bound for the US Government, through resellers. Almost all of the portable satellite systems sold to the US Government have been through the Company’s direct sales force with a few exceptions. In 2006, we finalized contract vehicles which enable end users in the government to purchase our products:
In May 2006, we were awarded a five year Federal Supply Schedule contract by the General Services Administration (GSA). This is a contract vehicle which enables federal, state and local governments in the United States to procure the Company’s satellite communications equipment and solutions.
In August 2006, we were named a subcontractor to Arrowhead Global Solutions who is the holder of a five year IDIQ (indefinite quantity indefinite period) contract vehicle with the United States Navy.
How many customers do you have?
In 2006, we had more than 100 customers across both business units.
THE INDUSTRY
When did you go public?
1989
Where is the company’s stock traded?
Toronto Stock Exchange
Over the Counter Bulletin Board
What is your stock symbol?
TSX - NII
and
OTC BB - NSATF.OB
Who owns most of the stock?
As of December 31, 2006, no one party had reported that they held more than 5% of the company’s stock.
THE EMPLOYEES
How large is your work force?
By the end of 2006, we had 43 people on staff.
What is the average age of your employees?
39
How many languages are spoken at Norsat?
Because of the international character of our business, over 17 languages are spoken at Norsat. 2/3 of our workforce speaks a second language.
How are women represented at Norsat?
25% of the workforce is female. More than 40% of all management roles are occupied by females.
