Quite recently, SpaceX introduced a new terminal called Starlink V5. The device is designed as a new base solution for users: more accessible and budget-friendly. The official presentation confirms significant changes in size, weight, and power consumption. So let's take a closer look at it.
Physical characteristics and parameters
The new model is significantly smaller in its dimensions. The device has become much lighter and more compact: in terms of size, it is somewhere between the previous terminals – Starlink Standard 4 and Mini.
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Case length: 38.4 centimeters.
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Case width: 30.6 centimeters.
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Antenna weight: 1.1 kilograms.
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Protection rating: the IP67 standard ensures absolute seal against dust and water splashes.
Technical performance indicators and energy efficiency
The new terminal features significant changes in its internal architecture. Due to its compactness, the overall load on the power system has decreased, and heat dissipation has improved.
Electric power consumption
The average consumption rate is between 35 and 50 W. This level makes the equipment beneficial for power supply from portable charging stations, battery packs, and autonomous generators.
Speed capabilities
The maximum download speed for the Starlink V5 is up to 375 Mbps. This figure is slightly behind the Standard 4 parameters, but it is sufficient for daily use.
What is included in the package?
- Starlink V5 terminal
- Router Mini along with a stand
- Dedicated power supply unit for power delivery
- Pipe adapter, which allows mounting the antenna on a mast
- Antenna cable 15 meters long
- Ethernet network cable 2 meters long
- AC power cable 1.5 meters long
Comparing Starlink V5 with the Starlink Standard 4 model
Both models have a significant difference in dimensions, power consumption, and standard kit.
The Starlink Standard 4 has dimensions of 59.4 by 38.3 centimeters and weighs 2.9 kilograms. The V5 model has become much more compact: its dimensions are 38.4 by 30.6 centimeters, and its mass is only 1.1 kilograms. Thanks to its updated shape and compactness, the V5 withstands wind gusts up to 265 km/h, which in terms of wind resistance actually corresponds to the Standard 4 model.
The V5 model consumes almost half as much electricity as the Standard 4. In operating mode, the Standard 4 requires 75 to 100 W, while the new V5 only needs 35 to 50 W. This will allow the V5 to run much longer on portable charging stations and battery packs.
Reducing the antenna size in the V5 led to a slight decrease in speed performance. The Standard 4 model provides download speeds of over 400 Mbps, while the V5 delivers up to 375 Mbps. As for the kit, both terminals come with the compact Router Mini.
Who is the Starlink V5 suitable for?
Starlink V5 is suitable for use in private homes, for camping, and, for example, during power outages.
Thanks to low consumption, the terminal will run longer from charging stations or power banks. Also, Starlink V5 has been made more compact, so it will be convenient to take it with you into nature or for a weekend getaway.
Starlink V5 to appear in Tesla cars
Despite SpaceX's statement that the terminal is designed for stationary use and not intended for operation while in motion (likely due to the lack of a GNSS module), Tesla has already hinted that future Cybercab robotaxis will feature a built-in Starlink V5 (as well as GPS and 5G LTE). This will ensure stable communication and navigation even in areas without coverage.
In particular, Ukrainian engineer Oleg Kutkov discovered evidence in the Starlink firmware that the company is already developing a special automotive version of the antenna called rev5_pez_auto_proto1. According to him, 20 antenna elements were removed from the 820 total, and an STA8090 navigation chip was installed. Furthermore, such a version will better withstand high temperatures and will not overheat while driving.
*Cybercab is a two-seater electric car without a steering wheel or pedals, which will operate entirely under the control of an onboard computer. Currently, Tesla is conducting limited vehicle testing for its future robotaxi network.
