A ”global” beam essentially means that the radiated
power of the satellite beam is directed at the equator
and spreads outward. The global beam provides widespread
coverage. However it provides less power than
a concentrated beam. This means that a larger antenna
must be used with a global beam. For this reason, global
beams tend to be used by carriers who require coverage
not available with other beams, or require multiple
points within a large
coverage area, and have access to a large antenna,
either via their own facilities or via a shared hub. Intelsat
offers the option for higher-powered global beams on
some satellites that can support smaller antennas; small
antennas are generally lower cost and require less
physical space.