Communication method and apparatus using data compression

摘要

A communications link for data communication via satellite includes interface apparatus comprising a satellite link interface for connection to a satellite link and a PSTN interface for connection to a PSTN. The interface apparatus supports different data compression modes in the communication link. Mode A allows data compression over the PSTN but not over the satellite link. Mode B allows data compression over the PSTN and over the satellite link, but enables decompression and recompression of data flowing in each direction through the interface apparatus. Mode C allows compressed data to pass transparently between the PSTN and the satellite link, while the interface apparatus performs error correction on the satellite link and on the PSTN.