Designer and YouTuber Morley Kert recently discovered and addressed a design flaw in his Starlink kit, a satellite internet receiver from SpaceX. Kert noticed that the metal feet of the Starlink satellite receiver had no cushions, which could potentially cause scratches on the roof of his van.
Expressing his surprise at the oversight, Kert took matters into his own hands and designed custom thermoplastic polyurethane cushions to attach to the base of his Starlink dish. By doing so, he no longer had to worry about placing the expensive outdoor tech with extreme precision to avoid damage.
Starlink, a segment of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, aims to provide internet connectivity anywhere on Earth through a network of satellites in Earth’s low-earth orbit. The kits available for residential and business use come with different hardware options. The standard actuated Starlink kit and the high-performance Starlink kit, which feature the four-legged metal base, are recommended for residential and business applications, respectively.
For those looking for a mobile solution, the flat high-performance Starlink kit is designed for in-motion use and comes with a wedge mount kit instead of metal legs. However, this option comes at a significantly higher price of $2,500 compared to the standard kit priced at $599.
It is important to note that while Kert’s customization may have solved his specific issue, users should carefully consider their hardware needs and options before making a purchase. For more information on the future of mobility and technology, be sure to follow Benzinga’s coverage on the topic.
In conclusion, Kert’s experience with the Starlink kit highlights the importance of attention to detail in product design and the benefits of innovative solutions to address shortcomings. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for companies to listen to user feedback and make necessary adjustments to improve user experience.
