Googled for more info on SATCOM, if it was SATCOM...
The Iridium antenna does not need to be aimed. Like a cell phone antenna, its coverage is omnidirectional. It can be fixed on top of the fuselage and mounted with relatively low cost and complexity.
Inmarsat antennas are mechanically steered or electronically steered. The former type requires a steering mechanism, a lot of moving parts, and a radome big enough to cover the whole range of antenna motion.
Inmarsat services, Aero L
The Aero L service operates in the Inmarsat global beams and provides aircraft with real-time, low-speed, two-way data communications capability. Aero L is a packet data service designed primarily for aircraft operators who require a
highly reliable data communications capability. Using a packet data link at speeds up to 1.2 kbps, Aero L is International Civil Aviation Organization/Standard and Practices (ICAO/SARPS) compliant and is an essential service for commercial airline customers who require a backup communications system for transmitting cockpit data or for real-time flight monitoring in critical operational environments. Aero L uses a small low-gain antenna.
Global data communications at 600 to 1200bps, principally to support air traffic control and airline operations. Supports
Acars/Aircom messaging. ICAO approved for safety services.
Looks that it was Inmarsat, Aero L or better service. At least 600\1200 bps.
I am not 100% excuding HF, just from my expierence it less reliable than SAT, especialy when you have lighting nearby.
Found on wiki about ACARS : SATCOM provides worldwide coverage, with the exception of operation at the high latitudes (such as needed for flights over the poles). HF datalink is a relatively new network whose installation began in 1995 and was completed in 2001. HF datalink is responsible for new polar routes. Aircraft with HF datalink can fly polar routes and maintain communication with ground based systems (ATC centers and airline operation centers). ARINC is the only service provider for HF datalink.
If it was HF - at 2:14z A447 had VS in place.
If it was SATCOM Inmarsat - at 2:14z plane wings were more or less horizontal.
Usualy SATCOM antena positioning device has its own GPS, so hard to tell was IR data available or not. Will try dig more info about SATCOM Inmarsat antenas