SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS PART IIIb
Disaster Communications Tools IIIB
In this report, you will learn about commercial satellite communications equipment.
We will review, and provide links for additional information for:
Satellite Phones
Satelite Wi-Fi Hotspots
Two-Way Satellite Messengers
What we will not review are Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs).
Or, Cell-based Mobile Hotspots.
PLBs transmit on a single international frequency to alert search and rescue personnel and guide them to your rescue. That is all it does. They are intended for people well off the beaten path with no alternate form of communication for emergency rescue.
More information on PLB’s: https://www.sarsat.noaa.gov/new.html
Mobile Hotspots are just that. A mobile hotspot. They operate on the same system that your cell phone works on. Though sometimes better than the cell phone. They are not a satellite communications device.
Disclosure: If you click on a link that takes you to a site selling the item. I may receive compensation if you purchase the item from that link. You are not being charged if I receive any compensation, it is already built into the sellers marketing budget.
Previous posts on Disaster Communication can be found here:
Part I; https://www.emergencyactionplanning.com/2019/08/07/disaster-communications/
Part II; https://www.emergencyactionplanning.com/2019/08/12/disaster-communications-part-ii/
Part IIA; https://www.emergencyactionplanning.com/2019/08/22/disaster-communication-part-iia/
Part IIIA; https://www.emergencyactionplanning.com/2019/09/11/disaster-communications-part-iiia-tools/
WHAT ARE YOUR SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS OPTIONS?
Satellite communications devices are pretty simple. A signal is sent to a geostationary satellite. The signal is changed, amplified and sent back to earth.
Satellite Phones
You’re considering a satellite phone as a top-shelf communications device.
Satellite Phones are a means to communicate a status change or emergency in an area where all alternate communications methods are of no use.
Something you need to know.
Satellite Phones will not work everywhere.
A misunderstanding of satellite phones is they are usable everywhere on the planet.
This is incorrect. There are places on the planet where a Sattelite Phone will not connect depending on the servicer you have chosen to use.
The entirety of the United States and Central America, as well as a huge portion of the oceans surrounding them, are covered.
Review the map provided by your Sattelite Phone provider for the approximate areas of operation. Be sure to review it with discretion before assuming it’ll function where you’re headed.
Service plans may be geographically fixed and may not work outside of the plan area.
There may be service problems if you do not have a clear view of the sky.
Satellite Phones require a paid service plan and activation.
The three major players in Satellite-Phones are;
Inmarsat; https://www.inmarsat.com/
Iridium; https://www.iridium.com/
Globalstar; https://www.globalstar.com/en-us/
Inmarsat IsatPhone Pro2
Make voice calls, send SMS messages, and track your position with GPS from anywhere on the globe (excluding polar regions) without worrying about high-cost roaming charges. Receive calls and SMS on your phone without charge, wherever you use it.
The included SIM can be activated with a variety of prepaid and monthly contract airtime options.
Inmarsat coverage map.
https://www.inmarsat.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Inmarsat_IsatPhone_2_Coverage_Map.pd
Iridium 9575 Extreme
Military-grade durability (MIL-STD 810F) Highest Ingress Protection (IP) rating in the industry (IP65)
Battery Standby time: Up to 30 hours Talk time: Up to 4 hours
Two-way SMS and short email capability
Illuminated weather-resistant keypad
Operating Temperature Range: -10 °C to +55 °C or 14F to 131F
https://www.iridium.com/blog/2011/08/10/iridium-growth-its-all-about-connections/
Iridium, the only network offering 100% coverage over Earth’s landmasses, waterways, and airways with no coverage gaps. The US Military uses Iridium communications network.
Globalstar GSP-1600 Satellite Phone
Voice Mail Notification, 99 Memory location with call restriction, Call History Log
User-configurable call timers and available “minute alert” to manage costs, Keypad lock and security lock code for additional security
In Globalstar satellite mode, the phone will sustain normal operation for 3.75 hours of talk time, 19 hours of standby time
https://www.globalstar.com/en-us/products/coverage-maps
NOTICE: Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used.
Satellite WIFI Hotspot
Use your smartphone in satellite mode when there is no terrestrial network available. Make calls and send text messages using your existing list of contacts.
May requires a separate app for your phone to operate in satellite mode. Can be used with Smart Phones, Tablets, and Laptops.
A less expensive alternative to a dedicated Satellite Phone.
Globalstar Sat-Fi2
Sat-Fi2 Portable Satellite Hotspot offers users satellite access for their smartphones to enable global voice calling, text messaging, and S.O.S. alerting using the Globalstar network
https://www.globalstar.com/en-us/products/coverage-maps
Iridium GO!
Iridium GO! Satellite Phone Wi-Fi Hotspot for Voice, Messaging & Data
Iridium GO! provides global voice calling and text messaging solutions for your smartphone, as well as enhanced data capabilities offered through optimized apps to meet your unique needs. Simply flip up the integrated antenna and the battery-powered unit connects quickly and automatically
NOTICE: Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used.
Satellite WIFI Hotspots are compatible with Apple and Android operating systems.
Satellite Hotspots require a paid service plan.
Satellite Hot-Spots have the same limitations as Satellite Phones. There may be service problems if you do not have a clear view of the sky.
Two-Way Satellite Messengers
A satellite messenger is a messaging device which transmits and receives via a satellite network.
Using a satellite messenger, you can send and receive brief messages.
GPS is included, you can send your coordinates if you need someone to come out and assist you.
Text messaging and Email applications have a limited number of characters.
Send time can be two to five minutes.
Satellite messengers are available through Iridium, Globalstar or Garmin
There are multiple devices in this category.
Bivistick
Send and receive text messages from anywhere in the world.
Tracking and location sharing at a 10-minute interval
Weather forecast 3 days to 7 days detailed based on your location
SOS service to call in professional help when needed
5200 mAh backup battery for your phone
Use with iPhone and Android. Works on the Iridium network.
Garman inReach Mini (formerly DeLorean)
Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way text messaging using the 100% global Iridium network (satellite subscription required)
Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center (satellite subscription required)
Access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more by using the free Garmin Earthmate app and compatible devices.
Use with iPhone and Android. Works on the Iridium network.
Spot X
Spot X is a stand-alone device and does not need a cell phone to operate.
Exchange messages with any cell phone number or email address from virtually anywhere in the world
Request assistance from the 24/7 search & rescue center, message back and forth about the nature of your emergency and receive a confirmation when help is on the way
Let family friends know your location with SPOT google maps interface.
Easily let everyone know you’re ok.
Link your social accounts and keep friends and family updated wherever you go.
Works on the Globalstar network.
These networks offer extensive coverage around the world, you can send and receive in most locations which offer a view of the sky.
With two-way messaging, you have the ability to both send and receive texts. This allows you to communicate with family and friends during times of emergency. Providing them with and receiving updates on your status.
Can also let you conduct two-way communication with emergency workers.
Quite a few satellite messengers include the option to extend functionality by linking up to a mobile device such as a tablet or smartphone. You will need an app to do this. Different apps provide different features and tools for you to use.
The service provider will identify the app necessary to operate with the device.
Two-Way Satellite Messengers require a paid service plan.
There may be service problems if you do not have a clear view of the sky.
NOTICE: Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used.
Summary:
Satellite phones come in at the very top of the list for grid down communications. They can be used almost anywhere in the world as long as you have battery power and an activated service plan.
Satellite Wi-Fi hotspots are effective for grid down communications as long as your cell phone is still working, and you have an active paid subscription.
Two-way Satellite messengers are a more frugal version of satellite communications because they only allow text messaging and you must have your cell phone operational and the application loaded on your phone.
Satellite communication devices are illegal in some countries.
All of the mentioned devices need power to operate. Remember to have a backup power source for your communication needs.
Extra batteries, power banks, and solar panels are good options.
Know the laws regarding satellite communication devices where-ever you go.
Rescue Operations:
S.O.S: Calling for help on any satellite device is appropriate if you feel your life is in danger, you have no way to extract yourself, and your situation does not endanger potential rescuers.
If you have waited till it is too late to extract yourself, no one will come to get you. Rescue personnel will not place their lives at risk because you made a bad decision.
Stay Tuned:
In part IIIC of the Disaster Communications report we will cover:
Personal Radio Services:
Citizen Band Radio (CB)
General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)
Family Radio Service (FRS)
And
Amateur (HAM) Radio
Till next time
“Be Safe”
