Let's discuss Satellite Phones/Terminals, etc. I know it may be hard to fathom, BUT there are large expanses of the western USA with no cell coverage on any carrier. I have carried a Globalstar satellite handset in the truck since 2004, now looking to possibly upgrade or not, BUT would like to reduce the costs, just went to about $70/month with taxes and fees, now I know that isn't all that much and I am grandfathered in on an unlimited plan, so I could talk all I want for that price (normally $150/month plus fees and tax). Nonetheless, it is not something I use much, BUT it has saved my *** a few times, this year was 21 calls and 64 minutes of use, most I used in one year was 294 minutes, mostly all on a single remote project in northern Idaho. I am thinking of moving to a data terminal with faster data (use your smartphone over WiFi), and changing providers but nothing is inexpensive, those run about $1300 on the low end to a LOT more on the high side. I don't think a guy working solo in areas where you see no one all day is wise without a backup comms plan...
Anybody else have a satellite phone or data plan for remote or emergency use? Carrier, plan, etc.?
SHG
I had a satellite phone for a while, but it was unreliable (about 15 years ago). I am sure they work better now that they probably have a lot more satellites up.
I have a delorme inreach, it doesn't have voice or data capability but at least I can send text messages and call for help. I have periodically looked at what is out there, but it never seems worth it. Yes, I do go to places without cell service (both east and west coasts and in between), and overseas, but I at least want something I can call for help with if nothing else. Not a bad option.
I would stick with the Sat phone....that seems like a good rate for unlimited use.
Mike Mac, post: 400751, member: 2901 wrote: I would stick with the Sat phone....that seems like a good rate for unlimited use.
Oh, it is a good rate, about 1/2 price, but if I can get a lesser plan for a $50/month savings then I am overpaying if I don't need unlimited, but the plan I have will likely never be repeated again. Started out more, for lesser plan, then a few years back they made a deal where if you stuck it out while they had very bad service they would put you on unlimited and at the time I think it was $25/month, but every year it is going up, I expect soon they will have me at $150/month.the same as all other unlimited accounts. Globalstar has the fastest data on a handset at 9.6k, BUT painfully slow, Inmarsat on an entry level terminal can be as fast as 384kbps down, actually fast enough to get e-mails, look up NGS datasheets, etc. in middle of no where as well as make a call if needed, thus why I am looking at options. Who knows, in the end I may do nothing but keep paying my $70/month.
SHG