Tag Archives: satellite phone

Using the IsatPhone Pro in-built Twitter menu

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twitterThe IsatPhone Pro from Inmarsat is the only satellite phone with a dedicated in-built Twitter menu which makes it excellent for those on expeditions wanting to keep followers back home updated in a quick and easy manner.  Here we look at getting your Twitter account up and running.

Firstly to ensure that your IsatPhone Pro has the in-built Twitter menu make sure your handset has the latest firmware installed.  Check this by going to Menu > Settings > About > Firmware version.  You need version 5.3.0, if it is not up-to-date please first install the latest firmware by going to:

http://www.globaltelesat.co.uk/satphone/Inmarsat_IsatPhone_Pro_Support.html

Once you have the correct firmware you need to link your Twitter account with your IsatPhone Pro phone number.  Do this by:

  1. Logging into your Twitter account online
  2. Go to Settings > Mobile
  3. Under Country/Region scroll to the bottom and select Inmarsat
  4. Enter your Inmarsat number (excluding the 870)
  5. Twitter will then ask you to send an SMS from the IsatPhone Pro to set-up the service.

To send a Tweet from your IsatPhone Pro

  1. Menu > Messaging > New Message > New Message > Tweet
  2. Type your message as you would a normal Tweet
  3. When you have finished press Options > Tweet
  4. Each Tweet is charged at the same rate as your SMS fee

Not only can you send tweets you can also choose whether you wish to receive updates from users chosen by you, change account settings and much more.  For a detailed guide please see:

https://support.twitter.com/groups/34-apps-sms-and-mobile/topics/153-twitter-via-sms/articles/14020-twitter-for-sms-basic-features#

 

 

Mountain guide Bruce Goodlad explains the importance of his Iridium 9575 Extreme satellite phone

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Our customers use their satellite phones all over the world for many different reasons such as expeditions, sailing trips or business calls in remote locations.

Whether our customers use satellite phones frequently or as an emergency back-up only we are always interested to hear of how they use satellite technology to their advantage.

GTC customer Bruce Goodlad works as an international mountain guide.  We hear how he uses his Iridium 9575 Extreme satellite phone to stay connected even in the most remote places.

Iridium 9575 Extreme in use“As an international mountain guide I work in the high mountains all over the world, often in remote locations so communication is important to all aspects of my work. It is easy to focus on the accident and rescue element of satellite communications and miss the importance of good communication that allows the smooth running of a trip. Access to up to date weather reports and condition reports from other teams operating in your area all contribute to the success of a trip.

This is combined with the peace of mind that having guaranteed communication with rescue services provided by the Iridium network gives.

Iridium is the only truly global satellite phone network, I have used it all around the globe, phoning my mum from the summit of highest mountain in Antarctica to calling for a weather forecast while ski touring in a remote part of Kamchatka in Eastern Russia. Iridium keeps me up to date.

Iridium 9575 Extreme

Iridium Extreme satellite phone

The Iridium Extreme is so small and light that I just leave it in the bottom of my rucksack skiing and climbing everyday. In the Alps, where I live Cell phone coverage is good but it is a long way from complete.  Having an Iridium phone with me allows to keep up to date with weather and avalanche forecasts and conditions. It also allows me to arrange logistics where those relying on a cell phone may have no coverage. The SOS facility on the Extreme gives me the peace of mind that if I am injured even if my clients don’t have the language skills to call for help they can alert the rescue services to our situation.

I first used an Iridium phone in Antarctica in 2001 where I found it a major step forward in communication and safety provision, the new generation phone takes this security and portability to a new level. In the mountains I am never with out my Iridium, why trust your security to anything else?”

Bruce Goodlad

Mountain Guide IFMGA

Technical Director British Mountain Guides

Chamonix March 2013

www.mountainadventurecompany.com

Twitter: http://twitter.com/brucegoodlad

Find out more about the Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone

Bring satellite connectivity to your iPhone with Thuraya SatSleeve

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Thuraya have announced the launch of a revolutionary product which brings satellite connectivity to the Apple iPhone.

thuraya-satsleeve-iphone

Thuraya SatSleeve is the world’s first product to offer easy and affordable access to mobile satellite communications — delivered over Thuraya’s extensive satellite network. Only slightly larger than the iPhone itself, the compact adaptor provides users with the ability to turn their iPhone into a satellite phone that allows them to have reliable connectivity beyond the coverage of traditional terrestrial networks.

Samer Halawi, Chief Executive Officer of Thuraya, said: “The launch of Thuraya SatSleeve represents a major milestone and a game-changing innovation in the satellite industry. This is the first consumer friendly mobile satellite phone ever launched, which dramatically increases the reach to satellite telephony for enterprise, government, and everyday consumers alike. It provides iPhone® users with a versatile and highly affordable means of conducting phone calls and sending SMS via satellite from the world’s most remote locations.”

While iPhones are typically supported by terrestrial networks, Thuraya SatSleeve enables users to enjoy ubiquitous coverage even in the most remote environments. The Thuraya SatSleeve also serves as an important mobile communications tool for corporate users, especially enterprises operating in remote locations, explorers, mountaineers and other outdoor enthusiasts — ideal for prolonged expeditions that take these users deep into uncharted areas that are not served by terrestrial mobile networks.

To register your interest for Thuraya SatSleeve please contact us.

Celebrate the return of Globalstar with two months free service and no activation fee!

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To celebrate the success of Globalstar’s fourth, second-generation satellite launch, all new customers who activate a GSP-1700 satellite phone or GSP-1700-MR Bundle before 31st March 2013 on our Voice & Data Plans* will receive the first two months subscription free of charge and free activation (usually €50).

GSP-1700 Portable Satellite Phone

GSP-1700 Portable Satellite Phone

With the GSP-1700 priced at just £325 ex VAT this is an excellent time to purchase a satellite phone.  At GTC we have been eagerly awaiting the launch of the new satellites and can confirm that the voice quality we are currently receiving during testing is excellent.  The GSP-1700 offers up to 4 hours of talk-time and 36 hours of standby on a single charge. The pocket-sized handset weighs just 200g.

These handsets are in stock and available for next day delivery.

GSP-1700-MR Fixed Satellite Phone suitable for boat or car use

GSP-1700-MR Fixed Satellite Phone suitable for boat or car use

If you need a fixed solution the GSP-1700-MR Bundle is brilliant for marine or vehicular use. This kit offers flexibility and additional hands-free usability to those who frequently travel in areas where cellular coverage is unavailable.  A range of cable lengths and antennas are available and we are happy to offer advice on which solutions will suit your requirements. This solution is priced at £1,300 ex VAT.

All GTC post-paid airtime customers are billed on a monthly basis and payment can be taken by Direct Debit or credit card.

If you have questions about any of the Globalstar airtime plans or hardware please contact us.

*Terms and Conditions

Long distance, roaming and overage rates will continue to apply. A minimum contract duration of 12 months applies to lines activated under this promotional offer.  Excludes Access Plan.

Mission Accomplished! Globalstar Announces Successful Fourth Launch of Six Second-Generation Satellites

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gtcltd-globalstar-hplogo

24 New Satellites to Restore Industry Leading Mobile Satellite Voice and Data Services

COVINGTON, La., Feb. 6, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Globalstar, Inc. (OTCBB:GSAT) today announced that six new second-generation Globalstar satellites were successfully launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.

The Globalstar satellites lifted off aboard the Soyuz launch vehicle with the Fregat upper stage at 10:04 p.m. local Baikonur time (16:04 p.m. UTC and 11:04 a.m. EST) on Wednesday February 6, 2013.

Launch services provider Arianespace confirmed that the upper stage accurately injected the six second-generation satellites into their targeted low earth orbit of approximately 920 km. Globalstar reports that all six satellites have been successfully acquired following separation from the Dispenser and Fregat Upper Stage. Globalstar has begun initial satellite in-orbit testing and all six spacecraft are operating normally at this time.

“I am pleased to announce the successful final launch of our second-generation constellation,” said Tony Navarra, President of Global Operations for Globalstar, Inc. “In 2006, we set out to be the first mobile satellite services company to successfully deploy a second-generation constellation of LEO satellites. This extraordinary undertaking took years of dedicated effort and a singularly focused mindset to complete the mission.”

Jay Monroe, CEO of Globalstar, Inc., added, “We fully expect Duplex service to be restored to the high level of quality that Globalstar customers historically enjoyed. We thank all of our employees and partners who were able to make this successful launch possible, including launch services provider Arianespace and satellite contractor Thales Alenia Space.”

Globalstar expects to place these final six second-generation satellites into commercial service by this summer, with the first two being raised and placed into service by the end of February. These new satellites are designed to last for 15 years, twice the lifespan of Globalstar’s first-generation satellites.

The Globalstar second-generation satellite constellation is designed to support the Company’s current lineup of voice, duplex and simplex data products and services, including its SPOT-branded consumer products which have initiated over 2,000 rescues worldwide. Globalstar has always been known for its crystal clear, “land-line quality” voice service and for a limited time, is offering service plans for as little as $39.99 per month.

Please visit our website to learn more: http://www.globaltelesat.co.uk/satphone/Globalstar_Satellite_Phone_Airtime.html

Update Facebook and Twitter via Satellite Phone using iOS or Android Devices

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XGate iPhone and Android apps used by our SpeedMail Compression Software now lets users post to popular social media sites when connected to a Wi-Fi enabled satellite data feed.

Global Marine Networks (GMN), the leaders in advancing satellite data speed and services, today announced an update to its XGate iOS app and XGate Android app that let users update their Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter feeds when connected to a Wi-Fi enabled satellite data service. XGate Social Media Services are immediately available to SpeedMail subscribers in addition to accelerated satellite phone email, web browsing and weather data services.

“Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter are the way millions of people share their lives with others every day. Yet until now satellite phone users, who are often in the remote places or emergency situations where they most want to update others of their status, have found it hard to post to social media sites,” said Dr. Luis Soltero, President and CTO of GMN.

“Now, satellite phone users can update all of their friends, business contacts or followers via satellite phone with the press of a button in the XGate application.”

SpeedMail powered by XGate offers email, web, weather, and now, social media services, designed for the unique needs of satellite data users. Satellite data feeds are significantly slower and/or much more expensive than most cellular data services, but have the advantage of working in places and times where cellular networks are not available. SpeedMail uses three to twenty times less data for each of its services than standard email, web, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter apps, saving satellite users time and money.

To access SpeedMail services, users simply need to connect to a Wi-Fi enabled satellite data feed, as would be found on a marine vessel, or created by a device such as the RedPort Wi-Fi Optimizer. SpeedMail will also work over cellular data networks, allowing customers to use a single app regardless of network, or to save on cellular data usage charges.

SpeedMail data services are a fast, reliable and easy-to-use satellite phone email, web, weather data – and now – social media service. Features include:

  • Up to 20 times faster email transfer speeds through compression and custom server protocols
  • Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn posting
  • Mid-file restart and automatic satellite phone connection control
  • Access to free GRIB weather files

SpeedMail’s web service accelerates web browsing an average of three to five times faster than uncompressed rates through compression, page re-rendering and ad-blocking, giving users easier and more reliable access to web sites.

Pricing and Availability

Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter updating are available to both new and existing users for standard SpeedMail subscription rates. Existing SpeedMail subscribers can download the latest version of XGate in the XGate downloads center. Currently, XGate Social Media services are available for all users of the following Windows, Apple Macintosh and Linux versions:

  • Windows XP, Vista and 7, both 32 and 64-bit versions
  • Apple Mac OSX 10.4 or later computers
  • Apple iOS (iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch)
  • Google Android
  • Any Debian-based Linux system

Compatibility

SpeedMail works with any IP-based data service, including the following satellite phones.

Compatible USB-based satellite phones:

Compatible Serial or Ethernet-based phones and terminals:

Satellite communications for yachting enthusiasts

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With the ARC Rally less than 6 weeks away we take a look at the requirements of yachting enthusiasts who want to keep in touch at sea.

One of the most popular requests we receive from sailors is for a satellite phone which not only has the capability to make voice calls but also to send and receive emails and GRIB files. As a result we have put together two sat comms packages for sailors offering a great discount on everything you need to stay in touch at sea with the Iridium 9555 and IsatPhone Pro.

As well as the basic voice capability here are some of the things our customers take into account when choosing a sat phone for use at sea:

 

GRIB Files

Our SpeedMail software (free with our marine packages) gives you access to free GRIB files (requires GRIB viewer). Simply send an email with the area you need the update for and an automatic email will be sent back to you with the GRIB file.

Emails

Some customers need email at sea whether it be for work commitments or just to stay in touch with family at home.  SpeedMail allows you to send and receive emails at minimal cost from your sat phone by compressing data sent and received.

Social media from your sat phone at the click of a button

Social Media

For simple Twitter and Facebook updates our SpeedMail software allows you to keep your followers up-to-date at a minimal cost. Logging onto social networks via the usual website method can cause a lot of data to be wasted because pointless graphics and ads will be downloaded. Once you have set-up your accounts with SpeedMail you can post updates directly from the software at the click of a button. Furthermore, the updates can be queued along with your emails and sent all at one time to enable maximum data compression.

Tracking*

Let your family and friends back home know where you are with the SPOT Satellite Messenger. For an amazing £200 ex VAT GTC offers SPOT with an annual all-inclusive subscription + Track Progress which allows you to send out a message every 10 minutes for 24 hours. SPOT gives you a unique website for your followers to visit and track your movements.

*Not included in GTC IsatPhone Pro Fixed Solution or GTC Iridium 9555 Marine Solution.

GTC IsatPhone Pro Fixed Solution£600 ex VAT GTC Iridium 9555 Marine Solution£1,235 ex VAT
Includes

  • IsatPhone Pro Satellite Phone
  • Pre-Paid SIM with 100 minutes
  • Magnetic External Antenna
  • SpeedMail Email & Web Compression Software
 Includes

  • Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone
  • Pre-Paid SIM with 200 minutes
  • Fixed Mast Antenna with 10m Cable
  • SpeedMail Email & Web Compression Software

Thuraya launches Thuraya XT Satellite Phone WiFi Hotspot

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Thuraya XT Satellite Phone

Industry leading Mobile Satellite Services operator, Thuraya Telecommunications Company yesterday announced the launch of its Thuraya XT-Hotspot product. Building upon the success of its Thuraya XT handheld, the industry’s most popular and toughest satellite phone, Thuraya is introducing the XT-Hotspot, which is a pocket-size router that creates a Wi-Fi zone for multiple users to connect smartphones, laptops, and tablets to the internet over Thuraya’s mobile satellite network. The XT-Hotspot is the only Wi-Fi router on the market offering a plug and play solution enabling easy and affordable internet access with the fastest satellite data speeds on a handheld of up to 60 kbps in the most remote of areas.

Thuraya’s Vice President of Marketing, T. Sanford Jewett said “Thuraya is busy expanding our product line with innovative products to provide our users with convenient and practical mobile communication solutions. The XT-Hotspot is yet another example of Thuraya’s commitment to delivering simple and cost-effective communication tools that enhance the value of our satellite services.”

The XT-Hotspot uses the GmPRS connection of the Thuraya XT handset, which supports faster connection speeds of up to 60 kbps, as opposed to 9.6 kbps currently offered on the market. The router creates a Wi-Fi zone of up to 30 meters, where multiple users can simultaneously access the internet seamlessly from their laptops or smartphones. It is a compact battery-powered device ideal for users from diverse sectors including NGOs, Government, Energy and Media.

The XT-Hotspot will shortly be available from Global Telesat Communications.

Globalstar Europe and Globalstar Avrasya eliminate roaming charges in Europe, Middle East, North Africa, the Mediterranean & the Atlantic Ocean

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Globalstar Europe Satellite Services Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. and a leading provider of mobile satellite voice and data services to businesses, governments and consumers, today announced that it has eliminated roaming charges between Independent Gateway Operator, Globalstar Avrasya of Turkey and Globalstar Europe.  This announcement makes Globalstar satellite phones and airtime plans even better value for money.

Globalstar Europe Satellite Services gateway in Aussaguel, France and Globalstar Avrasya’s gateway located in Ankara, Turkey are now provisioned to facilitate flat rate telecommunications throughout all of the European sub-continent as well as northern Africa, the Middle East, most of the Mediterranean and the eastern Atlantic Ocean maritime region.

“This unified home zone demonstrates, once again, the commitments of our organizations to facilitate the needs and wants of our value-orientated, business, government and recreational customers”, said Mark O’Connell, Director, European Sales & Business Operations.

“This important step is a milestone towards the unification of Globalstar Gateways and home zones. We will continue to facilitate these important initiatives in order to satisfy our valued customers”, said Hakan Karakaya, Globalstar Avrasya Sales & Marketing Manager.

The new home zone includes the following countries:

Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Arctic Ocean (partial), Aruba, Atlantic Ocean (partial), Austria, Azores, Bahrain, Baltic Sea, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Bermuda, Black Sea (partial), Bosnia and Herzegovina, British Virgin Islands, Bulgaria, Canada, Caribbean Sea (partial), Cayman Island, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Estonia, Faeroe Islands, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Greenland (partial), Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guantanamo Bay, Gulf of Alaska, Gulf of Mexico (partial), Haiti, Hungary, Iceland, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Jordan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Latvia, Lebanon, Libya, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Martinique, Mediterranean Sea, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Montserrat, Morocco, Navassa, Netherlands, Netherlands Antilles, Norway, Norwegian Sea, Pacific Ocean (partial), Persian Gulf (partial), Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Red Sea (partial), Romania, Saint Barthélemy and Saint Martin, Saint Eustatius and Saint Maarten, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saudi Arabia, Sea of Azov (partial), Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Turks and Caicos Islands, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, United States Virgin Islands, and Western Sahara.

Globalstar Signs Definitive Agreement With Thales Alenia Space for Delivery of Six Additional Satellites

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Globalstar, Inc and satellite manufacturer Thales Alenia Space (TAS) today announced the signing of a contract for the manufacture and delivery of six additional satellites for the Globalstar second-generation constellation. The joint announcement was made during the Euroconsult World Satellite Business Week in Paris. The satellites, which are expected to be delivered and launched in 2015 will ensure long-term industry-leading mobile satellite voice and data services to Globalstar customers around the world through 2030.

Earlier this year, Globalstar and TAS signed a commercial proposal containing the basic terms for the purchase for these additional Spacecraft. The satellites have a design life of 15 years and will be technically identical to the twenty-four second generation spacecraft Globalstar ordered from TAS under their 2009 contract. The six new satellites will utilize approximately €12 million in Long Lead Items purchased by Globalstar under the previous agreement.

The new contract also provides Globalstar an option to order as many as twenty-four more satellites in the future should consumer demand require additional capacity be added to the Globalstar System.

“This agreement not only secures our current space segment requirements, but it also ensures that Globalstar is uniquely positioned to provide our customers with high quality MSS voice and data services over the long-term,” said Jay Monroe, Chairman and CEO of Globalstar. “Once again we would like to thank TAS and the French bank group for their hard work and look forward to continuing our work with them as we move forward with the manufacture and delivery of the additional satellites.”

“We are very satisfied to have finalized this negotiation in order to provide this batch of six additional Globalstar satellites to join the constellation”, said Emmanuel Grave Executive Vice President Telecommunications for Thales Alenia Space.

 The aggregate purchase price of these six spacecraft is €149.9 million, and TAS has committed to begin deliveries 29 months after the close of the financing. Globalstar expects to close the financing for this purchase by year end.

 Globalstar is currently completing the launch and deployment of its second-generation satellite constellation. Once the 24 satellites ordered under the 2009 contract with TAS are deployed, Globalstar is expected to once again provide industry-leading voice quality and highly reliable mobile satellite voice and data services to customers around the world. With three launches completed and 18 satellites already in orbit, the Company is making preparations for the fourth launch of six satellites while already experiencing significantly improved levels of services.