Satellite phones are used by remote or lone workers, individual adventurers, off-shore engineers, or anyone operating for any reason beyond the reach of traditional cellular networks that demands the need for reliable voice and data communication. A satellite phone allows people to make and take phone calls to other satellite phones or private phone numbers, anywhere in the world.
Importance of Satellite Phones in the UK
Sat phones like the Iridium Extreme® are globally connected to the Iridium network and so will work from any location in the world, including the UK. Using a sat phone in the UK is the ideal solution for things like remote sporting event management or even Duke of Edinburgh excursions where the safety of participating students is paramount. Because a satellite phone is as much about reliable communication as it is safety and addressing due diligence.
The Key Features of a Satellite Phone
One of the main things to remember when it comes to satellite phones is they are not like modern day smartphones. You won’t be able to play games or music through them, however, with any Iridium satellite phone for example, you will achieve global coverage meaning you can make calls from even the most remote locations on earth. You can also trigger SOS alerts where rescue services can be pinpointed to your precise location in life or death situations. The only phone that comes close to an everyday flagship smart phone is the Thuraya X5 Touch. With it’s 5” touchscreen, it is the world’s only smart satellite phone and is based on the Android operating system. This particular model comes with the most powerful battery on the market allowing for up to 100 hours of standby time.
Choosing the Right Satellite Phone for Your Needs
When location isn’t an issue, choose an Iridium satellite phone in order to benefit from truly global coverage. You can use it from anywhere on the planet, even the extreme north or south Pole. If you are concerned about battery life, Thuraya’s range of satellite phones comes with very lengthy and power-friendly battery lives, offering up to 100 hours of standby time and 70 hours of talk time. Thuraya satellite phones are typically more cost-effective, however, their coverage only extends across EMEA & APAC countries. So, if you are planning on using a satellite phone in North or South America, we would not recommend a Thuraya.
Setting Up and Using a Satellite Phone in the UK
Wherever you are when using your satellite phone, we always advise our customers to be out in an open space, with the phone’s antenna fully extended, with an unobstructed view of the sky. Trying to use a satellite phone in the UK inside a building, in a city with tall buildings around, or in a valley will obscure the phone’s satellite reception and will not allow the user to make calls.
Conclusion
With satellite phones being used in so many applications, and with so many features per phone, it could be a daunting task to find the right one for you. We have a range of satellite phones and have a team of product experts available to speak to online or over the phone.
As always, our team of experts is here to help. So, if you need any advice about satellite phones, contact us via:
- Email: info@gtc.co.uk
- Phone: 0800 112 3919
