Portable Satellite Phones

By: Aria Scherer Click author's name for more of his/her articles

Why have a satellite phone? If you find yourself beyond an region of cell range, or need to be equipped just in case, a satellite phone is the best investment.

Satellite phones offer a certain source of communication. Sat-Phones are very portable. With new gains in technology, portable sat-phones have been reduced in size while their features have expanded. Possessing global voice and data service, portable sat- phones are perfect for many users. For users who are concerned about the security of their conversations, portable satellite phones do not operate on traditional telecom architecture and as a result there is a vastly reduced chance of wiretapping.

Using their own networks, satellite phones are different from current cell phone networks. This gives several advantages over cell phones, such as the possibility of global coverage; less users to overburden the satellites; resistance to the issues frequently endured by cellular telephone towers, like damage from natural forces or accidents; and a better quality and strength for the phone itself, to make a device of better quality and longer function. Like cell phones, a satellite phone can be used for both voice and data transfer.

Call Pricing

Althoughat first the investment of a satellite phone is bigger than a cell, this levels out fairly rapidly. Like with cellular cell- phones, there are varying plan rates that depend on how you use the phone. A call to a land line or cell number is low-cost, however calling other satellite phones can be more costly. Outgoing calls are generally less expensive than incoming, so using your sat-phone to place calls is economical.

Buying Used

As with numerous technologies, satellite phones can often be a great deal when purchased pre-owned, if you understand what to check for before purchasing.

For the shape, be sure to closely check the case, buttons and screen for marks of abuse or unreasonable wear. Run the operation of all the procedures to verify it all runs as it needs to. Likewise, inquire about a warranty, either the remaining warranty period or one offered from the seller.

A informed step is acquiring the original packaging and user's manual. This documentation helps assure the sat-phone wasn't stolen, and also provdes you the info required to fully learn your new satellite phone. Likewise, confirm that all original accessories, such as any fixed hardware, stand, case, adapters, battery, and charger are included and functional.

If you prefer to buy a pre-owned satellite phone, determine if it includes an existing service agreement you will be responsible for. Learn the costs of various calls and the region of coverage.

Brand Names

Iridium and Globalstar are leading the market in satellite phones. With over one hundred satellites between them, either alternative is a dependable pick for purchase or rental. Both companies are well-respected and offer trustworthy equipment and service for over 10 years.