Guide to Satellite Telephones and Systems

In most areas of the United States, we take for granted that our mobile phones will pick up a signal enabling us to communicate with anyone, anywhere, anytime. But in remote parts of the world, it is impossible to pick up a signal with a cellular phone. For businesses that rely on global communication in remote areas, satellite telephones and systems provide a reliable solution.

Unlike traditional mobile phones that rely on cell towers for signal strength, satellite telephone systems connect to low earth orbiting satellites. These orbiting satellites enable satellite phone systems to connect in seconds with a clear signal. Before purchasing a satellite business phone, answer the following questions:

1. What geographic areas do I need satellite telephones and systems for communication?

2. What type of satellite telephone system equipment best meets my business needs?

3. How much should I expect to spend on a satellite phone system?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Make sure satellite telephone systems operate in your intended area

While a satellite or GPS phone system is a dependable alternative to cellular phone service, there still may be geographic limitations. Some satellite phone equipment vendors only operate in certain areas, so select satellite phone equipment vendors that service your intended geographic area.

I recommend: Iridium provides complete global satellite coverage, including all ocean areas, air routes and landmasses. Globalstar provides satellite phone system coverage in all of North America, South America, Europe, Australia, and parts of Africa, Asia and Antarctica. Thuraya offers GPS phone system coverage in 115 countries and localities. Inmarsat satellite telephone systems supply coverage in 99 countries.

Determine the type of satellite business phone that meets your specific needs

There are several types of satellite telephone systems that meet various geographic needs: handheld mobile devices, fixed site telephones, vehicle static telephones and marine satellite phones. The most common satellite phone system is the handheld mobile device, which offers a great connection but typically doesn't work indoors.

I recommend: Research satellite phone equipment vendors at GlobalCom. Globalstar offers a wide array of satellite phone systems, including several handheld and fixed site satellite telephones. The Inmarsat Capset Fleet 77 satellite phone system offers voice and high speed data communication in one device. The Thuraya SG-2520 GPS phone system provides satellite voice, Internet and GPS services and a 1.3 megapixel camera accessory option.

Research the cost of satellite telephones and systems with several satellite phone equipment vendors

Satellite telephones and systems are less expensive than several years ago but are still a costly communication option. As technology improves and satellites become widely used, prices will drop. But until then, be a smart shopper, and compare prices among satellite phone equipment vendors.

I recommend: In general, Globalstar offers the most economical satellite phone systems and airtime service plans. Prices for Globalstar handheld satellite telephones range from a few hundred dollars  for the QUALCOMM GSP-1600 to around $1,000 for the Globalstar GSP-1700. Globalstar offers over a dozen calling plans with airtime charges depending on the geographic zone. Ask about current promotions before purchasing a satellite business phone. Some satellite phone equipment vendors offer specials like no deposits, free batteries, unlimited use packages and free shipping.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Many companies purchase a satellite business phone or GPS phone system for communication in the event of an emergency when landline and cellular systems are disrupted. Because of their reliability, a satellite phone system for small business or large corporations provides a smart emergency communication solution.

The official source of Satellite Telephones and Systems is
the Satellite Telephones and Systems page at Business.com