Which Satphone? How to choose the right system?
There are a number of satellite systems on the market. The main systems are highlighted below:
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Iridium
- Uses a network of 66 low earth orbit satellites to provide complete global coverage.
- Portable handsets and fixed installed terminals are available
- Offers low speed data
Click for more Iridium info >>
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Inmarsat (Mini-M / Fleet 33/55/77)
- Uses 4 fixed orbit satellites to offer near global coverage (except polar regions)
- Varying sizes of antenna gives options for all but the smallest yachts
- Data speeds (and availability) dependent on antenna size. Ranges from low speed to ISDN rates.
Click for more Inmarsat info >>
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Globalstar
- Uses a network of 48 low earth orbit satellites
- Not global coverage, but includes main European and Med land and waters, an almost complete Atlantic crossing and coverage of the Caribbean
- Mobile phone like quality and slightly faster internet access speeds.
- Low cost handset ideal for emergency storage, with cheaper airtime rates from around £0.40/min
Click for more Globalstar info >>
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Thuraya
- Not global coverage, but covers main European land and waters and most of Africa
- Mobile phone like quality and slightly faster internet access speeds.
- Can use a GSM SIM card to make normal mobile calls when there is coverage
- Low cost handset ideal for emergency storage, with cheaper airtime rates
Click for more Thuraya info >>
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Systems compared
| | Iridium | Inmarsat | Globalstar | Thuraya |
|---|
| Smallest Unit | Handheld | Briefcase | Handheld | Handheld |
| Coverage | Global | Global (spot) | Limited (and land/coastal) | Limited (and land/coastal) |
| Call costs | Medium (around $1.50/min) | Medium (from $1.50/min) | Low | (Variable) |
| Indicated data speed | 2.4Kb/s | from 2.4Kb/s to broadband | 9.6Kb/s | 9.6Kb/s |
| Approx basic system price (guideline only) | £1,000 | £2,500 upwards | £400 | n/a |
Summary
- If you are looking for a compact global solution which will work across the Atlantic and beyond, then consider Iridium.
- For European waters, higher call quality and the ability to use either GSM or satellite consider Globalstar or Thuraya
- For "larger" yachts looking for global coverage and faster and more cost effective internet access consider Inmarsat Fleet.
Still unsure?
Drop us an email (info@mailasail.com) and tell us a little about your requirements including:
- Where you expect to sail
- How important is internet access
- How long you expect to be travelling
...and we will be happy to give you more specific advice, and a quote for ALL the equipment you will need.
Don't forget:
