Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Monday, August 17, 2009
Which Satellite Phones operate in Australia- Satellite Phones Review
There are three Satellite Networks that operate in Australia. We will cover two of the here today. The third is called Inmarsat this network is generally used for what we call data transfer, such as emails or Search the Webb or used for photos, pictures, videos.
So we will stick to the two most common networks that exist for normal Satellite Phones communications in Australia.
Firstly there is the Thuraya network. This is an Asian network which covers two thirds of the earth within this it incorporates Australia.
It uses a slightly lower satellite network and although should work throughout Australia in any location, our extensive experience has identified that there are several occurrences or events that may lead your Thuraya handset not to operate 100 % of the time.
There are two Thuraya Handsets within Australia, This one here the SO 2510 is a small, light weight handset which offers the consumer the best opportunity to get satellite communications at the lowest possible price. Normally around the $990 mark
Lots of added features including GPS Lat and Longitude location, is a small no fuss unit ideal for emergencies.
This unit can only be purchased through an authorised Optus Satellite Dealership and comes with an Optus airtime plan.
So we award this 3 stars as what it has done is for the first time is allowed consumers to get into Satellite Communications at a very low initial price.
The second of the Satellite Phones in the Thuraya range is the SG2520 a more funky phone crammed with features that you are more accustomed to on your standard mobile phone, such as camera’s etc.
With Thuraya claim that this phone is a dual phone and can work in normal GSM mode if it is available and then switch to Satellite Phone mode when your standard mobile phone network is no longer available.
A bit more pricing at around the $2000 mark.
The 2nd network and the most well know and commonly used is the Iridium network. This is the only truly global network.
The iridium network partnered with Motorola many years ago and subsequently they have great brand recognition and a reputation for being the go to phone company for Satellite Equipment for the person who wants to know they are going to get through every time anywhere Guaranteed.
The iridium network uses a higher satellite orbit and the result of that is that it doesn’t suffer from the no connections we have experienced with other networks
With over 66 Satellite currently orbiting the earth it makes sure that you connect to 4 satellites before connecting you, resulting in a more secure and more stable connection..
Iridium have just launched their new satellite Phone “the Iridium 9555” here it is here.
It replaced the much loved and outstanding reliable iridium 9505a handset. ( as you can see I was a fan)
Its main improvements are that it is 30 % smaller than its predecessor.
Its Aerial Is now part of the phone itself and operates like this. We believe it has increased signal strength by an allegedly 30%.
It has unlimited sms character functions and come standard with a mini usb lead to enables you to download emails to your laptop.
Although more expensive than its predecessor Ranging from $2200 to $2400 depending where you buy it unlike the Thuraya handsets the Iridium comes with an outstanding array of standard equipment.
Such as Car charger, Mains Charger, Magnetic roof mount antenna, travel plugs, leather case, and the mini usb cable for data transfer.
All in all this Satellite phone in our opinion will continue were the 9505a left off as the market leader
We think it deserves the award and give it 5 stars.
I hope you enjoyed this quick rundown of what Satellite Phones and networks that exist in Australia