globalstar sat phones

jerseymike [OP] · 08-18-2009, 09:38 PM

i know globalstar went to sh*t a few years back, some people have been telling me that their service has been getting better and better since there putting new satellites up. has anyone used globalstar sat phone service recently. i plan on using it in remote locations in the US

luanta · 08-19-2009, 07:28 PM

I have a globalstar set up that I bought last year to go on a cruiser since cruiser cell rates are so expensive. The service for outgoing is ok but you have to wait to catch a signal first. As for incoming calls, its not very dependable since it has signal on and off. If you want it, pm me.

the_m-pire · 08-19-2009, 11:46 PM

I can't tell about Globalstar phones but I use a SPOT Satellite Tracker which uses the Globalstar network. I use it for almost two years now and I have it with me on all my outdoor activities (eg geocaching). Works beautifully and reliable.

In case you think about a satphone for security reasons, I'ld prefer the SPOT Tracker. Nice Feature: you can track your Route on a Google map or export the tracklog for use with Google Earth, TTQV, Oziexplorer, Fugawi or any other navigational / mapping software (additional booking of the tracking with rate plan reqd).

Link: SPOT SATELLITE MESSENGER :: HOME PAGE

Sample of Tracklog:

Jim1960 · 08-28-2009, 03:16 PM

Globalstar still blows. You need to take a listing of available times you can make a call in the area your are going to. If you forget the listing, you could be trying to call for hours. Until they get the new sats up, I would rent an iridium phone for the trip.

the_m-pire · 08-28-2009, 04:13 PM

Quote:

Jim1960 previously said:

Until they get the new sats up, I would rent an iridium phone for the trip.

I made a lot of calls with an Iridium when I was in the Libyan Sahara. Worked good most of the time. Although equipped with an aerial on the roof you need to stop while making calls. Otherwise you'll loose it...

Sometimes we needed several tries to establish a connection, but most of the Times we reached someone on his Iridium within 5 or 10 mins or so. Considering that the ones we called were moving this really is acceptable.

Perfect about Iridium: Every phone can be reached via email (comes in as SMS on the phone) and it's the only network that covers both poles and everything between them. No blind spots on the whole globe. Amazing, right?

In some cases our Libyan fellows were able to establish a connection faster with their Turayas. Good about those: Turaya handsets have a built-in GPS and the handsets positions gets logged when making calls. Perfect when thinking about one that got lost and a SAR mission is needed...

Getting the position of an Iridium is completely impossible due to any military background one could'nt explain to me...

Dunno, if Turaya is sold and working in the U.S. though. Pretty good carrier, great Voice quality and faster data transfer rates.

**Money Pit** · 08-28-2009, 04:53 PM

Quote:

jerseymike previously said:

i know globalstar went to sh*t a few years back, some people have been telling me that their service has been getting better and better since there putting new satellites up. has anyone used globalstar sat phone service recently. i plan on using it in remote locations in the US

I have utilized Globalstar phones in the past and found them to function adequately at that time. If you are considering a Globalstar phone I would recommend a close review of their current overall network dependability and compare that to other providers to assist in making your decision.

Globalstar has been experiencing connection problems with their network since 2006. I no longer utilize the Globalstar. I only use Iridium at this time.

In an effort to improve service, Globalstar has introduced additional satellites into their system and increased ground stations or gateways in North America to improve their network capability.

Iridium satellite phone service provides what could be best described as true global coverage. For the person who will be traveling throughout the world this might be the best choice. I utilize an Iridium 9555 phone and have been very satisfied with my choice.

During my most recent trip to Prince of Wales Island, Alaska I utilized the Iridium in remote locations for 14 days. Satellite connection was dependable and communication was clear. Based on my personal experience with both phones, I will not go back to the Globalstar at this time.

jerseymike [OP] · 08-28-2009, 07:58 PM

I actually ended up purchasing a globalstar phone. So far I have been able to gain more than adequate reception and make successful phone calls lasting several minutes. I am pleased with the service (so far) and will see how it works in different areas. My main use for the phone is emergency comm when im not in cell range, so a couple of seconds to tell someone where I am and what I need should suit my needs for now.

Jim1960 · 08-28-2009, 08:15 PM

A $145.00 SPOT does exactly the same thing.

Jack'sDad · 08-28-2009, 08:29 PM

Go with Iridium...it beats Globalstar hands down...

the_m-pire · 08-31-2009, 02:05 PM

Quote:

jerseymike previously said:

My main use for the phone is emergency comm when im not in cell range, so a couple of seconds to tell someone where I am and what I need should suit my needs for now.

Imagine you rolled you rig and injured yourself. Do you really think you can read those tiny numbers on your GPS, get that phone out and working, enter your PIN, wait for it sorting its satellites and finally call someone and tell'em where you are???

Quote:

Jim1960 previously said:

A $145.00 SPOT does exactly the same thing.

Not only that it does it. It does it at a push of a single button and a SAR mission is immediately on its way...

A SPOT would have saved you lots of money. You'ld have maximum security and could log your trails...

Don't want to be impolite. But everybody here told you Globalstar sucks and you go for it. Why did you ask?