Category: Blog

If you’re part of any kind of team that requires quality communications anywhere in the world, including locations where traditional cell service is not available, one of your top options is Iridium push-to-talk (PTT) technology. What is Iridium push-to-talk, and how does Iridium PTT help keep teams connected no matter the distance or remoteness?

At International Satellite Services Inc., we’re proud to offer multiple quality PTT solutions, including the Iridium push-to-talk network for all communication needs. Here’s a primer on how this system works to provide connection to teams anywhere around the world, and why you might consider it for your needs.

Basics of Iridium Push-to-Talk Network

The Iridium PTT network is a truly global satellite voice and data solution that covers the entire globe, including oceans, airways and the most polar regions of earth. It’s backed by 66 separate low-earth orbiting, cross-linked satellites, plus has multiple in-orbit spares in case anything goes wrong. This entire network is meshed together, making it the largest satellite setup in the entire world.

Through this incredible network, Iridium PTT can supple communication services to many vital industries:

• Maritime: With the Iridium PTT, ships can stay connected even in the most remote areas of the ocean. This is crucial for emergency situations and efficient communication between vessels.
• Aviation: Iridium PTT allows pilots to stay in constant communication with ground control, regardless of their location. This enhances safety and efficiency in air travel.
• Government and military: The secure and reliable communication provided by Iridium PTT is essential in military operations and government activities, especially in remote or disaster-stricken areas.
• Mining and Oil & Gas: These industries often operate in isolated and harsh environments, making the Iridium PTT an invaluable tool for maintaining communication between workers, vehicles, and remote sites.
• Emergency Services: In emergency situations, prompt communication is crucial. With Iridium PTT, first responders can quickly communicate with each other to coordinate rescue efforts.

This is just a small sample – many other industries can also benefit from the Iridium push-to-talk solution.

Products

The Iridium network can be accessed using several products:

• Iridium 9555: This handheld option is the most powerful satellite phone available on earth, covering any location.
• Iridium Extreme 9575 Satellite Phone: This option has many of the same components as the 9555, but with tougher features. It also contains built-in GPS tracking and emergency SOS notifications.
• Iridium GO!: An even smaller option is the Iridium GO!, a pocket-sized device for voice and text messages. In many ways, it’s a supercharged Wi-Fi hotspot that works anywhere on the planet.

Command Center

Tying all this together is Iridium’s Command Center, an intuitive browser-based tool that allows major flexibility in communications management. You can create and manage talkgroups, control coverage areas and manage your devices, all in one place.

At International Satellite Services, we’re proud to offer comprehensive Iridium push-to-talk solutions for any team. Contact us today to learn more about how Iridium can revolutionize your team’s communication strategies.

If you’ve been investigating your options for real-time group communications beyond traditional cell networks, you may have seen the term “satellite push-to-talk” or “satellite PTT” and wondered what it referred to. Satellite PTT is one of the most effective methods of group communication across large or remote distances, and there are several qualities that go into this.

At International Satellite Services, we’re proud to offer the MSATe PTT satellite radio and various other satellite PTT solutions for various clients, from first responder groups to many more. How does satellite PTT work, and why is it so beneficial for many such groups? Here are some basics to keep in mind.

A Two-Way Radio, But With Satellite Connection

If you’ve ever owned a simple two-way radio, you’ve at least been close to the simple operations of satellite PTT products. The big difference, however: Rather than relying on a nearby receiver tower for providing the connection, satellite PTT radios and devices use satellites high up in Earth’s orbit. With coverage that spans across the entire world, you can see how such technology is useful for first responder groups who may have to deal with emergencies in remote or isolated areas.

Satellite PTT works by utilizing a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, which consists of multiple satellites rotating around the Earth at low altitudes. These satellites act as repeaters, transmitting signals from one point to another and allowing communication between two satellite PTT devices.

Weather Resilience

One of the first major benefits of this satellite connection is its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. Traditional communication methods, such as cell phones or radios, can easily be disrupted by harsh weather like hurricanes or blizzards. However, satellite PTT devices use a network of satellites that are designed to operate in even the most severe weather conditions.

This makes them an essential tool for first responders who need reliable communication channels during natural disasters or other emergencies.

Global Coverage

In addition to being weather resilient, satellite PTT devices also offer global coverage. This means that they can be used in remote or isolated areas where traditional forms of communication may not be available. Whether it’s a rescue mission in the middle of the ocean or a search and rescue operation in a remote mountain range, satellite PTT devices provide reliable communication capabilities.

Instant Implementation

If your organization requires immediate communication capabilities, satellite PTT devices are the way to go. Unlike traditional forms of communication that may require time-consuming set up processes, satellite PTT devices can be implemented and used within minutes. This makes them ideal for emergency situations where time is of the essence.

For instance, if you are conducting disaster relief operations in a remote location and need to coordinate with your team quickly, satellite PTT devices can provide instant communication capabilities. This allows for efficient coordination and decision-making, which is crucial in such high-pressure scenarios.

Cost-Effective Solution

Satellite PTT devices also offer cost-effective solutions for organizations that require reliable communication capabilities on a budget. Unlike traditional satellite phones that can be expensive to purchase and maintain, satellite PTT devices are more affordable and require minimal maintenance. This makes them a practical choice for organizations operating on tight budgets, such as small businesses or non-profit organizations.

Versatility

In addition to their cost-effectiveness, satellite PTT devices are also highly versatile. They can be used in various industries and environments, from remote construction sites to offshore oil rigs, making them an ideal communication solution for businesses with diverse operations.

Secure, Encrypted Communication

On top of their versatility, satellite PTT devices also offer a high level of security. Since they use military-grade encryption technology, communications made through these devices are virtually impossible to intercept or decode. This makes them an excellent choice for businesses that deal with sensitive information or confidential data.

For example, many corporations use satellite PTT devices to communicate with their offshore oil rigs, ensuring that their conversations and data remain private and secure. In emergency situations, such as natural disasters or security threats, satellite PTT devices can also serve as a lifeline for businesses to maintain communication without the risk of being compromised.

Reliable Backup Communication

In addition to their security features, satellite PTT devices also offer reliable backup communication in case of network outages or disruptions. Since they operate through satellites above the Earth’s atmosphere, they are not affected by terrestrial obstacles or infrastructure failures.

This makes them an invaluable tool for businesses operating in remote or disaster-prone areas, where traditional forms of communication may become unreliable or unavailable.

At International Satellite Services, we’re here to offer the best satellite PTT solutions on the market. Contact us today for more information on how these products work and their numerous benefits, or to begin your order!

There are a few robust options you may have at your disposal if you’re looking for quality communications in remote areas where traditional cell and data plans don’t work, and one of the most popular and notable today is the satellite phone. What exactly is a satellite phone, how does it work, and how does it compare to cell phones and other common forms of long-distance communication?

At International Satellite Services, we’re proud to offer an unmatched range of satellite phones and portable satellite internet devices, including providing access to top satellite networks like Ligado, Inmarsat and Iridium. Here are some basics on what satellite phones are and how they work, the kinds of features they can be equipped with, and how they compare to cell and other networks.

What is a Satellite Phone?

If you’re just learning about satellite phones, you might be wondering what exactly they are. A satellite phone is essentially a mobile device that connects to orbiting satellites in space rather than relying on traditional cellular ground networks for communication. This allows for coverage and connectivity even in remote areas where cell towers are not available.

How Do Satellite Phones Work?

Satellite phones operate through the use of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites or Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites. LEO satellites are closer to the earth and create smaller coverage zones, while GEO satellites cover larger areas but have higher latency due to their distance from the earth.

These satellites act as relay stations between satellite phones and ground-based systems, allowing for communication between devices. When a call is initiated from a satellite phone, the signal is sent to the nearest satellite and then relayed to a ground station, which connects to the public switched telephone network (PSTN) or internet.

Features of Satellite Phones

Satellite phones come equipped with various features that make them useful in remote areas. Some common features include:

• Voice calling: Satellite phones function just like traditional cell phones, allowing users to make voice calls.
• Text messaging: Many satellite phones also have the ability to send and receive text messages.
• GPS tracking: Some satellite phones have built-in GPS capabilities, allowing for location tracking and emergency services.
• Data transfer: Satellite phones can also be used to transfer data, such as emails and small files.
• SOS button: In emergency situations, satellite phones often have a dedicated SOS button that can send your location and a distress signal to emergency services.

How Do Satellite Phones Compare to Other Networks?

Satellite phones are unique in their ability to provide coverage in remote areas where other networks may not reach. Some key differences between satellite phones and other networks include:

• Coverage: While traditional cell phone networks rely on ground-based towers, satellite phones use orbiting satellites for connectivity. This allows for coverage even in remote locations such as oceans, mountains, and deserts.
• Cost: Due to the technology involved, satellite phones tend to be more expensive than traditional cell phones. However, it’s important to consider the coverage and convenience they provide in remote areas.
• Call quality: Satellite phone calls may have a slight delay due to the signal being relayed between satellites and ground stations. Additionally, as with any network, call quality can vary depending on location and weather conditions.
• Data speeds: Satellite internet speeds are generally slower than traditional cellular or broadband connections due to the distance signals must travel between devices and satellites.

Satellite phones offer a reliable means of communication in remote areas where traditional networks may not reach. With features such as voice calling, text messaging, GPS tracking, and an SOS button, they provide essential connectivity for those in remote or emergency situations.

To learn more about satellite phone options and how they can benefit you, contact International Satellite Services today! We’ll help you find the perfect solution for your communication needs, no matter where you are in the world.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the data-specific benefits of utilizing satellite PTT (push-to-talk) solutions for various fleet and related communication needs. While PTT devices are best known for their incredible voice coverage that allows walkie-talkie capabilities from anywhere, they also come with data features that are immensely valuable to many individuals and fleets alike.

At International Satellite Services Inc., we’re proud to offer both the MSAT-G2 and MSATe satellite PPT products, ensuring that all our clients have comprehensive coverage for any need. While part one of our series went over the ability to send and receive email and the process of file transfers within satellite PTT products, today’s part two will look at some additional data-based uses of these devices.

Downloading Weather Reports

In many cases, satellite PTT products are being used in remote areas where cell service is not available. This can pose a challenge when it comes to obtaining local weather information.

Fortunately, many satellite PTT products come equipped with the ability to download real-time weather reports and forecasts through the device itself. This feature is particularly useful for those working in industries such as agriculture or maritime, where having up-to-date weather information can greatly impact operations and safety.

For instance, our MSAT-G2 has full weather functionality and can display a variety of weather maps, including storm tracks, sea surface temperature reports, wind and wave forecasts, and more. This allows fleet managers and individuals to make informed decisions about their operations based on the most recent weather data available.

GPS Tracking

Another valuable data feature of satellite PTT products is GPS tracking. With this capability, users can track the location of other PTT devices within their fleet or group, as well as their own device. This can be extremely beneficial for those working in remote areas where traditional cell service may not be available.

Additionally, some satellite PTT products also offer the ability to set geofences and alerts, allowing users to receive notifications when a device enters or exits a designated area. This feature can be useful for keeping track of employees or assets and ensuring their safety.

This also comes in handy for fleet management, as managers can monitor the location and movements of their vehicles in real-time. This data can be used to optimize routes, reduce fuel costs, and improve overall efficiency.

Satellite PTT devices offer a wide range of data-based benefits in addition to their well-known voice capabilities. From downloading weather reports to GPS tracking and fleet management, these devices are a powerful tool for any individual or organization working in remote areas. At International Satellite Services Inc., we’re dedicated to providing our clients with the best satellite PTT solutions on the market. Contact us today to learn more about how our products can benefit your operations!

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the major benefits of satellite push-to-talk (PTT) technology for off-road racing. Many professional off-road teams utilize PTT solutions for all their communication needs, as they offer several robust benefits here compared with traditional cell networks and other forms of communication. 

At International Satellite Services, we offer both the MSAT-G2 and the MSATe PTT products, two of the very best satellite PTT solutions on the market today. Today’s part two of our series will look at some of the significant drawbacks of traditional cell networks for off-roading vehicles and teams, plus go over why PTT options tend to be far superior in many of these areas. 

Service Dead Zones

Naturally, the single largest issue with traditional cellular network communication in off-road racing is the lack of service available in so many areas. Whether your team is out on a racecourse that’s far from civilization or just training in rural areas with poor cell coverage, there are plenty of times where you won’t be able to get reliable service at all – and if you’re depending on this for basic communication, that could be a major problem.

With satellite PTT, on the other hand, you can completely bypass any dead zones or cellular gaps. Because they rely on satellites rather than terrestrial cell networks, there are no service limitations – as long as you have a clear view of the sky, your satellite radio will be able to receive and transmit signals.

Network Congestion

Another major issue with traditional cell networks during high-demand times is network congestion. This occurs when a significant number of users are attempting to access the same network at once, making it difficult or even impossible for anyone to connect. During major events like off-road races, this can be a common occurrence – and it’s not something any team wants to deal with.

With satellite PTT systems, however, there is no such thing as network congestion. Satellite networks are built to handle massive amounts of data and traffic at any given time, meaning you can use your PTT system with confidence even during major events.

Poor Group Communication

For teams that need to communicate with one another in groups, traditional cell networks can be a huge hassle. Not only are you often dealing with spotty service and dropped calls, it can also be difficult to coordinate conversations between several team members at once. With satellite PTT radio systems, on the other hand, group communication is incredibly simple – all you have to do is push a button and you can talk to everyone in your group at once.

As you can see, traditional cell networks come with a host of issues that just don’t exist with satellite PTT technology. By switching to a reliable, robust PTT solution like the MSAT-G2 or MSATe, you’ll be able to overcome all of these issues and ensure seamless communication at all times during your off-road adventures.

At International Satellite Services, we’re proud to offer top-quality satellite PTT solutions for all your off-road racing needs. Contact us today to learn more about our products and how they can benefit your team!

In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the basics on how marine satellite PTT (push-to-talk) solutions work, and some of their common features. The marine setting is one of several where PTT solutions are utilized to allow for quality communications across large distances, and understanding how it works is important if you’ll be utilizing it for any purpose.

At International Satellite Services, we’re here to help with a huge range of satellite PTT and related satellite communications, including the MSATe PTT marine satellite radio and many other options. While part one of our series went over the basic functions of these products, today’s part two will look at the specific ways these are utilized in a marine setting for everything from safety to numerous other task requirements.

Voice Calling

Naturally, the most well-known and typically well-used feature of marine satellite PTT radios is voice calling. In particular, this is useful in emergency situations or disaster scenarios, allowing for instant communication with those on land who can offer assistance. Voice calls also have several additional features built in that make them critical in many situations.

For instance, the PTT solution will work with a wide range of networks, from maritime satellite systems to others. This allows for coverage in numerous locations across the world. Whether crew members are working near the shore or in deep sea, they’ll have constant access to communication methods that can help them stay safe.

Data Capabilities

On top of voice capabilities alone, marine satellite PTT also has numerous data capabilities that are important for various professional settings. These include the ability to send and receive emails, transfer files, download weather files and more.

This allows for enhanced productivity and communication even in remote locations. For example, if a crew member on a ship needs to access an important file while at sea, they can easily do so using their PTT satellite device.

GPS Capabilities

Another related benefit of modern marine satellite PTT solutions is the inclusion of GPS capabilities. These allow for real-time tracking and monitoring of ship locations, which can be vital in various scenarios. For instance, if a distress signal is sent out or a ship goes off course, these systems allow for pinpoint location information that can make rescue efforts much easier.

Weather Monitoring

Finally, as we noted above, PTT solutions also allow for access to real-time weather reports and forecasts. This can be critical in the marine setting, where sudden storms or other dangerous conditions can arise without warning. With constant weather monitoring and updates, crew members will be able to better navigate and plan their trips to avoid potentially hazardous situations.

Marine satellite PTT solutions offer a wide range of benefits for communication and safety in remote maritime settings. If you’re in need of these solutions or have any questions, our team at International Satellite Services is here to assist you. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to speak with one of our experts about your specific needs.

There are numerous settings where quality communications may be necessary and vital no matter the location, and maritime settings are no exception here. Modern technology makes communication in any maritime setting easier than ever, and one of your top options here is the use of satellite push-to-talk (PTT) marine solutions.

At International Satellite Services, we’re happy to offer a wide range of PTT solutions, including the MSATe marine satellite radio for various maritime uses. In this two-part blog series, we’ll look at the various uses and benefits of marine satellite PTT – part one will go over the basics of this technology and some of its typical components, while part two will dig into how it benefits various users in maritime settings.

How PTT Technology Works

For those just learning about PTT technology, it’s important to understand how the system works. This technology functions as an instant communications solution that does not require any significant setup or time for transmission. It’s designed for quick communication over short distances, allowing users to communicate with a simple push of a button without having to establish and maintain contact.

The user’s message is broadcast via satellite to the receiver, and then transmitted directly to another radio or PTT device. The satellite essentially acts as its own radio tower, which turns entire continents into single-cell spaces where signals can be transmitted around. This system is incredibly easy to use since all it requires is a press of a button, making it perfect for instant communication in maritime settings.

Common Features

While certain specialty features may also be considered, here are some of the typical features of marine satellite PTT systems:

• Basic talk capabilities: As we discussed above, this feature is the core of PTT technology. It allows users to send messages quickly and easily with the push of one button.
• GPS Tracking: Satellite radio devices enable users to track their location via GPS, allowing them to be tracked by vehicle or person if necessary. This also makes it possible for other vessels in the same area to check on one another’s location.
• Safety features: Advanced PTT devices come with a variety of safety features, such as man overboard alerts and distress call warnings. These are important when operating in maritime environments where quick action could be necessary to save lives.
• Data and file transfers: Some PTT systems enable users to transfer data and files between vessels through an encrypted connection. This can be useful for a variety of applications, such as exchanging important documents or images between vessels.

This concludes our overview on marine satellite PTT technology – in the next part of this series we’ll look at how these solutions benefit various maritime users, so stay tuned!

And for more information on the latest marine satellite PTT solutions, contact International Satellite Services today. We offer a variety of PTT devices to meet any need – from basic talk capabilities and GPS tracking to safety features and data transfer options. Our team will be more than happy to discuss your needs and help you find the perfect solution for your maritime operation. Contact us today to get started!

In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the key benefits of satellite push-to-talk (PTT) technology for various physical security operations. From guards to dispatchers, response teams and many other parties who may be involved in these operations, communication via PTT is often ideal for their key functions.

At International Satellite Services, we offer both the MSAT-G2 and MSATe PTT solutions to a wide range of clients, including physical security operations. While part one of our series went over benefits like real-time connectivity from anywhere, strong operational controls and improved incident responses, today’s part two will go over some other key reasons satellite PTT is so valuable in this area.

Strong Encryption Allows Secure Comms

Another major benefit of satellite PTT is its strong encryption capabilities. Keeping communications secure is paramount in physical security operations, and with encrypted satellite PTT your team can enjoy a heightened level of privacy in their transmissions.

This feature helps keep communication secure from other parties who may be listening in and can help ensure the safety of your personnel out on patrol or responding to incidents. For instance, if a security team is dealing with a situation that requires discretion or needs to keep certain details confidential, the encryption capabilities of PTT can help them do so effectively.

Automating and Archiving Action Reports

Many security bodies are involved in the creation of reports that detail their activities and the results of any response efforts. With satellite PTT, you can automate this process using our MSAT-G2 or MSATe solutions to ensure that every action is documented accurately and stored securely for future reference.

Additionally, our software allows users to create private or public channels so your team can easily communicate between multiple parties while keeping their transmissions secure. Archiving these messages also helps you keep track of activities and responses in order to ensure proper operations are being followed at all times.

Supports Many Third-Party Integrations

In many cases, physical security operations may need to integrate with third-party solutions in order to handle tasks like GPS tracking, weight sensor readings or other data that needs to be collected. Our satellite PTT solutions are designed to easily integrate with these systems and provide a reliable means of communication when it’s needed most.

This also makes it possible for your team to streamline operations and make use of all the features provided by third-party integrations. In addition, you can easily store and track data from these systems with our software so your security personnel always have easy access to the latest information at hand.

Overall, satellite PTT is an ideal solution for physical security operations due to its numerous and features. From strong encryption capabilities to archiving action reports and third-party integrations, our solutions make it easy for security personnel to remain connected and always have the latest information available when they need it.

With International Satellite Services, your team can enjoy an efficient and reliable communication platform that is second to none. Contact us today to learn more about how our PTT solutions can help improve your physical security operations.

There are numerous industries or even sub-industries where the use of satellite push-to-talk (PTT) communication is common and highly beneficial, and one great example here is that of physical security. Whether we’re talking about guards, dispatchers, response teams or any others involved in these operations, quality communications are vital – and satellite PTT is often the ideal format.

At International Satellite Services, we’re happy to offer MSAT-G2 and MSATe PTT solutions to a wide range of industries and specific needs, including physical security operations of all sorts. In this two-part blog series, we’ll go over all the ways that PTT solutions are valuable for physical security operations.

Real-Time Connectivity  – From Anywhere

In many security operations, it’s important for guards, dispatchers and other personnel to be connected at all times. With a satellite PTT solution, this is entirely possible – with the device sending and receiving messages in real-time no matter where they may be located.

This is invaluable for physical security operations, as it allows personnel to stay up-to-date with the latest information, allowing them to respond quickly and accurately.

Extending Operational Control Purview

Many security programs operate with an operations center of some kind, allowing for a centralized point of control and information. However, with a satellite PTT solution in place, this purview can be extended to anyone connected to the system – no matter where they may be located.

This allows for greater flexibility when it comes to security operations, as personnel don’t have to always run their queries through the operations center. Instead, they can receive updates and information in real-time through the PTT system.

Incident Response Improvement

During any security incident, it’s important for personnel to be able to respond quickly and accurately. With a satellite PTT solution in place, this is entirely possible – as the system can instantly update all personnel on any new developments or changes that need to be made.

This makes it easier for those involved in physical security operations to react appropriately when required – ensuring that everyone is on the same page and up-to-date with the latest developments.

Full Encryption and Security

Furthermore, MSAT-G2 and MSATe PTT solutions are fully encrypted – making them incredibly secure for any physical security operations. This helps prevent any malicious actors from interfering with the system, ensuring that operational information remains confidential and never falls into the wrong hands.

It also means that personnel can be sure that their messages are secure when sent through the satellite PTT system – allowing them to communicate freely and without fear.

At International Satellite Services, we’re proud to offer quality satellite PTT solutions for physical security operations of all kinds. Our MSAT-G2 and MSATe systems are reliable, secure and easy to use – so you can be sure that your personnel will always have the highest quality communications available.

If you’d like to learn more about how our PTT solutions can benefit your physical security operations, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team today. We’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have!