Category: Blog

Satellite push-to-talk (PTT) is an amazing way to communicate with people from almost anywhere you may find yourself. Those in the know about this amazing technology are quick to adopt it for all of their communications needs. If you haven’t gotten the 411 on PTT yet, or if you’ve bought in to some of the myths surrounding this technology, it’s time to clear up some confusion.

Here at International Satellite Services, we want to set the record straight about some of the misconceptions you may have. Once you know the truth, you may discover just how much satellite communications can enhance and offer some peace of mind in your personal and/or professional life.

Myth No. 1: Satellite PTT Is Too Expensive

Like many other forms of electronics, satellite technology has advanced significantly over the past decade. With that advancement, these products have become surprisingly affordable.

Unfortunately, even though this technology is affordable for almost any budget, people often recall how expensive this technology used to be. And, for that reason, they never even consider looking into the actual costs, assuming satellite PTT devices are outside their price range.

Not only are these solutions affordable but they can provide a solid return on investment. For businesses, a loss of communication could cost you time, money and customers. Or, if you’re considering a PTT device for personal use, imagine the potential outcomes if you’re somewhere outside of standard cell range when there’s an urgent need for communication.

Myth No. 2: Satellite PTT Can Only Be Used Outdoors

Another common myth satellite technology is that PTT devices can only be used outside, but that simply isn’t the case!

You can use many different satellite PTT systems inside buildings, on boats, on planes or in virtually any other enclosed space you can imagine. As long as you have the proper equipment – such as a mounted or auxiliary antenna – you can enjoy uninterrupted communication whenever and wherever you need it.

Myth No. 3: Power Outages Make Satellite PTT Useless

Another prevailing misunderstanding is that, when the power goes out, satellite PTT solutions won’t work. The truth of the matter is that, if it weren’t for satellite technology, emergency responders likely wouldn’t be able to communicate any other way during times where the power isn’t working.

Satellite technology doesn’t rely on cell towers or power grids. In fact, you can even charge most models with solar power.

Hopefully, we have helped clear up a few misunderstandings regarding satellite push-to-talk. At International Satellite Services, Inc., we have a wide variety of options for sat phones and satellite PTT devices, including service plans priced to suit every budget. We can also provide you with all the information and equipment you need to stay in constant communication no matter where you go. Contact us today to learn more!

Smartphones rule the day. That’s why in many places around  the world, you’d be hard-pressed to find someone without a smartphone in their pocket or handbag. The technology surrounding smartphones and cellular services is quite amazing and people are lucky to have the  ubiquitous power of this service at their fingertips.

Even with the conveniences of the modern communication services, there are a lot of places in the world where a smartphone won’t do you any good. But in the absence of service in many places, satellite push-to-talk can come to the rescue – sometimes literally!

Here are the most common uses of satellite push-to-talk that you may want to consider.

Staying Connected On the Job

Many people work in remote corners of the world. In many of these places, it’s simply not an option to pick up your smartphone and make a call. That’s why in these situations, satellite push-to talk is so valuable. It allows remote job sites and teams of people to stay in communication with their home bases and works to help ensure constant communication and safety as well.

Even on many remote job sites, traditional walkie-talkie technology simply won’t work because it’s out of range of traditional radio or cellular towers. Again, satellite push-to-talk ensures that reliable and steady communication is possible because it doesn’t rely on terrestrial solutions that have many limitations.

Disaster Response

Natural disasters can strike without warning. When they do, communications are often the first thing to go, which can make disaster response more difficult. Luckily, satellite PTT is a technology that can’t be interrupted by a natural disaster, since the satellites that make communications possible are orbiting the planet. Satellite push to talk helps disaster response teams to stay in constant contact so they coordinate their response and help those that need it faster and more efficiently.

Travel & Adventure

If you have a flair for adventure and love the great outdoors, then satellite PTT is also a useful tool for you. While venturing deep into nature is serene and picturesque, it’s also a bit risky. If something happens, you have no way to communicate with the outside world since it’s likely your  smartphone will be out of range That’s why if you’re planning an adventure in a remote corner of the world, a satellite phone or PTT device is a must to help ensure your safety and make sure those who care about you know you’re okay.

Hunting & Camping

If you love to camp and hunt, then chances are you might find yourself in some fairly remote places where there’s no chance your iphone or android is going to work. In times like these, you need a reliable connection to the outside world in case of an accident. Satellite technology is perfect for avid hunters, allowing them to stay connected to everything that matters most and to ensure they’re taking every safety precaution necessary to put their minds at ease.

Whatever your needs might be for off-the-grid communications, contact the friendly and knowledgeable team at International Satellite Services, inc. We have a wide range of products to choose from, including satellite phones, push-to-talk systems and portable satellite internet. Let us help you choose the right satellite communications or PTT system for you.

Satellite push to talk has become more accessible and more popular to people over time. Yet, because this technology is fairly new as compared to cellular and smartphones, we hear many questions about satellite PPT systems and what they can do.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about satellite PTT, so you can better understand why it can be a boon to both your business and your everyday life.

What is Push to Talk?

Push to talk (PTT) is a service where a low profile, portable or fixed device is used to communicate between different satellite radios in the same group. This group, often referred to as the “Talk Group,” is defined through a simple map interface that allows you to define a space in the group for communication.

Is PTT Easy to Use?

You may think that accessing satellites for communications across the globe is difficult, but the truth is that this technology is very simple to use. After a Talk Group has been defined, you simply push a button and speak into the handset. Everyone in your Talk Group will hear you in seconds.

Does PTT Allow You to Communicate Anywhere?

Depending on the PTT solution, the service is 100 percent global. If the North Pole is in your Talk Group, then you could talk to Santa…theoretically of course. The global coverage provided by satellite push to talk allows you to create Talk Groups anywhere on the planet in an instant.

Can Anyone Buy a Satellite Push to Talk?

Yes, anyone can buy satellite PTT technology. In fact, many hunters, hikers, offroad racing teams and emergency responders use this technology to stay in contact with their respective groups or as a part of their safety plan when they travel into places where regular phone service simply isn’t available. There are also a variety of plans that fit practically any budget and need, from a few people who need to stay in communication to large groups or teams.

Why You Should Consider Satellite PTT?

You may be wondering how satellite PTT can be of use in your life, but the truth is there are so many applications for this type of technology. If you plan to travel, you simply want to be prepared for an emergency or natural disaster, or you spend a lot of time out in the remote wilderness for work or play, then satellite PTT is a technology that can be of great use to you.

Not to mention, satellite PTT technology is reliable, working even when cell phones will not. They cover the globe, can automatically transmit your location, and can be used to contact help in case of an emergency.

Would you like to learn more about how a PTT satellite system might benefit you? Contact ISS today and one of our friendly, helpful team can answer any questions you might have.

Most people use smartphones today. They allow us to be connected to others almost anywhere in the world — almost. Despite their impressive reach, there are still many places smartphones can’t go – and that’s where push-to-talk satellite phones come into play.

If you want to explore the differences between smartphones and satellite phones more in-depth, then read on to learn more about the differences between each and how a push-to-talk satellite phone can fill the void your smartphone leaves behind.

How Powerful Is Your Global Network?

While your smartphone provider may have an extensive network for you to take advantage of to make calls and send text messages, these networks are limited. The way that smartphones transmit signals is different than the way that satellite phones connect which, in addition to reach, is the one of the most significant differences between the two.

A smartphone transmits signals via land-based towers. When you are in a given area, your phone picks up a signal from the nearest tower in your network. When you move to a different location, you may get a signal from a different, closer tower. If there’s no nearby tower, then you may experience issues such as dropped calls or, worse, no service at all.

A satellite phone connects in a completely different manner. Sat communications devices rely on signals from satellites rather than towers. These signals are transmitted far above the earth to even the most remote areas, which makes satellite phones — including push-to-talk satellite phones — more useful if you plan to travel to remote areas or spend time on open water.

Sat Phone Functionality Matters

You may think that, when it comes to the functionality of a phone, smartphones have the advantage – but that’s simply not the case. A satellite phone has been designed specially to allow you to make and receive voice and text communications from the most remote locations.

Satellite phones are invaluable in emergencies, too. That’s why you see them being utilized by state and local governments around the world, as sat communications can be used during power outages and other emergencies that tend to knock out smartphone reception.

Do You Need a Satellite Phone?

The truth is that, for everyday situations, your smartphone probably suits your needs just fine. But there are situations where having a satellite phone is preferable or even imperative.

If you plan to travel, you need a way to connect in case of an emergency. If you spend a lot of time on the water, then a satellite phone is a powerful resource that you may want to take advantage of.

Getting the right phone is crucial to ensuring you can stay connected. So why not consider a handheld satellite phone today? The experts at International Satellite Services can help you stay connected wherever your travels take you. Contact us today to talk to one of our friendly, helpful sat phone specialists.

When people think of push-to-talk (PTT) services, they think about the value it can add to their businesses or their recreation time. What many people may not realize is the way that amazing products like Iridium Push-To-Talk can have an impact on the safety of ecosystems and communities.

The National Reserve in Kenya utilized Iridium PTT services and it has helped them to manage situations that are complicated and dangerous in their line of work. Here’s a little about this amazing project that shows the wonders that Iridium PTT has brought to Kenya and the world.

The Challenges Faced by Wildlife Protectors in Kenya

In Kenya, the South Rift Association of Landowners, or SORALO, is a Maasai-owned collective of ranches that span over 3,800 square miles. For the East African and Maasai indigenous peoples of the Nile Valley, SORALO works to maintain their traditional pastoral lifestyle in the reserve and to safeguard the free movement of wildlife and people within.

In Kenya, SORALO is of the utmost importance since the government-run parks there cover only about eight percent of the territory. This area is simply too small to sustain the wide-ranging populations of wildlife in the country.

Rangers for SORALO, as well as the local Maasai tribes, often have difficulty communicating with each other over outdated cell networks. The network simply cannot sustain the vast territory they are trying to serve. Pair that with the fact that rangers require real-time communications and secure channels to do their job as effectively as possible and you can see why their old networks simply weren’tgetting the job done.

The Value of PTT Satellite Communications Solutions

To address these challenges, SORALO decided it was time to test the Iridium Push to talk. They brought Iridium PTT technology in as a solution to the communication problems faced over this vast territory. Several Iridium Extreme PTT units were purchased to replace their analog radio network and to serve as the cornerstone of their new communications system. The team created a central operations hub to help coordinate security and deployment and set up a monitoring framework with an app designed to deploy patrol units that are monitored from this central hub.

The result of all this hard work is a wide-reaching and secure network that allows for instant communication from the central hub across the territory.

What Impact Has Iridium PPT Technology Had?

The Maasai rangers involved with SORALO today use Iridium PTT to communicate reliably and quickly. They are now able to more effectively monitor the wildlife and people across the territory, communicating with and tracking the movements of wildlife as well as livestock herders. This allows them to help local herders find safe places for livestock to graze.

The results benefit everyone by providing the ability to communicate and track the wildlifemore accurately and in real-time.

Nature and humans will always compete for the resources of any area, but Iridium PTT technology has made it easier for SORALO to try to keep things as harmonious and safe as possible across their territory.

International Satellite Services is proud to offer Iridium satellite communications systems for our customers. Although you might not need to herd or track wildlife across African preserves, you deserve to have the most reliable, affordable mobile satellite services available today.

Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive selection of push-to-talk satellite solutions now.