Category: Blog

Satellite PTT is a smart purchase – if you choose the right equipment and usage plan.

Buying satellite PTT typically requires doing a little bit of research first, to ensure you get the best product to fit your individual needs. Unfortunately, there are some common mistakes that could lead you astray. The good news is that, with the right information, you can make sure you get the best products for your needs..

At International Satellite Services, we want to make sure you’re not only buying the best products, but that you are also buying the best product for you. We’ve compiled a few of the most common mistakes that people make when purchasing satellite products, including PTT, that you should be on the lookout for.

Mistake No. 1: Falling for Myths

Most popular consumer products have a few myths surrounding them – and satellite PTT is no different.

The truth is that some consumers do not fully understand how satellite communication works, and that makes the entire industry ripe for misinformation. Some of the most common myths you should know the truth behind include:

MYTH: The service you get from a cell phone is the same as a satellite.

This is a big myth that is false. Cell phones use land-based towers to provide service and that reduces the scope of the connections they can provide. Satellite communication technology like PTT connects via satellites that orbit the Earth. This means they can cover much larger regions and provide service in places cell phones simply cannot.

MYTH: Satellite communications don’t work under heavy cloud cover.

While it may be true that a satellite communication device works best with a clear line of sight, they do work even under cloud cover or even during storms.

MYTH: Satellite communications don’t work when the power is out.

If something happens, such as a storm, and the power goes out, satellite devices can still get service. After all, they’re connected in the sky, not on the ground.

These aren’t the only myths floating around by satellite push-to-talk service. The best way to get the facts and answers you need is to talk to a trusted satellite communications expert – like the friendly and knowledgeable team at ISS!

Mistake No. 2: Assuming You Have to Lease

Satellite PTT can come in handy in a variety of situations, but you may not need service on any kind of a regular schedule. If you want to use PTT on an as-needed basis, paying a monthly fee to lease the equipment might not make sense.

The good news is that you can affordably purchase your equipment – like the Explorer Push-to-Talk system – and choose the network use plan that makes the most sense for your needs.

Mistake No. 3: Not Getting Extra Features

Once you have decided you need satellite PTT, it’s important to give extra consideration to the features you need.

Do you need the ability to text message as well as call and push to talk? Do you need an internet connection? What about Bluetooth?

All of these features are available with satellite communications, you simply need to explore more to understand what features you need and what you can get. The sky is the literal limit when it comes to satellites, so you may be surprised at what you can get.

If you need satellite PTT, the experts at International Satellite Services can help you find the right device with the right features to suit your needs – with the right plan, too.

Contact one of our helpful team members today to learn more.

The world today is about connection – high-speed, internet connections, that is! Even when you’re trying to get away from it all by taking your RV or camping gear out, sometimes you need to be able to stay connected. This is where portable satellite internet comes into play.

While the concept of portable satellite internet may be easy enough to grasp, not many people understand how it really works and how it allows you to stay connected from almost anywhere on the planet – even places your cell service or other internet providers can’t dare to go.

Here’s what you need to know about how portable satellite internet works so you can decide if fits your needs.

How Traditional Internet Connections Work

The way the internet works in everyday life is fairly simple. In the three-step process, an internet service provider gets an internet signal from data servers and moves that signal to a central hub, where it distributes it to the modems of its subscribers.

The last step, distributing to the modem, is where things tend to get a little tricky. In many homes or locations that have problems with the internet connectively, it’s this distribution from the hub that makes things complicated.

Satellite internet, and portable satellite internet, offer a reliable and effective way to bridge this gap in distribution.

How Satellite Internet Works

Satellite internet service providers work in mostly the same way as traditional internet connections, except instead of sending the signal to a central hub, the signal is beamed into space through a large antenna, up to the satellite waiting miles above the earth’s surface.

Satellites function as the central hub and send a signal back down to your portable satellite internet device, which then connects to your modem just as any other traditional internet service provider.

Portable Satellite Internet: Why Is It Needed?

While it may seem like a no-brainer to mount a portable satellite internet device to your recreational vehicle when you’re going out in the wilderness for travel, there is also an important reason to get this type of device for your home: backups.

There are a variety of things that can happen, from natural disasters to traditional internet outages, that can knock out traditional internet. If it’s important to stay connected when your internet and phone cannot establish connection, then portable satellite internet is a good solution for you.

Where Is the Best Place to Get Portable Satellite Internet?

At International Satellite Services, we have extremely portable and user-friendly portable satellite internet systems to fit your needs. Our units are so small they can easily fit in a standard laptop case. Plus, they’re easy to set up and break down for ease of use.

You also don’t need a degree in engineering to set up our devices. Even children can easily set up these devices if they need them for remote learning. Each unit we sell simply plugs in and allows you to be on the internet in just minutes. You can send and receive email, browse your favorite webpage, and even check your social media in most places in the world with portable satellite internet, no matter how remote.

Contact us today to learn more about our simple, reliable and affordable portable satellite internet solutions.

Many people remember having (or really wanting) walkie-talkies when they were younger. They seemed so neat – you could talk to your best friend that lived next door after you were supposed to be in bed or share secret messages with your siblings.

Today, you can make your childhood walkie-talkie dreams come true but on a much larger scale with a satellite two-way radio.

While it’s true that the world is more connected today than it’s ever been, there are still some places where communication on demand is challenging. This is where long-range communication devices like satellite two-way radios come into play. Here’s what you need to know about this technology to decide if it’s right for you.

Two-Way Satellite Radio: Who Needs It?

Two-way satellite radios may not be something you currently think of as a must-have, but they really are incredibly useful for so many different people. Yes, they can be the difference between life and death in some situations, but they also make life a lot more convenient if you routinely travel to areas where phone service can be spotty at best.

Some of the people who benefit most from two-way satellite radios include:

• Emergency workers such as firefighters and police
• Hunters
• School staff
• Fishermen
• Contractors and construction workers
• Preppers
• Security officials
• Crew aboard a vessel

Basically, if you work in an area or enjoy spending time in areas where cellular service can be unreliable, then a satellite two-way radio may be just what you need.

What Satellite Radio Features Do You Need?

When looking for a satellite-two-way radio, you may not be sure where to start – and there’s more than one type to choose from, too! Here are some features you be on the lookout for when shopping:

• Range – Probably the most important feature for a lot of people in the market for this type of satellite radio is how much range it can cover. If you think your use will be using them in close proximity to others, such as on school grounds, then the range will matter less than if you were using them for an outdoor adventure or as a back up in emergency situations.
• Durability – You may need a radio that can withstand all sorts of weather conditions or can take a pounding from outdoor activities. You’ll find a host of satellite two-way radios that hold up under more rugged conditions as well as models that are for less rough use.
• Emergency alerts – In order to stay safe, a satellite two-way radio must have an all hazard or emergency alert. This will ensure you receive important weather information in your area, which is handy to have if you’re exploring the wilderness.
• Group calls – A great feature for a satellite two-way radio is a mode that allows group as well as direct calls. This allows you to toggle between the two for better communication.

Satellite two-way radios have many uses and can be used by several different people in strikingly different circumstances. Even better, you might be surprised by how affordable these systems can be. Talk to the experts at International Satellite Services today to find the best two-way radio for you.

Mother Nature is beautiful, but she’s also filled with danger. Getting out into the wild is a great way to recharge your batteries, find some calm, and really connect with the world around you. However, Mother Nature doesn’t discriminate. If you’re not prepared for the challenges, she may throw your way, then you could end up with serious injuries or worse.

Everyone has heard a story about backpackers that disappear into the wild and are never heard from again – you do not want to be a part of that type of story.

Luckily, you can prepare yourself for your next outing in nature so that if an emergency does arise, you’re more than prepared. Here are some tips to help you take on nature and a little information about how satellite PTT can help.

Do Your Research

One of the most basic rules of going outdoors is to always be prepared and in many cases, this means you must do your research. If you’re checking out someplace new to you, then understand what conditions you’ll be in for and the plants and animals that will be there, too. If you’re hitting the trail, you can find a lot of information about trail conditions that can help you plan for your trip, too. Also, don’t forget to check the weather report during your journey and plan accordingly.

Have a Compass and a Map

Technology is great but too many things can go wrong, leaving you in a potentially dangerous situation. Go old school and make sure you have a compass and map handy to get you where you want to go. These tools can help if you happen to get turned around or something goes wrong with any of your other navigation equipment. The map should be recent and ideally waterproof. Practice using them before you set off and familiarize yourself with landmarks in the area, so you know what to look for.

Pack Water (And Snacks!)

This may seem like a given, but many people who think they’re just going out for a short jaunt don’t pack enough water and snacks in case something happens.

Choose snacks that are lightweight but pack some calories. Go to your local sporting goods store to see what type of items they may have that fit the bill. It doesn’t have to be tasty; it simply has to fuel your body to help you survive.

As for water, it’s heavy. The water you pack with you will weigh you down. That’s why you shouldn’t worry about packing a lot of water with you, but instead focus on water purifying treatments in case you get stuck out in nature for longer than you planned. You can also find lightweight water filtration systems to use in an emergency.

Get Satellite PTT

If you’re going out in the wilderness, make sure to tell people where you’ll be and when you plan to return. As an extra backup, plan on getting a satellite PTT device to take with you in case of an emergency. This will allow you to communicate with the outside world no matter where you are

International Satellite Services Inc. is the leading provider of satellite phone, portable satellite internet and PTT devices. Contact us today to learn more about which solution and network might be best for your needs.

Summer is a great time to explore the outdoors, whether you like to rough it in a tent or glamp it with an RV.

Just because you’re out enjoying nature doesn’t mean you have to totally disconnect yourself from the outside world. You may need to stay connected for work, for school, or for your family, and that’s where satellite service – both phone and internet — can come in handy.

Here’s what you need to know about sat phones and satellite internet for camping, to help you stay connected as you relax in nature.

Satellite Phone Services

If you’re hitting the back country this summer, you’re probably not going to have cell service in too many places. Consider getting a handheld satellite phone before you head out.

Today, many camping enthusiasts are taking sat phones in their backpacks to ensure they can stay safely connected virtually anywhere their travels might lead. You can choose affordable plans or even prepurchase satellite minutes, for the best economic value.

Satellite Internet for Camping

There are pros and cons to satellite internet for sure; but one of the definite advantages of it is that it can work anywhere. And let’s face it: You live in the age of the internet, so staying connected is probably a priority for you and those you travel with.

Satellite internet can be used in a few different ways. You can use a tripod-mounted satellite dish to catch a beamed signal from space, which is then transferred to a modem. You can camp in the most remote place in the world, and you will have access to the internet through this service. That’s pretty amazing!

Satellite Phone & Internet for Your RV

If you’ve got your own RV, consider the benefits of taking a portable satellite hotspot on the road with you, for voice and data connectivity. No matter where you go, you can access service, allowing you make phone calls, check email or even attend that important Zoom meeting you have on your schedule.

The ease of use with a satellite hotspot is revolutionary – not really much different than connecting to the WiFi hotspot at your local coffee place. All you have to do is plug in the hotspot and orient it properly, using the simple indicators. Next, use your phone, tablet, laptop, smart watch, etc., to establish your connection.

With the iSatHub portable satellite hotspot from ISS, you will have clear voice connectivity and high-speed internet that allows multiple device connections. You won’t find a more reliable or affordable satellite internet for camping option.

Adventure awaits you this summer in the great outdoors. Explore ways you can stay connected as you connect with nature by talking to the experts at International Satellite Services today. We can help you get the ideal equipment and network connection for all of your mobile satellite phone and internet needs.

It’s difficult to imagine life without the internet. After all, it’s used for everything these days, from shopping to communication to adjusting the thermostat of your home. People need reliable internet, but it’s not something everyone can count on, especially those that live in rural areas.

Luckily, there’s a solution to having dependable internet: satellite internet! Here’s what you need to know about this type of internet service and what it can do for you.

What Is Satellite Internet?

Most people have heard of DSL or cable internet. Satellite internet is just another of the four main types people can use to access the internet (the final type being fiber internet). It allows you to connect to the internet without the use of wires or cables. All you need is a satellite dish (or portable satellite internet systems). A signal is beamed from a satellite that is orbiting the earth – which means that satellite internet can be accessed just about anywhere in the world.

The Benefits of Satellite Internet

There are definitely some advantages to using satellite internet. First and foremost, it makes a great backup if your normal networks fail. The system is reliable and practical, too – plus it’s much, much faster than dial-up services, if that’s what you’ve been stuck with.

With our Satellite Sidekick, you can use your satellite phone as a wi-fi hotspot anywhere you travel. If you travel a lot, especially to remote places, this can be a great way to keep yourself in contact with the outside world as you explore. You don’t need anything but the Satellite Sidekick and your portable device – there’s no need for any other equipment, ports, or connectors to get you set up.

Portable satellite internet is also a great product to use because it’s not impacted by many users or peak use times. It can handle high bandwidth, so the quality and speed shouldn’t be impacted by other users.

Another scenario that fits satellite internet perfectly is being at sea. There are maritime satellite solutions that can keep you connected no matter where you choose to anchor in the world – and being able to stay connected when at sea can make a big difference when it comes to safety and security.

Are There Drawbacks to Satellite Internet?

One of the major drawbacks of satellite internet is that it’s not as fast as other options, such as DSL. However, it’s faster than a dial-up connection or having no internet at all due to your location. Also, anything that requires high bandwidth and low latency, such as a VPN, won’t be compatible with satellite internet. Depending on how much you need to be online, you could experience slightly higher costs.

Still, when you need to get online no matter where you are, you can’t beat the effectiveness of this technology.

Portable satellite internet is another useful tool in the amazing world of satellite communications. If you have more questions about whether this technology is right for you, contact the friendly and helpful experts at International Satellite Services today.

There are likely places in the world you want to explore and discover, but perhaps you’re not sure about actually going because it seems dangerous. After all, if you’re in the middle of the Amazon and twist your ankle, then who would be able to help you?

You hear horror stories of travelers across the globe getting lost in exotic and unfamiliar locations, quickly turning a dream vacation into a nightmare. The good news is that there’s a simple solution to staying in communication with others when on a walkabout – satellite phones and push-to-talk technology.

With a satellite phone or PTT in hand, you can explore some of the most exotic locations in the world with the peace of mind that if you run into trouble, you can get help. Here are some of our favorite exotic places to travel with satellite PTT on your side.

Death Valley National Park, Nevada

Death Valley is not a hospitable place, as the name implies, but it has some of the most beautiful and one-of-a-kind scenery in the world. Of course, many places in the 5,000 square mile Death Valley National Park are well outside of the range of a normal smartphone, so having satellite service on your side as you tour around will help ensure you stay safe as you take in the breathtaking sunsets from the salt flats or the sand dunes.

Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska

This Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge features 3,000 square miles of tundra, grasslands, meadows, forests, and lakes. It’s home to all types of wildlife, too, including the aptly named Kodiak brown bear and silka deer. The remoteness of this place is part of its awe-inspiring beauty, but it can also be dangerous for visitors, so it’s the perfect place to have satellite PTT with you.

Baxter State Park, Maine

There is a lot of undisturbed wilderness to explore in Baxter State Park. Here you can find hundreds of places to camp, 200,000 acres of wilderness, and over 200 miles of trails. With all this place has to offer, it is absolutely lacking in one thing – cell phone service. So make sure you pack essentials for emergencies if you plan to visit, including your satellite push-to-talk.

Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, Hawaii

If you’re sick of exploring places in mainland U.S.A., then head to Hawaii. The Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park is on the northwest coast of the island of Kauai. It has amazing views of waterfalls, streams, and valleys that are unlike anywhere else you’ve experienced.

Gila National Forest, New Mexico

Three million acres of forest make the Gila National Forest a must for nature buffs and thrill-seekers alike. You can fish, hunt, camp, and hike all over this undisturbed wilderness, just make sure your satellite phone is nearby.

Honestly, armed with a satellite phone or PTT system from International Satellite Services, you can go just about anywhere you like. We make it both easy and affordable to get the equipment and satellite service plans that are right for you. Contact us today to learn more.