When it comes to quality communication capabilities from any place on the planet, particularly remote locations or potential emergency situations, one of the single most useful technologies on the market today is known as satellite PTT, or Push-to-Talk. Utilized by numerous people and entities, from remote explorers to first responders and a huge range in between, PTT technology offers benefits ranging from safety and security to wide-ranging coverage and more.
At International Satellite Services, we’re proud to offer clients a number of different PTT materials and industry-leading brands, including top options like the MSATe Push-to-Talk Radio, the MSAT-G2 Push-to-Talk Radio and many others. What exactly is satellite Push-to-Talk equipment? How does it work, and what are some of its top benefits to varying groups? This two-part blog series will go over everything you need to know.
What is PTT Technology?
As its name indicates, satellite PTT technology refers to the use of satellites to provide voice and other communication capabilities that can be accessed with the single push of a button. The standard walkie-talkie is perhaps the most well-known form of PTT technology dating back many years, but it’s far from the only option today — others include:
- High-frequency radios: HF radios have been used for many years to send voice communications over long distances. Some still have limitations in terms of the number of people who can participate in a conversation simultaneously, but these have reduced in recent years.
- Land-mobile radios (LMRs): LMRs are typically used by first responders, such as police and firefighters, to communicate over a specific area or region.
- Satellite phones: Satellite phones are similar to cellular phones, but use satellites to connect to the network instead of terrestrial cell towers.
- PTT over IP: PTT over IP refers to using the Internet to send and receive PTT communications. This can be done through a number of different methods, including apps on cellular phones, VoIP services like Skype, and dedicated devices like the Push-to-Talk Global phone.
How Does Satellite PTT Technology Operate?
Traditional PTT devices, such as most radio systems, rely on terrestrial infrastructure — meaning they have major limits in terms of their range. Satellite PTT devices, on the other hand, use satellites to communicate with one another, which allows for a much wider area of coverage. Additionally, satellite PTT devices are not subject to the same terrain or weather-related limitations as traditional devices, making them ideal for use in remote locations or extreme weather conditions.
When a button is pushed on a satellite PTT device, the signal is sent up to the satellite, which relays it down to the nearest satellite PTT device. This process repeats until the message reaches its intended destination. The amount of time it takes for a message to reach its destination depends on a number of factors, including the distance between devices, the type of device being used, and the type of service plan that is in place.
In part two of our series, we’ll go over some of the major benefits of satellite PTT technology for various groups.
For more on this, or to learn about any of our satellite PTT, handheld radio or any other technologies we offer, speak to our team at International Satellite Services today.