In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the key qualities that satellite PTT (push-to-talk) solutions offer to backcountry skiers, plus the features such individuals should be prioritizing. Satellite PTT is often the preferred method of communication for those who really go off the grid with their backcountry adventures, and ensuring you have the best possible setup is important if you’re in this group.
At International Satellite Services, our satellite push-to-talk solutions are second to none in the industry. We offer multiple such products, including both the Iridium Satellite Push-to-Talk and the MSAT-G2, and we’ll be happy to assist you as you look to find the ideal PTT solution for your backcountry needs. Here are a few of the other key qualities you should be looking at for any PTT setup.
Interference Elimination
Channel clutter is something that backcountry skiers need to avoid – it risks their safety and could even prevent their messages from being received. Luckily, satellite PTT products are typically outfitted with interference elimination and privacy modes, which eliminate the need for multiple channels and greatly reduce the risk of your messages not being received.
Two common systems here are CTCSS (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System) and CDCSS (Continuous Digital Coded Squelch System) – both of these systems work to ensure that your transmissions are heard and received by only the intended party. As a backcountry skier, this should be a key feature for you to look out for when choosing a satellite PTT solution.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Backcountry skiers need a radio that is capable of withstanding the elements, including extreme temperatures, rough terrain, and water damage. Make sure to check any potential product’s specifications to ensure it has waterproofing and other protective measures in place.
In particular, you should be looking for radios that are IP-rated, meaning they have undergone extensive testing and can withstand drops, dust, water and extreme temperatures.
Additional Features
There are also a few other features that backcountry skiers may find great value in from satellite PTT products:
- Noise filters: This helps to reduce background noise and make sure that your messages are heard loud and clear.
- Group calling: This allows you to quickly communicate with a larger network of people, making it an incredibly useful feature for backcountry skiers.
- Programmable buttons: This makes using the radio easier by allowing users to access their most frequently used features quickly and efficiently.
These are just a few of the features that you should be looking out for when it comes to satellite PTT solutions. At International Satellite Services, we offer a number of products that meet all of these criteria, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!