Satellite Phone Basics

Satellite phones are a form of telephone that is used to transmit and receive messages.  They are very similar to a cellular phone with the exception that they use satellites that are orbiting around the plane providing coverage to the entire world. 

Satellite phones are much larger than the cellular phones of today.  In fact for those of you that remember the earlier cell phones of the 1980’s and 90’s, that’s the standard size with a larger retractable antenna.

The satellite phone use what’s referred to as a low earth orbit satellite to transmit their communication symbols.  The satellites orbit the earth at low altitude and high speed providing the required signal for the phones to communicate.

When you make a call through your satellite communication the signal is sent from your satellite phone to one of those satellites.  From there it goes to one of the many satellites that are orbiting and then the signal is bounced back to earth to one of the ground station and the signal is then delivered back to your phone.  See satellite phone basics really aren’t that difficult.

For good quality service your satellite phone needs to have at least 80% of the sky line.  If you have obstructions like trees or buildings it will block the satellite signal.  In summary the strength of your signal depends on the uninterrupted line of site the signal has to the satellite. 

Satellite phones use satellites that are orbiting not stationary cell towers like cellular phones.  Satellite phones are an excellent choice for anyone involved in emergency preparedness because they will work even when the power is out. 

The only thing is you need to have charged batteries on hand. They can be used for voice and data communication as well as other forms of communication for weeks on end which is why they are a very smart choice for emergency situations. 

Thanks to reduced costs on both the satellite phones and the air time they are becoming more affordable and thus much more popular.  This is a phone that is good anytime, anywhere – all that you need it.  As the satellite phones become easier to find and more affordable they will continue to grow in popularity.

When you understand the satellite phone basics you’ll better understand what it is they can and cannot do for you.  As more and more emergency response teams recognize how important they could be to the emergency plans.

Consider a satellite phone for personal use too especially if you have a cabin in the woods, live in a remote area, live in the far north that’s undeveloped, spend your time hiking and exploring in the back country, on the water in your boat, or for a host of other reasons. 

Knowing and understanding the satellite phone basics will help you choose the right type of satellite phone for the type of usage you have in mind.  You certainly won’t be sorry about your choice because it will serve you well and reliably into the future.