Satellite Networks
Satellite networks are the key to staying connected, no matter where you go.
Satellite phones and other communication solutions use one of two types of networks. The first type, low earth orbit (LEO) networks, are made up of multiple satellites orbiting Earth at an altitude of 1,000 miles or less. These satellites are constantly on the move. So when one moves out of range, your communication is handed off to another satellite that is within range.
The second type is known as a geostationary or geosynchronus orbit (GEO) network. In this configuration, satellites are placed at a higher altitude — about 22,000 miles above Earth – along the equator. They are set to orbit at the same speed of Earth’s rotation, essentially keeping them stationary above us.
The type of network that’s right for you will depend on your needs. But to put it in the simplest of terms, your system’s antenna must have direct access to a satellite for you to have connectivity.
Inmarsat, a GEO network, is one of the most robust satellite networks available in the world today. With a dozen satellites currently in the air, this network has global reach, with the exception of the north and south (Arctic and Antarctic) polar circles. As a GEO network, Inmarsat allows for data connectivity as well as voice and PTT communication.
With the correct equipment, you can enjoy high-speed satellite data via Inmarsat, for both stationary and mobile applications. Because the Inmarsat satellites orbit at such a high altitude, latency (the lag between the time one caller speaks and the other caller hears the words) is more present compared to a non-GEO device.
You have two options when choosing this network for your satcom needs: Inmarsat IsatPhone and the Inmarsat Broadband Global Area Network, or BGAN.
The Inmarsat IsatPhone provides basic voice connectivity as well as narrowband data capabilities.
Inmarsat BGAN is a significantly more robust option, offering voice and broadband data with high-speed capability.
ISS carries a full line of Inmarsat products, including global satellite communications bundles for fleet and marine use. Our BGAN portable satellite internet solutions provide convenient, affordable access to the internet. In addition to Inmarsat handheld satellite phones, we have a variety of internet solutions for individuals and enterprises. This includes the IsatHub portable satellite hotspot, IsatData Pro, and Inmarsat’s Satellite Machine-to-Machine (M2M) service, which allows you to track equipment remotely with GPS.
We operate through Inmarsat’s market-specific business units, which include units for national and international governments, maritime applications, aviation applications and enterprise solutions. We assist Inmarsat customers in every industry and sector, including energy, transportation, broadcast media, mining, construction and humanitarian aid agencies.
Ligado is one of the most powerful, technologically advanced satellite networks operating today. In fact, the Ligado satellite communications network is commonly referred to as the next generation of satcom technology.
Ligado’s SkyTerra satellite technology — which replaced the network’s previous MSAT satellites — reduces interference from weather, foliage and other common signal challenges. This network also offers a high level of flexibility, as it seamlessly integrates with land-based communications networks and technology.
Designed for coverage throughout North America, Central America, northern South America, Hawaii, the Caribbean and surrounding coastal waters, this network provides the best satellite push-to-talk (PTT) systems, via the MSAT-G2, that is available today.
Finally, the Ligado network provides robust GPS tracking capacity, using GPS receivers located in the device antennae.
ISS is the premier U.S.-based Ligado service partner. We can assist you with Ligado marine satellite radio systems as well as land-based mobile, fixed systems and to go Kit’s, all available with unlimited push to talk and PSTN Voice functionality
Iridium is a powerful LEO network that spans the globe. In fact, this network operates the largest commercial communications satellite constellation in the world. With voice and digital capabilities, Iridium’s network and versatile suite of products will ensure you always stay connected, no matter where you are.
ISS offers a variety of Iridium-compatible equipment for your every satellite communication need, including the Extreme, Go and push-to-talk (PTT) products.
The Iridium Extreme satellite phone system is a compact and portable way to maintain two-way voice communication around the globe. Add the right accessories, and you can establish a Wi-Fi hotspot for all your data and connectivity needs. The Extreme is ultra- rugged, with military-grade durability. Yet this compact device is small enough to fit in your pocket. With speakerphone, GPS tracking and a one-touch emergency SOS button, you won’t want to leave home without it.
The portable, handheld Iridium 9555, a handheld satellite phone that works anywhere, is one of the most well-known devices ever made. It’s regarded as the most powerful sat phone available and its reliability is second to none. It offers data connectivity and GPS tracking, all in one compact device with features you’ll recognize from your favorite smartphone — such as SMS messages, call history, speakerphone, lighted keypad, memory storage and one-touch dialing. You can even get a local number in the area code of your choice.
If you aren’t sure which satellite network is right for you, contact one of the ISS satellite communications experts today.