satellite phones

[Drowned Rat]

Hi everyone,

Does anyone know if a non-activated satellite phone can make 911 calls like a non-activated cell phone can? Also, does anyone know of a good service provider (cheap)? The only thing I want to use it for is calling for help if needed, so I don't care how expensive it is per minute, but I would like the access fee to be a small as possible. Anyone out there use these things? I bought a Globalstar GSP 1600 on ebay for a steal, now I have to activate it.

Thanks for the help!

 

[mscher]

Re: satellite phones

Dial 911.

If they answer, tell them who you are and that you are just testing for emergency functionality.

Should not be a big deal.

 

[ifallsguy]

Re: satellite phones

I'd be careful about using it to see if it works. In theory, you can be charged with a false emergency call, even if you say you are testing. And be prepared to pay for the sat phone time, plus the ground link. These companies do not take kindly to "tests".

Also, from experience with Satphones for my past work, if you don't activate the phone, you could find yourself talking to a computer, trying to activate the phone before you can place your call. Activation is $50 if I remember right.

Personally, my Globalstar phone has been activated and I buy into a plan when I expect to be using it. And in 3 years, I think I've only used it twice, both work related.



Where are you boating that you need a sat phone?

 

[chuckz]

Re: satellite phones

From his address bar, the middle of the desert. That answer why he needs a Sat phone, not a lot of other boaters within VHF range.

 

[Drowned Rat]

Re: satellite phones

Lol, yes. Arizona isn't the worst state for cell coverage, but it's up there.