Use DeLorme AG-009871-201 inReach SE as the real Global GPS Tracker and satellite communicator in the area without cellular coverage.

Satellite-based voice communication and data transfer were available already back in last decades of 20-is century. Mainly satellite communication means were on commercial transcontinental shipping routes vessels and remote oil rigs. As a rule, they were wealthy companies which could afford high communication fares.

Big, round, barrel-type white antennas yet so far can be seen on ships. Usually, it is the INMARSAT (International Maritime Satellite Organization) which provides telephone and data services to users worldwide.

I remember that it was strict rules and restrictions for private use of INMARSAT phone although sometimes the money was not sorry when so much wanted to hear the voice of beloved on the other side of the globe after weeks of deep sea sailing.

It is almost twenty years passed, and communication technologies are so skyrocketed but still no other way to communicate in the middle of the ocean just using human-made satellites, except message in the bottle.

No need to say that timely and quality communication is one of the main business cornerstones.

For commercial shipping, a continuous or continuously vessels position tracking is very important for many reasons like ETA (estimated time of arrival), cargo condition status information and many other live data. It could save much when timely information is always available, and the shore staff can respond in time.

Let’s back to the topic. I have written about the GPS tracking solutions for pets, cars, boats and even GPS tracking for drones.

Just in a couple of words to remind the GPS tracking system operational principle for the general case.

Tracking device receives GPS satellite signals to calculate a geographical position and after, on demand, send data via a cellular network to the user. In some cases, it could be WI-FI, Bluetooth network or UNB (Ultra-Narrow Band) as SIGFOX network which is exciting new technology. More detailed in a future post.

Competition between mobile providers is tight, and they are offering more and more appealing products and services. Networks of GSM towers are growing like mushrooms. But, yes, it is one BIG BUT?

Today’s technologies still cannot enlarge the range of GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications, originally Groupe SpécialMobile) signal and it is about 35 km (22 mi). So, no need to be so wise to calculate in which areas it is not accessible.

First of all, it is clear that, for seafarers, GPS-GSM tracking mode is not a solution except some coastal and inland navigation.

For the safety reasons in the International Marine Shipping, this shortcoming has been solved by the implementation of compulsory Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS) where one of the components is EPIRB (emergency position-indicating radio beacon station). A voluntary solution is a use of Satellite AIS (Automatic Identification System), unfortunately not hundred percent global coverage.

One way or another, on the professional and industrial level, this issue is more or less solved.

How about the private market and like you and me when we are about to sail seven seas or conquer high mountains? How to keep in touch with family, friends and more critical call for HELP? Perhaps even not go blabbing about weather and chat with kids but just to be tracked by someone who cares about you.

I dare say that there is a good and affordable solution as DeLorme inReach SE satellite communicator.

As I wrote in previous posts that to use live GPS tracker the unit should have a possibility to transmit the satellite signal. Usually, we use a mobile network where it is available, but in remote regions like high seas, mountains, etc. satellite communication is the only solution.

Let’s look at DeLorme AG-009871-201 inReach SE Iridium satellite communicator.

What is IRIDIUM?

„Iridium satellite system is used to provide voice and data coverage to satellite phones, pagers and other equipment with full global coverage (including the poles).

The Iridium satellite system consists of a constellation of 66 satellites which are arranged in six planes. There are eleven satellites in each orbit which is a near circular orbit inclined, each one being inclined at 86.4°. These orbits provide full global coverage, including the polar areas which are not covered by satellites in geostationary orbits.“

In January 2017 Iridium NEXT is about to be launched. It means that Iridium is replacing its existing constellation by sending 70 Iridium satellites into space.

As stated in companies homepage, „Iridium NEXT is driving innovation, creating opportunities and changing the way people and organizations communicate – everywhere on the planet.“

You can find other similar devices, but only I would like to note that DeLorme team recently joined to Garmin family. All of us know its high reputation in the market, and prices for inReach Series devices are very friendly.

As always I’ve made quite a thorough research of the device on the Internet, but Amazon’s Product Description gives the clear insight into the device

„The inReach SE operates over the Iridium satellite network, providing truly global two-way satellite communications and high network reliability anywhere on Earth, with no gaps, fringe or weak signal areas. With the ability to maintain satellite signal lock even in difficult GPS environments, the inReach SE also offers global SOS capabilities, adjustable tracking intervals from 10 minutes to 4 hours, and remote real-time follow-me/find-me tracking and ping-me locating. In the event of an emergency, the interactive SOS capability of inReach automatically triggers remote tracking and allows users to describe and update their situation so proper resources can be deployed. With 90% of the world’s surface lacking mobile phone coverage, inReach SE is essential gear for the traveller or outdoor adventurer to keep them connected and safe anywhere in the world. The inReach range of devices are the only affordable satellite communication devices that can both send and receive text messages. “

This device is not a phone so we cannot use it as voice communication means. Satellite phone is another but the much more expensive choice.

What we can do with the help of DeLorme inReach SE.

-Interact with the search and rescue monitoring center;

-Connect via Bluetooth with a laptop, smartphone or tablet to transform those devices to the global satellite communication and navigation tool. For this reason, a free Earthmate app for iOS and Android is added;

-Use Explore Web Portal for more convenient managing of data;

-Stand Alone mode. You can use it without the tools mentioned above.

And finally- Tracking and Locating feature.

„Adjustable tracking intervals allow you to track your trip and share your location, including GPS coordinates, elevation, and speed. If the device is on, family, friends, and contacts can request your location, providing a peace of mind.“

If you want more detailed information type in search engine DeLorme inReach SE, and you can find more info.

Just a couple of words about service fees and costs. More detailed information look at Delmore website just some figures. Plans range from $12 to $100 a month and vary as to yearly fees.

In conclusion.

According to Amazon com, more than 400 customers reviews are 4.2 out of 5 stars. It is the high evaluation. I highly recommend DeLorme AG-009871-201 inReach SE or similar when you are about to go long-term and wild adventure where no conventional communication tools like cell phones are available.

Take care of yourself and others.

I guess that it is the device which is irreplaceable under certain conditions. 

Just one warning or remark regarding some information I noticed on the net which can lead customers to make a wrong choice.

In one of the reviews about „The 8 Best Handheld GPS Trackers to Buy in 2017“ is short about a „DeLorme’s inReach Explorer.“ Everything is correct, except no any word about what it is Iridium Satellite-based GPS tracker. It is important for customers to know that additional communications fees, different than cellular, is imminent.