04-03-2010, 11:01 AM
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SATELLITE PHONES
ABSTRACT
SATELLITE PHONES
1. Satellite Phone
Satellite phone enables you talk to anybody from anywhere in the world. A number of compacting Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) plan to blanket in globe with satellite phone coverage from a constellation of over 1,000 satellite by 2004.These system include Iridium, Global star, Odyssey, Teledesic, ICO, Thuyra etc 2.Major Applications
> In Ships
> In aero planes
> In Military
> In Business
3.Major Satellite Phone Services
Iridium and Global star are the major two companies, which give the service of satellite phones. 4.1ridium
Motorola established the Iridium Company in 1990. Iridium satellite service provides coverage across all ocean area ,air routes and all land masses including poles.
Iridium System is comprised of three principle components
1 .Satellite Network
2.Ground Network
3.Iridium Subscriber Products. 5.Iridium Handsets
> Iridium 9505A
> Iridium 9005
> Iridium 9500 etc 6.GlobaI Star
In the field of satellite phones Global Star has Second Place. Major difference between Iridium and Global Star is that it uses only two satellite (One satellite at calling place and the receiving place). The other communication is by ordinary phone network. 7.Global Star Handsets
> GSP2900
> FAU200
> GSP1600
8.Other topics
> Advantage and Disadvantages of Satellite Phones
> History of Iridium
> Communication paths with figures
> Overview of different satellite Phones etc
INTRODUCTION
1.1 What is satellite phone
A Satellite phone is a phone, which uses satellite for communication. Satellite phone enables you talk to anybody from anywhere in the world. A number of competing Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) plan to blanket the globe with satellite phone coverage from a constellation of over 1,000 satellites by 2004. It has great advantages over ordinary mobile phones.
1.2 Why satellite phones have been developed
As developments in business, travel and technology have led to the increased human exploration of such 'remote and wild corners', the demand for a system of communication, beyond that of cellular phones, has arisen. It is for this reason that satellite technology has been developed.
1.3 Advantages
Satellite phones have the following advantages over ordinary mobile phones.
1. No problem related with coverage:-The great disadvantage of the mobile phone is that lack of coverage area. But this problem does not arise in satellite phones.
2. Uniformity in number:-\x\ ordinary phones, there is change of number when the customer moving from one state to another or one nation to another. But in satellite phones the number is same everywhere in any part of the world.
3. No STD/ISD code:-\x\ satellite phones service, there are no STD/ISD codes.
4. Uniform performance:-\n ordinary mobile service, if the mobile tower at a large distance from the phone, the signal will not be clear and communication is not so good. But in satellite phones this problem does not occur.
5. Facilities: -All facilities in the ordinary phones like vibrator, address book, ring
tones etc also available in the satellite phones also.
1.4 Disadvantages
Satellite phones are not common today because of the following disadvantages as compared to ordinary mobile phones.
1. Cost :-The cost of the phone is high as compared to ordinary phones. The cost varies from one phone to another.
2. High calling cost .'-Satellite phones have high calling cost.
3. Size:-\l has large size
4. Antenna size :-The size of the antenna attached to the satellite phone is high.
1.5 Applications
The major applications of satellite phones are in
1. Marine Engineering (Ship etc)
2. Aviation (aero planes etc)
3. Business field
4. Disaster Relief organizations etc.
1.6 Satellite phone services
The most popular organizations that give satellite phone services are
1. Iridium
2. Globalstar
3. Inmarsat
4. Thuraya
5. Odyssey
6. Teledecic etc.
Three satellite systems that have gained wide spread popularity are Iridium, Globalstar and Inmarsat
IRIDIUM SATELLITE SERVICE
The Iridium System is a satellite-based, wireless personal communications network providing a robust suite of voice and data services to virtually any destination anywhere on earth.
Motorola established iridium in 1960. Initially the aim was to use 77 satellites for communication. So the name iridium comes. (Iridium is the 77lh element in the periodic table). But later it was planned to use 66 satellites. In 1997, Iridium starts its service by using 66 satellites. But at that time, because of propagation of mobile phones and also the high cost of satellite phones, Iridium would not get the customers. But later in 2001,it start's its service and now it have a good position in satellite communication service.
2.1 Satellites in Iridium Service
The 66 satellites for iridium service circles around the earth along the low earth orbit (LEO). The satellites are about 750 Km away from the earth surface. It completes its motion around the earth in each 6 hours.
Since the satellites are in LEO, the signal delay for communication is very low. Also it has also some advantage is that only a small power is required for transmission and reception of data's. Also the size of the phones can be reduced.
The communication between satellite and phone (or gateways) is through L band (1616MHz) and the communication between two satellites is by using Ka band (19GHz).
Satellite A
Satellite B
Kn Band(19GH7)
\
I ..Unnil(lKlhMM/)
I H(in()(lhlhMII/)
Satellite phone A figl :Frequency bands for communication
Satellite phone B
fig 3 : Coverge of a iridium satellite
2.2 Iridium communication Network
Iridium communication system composed of 3 major parts. They are.
1. Satellite Network
2. Ground Network
3. Iridium Subscriber products Bach can be described as follows
1. Satellite Network
As stated earlier, satellite network consist of 66 satellites circles around the earth along LEO. Each satellite traveling at 16,832 miles per hour, each satellite is able to circle the globe every 100 minutes. This satellite acts as cellular towers in the sky.
Iridium subscriber product (Phone)
Ground Network
Iridium Satellite
Fig 5 :Iridium communication network diagram
Satellite Phones ^NO
liitiBRARYfell
2.Ground Network
The ground Network means different iridium gateways. Iridium gateways interconnect the iridium constellation with public switched telephone network, making communication possible between iridium phones and any other telephone in the world.
3.Iridium subscriber products It includes iridium phones, pagers etc.
Iridium phones: The iridium phone is the primary means by which callers will communicate directly through the iridium network by the use of Subscriber Identity Module (SIM).
Iridium Pagers! Iridium pagers are capable of receiving alphanumeric messages.
2.3 Iridium Voice Services
If you work, live or travel in areas outside cellular coverage or in areas with inadequate landline service, Iridium is for you. Eighty-six percent of the world's land mass and all of its oceans are in areas with inadequate landline service. Iridium addresses these situations by providing coverage in all ocean areas, air routes and all land masses The Iridium system provides true global voice services by covering areas that cellular and landline do not. Voice services are supported using the 9500 handset or the smaller, lighter 9505 handset. The excellent signal strength provided by the Iridium constellation supports reliable connectivity across wide ranging landscapes and situations.
Iridium offers a number of other great features such as:
> Call Forwarding
> Personal mailbox that receives and stores numeric messages, text messages, and voice mail messages.
^ Voice mail allows callers to leave a recorded message in your personal mailbox.
Dcpt.ofECE,S.KG.C.E
-6-
2.4 Iridium Coverage Map
Figure 6 below shows coverage map.
Fig 6:Iridium coverage Map
From this figure it is clear that Iridium Satellite Solutions global service provides coverage across all ocean areas, air routes, and all land masses, even the Poles. A host of Iridium Satellite Solutions equipment options exist to meet your specific fixed-site and mobile communications needs.
3
GLOBALSTAR SATELLITE SERVICE
Globalstar service has also a great position in satellite phone service. It uses 48 satellites for communication. Globalstar provides a high quality, affordable and reliable satellite communication.
Globalstar satellite telephone service is delivered through special multi-mode phones, which work just like traditional cellular phones when you are in an area with cellular coverage. When you need to communicate from outside the area covered by ground-based systems, the phones easily switch to Globalstar satellite mode. Satellite and cellular communications are both at your fingertips.
3.1 Globalstar communication
Globalstar satellite phone service is delivered thought 48 Low-Earth-Orbiting Satellites providing both voice and data services. The Globalstar LEO constellation is only 700 miles from earth, which allows for the highest quality voice clarity of any satellite phone in the industry.
QualComm's Code Division Multiple Access or (CDMA) technology is the basis of the Globalstar's digital satellite service. This technology allows for signal security, superior quality, fewer dropped calls, and greater reliability.
Globalstar uses redundancy with every call a customer places. A call is routed through as many as four satellites, which then combine the signal into a single static free call. If one of the paths to one of the satellites is blocked the other satellites keep the call from terminating. This is called (Path Diversity) which minimizes dropped calls and enhances the quality of the Globalstar satellite phone service.
Globalstar's (Bent-Pipe Technology) allow the call to be first beamed up to the satellite and then retransmitted to a relatively close gateway. The call is then sent through to its call destination through land-line or cellular networks. The Globalstar Gateway carries out all the processing and switching of the calls rather than the satellite itself. This
improves the reliability of the call delivery (Fig 7)
3.2 Advantages
Following are the advantages of Globalstar communication
1 .Multimode Operation: It can be work in both the cellular mode and the satellite mode. Some Globalstar phones automatically switched to cellular mode when the phone is in cellular range and it is switched to satellite mode when the phone is out of cellular coverage.
2.Reduced Call COSt'. Since there is multimode operation, the cost of calling is reduced.
3.It provides Internet servicing, paging etc
4.Gobalstar communication is reliable
4.It is a high quality satellite-based telephony service.
3.3 Disadvantages
The major disadvantage of Globalstar communication is limited coverage area .Its service is about 100 countries only.
& Globalstar Gateway [j Primary Globalstar Service Area Extended Globalstar Service Area
(Customers may have single satellite coverage and experience a weaker signal)
§B Fringe Globalstar Service Area
(Customers may experience weak or sporadic signals)
[J Globalstar Service Area currently unavailable to North American roamers Fig 8: Globalstar coverage Map
3.5 Comparison between Globalstar and Iridium
Globalstar Iridium
Coverage Most Land Area & Coastal Waters Truly Global
Voice Quality Excellent Good
Text Messaging 19 character (Incoming only) 120 Character
Data Speed 9.6Kbs 2.4Kbs
Portable Phone Price $645 $1,395
Airtime Rates $.17-$1 in US &Caribbean $.90-$l .73 Globally
4
INMARSAT SATELLITE SERVICE
Inmarsat was the world's first global mobile satellite communications operator and is still the only one to offer a mature range of modern communications services to maritime, land-mobile, aeronautical and other users.
Formed as a maritime-focused intergovernmental organization over 20 years ago. Inmarsat has been a limited company since 1999. serving a broad range of markets. Starting with a user base of 900 ships in the early 1980s, it now supports links for phone, lax and data communications at up to 64kbit/s to more than 240.000 ship, vehicle, aircraft and portable terminals. That number is growing at several thousands a month.
4.1 Inmarsat Communication
The Inmarsat network consists of four geo-stationary satellites 35,600km above the Earth. The satellites are positioned at equatorial points over the Indian Ocean, the Pacific Ocean and the Eastern and Western sides of the Atlantic. The 'footprint' created by this configuration is able to provide almost total global communication coverage with the exception of the Poles. The first advantage that this gives Inmarsat is, once a signal is sent to a satellite, its individual 'footprint' is often large enough to deliver that signal to its destination without having to transfer via another satellite first. This minimizes the risk of the signal being lost.
4.2 Inmarsat coverage Map
Mobile Satellite Communications
Fig 9: Inmarsat coverage Map
The main argument that has been leveled against Inmarsat terminals regards their size; they are comparable to modern laptop computers. Inmarsat rivals, Iridium and
Dcpt.ofF.CE.S.N.G.C.E
- 11 -
Globalstar, use handsets that are far more akin to cellular phones, which it is claimed, weightless and are easier to use. This is not an entirely unfair point; it is true that Inmarsat equipment is larger than that of its contemporaries. Where they can out perform Iridium and Globalstar is in their ability to transfer data and faxes. This lends Inmarsat much more effectively to the setting up of semi-permanent offices where, along side voice facilities, more capable fax and data services are required. When used in this capacity Inmarsat's size ceases to become such an issue. Inmarsat are planning to expand this service with their next generation satellites, due to go live in 2005. With this increase Inmarsat are aiming to supply superior Internet, Intranet and video services as well as voice, fax and data.
5
THURAYA SATELLITE SERVICE
Thuraya was launched in 2001 to offer high quality, affordable communications to areas of high population, where coverage of GSM docs not exist or is limited. This includes North and Central Africa, Middle East, India, Central Asia and Europe. Thuraya uses the latest available Satellite technology, and provides the first truly pocket size handheld telephone, with exceptional voice clarity and low airtime rates, including the use of low denomination Pre Pay scratch cards.
5.1 Thuraya System
Thuraya is an advanced geosynchronous mobile satellite system providing access to Satellite and GSM900 services from the same Handset. It offers the facility for high quality voice, voice mail and SMS as standard, together with an in built GPS. Data/fax facilities arc available through the optional data kit with speeds obtainable up to 9600bps which means reliable email or even web browsing.
Fi« 10: Thuraya mobile phone set
Thuraya allows you to roam with your handsel across nearly one third of the globe. If you are in Thuraya's coverage area you can call to. and receive a call from, anywhere in the world. Even outside the Thuraya coverage area you will still be able to use your Thuraya phone in GSM mode, through a Thuraya GSM roaming partner. The handset can be used as a Satellite only. GSM only, or auto switching between the two. subject to the type of airtime package chosen.
IRIDIUM PRODUCTS
6.1. 9500 Portable Satellite Phone
What is it
The 9500 Portable Satellite Phone provides global, reliable voice and data. Iridium Satellite provides solutions for individuals who live and work in areas outside of cellular network coverage, or in places with poor landline services. Satellite calls can be routed directly from the satellite phone to the Iridium satellites orbiting the earth.
Why do you need it
Iridium Satellite provides solutions for individuals who live and work in areas outside of cellular network coverage, or in places with poor landline services. Satellite calls can be routed directly from the satellite phone to the Iridium satellites orbiting the earth. Global satellite service enables users to communicate in many remote or under served regions where wireless or landline networks are limited, non-existent or developing.
Fig:ll 9500 phone
Features
. 10 Dedicated Control Keys for easy operation . Clock - displays home and travel time . Dedicated Keypad Cover
. Data Capable - Use your satellite phone to transmit data with an optional RS232 adapter
. Removable Satellite Antenna
. Weighs less than 16 ounces
. Multi-Language Support choices for prompts
6.2. 9505 Portable Satellite Phone
What is it
Now smaller, lighter and more resistant to water, dust and shock than the previous offering, this new addition is ideal for industrial or rugged conditions, yet appealing to the traveling professional. Why do you need it
Business, adventure, or pleasure, you can stay in touch across seas and time zones, in remote locations and on the go. One Telephone number, through the use of a mini personal Subscriber identity module (SIM) card can help keep you Connected.
Features
Fig 12:9505 phone
Quick Access Interface
Water, shock & dust resistant for rugged environments
Data Capable (use your satellite phone to transmit data with an optional RS232 adapter)
21 Language Choices for Prompts Vibracall Alert
Illuminated holographic display
6.3.9505A Portable Satellite Phone
What is it
Functionally similar to the Iridium 9505, this latest offering introduces some minor product changes. It is significantly smaller, lighter and more resistant to water, dust and shock than the original Iridium 9500 and is ideal for industrial or rugged conditions, yet appealing to the traveling professional.
Why do you need it
Business, adventure, or pleasure, you can stay in touch across Seas and time zones, in remote locations and on the go. One telephone number, through the use of a mini personal subscriber identity module (SIM) card, can help keep you connected.
Features
Quick Access Interface
Water, shock & dust resistant for rugged environments
Data Capable (use your satellite phone to transmit and receive data with an optional RS232 adapter) 21 language choices for prompts Headset/Hands-free capability
Fig 13:9505A phone
6.4.9501 Pager
What is it
The 9501 Pager is a lightweight and wearable one-way messagingdevice that keeps in touch wherever you are in the world. Combined with an Iridium Satellite phone, the pager offers one of the world's most extensive global wireless personal communications networks. Why do you need it
When you can't be out of reach, the 9501 Pager receives all your 1 messages, wherever your travels take you. This belt-worn pager offers a flexible, cost-effective global communications package for unlimited mobility.
Features
Easy to use Icon Driven Menu International Character Set
Optimax ™ EL Electro-luminescent Display - for exceptional readability
Stylish Lightweight Design
Real Time Clock with Dual Time Zones display
Multiple user selectable indicators or alerts
6.5.Common Features of Iridium Products
¢ Illuminated Graphic Display
¢ International Access Key Sequence
¢ Dedicated keypad cover
¢ Multi language support
¢ Selectable Ringer Tone
¢ Selectable Keypad Sequence
¢ Vibrating Alert
¢ Memory capacity
¢ SIM memory
¢ Volume adjustments
¢ Mailbox for numeric and text etc
GLOBALSTAR PRODUCTS
7.1.GSP 1600
QUALCOMM's Globalstar Tri-Mode mobile satellite phone is a light¬weight, handheld communications tool that operates with the Globalstar network virtually anywhere in the world. Short message service (SMS) and data services will be available in the near future.Additionally, Globalstar's Tri-Mode satellite phone automatically(or manually if programmed) switches pjg i5:GSP 1600 from the Globalstar satellite network mode to the digital cellular mode (CDMA) or North American analog (AMPS) mode within the caller's home network or when roaming to a neighboring network, reducing the cost of the call.
7.2.GSP 2900
QUALCOMM's Globalstar satellite-based fixed phone unit offers an innovative
solution for quick, easy installation of communication systems in remote,
hard-to-reach locations as well as in under-served urban and rural areas. The
Globalstar fixed phone unit can bring a dial tone to areas where traditional
telephone services are not economically feasible. The antenna and fixed phone Fig 16:GSP 2900 unit are mounted at a convenient outdoor location with a clear view of the sky and connected to a variety of available indoor phone units using standard telephone
cable. The GSP-2900 is suitable for voice and data (9.6 KBps packet data) services, has
an international coverage area, and supports all Globalstar Service Plans. A remotable
antenna is available.
7.3.FAU 200
QUALCOMM's Globalstar satellite-based fixed phone unit, the
FAU-200, for half the price of the GSP-2900 Fixed Phone. Ideal for
voice service only and coverage in the US/Caribbean Home Service Are
The Globalstar FAU-200 Fixed Phone is the ideal cost-effective
solution for installed satellite telephone voice service virtually
anywhere. It enables remotely located businesses and individuals to Fig 17:FAU 200
connect into the public telephone network through the Globalstar system, using standard telephone equipment and wiring. A remotable antenna is not available.
8. CONCLUSION
As you can see from the above satellite services highlighted, there is not one all encompassing system that can out perform its rivals in al areas. Each has certain strengths and weaknesses.
If you decide that you need to use satellite phone, you need to decide which satellite network is best for you. You must access what functions are most valuable to you; Do you need total global coverage Do you need the ability to send and receive data Do you want something that is easy to carry
In future, satellite phones will be in the place of ordinary mobile phones...
9. REFERENCES
1 .iridium.com 2.globalstar.com 3.inmarsat.com 4.moblephonesites. co.uk 5.infokairali computer Magazine (Vol.7 No.3)
SATELLITE PHONES
ABSTRACT
SATELLITE PHONES
1. Satellite Phone
Satellite phone enables you talk to anybody from anywhere in the world. A number of compacting Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) plan to blanket in globe with satellite phone coverage from a constellation of over 1,000 satellite by 2004.These system include Iridium, Global star, Odyssey, Teledesic, ICO, Thuyra etc 2.Major Applications
> In Ships
> In aero planes
> In Military
> In Business
3.Major Satellite Phone Services
Iridium and Global star are the major two companies, which give the service of satellite phones. 4.1ridium
Motorola established the Iridium Company in 1990. Iridium satellite service provides coverage across all ocean area ,air routes and all land masses including poles.
Iridium System is comprised of three principle components
1 .Satellite Network
2.Ground Network
3.Iridium Subscriber Products. 5.Iridium Handsets
> Iridium 9505A
> Iridium 9005
> Iridium 9500 etc 6.GlobaI Star
In the field of satellite phones Global Star has Second Place. Major difference between Iridium and Global Star is that it uses only two satellite (One satellite at calling place and the receiving place). The other communication is by ordinary phone network. 7.Global Star Handsets
> GSP2900
> FAU200
> GSP1600
8.Other topics
> Advantage and Disadvantages of Satellite Phones
> History of Iridium
> Communication paths with figures
> Overview of different satellite Phones etc
INTRODUCTION
1.1 What is satellite phone
A Satellite phone is a phone, which uses satellite for communication. Satellite phone enables you talk to anybody from anywhere in the world. A number of competing Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) plan to blanket the globe with satellite phone coverage from a constellation of over 1,000 satellites by 2004. It has great advantages over ordinary mobile phones.
1.2 Why satellite phones have been developed
As developments in business, travel and technology have led to the increased human exploration of such 'remote and wild corners', the demand for a system of communication, beyond that of cellular phones, has arisen. It is for this reason that satellite technology has been developed.
1.3 Advantages
Satellite phones have the following advantages over ordinary mobile phones.
1. No problem related with coverage:-The great disadvantage of the mobile phone is that lack of coverage area. But this problem does not arise in satellite phones.
2. Uniformity in number:-\x\ ordinary phones, there is change of number when the customer moving from one state to another or one nation to another. But in satellite phones the number is same everywhere in any part of the world.
3. No STD/ISD code:-\x\ satellite phones service, there are no STD/ISD codes.
4. Uniform performance:-\n ordinary mobile service, if the mobile tower at a large distance from the phone, the signal will not be clear and communication is not so good. But in satellite phones this problem does not occur.
5. Facilities: -All facilities in the ordinary phones like vibrator, address book, ring
tones etc also available in the satellite phones also.
1.4 Disadvantages
Satellite phones are not common today because of the following disadvantages as compared to ordinary mobile phones.
1. Cost :-The cost of the phone is high as compared to ordinary phones. The cost varies from one phone to another.
2. High calling cost .'-Satellite phones have high calling cost.
3. Size:-\l has large size
4. Antenna size :-The size of the antenna attached to the satellite phone is high.
1.5 Applications
The major applications of satellite phones are in
1. Marine Engineering (Ship etc)
2. Aviation (aero planes etc)
3. Business field
4. Disaster Relief organizations etc.
1.6 Satellite phone services
The most popular organizations that give satellite phone services are
1. Iridium
2. Globalstar
3. Inmarsat
4. Thuraya
5. Odyssey
6. Teledecic etc.
Three satellite systems that have gained wide spread popularity are Iridium, Globalstar and Inmarsat
IRIDIUM SATELLITE SERVICE
The Iridium System is a satellite-based, wireless personal communications network providing a robust suite of voice and data services to virtually any destination anywhere on earth.
Motorola established iridium in 1960. Initially the aim was to use 77 satellites for communication. So the name iridium comes. (Iridium is the 77lh element in the periodic table). But later it was planned to use 66 satellites. In 1997, Iridium starts its service by using 66 satellites. But at that time, because of propagation of mobile phones and also the high cost of satellite phones, Iridium would not get the customers. But later in 2001,it start's its service and now it have a good position in satellite communication service.
2.1 Satellites in Iridium Service
The 66 satellites for iridium service circles around the earth along the low earth orbit (LEO). The satellites are about 750 Km away from the earth surface. It completes its motion around the earth in each 6 hours.
Since the satellites are in LEO, the signal delay for communication is very low. Also it has also some advantage is that only a small power is required for transmission and reception of data's. Also the size of the phones can be reduced.
The communication between satellite and phone (or gateways) is through L band (1616MHz) and the communication between two satellites is by using Ka band (19GHz).
Satellite A
Satellite B
Kn Band(19GH7)
\
I ..Unnil(lKlhMM/)
I H(in()(lhlhMII/)
Satellite phone A figl :Frequency bands for communication
Satellite phone B
fig 3 : Coverge of a iridium satellite
2.2 Iridium communication Network
Iridium communication system composed of 3 major parts. They are.
1. Satellite Network
2. Ground Network
3. Iridium Subscriber products Bach can be described as follows
1. Satellite Network
As stated earlier, satellite network consist of 66 satellites circles around the earth along LEO. Each satellite traveling at 16,832 miles per hour, each satellite is able to circle the globe every 100 minutes. This satellite acts as cellular towers in the sky.
Iridium subscriber product (Phone)
Ground Network
Iridium Satellite
Fig 5 :Iridium communication network diagram
Satellite Phones ^NO
liitiBRARYfell
2.Ground Network
The ground Network means different iridium gateways. Iridium gateways interconnect the iridium constellation with public switched telephone network, making communication possible between iridium phones and any other telephone in the world.
3.Iridium subscriber products It includes iridium phones, pagers etc.
Iridium phones: The iridium phone is the primary means by which callers will communicate directly through the iridium network by the use of Subscriber Identity Module (SIM).
Iridium Pagers! Iridium pagers are capable of receiving alphanumeric messages.
2.3 Iridium Voice Services
If you work, live or travel in areas outside cellular coverage or in areas with inadequate landline service, Iridium is for you. Eighty-six percent of the world's land mass and all of its oceans are in areas with inadequate landline service. Iridium addresses these situations by providing coverage in all ocean areas, air routes and all land masses The Iridium system provides true global voice services by covering areas that cellular and landline do not. Voice services are supported using the 9500 handset or the smaller, lighter 9505 handset. The excellent signal strength provided by the Iridium constellation supports reliable connectivity across wide ranging landscapes and situations.
Iridium offers a number of other great features such as:
> Call Forwarding
> Personal mailbox that receives and stores numeric messages, text messages, and voice mail messages.
^ Voice mail allows callers to leave a recorded message in your personal mailbox.
Dcpt.ofECE,S.KG.C.E
-6-
2.4 Iridium Coverage Map
Figure 6 below shows coverage map.
Fig 6:Iridium coverage Map
From this figure it is clear that Iridium Satellite Solutions global service provides coverage across all ocean areas, air routes, and all land masses, even the Poles. A host of Iridium Satellite Solutions equipment options exist to meet your specific fixed-site and mobile communications needs.
3
GLOBALSTAR SATELLITE SERVICE
Globalstar service has also a great position in satellite phone service. It uses 48 satellites for communication. Globalstar provides a high quality, affordable and reliable satellite communication.
Globalstar satellite telephone service is delivered through special multi-mode phones, which work just like traditional cellular phones when you are in an area with cellular coverage. When you need to communicate from outside the area covered by ground-based systems, the phones easily switch to Globalstar satellite mode. Satellite and cellular communications are both at your fingertips.
3.1 Globalstar communication
Globalstar satellite phone service is delivered thought 48 Low-Earth-Orbiting Satellites providing both voice and data services. The Globalstar LEO constellation is only 700 miles from earth, which allows for the highest quality voice clarity of any satellite phone in the industry.
QualComm's Code Division Multiple Access or (CDMA) technology is the basis of the Globalstar's digital satellite service. This technology allows for signal security, superior quality, fewer dropped calls, and greater reliability.
Globalstar uses redundancy with every call a customer places. A call is routed through as many as four satellites, which then combine the signal into a single static free call. If one of the paths to one of the satellites is blocked the other satellites keep the call from terminating. This is called (Path Diversity) which minimizes dropped calls and enhances the quality of the Globalstar satellite phone service.
Globalstar's (Bent-Pipe Technology) allow the call to be first beamed up to the satellite and then retransmitted to a relatively close gateway. The call is then sent through to its call destination through land-line or cellular networks. The Globalstar Gateway carries out all the processing and switching of the calls rather than the satellite itself. This
improves the reliability of the call delivery (Fig 7)
3.2 Advantages
Following are the advantages of Globalstar communication
1 .Multimode Operation: It can be work in both the cellular mode and the satellite mode. Some Globalstar phones automatically switched to cellular mode when the phone is in cellular range and it is switched to satellite mode when the phone is out of cellular coverage.
2.Reduced Call COSt'. Since there is multimode operation, the cost of calling is reduced.
3.It provides Internet servicing, paging etc
4.Gobalstar communication is reliable
4.It is a high quality satellite-based telephony service.
3.3 Disadvantages
The major disadvantage of Globalstar communication is limited coverage area .Its service is about 100 countries only.
& Globalstar Gateway [j Primary Globalstar Service Area Extended Globalstar Service Area
(Customers may have single satellite coverage and experience a weaker signal)
§B Fringe Globalstar Service Area
(Customers may experience weak or sporadic signals)
[J Globalstar Service Area currently unavailable to North American roamers Fig 8: Globalstar coverage Map
3.5 Comparison between Globalstar and Iridium
Globalstar Iridium
Coverage Most Land Area & Coastal Waters Truly Global
Voice Quality Excellent Good
Text Messaging 19 character (Incoming only) 120 Character
Data Speed 9.6Kbs 2.4Kbs
Portable Phone Price $645 $1,395
Airtime Rates $.17-$1 in US &Caribbean $.90-$l .73 Globally
4
INMARSAT SATELLITE SERVICE
Inmarsat was the world's first global mobile satellite communications operator and is still the only one to offer a mature range of modern communications services to maritime, land-mobile, aeronautical and other users.
Formed as a maritime-focused intergovernmental organization over 20 years ago. Inmarsat has been a limited company since 1999. serving a broad range of markets. Starting with a user base of 900 ships in the early 1980s, it now supports links for phone, lax and data communications at up to 64kbit/s to more than 240.000 ship, vehicle, aircraft and portable terminals. That number is growing at several thousands a month.
4.1 Inmarsat Communication
The Inmarsat network consists of four geo-stationary satellites 35,600km above the Earth. The satellites are positioned at equatorial points over the Indian Ocean, the Pacific Ocean and the Eastern and Western sides of the Atlantic. The 'footprint' created by this configuration is able to provide almost total global communication coverage with the exception of the Poles. The first advantage that this gives Inmarsat is, once a signal is sent to a satellite, its individual 'footprint' is often large enough to deliver that signal to its destination without having to transfer via another satellite first. This minimizes the risk of the signal being lost.
4.2 Inmarsat coverage Map
Mobile Satellite Communications
Fig 9: Inmarsat coverage Map
The main argument that has been leveled against Inmarsat terminals regards their size; they are comparable to modern laptop computers. Inmarsat rivals, Iridium and
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Globalstar, use handsets that are far more akin to cellular phones, which it is claimed, weightless and are easier to use. This is not an entirely unfair point; it is true that Inmarsat equipment is larger than that of its contemporaries. Where they can out perform Iridium and Globalstar is in their ability to transfer data and faxes. This lends Inmarsat much more effectively to the setting up of semi-permanent offices where, along side voice facilities, more capable fax and data services are required. When used in this capacity Inmarsat's size ceases to become such an issue. Inmarsat are planning to expand this service with their next generation satellites, due to go live in 2005. With this increase Inmarsat are aiming to supply superior Internet, Intranet and video services as well as voice, fax and data.
5
THURAYA SATELLITE SERVICE
Thuraya was launched in 2001 to offer high quality, affordable communications to areas of high population, where coverage of GSM docs not exist or is limited. This includes North and Central Africa, Middle East, India, Central Asia and Europe. Thuraya uses the latest available Satellite technology, and provides the first truly pocket size handheld telephone, with exceptional voice clarity and low airtime rates, including the use of low denomination Pre Pay scratch cards.
5.1 Thuraya System
Thuraya is an advanced geosynchronous mobile satellite system providing access to Satellite and GSM900 services from the same Handset. It offers the facility for high quality voice, voice mail and SMS as standard, together with an in built GPS. Data/fax facilities arc available through the optional data kit with speeds obtainable up to 9600bps which means reliable email or even web browsing.
Fi« 10: Thuraya mobile phone set
Thuraya allows you to roam with your handsel across nearly one third of the globe. If you are in Thuraya's coverage area you can call to. and receive a call from, anywhere in the world. Even outside the Thuraya coverage area you will still be able to use your Thuraya phone in GSM mode, through a Thuraya GSM roaming partner. The handset can be used as a Satellite only. GSM only, or auto switching between the two. subject to the type of airtime package chosen.
IRIDIUM PRODUCTS
6.1. 9500 Portable Satellite Phone
What is it
The 9500 Portable Satellite Phone provides global, reliable voice and data. Iridium Satellite provides solutions for individuals who live and work in areas outside of cellular network coverage, or in places with poor landline services. Satellite calls can be routed directly from the satellite phone to the Iridium satellites orbiting the earth.
Why do you need it
Iridium Satellite provides solutions for individuals who live and work in areas outside of cellular network coverage, or in places with poor landline services. Satellite calls can be routed directly from the satellite phone to the Iridium satellites orbiting the earth. Global satellite service enables users to communicate in many remote or under served regions where wireless or landline networks are limited, non-existent or developing.
Fig:ll 9500 phone
Features
. 10 Dedicated Control Keys for easy operation . Clock - displays home and travel time . Dedicated Keypad Cover
. Data Capable - Use your satellite phone to transmit data with an optional RS232 adapter
. Removable Satellite Antenna
. Weighs less than 16 ounces
. Multi-Language Support choices for prompts
6.2. 9505 Portable Satellite Phone
What is it
Now smaller, lighter and more resistant to water, dust and shock than the previous offering, this new addition is ideal for industrial or rugged conditions, yet appealing to the traveling professional. Why do you need it
Business, adventure, or pleasure, you can stay in touch across seas and time zones, in remote locations and on the go. One Telephone number, through the use of a mini personal Subscriber identity module (SIM) card can help keep you Connected.
Features
Fig 12:9505 phone
Quick Access Interface
Water, shock & dust resistant for rugged environments
Data Capable (use your satellite phone to transmit data with an optional RS232 adapter)
21 Language Choices for Prompts Vibracall Alert
Illuminated holographic display
6.3.9505A Portable Satellite Phone
What is it
Functionally similar to the Iridium 9505, this latest offering introduces some minor product changes. It is significantly smaller, lighter and more resistant to water, dust and shock than the original Iridium 9500 and is ideal for industrial or rugged conditions, yet appealing to the traveling professional.
Why do you need it
Business, adventure, or pleasure, you can stay in touch across Seas and time zones, in remote locations and on the go. One telephone number, through the use of a mini personal subscriber identity module (SIM) card, can help keep you connected.
Features
Quick Access Interface
Water, shock & dust resistant for rugged environments
Data Capable (use your satellite phone to transmit and receive data with an optional RS232 adapter) 21 language choices for prompts Headset/Hands-free capability
Fig 13:9505A phone
6.4.9501 Pager
What is it
The 9501 Pager is a lightweight and wearable one-way messagingdevice that keeps in touch wherever you are in the world. Combined with an Iridium Satellite phone, the pager offers one of the world's most extensive global wireless personal communications networks. Why do you need it
When you can't be out of reach, the 9501 Pager receives all your 1 messages, wherever your travels take you. This belt-worn pager offers a flexible, cost-effective global communications package for unlimited mobility.
Features
Easy to use Icon Driven Menu International Character Set
Optimax ™ EL Electro-luminescent Display - for exceptional readability
Stylish Lightweight Design
Real Time Clock with Dual Time Zones display
Multiple user selectable indicators or alerts
6.5.Common Features of Iridium Products
¢ Illuminated Graphic Display
¢ International Access Key Sequence
¢ Dedicated keypad cover
¢ Multi language support
¢ Selectable Ringer Tone
¢ Selectable Keypad Sequence
¢ Vibrating Alert
¢ Memory capacity
¢ SIM memory
¢ Volume adjustments
¢ Mailbox for numeric and text etc
GLOBALSTAR PRODUCTS
7.1.GSP 1600
QUALCOMM's Globalstar Tri-Mode mobile satellite phone is a light¬weight, handheld communications tool that operates with the Globalstar network virtually anywhere in the world. Short message service (SMS) and data services will be available in the near future.Additionally, Globalstar's Tri-Mode satellite phone automatically(or manually if programmed) switches pjg i5:GSP 1600 from the Globalstar satellite network mode to the digital cellular mode (CDMA) or North American analog (AMPS) mode within the caller's home network or when roaming to a neighboring network, reducing the cost of the call.
7.2.GSP 2900
QUALCOMM's Globalstar satellite-based fixed phone unit offers an innovative
solution for quick, easy installation of communication systems in remote,
hard-to-reach locations as well as in under-served urban and rural areas. The
Globalstar fixed phone unit can bring a dial tone to areas where traditional
telephone services are not economically feasible. The antenna and fixed phone Fig 16:GSP 2900 unit are mounted at a convenient outdoor location with a clear view of the sky and connected to a variety of available indoor phone units using standard telephone
cable. The GSP-2900 is suitable for voice and data (9.6 KBps packet data) services, has
an international coverage area, and supports all Globalstar Service Plans. A remotable
antenna is available.
7.3.FAU 200
QUALCOMM's Globalstar satellite-based fixed phone unit, the
FAU-200, for half the price of the GSP-2900 Fixed Phone. Ideal for
voice service only and coverage in the US/Caribbean Home Service Are
The Globalstar FAU-200 Fixed Phone is the ideal cost-effective
solution for installed satellite telephone voice service virtually
anywhere. It enables remotely located businesses and individuals to Fig 17:FAU 200
connect into the public telephone network through the Globalstar system, using standard telephone equipment and wiring. A remotable antenna is not available.
8. CONCLUSION
As you can see from the above satellite services highlighted, there is not one all encompassing system that can out perform its rivals in al areas. Each has certain strengths and weaknesses.
If you decide that you need to use satellite phone, you need to decide which satellite network is best for you. You must access what functions are most valuable to you; Do you need total global coverage Do you need the ability to send and receive data Do you want something that is easy to carry
In future, satellite phones will be in the place of ordinary mobile phones...
9. REFERENCES
1 .iridium.com 2.globalstar.com 3.inmarsat.com 4.moblephonesites. co.uk 5.infokairali computer Magazine (Vol.7 No.3)
