Update 01 Dec 03

PSN Update Dec 2003

Iridium Modems with Short Burst Data

The new Short Burst Data protocol will allow the transmitting and receiving of about 1850 byte messages. The incremental billing unit size is 35 bytes at a cost as low as $0.05 in N America and $0.10/unit elsewhere with a cost of $1.30/kb or $2.60 kb. An FAQ is posted on the web site on Iridium SBD. Hardware and software pricing are available there also. My tests with SBD have gone very well.

Iridium SBD Modem with GPS

We now have Iridium Short Burst Data Modems with built in GPS. This units use the same RS-232 connection for both the SBD and GPS “AT+” commands, saving the need for an additional serial port and GPS board on your application.

Iridium Apollo Software

The latest version on the Apollo software includes Windows XP installation. Please contact me if you need to upgrade for a new computer.

DataStorm units now $4000

MotoSat has lowered the DataStorm unit to $4000 plus installation with 2-way internet service at $99/month. The unit gives up to 128kbps uplink speed and 1 MB download. The unit automatically stows for transport and aims at the satellite on setup.

Iridium 9505 has Two-Way SMS

Iridium 9505 telephone has 2-way Short Message Service (SMS) on phones with the new software. SMS to the phone has been in service for awhile now, with SMS from the phone you can now answer those messages without making a call. An info sheet on the website explains how to use this service. A new software upgrade is needed in 9505 units to use this feature. The cost for outghoing SMS from the 9505 is $0.99 each, incoming SMS are still free.

Globalstar offers $1.35/minute from Iraq

You can now take your US registered Globalstar satellite telephone to Iraq and it will it can call to the US for $1.35/min. This is a special arrangement. It is a good deal for deployed folks calling home. Please note this is only for Iraq and it will not work outside those borders where roaming fees apply if service is available.

For Sale-

Iridium 9505 modem unit only $795 (only 1 available)

Globalstar phones only $495 new, $395 used

Iridium 9500 phones only $799

Iridium 9505 phones only $1295

Kyrocera Single mode hand set, with extra battery and case only $399

(limited availability on used equipment, prices subject to change)