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Everything You Need to Know About the Icom Satellite PTT System

Icom’s IC-SAT100 Satellite PTT radio provides a unique solution to the problem of communicating in remote parts of the planet where there is no mobile phone or landline network infrastructure. The technology offers radio functionality and a range of features, using the Iridium Satellite network to provide true global communication—even if you are at the poles.

In this article, we provide a background to satellite communication and why the Icom Satellite PTT radio system is such an excellent solution for government, military and humanitarian organisations, expeditions, and mountain rescue teams faced with operating in isolated environments across the globe.

So, What is Satellite Communication?
Satellite communication uses a network of orbiting satellites providing global coverage and can be used as a communication tool in remote, isolated areas where there are no mobile or landline phone network infrastructures. Even if the terrestrial network infrastructure is rendered unusable by human or natural disasters, satellite comms provides a stable back-up, independent from other networks. As the satellites orbit the globe, you will have coverage almost anywhere. All you will need to do is turn your satellite comms device on and begin using it.

What is the difference between a Satellite Phone and Icom Satellite PTT Radio?
A satellite phone can make a call to almost any landline or mobile phone number in the world, as well as sending text messages and position data. This does depend on the type of airtime package and terms of use of the package. We will go into more details about this later.

In contrast, an Icom Satellite PTT radio radio can communicate just like a two-way radio but globally with other users, providing one-to-many communications with real-time, low latency. Depending on the model, you could also send text messages, record voice messages, and even connect Bluetooth devices. Again, use of an Icom Satellite PTT radio is dependent on your airtime package.

What fees would I expect to pay?
Icom Satellite PTT is charged at a flat monthly rate for unlimited PTT per month, and these fees can differ depending on the coverage area, region, number of Talkgroups and radios that are in use.

Satellite Phones are charged at a rate per minute or in pre-paid airtime packages from satellite comms providers, but these typically need to be used within a certain amount of days from purchase or have limitations as to where and when you can use the Sat Phone.

What is a “Talkgroup”?
A Talkgroup is an assigned collection of Icom Satellite PTT radios that can communicate with each other in a certain area. This is ideal for closed, private communications which stops others from listening over the same infrastructure. Depending on your provider, you could take your devices anywhere in the globe where conventional radio or communication is not possible, and they will still be able to communicate as you can edit the coverage region and the Talkgroup.

Can I use an Icom Satellite PTT device in any location?
Icom Satellite PTT communication performs best in open spaces, such as on a roof of a building or in a large open area with direct access to the sky. Any obstruction over or around the antenna or between the radio and satellites can cause interference or even failure to transmit and receive. It’s also best practice to keep the device somewhere on the body without obstruction to the antenna, such as on your shoulder, to ensure all calls/transmissions can come through.

Accessories are available to help boost your signal/communication range, especially for our handheld device, the IC-SAT100. A docking station connected to an external antenna can help in areas where satellite range may not be as strong, such as in a building or in a vehicle.

Icom Satellite PTT – Your Global Communication Solution
Icom, together with Iridium, has created a range of satellite PTT devices that combine Icom’s expertise in radio manufacturing with Iridium’s satellite experience and knowledge.

The IC-SAT100 is a handheld satellite PTT radio that offers instant one-to-many, low-latency, global communication with just the push of the PTT button. It's housed in a waterproof, dust-tight, and durable body to withstand even the harshest environments. Using Iridium’s low earth orbit satellites, the IC-SAT100 provides fast, reliable communication wherever you are in the world with superb audio quality. The IC-SAT100 is also compatible with other Iridium PTT devices such as the Iridium Extreme PTT.

Expanding on this capability, the IC-SAT100M is a mobile satellite PTT radio designed for in-vehicle or in-building use. This unit allows for a more permanent installation, offering reliable communication from a fixed location or while on the move. Both the IC-SAT100 and IC-SAT100M leverage the same robust Iridium network, ensuring seamless global communication.

If you have any further questions regarding the Icom Satellite PTT system, either visit our dedicated section on our website or contact our team on 01227 741741 or email Icom UK Sales.