UPDATE on 2 way satcom via hand held units

[TacAir]

Just a short heads up on some CooL new tech now on the market. 2 way satcom via hand held unit DeLorme InReach.



http://blog.delorme.com/2011/06/03/delo ... unication/

REI sells the unit for 249, in the same price range as the SPOT messenger.

SMS/email - 160 characters, 2 way. Works with an Android device (smart phone) or the PN-60W GPS unit.

http://delormegps.files.wordpress.com/2 ... nreach.png (bigger pic)

Wow.

Hadn't seen this posted, so - here ya go.

[EODguy]

Looks like an excellent piece of kit TAC! I wonder what the data plan will run? The price of the unit is reasonable. Thanks for the G-2

[SteveD]

Donning tin foil hat

The only draw back is big brother turning on the gps unit without your permission.

Removing said tin foil hat

Another way to communicate with other is always handy

[TacAir]

Donning tin foil hat

The only draw back is big brother turning on the gps unit without your permission.

Removing said tin foil hat

Another way to communicate with other is always handy

LOL
The works with a smart phone OR a GPS display unit.
The SOS button would be pretty worthless *without* the GPS part - yes?

[TacAir]

UPDATE

The nanoShout
http://www.satellitephonestore.com/nal-nano-shout

Is another small 2 way messaging system, one that does not need a smart phone to work.



Pretty cool tech, eh?

Also, now on the market is the GeoPro messenger
The affordable, rugged GeoPro Messenger device supports global two-way text messaging. Along with hassle-free check-ins, the GeoPro Messenger also makes it easy to call for help in an emergency and provide in-event updates to assist first responders.




And the Iridium Extreme messages and two way voice....wow.



Ruggedly engineered satellite phone, personal tracker and SOS device
Covered SOS/emergency button
User selectable tracking interval
LEDs for SOS and GPS
Easy to use in one hand with non-slip form factor
Global coverage everywhere over the Iridium network

Vendor site
http://www.geoprosolutions.com/devices/

Lot more choices out there, and the prices have come down. Once the Army pulls our of SWA, the satcom folks are going to be scrambling for customers. Hopefully the price will reflect the desire for new customers with less-than-deep pockets.

[KJ4VOV]

All good units, and handy to have when you're out in the boonies, but all also tied somewhat to existing infrastructure that may or may not be functioning in a true SHTF scenario.

Still, for what they're intended for they should fit the bill.