The Future of Team Communications and True Interoperability

Historically businesses and organizations have struggled with how to properly and efficiently employ communications networks. However improvements in communications technology such as increased coverage and improved interoperability have changed the game. It is now possible to build a completely custom, truly global communications solution that fits the needs of any business or organization.

Conventional Two Way Communications

Traditionally organiztions with crucial realtime communications requirements have relied on traditional Land Mobile Radio (LMR) networks, which have a very limited range. This range can be improved with repeaters but building and upkeeping these networks can be costly. Addtionaly these networks are not interoperable with each other or other communication networks on their own. For these reasons LMR alone has not been effective as a global group communication solution.

LTE Connectivity

In places where LTE connection is readily available organizations can utilize LTE based Push-To-Talk (PTT) platforms.  By using the existing LTE network usrs can use a PTT radio device to access individual or talk groups in their network.  Unlike traditional LMR communications, there is no need to employ repeaters or costly maintainenance of the network. 

The Icom IP501H is dust proof and waterproof and provides for smooth telephone style communications where both users can talk and receive at the same time. It comes equipped with built-in bluetooth, GPS, and an emergency button.

Learn more about the Icom IP501H

PTT talkgroups are also available using iOS and Android smartphones via a remote communications app such as ESChat, which connects the user with other devices in their network, allowing each user to stay connected to its group anytime and anywhere with a cellular or WiFI connection.

However, LTE communications are limited to areas with already existing 3G and 4G coverage. If you need coverage in areas either of the grid or without effective coverage than LTE devices would not be the proper solution alone.

Truly Global Satellite Push-To-Talk

Iridium Push-to-Talk is the only truly global, truly mobile push-to-talk system available today. It enables fast and simple group communications anywhere on the Earth, all at the push of a button. Iridium’s unique global constellation of 66 orbiting satellites lets you connect in the same way as you would with terrestrial-based systems.

This unique global service is built for speed and security, with connection speeds comparable to land-mobile radio and no-compromise encryption standards, which support coordination and control of your team and resources like never before.

Using the Iridium PTT network is as easy as possible. It's drag and drop interface within the Iridium PTT Command Center makes it simple to configure users, talkgroups and coverage areas in seconds. It is also fully interoperable, so you can permit other organizations or agencies to share channels and talkgroups when the need arises.

Iridium PTT can be accessed with Iridium 9575 Extreme PTT Satellite Phone or Icom SAT100 PTT SatelliteRadio. The Iridium 9575 Extreme PTT comes ruggedly engineered to support high intensity users in some of the harshest conditions, everywhere on the planet. The PTT model comes enhanced with an intelligently designed Push-to-Talk mode, expanded loudspeaker, reinforced PTT button, and extended capacity battery.

The SAT100 is Icom’s first handheld satellite PTT radio that uses a satellite communication network. The IC-SAT100 provides radio services to a number of users with a push of the transmit button. Built exclusively for PTT the SAT100 comes in a smaller, lighter package without losing any functionality.

Learn more about the Iridium 9575 Extreme PTT

Learn more about the Icom SAT100

Dymanic Team Communications and Interoperability

Sometimes having to choose between LMR, LTE or Satellite isn't ideal, especially for organziations with more than a localized operation.  Recent advancements in technology have allowed for increased operability betweeen different communication systems. With the Icom VE-PG4 Gateway you can bridge almost any modern communication system. The VE-PG4 packs a real punch, boasting built-in LTE, DHCP, Radio over IP (RoIP) gateway and configurable ports to connect donor radios for almost any type of network.  This device enables organizations to bridge UHF, VHF, LTE, Satellite and WiFi.  In fact, it can create hybrid network eploying each of the devices mentioned in this article and more.

The VE-PG4 allows an organization to deploy a streamlined communications system by allowing it to employ terrestrial communications like LTE or radio where a higher cost satellite communication is not needed but still have its remore users connected to the same via satellite when needed.

Learn more about the VE-PG4

The SatPhoneStore Advantage

At SatPhoneStore we understand that not all businesses are the same, and in turn each needs a personalized communications solution that fits the task at hand.

By leveraging our experience with critical communications, network design and satellite we can customize a truly global and limitless Push-To-Talk (PTT) solution that run across virtually any communications platform, including WiFi, LTE, UHF, VHF and Iridium satellite network. Our team of communications pros are ready to work with you to create an interoperable solution to help your team communicate in the most efficient way possible.