Spot Satellite Messenger, the world’s first satellite courier, was recently introduced during the annual Consumer Electronic Show (CES).
This “intelligent’ device allows users to send messages by means of commercial satellite to notify other people of the exact location of a person who has been lost. This gadget is a cheaper alternative to the conventional but quite expensive devices such as cellphone-based GPS trackers, personal locator beacons, and satellite phones.
The SPOT satellite Messenger has been designed by a team of experts and engineers to provide full coverage in all areas in Europe, North America, and Australia. It also covers some portions of Northeastern Asia, Northern Africa, and South America.
Here is how the device works: when a person has been lost, he can just press the “Alert 911” function and a signal will immediately be dispatched to let others know the exact location of the person. Meanwhile, a he can also press the button “Check In” which transmits a signal which allows other people to know that the he is lost but is doing quite ok.
There is also a “Help” feature which will in turn allows the person who has been lost to notify his family and friends of his location and status.
Other great features are Google Maps which allows the person to track his progress by marking location points along the route; SPOTcast automatic tracking service; GPS satellite which will pinpoint the exact location of the person; and rugged unit floats which work in extreme temperatures and various altitudes (this can also be submerged in water for up to 1 meter deep).
The satellite messenger device weights less than 8 oz. which makes it easy to carry. It uses two AA lithium batteries which can last for up to one year (without using the device, 14 days in SPODcast mode, and nine days in “Alert 911” mode.
The SPOT requires $ 99 for its annual subscription fee and $ 7.95 for optional extraction assistance in countries which do not provide emergency services.
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I am outdoors often and I read the review here before purchasing. There is a long list of FAQs that addresses many details at the web site below.
This has been a great addition just in case something goes wrong. Originally I bought it for personal safety and to trace my own tracks, but it has also provided an unintended benefit for family and friends who can track my progress.
I ordered one from http://www.MyLiveTracks.com/ - got a prompt response to my inquiries, a 50% off coupon for the tracking service. The price of $135 included shipping as well. Highly recommend the unit as well as the vendor!