Collection: Iridium

Satellite telecommunications: staying connected offshore with Iridium

In the open sea, connectivity becomes a critical issue, both for safety and for performance monitoring. Skysat, with its extensive experience in offshore racing, guides you in selecting Iridium solutions, recognized for their global coverage and reliability. Discover terminals, plans, and accessories tailored to your specific needs. We prioritize a pragmatic approach for optimal system integration.

Iridium terminals: choosing the right tool

The Iridium terminals offer various features, ranging from simple voice communication to complex data transmission. The choice will depend on your sailing program, the volume of data to transfer, and your budget. It is essential to consider the hardware’s robustness and its compatibility with your existing setup.

• Iridium Extreme PTT: Push-to-talk voice communication, ideal for teams. Requires a specific subscription.
• Iridium GO! exec: Satellite Wi-Fi hotspot for smartphones and tablets. Improved data speeds compared to the Iridium GO! Classic.
• Iridium Certus: High-speed solution for transmitting large data volumes (weather, routing, etc.). Significant initial investment.
• Iridium antennas: Enhance signal reception. Prefer certified models suited to marine environments.

Plans and subscriptions: controlling your costs

The cost of Iridium communications varies significantly depending on the chosen plan. It is crucial to assess your actual voice and data needs to avoid unexpected expenses. Some providers offer specific plans for recreational sailing and offshore racing.

• Prepaid plans: Allow budget control. Ideal for occasional use.
• Postpaid plans: Offer greater flexibility in consumption. Require a contractual commitment.
• Unlimited data subscriptions: Reserved for Iridium Certus solutions. High cost.
• Data optimization: Compression techniques to reduce transmission costs. Weather routing software compatible.

Integration and compatibility: ensuring functionality

Integrating a Iridium system into your onboard network requires careful attention. Ensure compatibility with your other equipment (chartplotter, computer, etc.). Proper installation is essential to guarantee system reliability.

• Wiring and connectors: Use marine-grade cables and connectors. Protect connections from moisture.
• Power supply: Check the required supply voltage for the Iridium terminal. Provide a backup power source.
• Network configuration: Properly set IP addresses and connection parameters.
• Application compatibility: Ensure the applications used are compatible with the Iridium terminal.

💡 The Skysat tip

Before departure, test your Iridium system under real conditions. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and key contacts. A simulation can save you many headaches offshore.