A remote crew loses cellular service on a utility right-of-way. A hunting party separates across a ridge. A vessel moves beyond shore coverage. In each case, the satellite phone versus radio decision changes who can be reached, how quickly help can be called, and what happens when the local team...

A satellite phone only helps if it can register on the network where your team is standing, boating, flying, or responding. That is the real decision behind Iridium versus Globalstar voice. Both services can provide voice calling beyond cell coverage, but they are built for different coverage expectations, operating regions, devices,...

A satellite phone that has not been tested is not a backup plan. It is an unknown. Whether you are heading offshore, sending a utility crew into a remote service area, or packing for a backcountry hunt, knowing how to test a satellite phone before departure gives you time to...