Fixed maritime iridium satellite phone developed for marine sector

The IMF100 consists of a small external antenna, an electronics unit that can be hidden away below deck, and a compact handset with illuminated keypad for night use. Just like the portable 9505, the phone is extremely easy to use and will work whatever the sea conditions — anywhere in the world.

In addition to allowing voice communications, lridium also enables users to send data. The standard data rate is 2.4 kbps; however, an increased data rate of 9.6 kbps is available by using the direct Internet service.

Alternatively, or those who appreciate the flexibility of a portable option, there is now a docking station available with external antenna for the lridium 9505. For those who simply wish to use the 9505 below deck, the external antenna may also be purchased individually.

Lridium is a low — Earth- orbiting satellite system, made up of 66 satellites cross-linked in space just 485 miles above the Earth (as opposed to the geo-stationary inmrsat system that orbits at 22,223 miles).

Because the lridium satellites are much closer to Earth than any other system, it means the antenna is reduced dramatically in size, thereby making it a viable communications system for all sizes of ships, motor boats, yachts and fishing vessels.

The MIF 100 as available from SatCom distribution at the retail price of £1915 + VAT. An lridium to lridium call costs 59p per minute, and a call to a landline, a standard 97p a minute, irrespective of location.