SPOT Satellite Messenger
SPOT is a GPS tracking device that uses the Globalstar satellite network to provide text messaging and GPS tracking (depending on the subscription type purchased). It has a coverage area that includes a large portion of the planet, with the exception of extreme northern and southern latitudes and parts of the Pacific Ocean.[1] SPOT can send, but not receive, communications.
With the purchase of a basic (annual) subscription, SPOT allows short (41 character[2]) user-defined text messages to be sent to a list of telephone and e-mail addresses. This basic subscription also allows users to push their location to emergency services. For an additional cost, SPOT can transmit a breadcrumb trail of GPS points, which users can configure to be displayed on a custom web page. Latitude and longitude, but not elevation, are transmitted every 10 minutes.
In March 2010, SPOT claimed to have successfully "helped initiate more than 550 rescues in 51 countries on land and at sea".[3]
In early 2013, a variation of the SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger called SPOT Connect was released. It allows the user to compose a custom message in real time using a smartphone.
Other GPS devices with satellite communication capability are available, some supporting two-way communication.[4]
References
- ^ Globalstar Satellite Coverage Area
- ^ "SPOT Connect". FindMeSpot.com. Retrieved 23 April 2012.
- ^ "New Enhanced SPOT Messenger Summons First Emergency Rescue". FindMeSpot.com. Retrieved 28 February 2013.
- ^ "In-Depth Garmin Inreach Explorer Review". HikingGuy. Retrieved 26 July 2019. Review of one of several similar devices.
External links
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