SPOT the ideal Christmas Gift
For a really practical gift this Christmas, UK-based satellite solutions provider Global Telesat Communications (GTC) has just the answer - the new SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger.
SPOT is a palm-sized device that allows the user to quickly send an update of progress, or call for help, from almost anywhere in the world. Retailing at just £159 including VAT, the SPOT Messenger uses low-orbit satellites to relay a simple, pre-programmed message to specified recipients in near real time.
The inbuilt GPS attaches a position to the message, so family and friends can keep a track of the user on Google maps via the Internet.
If there is a serious problem, a dedicated SOS button can be pressed and held for two seconds, which will automatically alert the nearest rescue services, and send them an accurate fix. This literally takes the ‘search’ out of ‘search and rescue.’
The new SPOT Messenger is a smaller and lighter version of the hugely popular SPOT Tracker, which was launched just over a year ago. Both units make full use of satellite technology, yet without the costs associated with more sophisticated satellite phones.
Instead, a simple annual call-time plan is purchased on line, which gives unlimited messages. The annual fee costs just €99, with complete access to all of the SPOT Messenger’s main functions. Users can log on to their account at any time to modify the list of contacts, retrieve their waypoints, or rewrite their custom messages.
An optional Track Progress feature is available for just €39 extra. This can set the SPOT to continuously ‘send and save’ your location every 10 minutes for 24 hours, or until cancelled. Progress can then be shown on a SPOT Shared Page accessed by a URL, where your track in a race or short voyage can be followed with regular updates on a Google map.
Global Telesat Communications
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