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When you’re out in the wilderness, far from the reach of cell towers, staying connected can be a challenge. That’s where satellite communication device come in. Whether you’re on a remote hike, sailing in the open ocean, or working in a distant location, devices like satellite phones, the Iridium GO!, and ZOLEO can keep you in touch with the world. In this blog, we’ll break down what these devices do, how they work, and why they’re essential for anyone who needs reliable communication in the most remote places.

Discover different types of Satellite communicators

Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone

A satellite phone, or satphone, is a mobile communication device that connects directly to satellites orbiting the Earth, rather than relying on terrestrial cell towers. It has a monochome screen and a keypad just like mobile phones in the old days.

The Iridium 9555 Satellite phone is straightforward and easy to use. Just make sure you have a clear view of the sky and satellites, extend the retractable antenna, dial the number, and press call. You can also send and receive SMS, access voicemail, save contacts in the phonebook, and customize your phone settings, just like you would with a regular mobile phone.

If you’re simply looking for a device that allows you to call and send messages in remote area, this will be your choice!

Iridium Extreme 9575 Satellite Phone

The Iridium extreme 9575 is a trusty companion for anyone needing worldwide coverage. It’s incredibly tough and dependable. It is an upgrade of the 9555, which adds on GPS and SOS button. Since satellite phones delay as they might not get immediate reliable satellite connections, the SOS button might safe your life!

The SOS button can be set up to initiate message/call to your emergency contacts. Besides, it also allows you to register with GEOS Emergency Response Center.

To Register with GEOS 

1. Configure your device for use with GEOS.
2. Navigate to www.geosalliance.com/iridium
3. Fill in the registration form and your details. 

Iridium GO!

Iridium GO! is a hotspot device where you can pair it up with your smartphone/ tablet within 30m range. It can connect up to 5 device but only one device can use the satellite service at a time. It has its own speaker but there is no microphone, when there is an incoming call, both Iridium GO! and your device rings. Besides, it also has the SOS button, location tracking email and weather forecast function.

The Iridium GO! is more affordable than a satellite phone and compact enough to fit in your hand, be carried in a backpack, or mounted in a cabin, vehicle, or vessel for semi-fixed use.

Download the app and pair it up with Iridium GO! device:

Google Play: Download here

App Store: Download here

For Satellite email, you have to register through the portal and use another app:

To register: Register here

Google Play: Download here

App Store: Download here

Zoleo

The ZOLEO satellite communication device is a budget friendly and reliable device designed to keep you connected wherever you are. This compact and rugged device bridges the gap between your smartphone and satellite networks, ensuring seamless communication even in the most remote locations.

With ZOLEO, you can send and receive messages, share your GPS location, and access weather updates through a user-friendly app. ZOLEO doesn’t allow you to make calls, but does it really matters?

For ZOLEO, you can choose from their monthly plans as low as $32 per month with unlimited check-in messages. An optional Add-on Subscription for Location Share+ with only $7.95/month for automatic updates on location sharing to your contacts.

Download the app and pair it up with ZOLEO device:

Google Play: Download here

Apple Store: Download here

So which device should I choose?

Well, it depends on a few conditions. You might want to begin by asking yourself a few questions: Do you need to make regular phone calls, or just sending texts is fine? Would you rather use your own device? What’s your budget? How long is your trip? If you only need it for this trip, why not consider hiring one?

Comparison Chart for the devices:

Satellite Coverage	Gobal	Gobal	Gobal	Gobal
Call	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Text messaging	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Location tracking	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Emergency SOS	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Dimensions	5.51 x 2.36 x 1.06in	5.63 x 2.17 x 1.18in	4.5 x 3.25 x 1.25in	3.6 x 2.6 x 1.06 in
Display screen	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Battery Life	4 hours talk, 30 hours standby	3.1 hours talk, 30 hours standby	7 hours talk, 16 hours standby	200 hours
Weather forecast	No	No	Yes	Yes
		HIRE ME	HIRE ME	HIRE ME

Don’t worry about the phone plans. We are one of Pivotel dealer and we can help you to get connected from month-to-month or 12 month plans! Our staff are extremely experienced, and can help you find the right device for your needs! Give us a call, we’d love to give you a hand!

Interested in some of the Satellite communication device mentioned? Check out these products online, or come in store to see our full range!

Satellite Communication device

Choosing the right UHF (Ultra High Frequency) antenna is key for making sure your voice gets where it needs to be heard. Whether you’re setting up walkie-talkies, or in-car UHF, knowing a bit about antennas can make a big difference. Read on to have UHF antennas explained! One big thing to understand is antenna gain.

What’s Antenna Gain?

Antenna gain is kind of like a finite resource —if the signal is sent far in one direction, the other directions are limited. The signal can either be pushed out equally in all directions in a sphere shape, called unity gain.

All antenna gain is measured against an isotropic radiation pattern. Antenna gain is all about how much extra power an antenna gives out in a specific direction compared to this isotropic pattern, and you’ll often see it measured in dBd, dB or dBi. Unity gain is 0dBd, or 2.1dBi. Higher gains such as 6 dBd/8.1 dBi will push signal out in an oval shape, rather than equally in all directions.

What dBi Antenna Do I Need?

Theres plenty of antenna gains available, for handhelds, in-car UHFs and more. If you’re wondering, does the length of my aerial matter? The answer is sort-of! Generally higher gain antennas will be tall, and lower gain will be short. But one is not better than the other, they both work in different scenarios.

• City, Sand Dunes or Hills: If you’re in a city jam-packed with buildings and other obstacles, or other area where there is low line of sight, low-gain antennas are your go-to. They help your signal navigate through all the chaos.

• Country Areas: Out in the countryside with fewer obstacles and longer distances to cover, high-gain antennas are the way to go. They’ll push your signal further horizontally, to help your transmissions travel far and wide.

• On-the-Go: For those going all over the place, you can always get an interchangeable whip setup. This allows you to unscrew your low gain antenna once you get out of the city, and put on your high gain antenna.

In-car UHF radios are very customisable with what type of antenna you use and where you put it, whereas handhelds can be a little more limited. Most handhelds have replaceable antennas, just search for the model of your two-way or connector type to see whats available.

Comparing Antenna Types – What antenna should I use with my UHF?

Now that you’ve decided on the best gain for your situation, let’s talk about some different keywords you might come across when searching for UHF antennas:

1. Heavy Duty: Heavy-duty antennas are built tough to handle rough outdoor conditions. Get one on a spring base for some flexibility, and to minimise damage to the antenna from vibrations. These antennas are a great choice for bullbars or other areas where they may have to withstand some abuse.
2. Elevated Feed: Elevated feed antennas are exactly what the name suggests. The signal radiating part of the antenna is up higher, which helps them avoid interference from stuff on the ground, or your car. This gives you a clearer signal if you have an antenna mounted somewhere low. It is also Ground Independent (see below).
3. Ground Independent/Ground Dependent: Ground dependent antennas require mounting on a ground plane (a large flat metal plane, such as a car roof). If not mounted on a ground plane, signal is greatly impacted. Ground independent antennas can be mounted anywhere, bullbars, fenders or roof racks.
4. Radome: Radome antennas have a protective housing to shield the antenna elements. This is generally made of plastic, fibreglass, or another material that does not interfere with the signal.
5. Fibreglass: Good for 4WD vehicles and offroad use as they can withstand more vibration than a stainless steel antenna.
6. Whip: The antenna whip is the long part of the antenna! It can often be separated from the base to allow you to swap out your whip for one of a different gain. Additional antennas are often sold as ‘Replacement Whips’.

What’s the best UHF antenna?

Picking the best UHF aerial is all about understanding what you need it for. Choose a low gain antenna with a spring base if you’re 4WDing through hilly areas, or a high gain elevated feed antenna if you’re travelling the outback and need to mount the antenna on the bullbar.

Before choosing an antenna, figure out what terrain you’ll be using the antenna in, and where you’re mounting your antenna. This will tell you what gain you’ll need, and what other features you’ll need, such as a heavy-duty whip, spring base or ground independence. Check out some of our favourite options below to get started, or use the filters when browsing antennas to narrow down your search.

Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be good to go! If you’re a visual learner, this video from GME is a great resource. Remember, you can always give Electric Bug a call if you have any questions!

Medium/High Gain UHF Antennas

Ground Independent Antennas

Flexible Antennas

GME have just released the long-awaited XRS handheld; the XRS-660! Read on to learn about the new features, price, and how it compares to other options on the market.

First and foremost, the XRS-660 offers flexibility with its 5/1/0.1 Watt switchable transmission power, allowing users to adjust power levels based on their communication needs. This feature means you have high output power when you need it, but can conserve battery life by operating at a lower level when your companions aren’t as far away. Furthermore, the XRS-660 incorporates multiple power-saving modes, which allows the radio to ‘sleep’ during periods of inactivity. All of this adds up to hours of extra battery life!

Moreover, its rugged design, is backed by an IP67 Ingress Protection rating and MIL-STD810G certification. Thus ensures durability in the face of harsh conditions, making it a dependable companion even when you don’t treat it too carefully!

Equipped with a class-leading 2 Watt speaker, the XRS-660 UHF handheld delivers crisp and clear audio, ensuring you’re connected even in noisy surroundings. The transflective color LCD display enhances visibility in various lighting conditions, offering clarity and ease of use during operations. Meanwhile, the Scansuite™ digital scanning technology scans channels up to 2x faster, ensuring you don’t miss a transmission.

In terms of connectivity, the XRS-660 sets a new standard with Bluetooth® Wireless Technology, enabling seamless audio and data transmission. Through the XRS™ Connect smartphone application, you can update, control and customize you new XRS.

The built-in GPS receiver adds another layer of functionality, making the device location-aware and facilitating navigation in remote areas. This sets the XRS-660 on par with the XTRAK 50 Pro, released by Uniden last year. The two radios are very similar, with both having waterproofing, a long battery life and a 2 watt speaker.

The main differences to consider are the programmable buttons, and the switchable transmission power on the XRS, while the XTRAK offers transmission replay, and an OLED display. Uniden also offer the Xtrak 50, which is a model without GPS for those not needing this feature this can be a great way to keep costs down. It is also important to consider the XRS660 does not come with any accessories except the 240V charger, whereas the Uniden models include a full suite of accessories.

In terms of cost, the XRS 660 is shaping up to be one of the more expensive options on the market. At $549 RRP, it sits above similar models including the Uniden Xtrak 50 Pro at $449.95, the Xtrak 50 at $329.95, and the Icom IC-41PRO at $335.

The radio is looking like a great addition to the XRS range, and we can’t wait for it to arrive in store next week! If you’d like more information or to preorder the GME XRS-660 UHF handheld, give us a call!

iDataLink Maestro: Seamlessly retain and enhance your vehicle’s factory functionalities.

Aftermarket head units can be a bit of a headache! Retaining the use of factory features such as steering wheel controls, parking assist, climate control and voice commands can be difficult or impossible in certain vehicles. iDataLink Maestro can help!

Electric Bug are excited to announce we are now trained and authorised installers of iDatalink Maestro! Designed to bridge the gap between your car’s factory systems and the latest aftermarket upgrades, iDataLink Maestro opens up a world of possibilities for car enthusiasts and tech-savvy drivers alike. This system allows us to retain these factory features when updating your in-dash multimedia system. Additionally, it can even add features like engine performance data and programmable outputs when it’s paired with a compatible Kenwood, JVC, Sony, Alpine or Pioneer head unit!

We will pair a Maestro radio replacement module with an installation kit specific to your vehicle. Check out the iDatalink Maestro website to see what features can be added or retained in your car.

Read on for info on some of the iDatalink Maestro products we now stock, ready for installation into your vehicle!

1. Radio Replacement & Steering Wheel Control Retention – Maestro RR, RR2 + ALP-MRR: These are revolutionary radio replacement interfaces that retain your vehicle’s factory features while adding enhanced functionality. Compatible with a wide range of car makes and models, these versatile modules ensures a hassle-free integration process.

2. Steering Wheel Control Retention – Maestro SW + SWHD1: Universal steering wheel control interfaces compatible with over 3000 vehicles 1991 and up. Maestro SW connects to most aftermarket radios to retain your vehicle’s original steering wheel functions. Additionally, assign a secondary (press & hold) function to the buttons of your choice. Compatible with most aftermarket radios equipped with an analog steering wheel input.

3. Dash Installation Kits and T-Harnesses: iDatalink manufacture a range of dash installation kits to make your radio install look and feel as if it just came out of the factory. To retain as many features as possible, we’ll also install an adapter or T-harness specific to your vehicle make and model.

iDataLink Maestro kits are now available in Australia, however due to the knowledge needed to install correctly, parts are only available to trained and authorised dealers. Therefore, we highly recommend you do your research! Electric Bug salespeople and installers are trained in iDataLink Maestro, and authorised to install. This means we are highly knowledgable, and can help you find out what features might be available to your specific vehicle. So get in touch!

Ready to get started?

Contact Us for your iDatalink Maestro Head Unit Installation.

In the modern world, staying connected is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Whether you’re in a remote location, on a road trip, or simply suffering from poor mobile signal strength, the new Nextivity ROAM R41 mobile signal repeater is here to provide a seamless solution. The GO G41 is also here to solve your poor home mobile signal connectivity issues. With impressive improvements over its predecessor, the Cel-Fi ROAM R41 is taking mobile signal enhancement to the next level, offering users the flexibility to choose between service providers and the power of the latest 4th generation Nextivity proprietary IntelliBoost chip. Read on to learn more!

Choose Your Service Provider

One of the most significant advancements in the Cel-Fi ROAM R41 is its ability to switch between service providers. This feature empowers users to optimize their mobile signal experience by selecting the carrier that provides the best coverage in a given area, or to accomodate multiple users with different phone plans. It effectively eliminates the need to purchase multiple boosters for different carriers, as well as giving you the freedom to switch providers down the track.

Whether you’re with Telstra, Optus or Vodafone, the Cel-Fi GO G41 and ROAM R41 are designed to work with them all. It will also boost signal for those on secondary providers (MVNOs) such as Boost, Belong and Amaysim. This flexibility is a game-changer, particularly for businesses, travelers, or anyone travelling the vast area of Australia with weak mobile signal coverage.

The Power of the 4th Generation Nextivity Proprietary IntelliBoost Chip

At the heart of the Cel-Fi ROAM R41’s impressive performance lies its 4th generation Nextivity proprietary IntelliBoost chip. This chip brings several essential benefits to the table:

1. Increased Signal Strength

The Nextivity IntelliBoost chip is designed to enhance mobile signal strength, enabling users to enjoy even faster data speeds, better call quality, and improved reliability than its GO predecessor. Whether you’re streaming video, making calls, or simply browsing the internet, you can expect a noticeable improvement in performance.

2. Intelligent Signal Monitoring

The Cel-Fi ROAM R41 features intelligent signal monitoring, ensuring that it amplifies your signal without causing interference or disruption to nearby cell towers. This advanced technology means you can enjoy boosted signals without negatively affecting the surrounding network. Thanks to this, Cel-Fi is the ONLY legal mobile repeater authorised for sale in Australia. Penalties apply if you are caught with an illegal booster, so beware other options you may find on the internet!

3. Faster Installation and Setup

The Cel-Fi ROAM R41 is designed to be user-friendly, with a quicker and more straightforward installation process. This means that you can set up your signal booster and start enjoying improved connectivity within minutes, without the need for extensive technical expertise. All ongoing settings such as carrier switching can be adjusted in the cel-fi app. However, for complicated vehicles or perfectionists, Electric Bug is here to ensure you get the most out of your celfi installation!

Electric Bug is your Cel-Fi Dealer!

Electric Bug now installs Cel-Fi ROAM R41. We can pair your signal booster with the best antenna for the job, and ensure an unobtrusive, clean installation in your car, 4WD, truck, van or caravan. Installation takes only a few hours!

Give us a call or get in touch to get started!

Check out Electric Bug’s range of new Cel-Fi online or in-store!

Introducing the New Blackvue DR-770X and DR-970X Dashcams: Your Road Safety Upgrade

Upgrade your road safety game with the latest Blackvue DR770X and DR970X dashcams! These cutting-edge devices come packed with new features that’ll make your driving experience safer and more convenient. Both come in front-only and front and rear dash cam models, so you can protect your car the way you want to.

1. Easy Manual Recording: Say goodbye to the hassle of proximity sensors! The improved manual recording feature lets you capture important moments at the touch of a button with greater accuracy.
2. Crisp Image Quality: Enjoy clear and detailed recordings, thanks to the enhanced image processor in both front and rear cameras. You won’t miss any vital information on the road.
3. Extreme Recording Mode: When things get intense, the “Extreme” recording mode steps up with higher frames per second (FPS) to ensure you capture every crucial moment flawlessly.
4. More Storage, Same Price: Get more space for your recordings with a minimum 64GB SD card, all while keeping the price point similar to the previous model.
5. Full HD Wide View: Relive your journeys in full HD with a wide-angle view from both the front and rear cameras.

6. Always On: With the included hardwiring cable, your Blackvue dashcam can record even when your car is off, providing peace of mind without worrying about draining the car battery. The Blackvue DR770X and DR970X have inbuilt low voltage shutoff, so no nasty surprises if you leave your car for a few days! For a quick and easy installation, you can also plug it in via the cigarette socket.

7. Instant Alerts: Stay informed with push notifications for detected incidents, so you can act quickly if needed.

8. Easy Event Management: Your Blackvue automatically tags and safeguards event footage, preventing it from being overwritten. Your dashcam will also log speed and GPS data for all events.

9. Remote Live View: Keep an eye on your car with the ability to view live events remotely via the Blackvue cloud and Blackvue app, which keeps security in the palm of your hand.

DR770X vs DR970X

Wondering how the DR770X stacks up against the DR970X? There are a few key differences between the two dash cameras. The DR970X dashcam offers full 4K video, while the 770X dashcam has full HD. Another difference is the wide-angle lens. While the lens on the DR770X is already large at 139-degree viewing angle, the DR970X takes that a step further with a huge 155 degree angle. You’ll also be able to see your videos much faster, with 5GHz Wi-Fi downloads.

The Blackvue DR-770X and DR-970X dashcams offer more than just recording; they provide advanced features to make your drives safer and more enjoyable. Upgrade your road safety today with these top-notch dashcams!

Dont forget, Electric Bug can install dash cams in Adelaide! If you’re interested in installing a new Blackvue in your 4WD, motorhome, truck, bus or vehicle, give us a call!

Check out the new Blackvue dashcam range below!

The fēnix 6 series is the next generation of ultimate outdoor GPS smartwatches . Built on the exploits of athletes and adventurers, the fēnix 6
Series is for those who push past limits and redefine expectations. With an all new exciting performance design the fēnix 6 comes in a range
of sizes, finishes finishes,cutting edge feature levels and significantly improved battery life. These rugged, techtech-rich wearables are built to take on any
challenge and fit any active lifestyle

Satellite phones are reliable communication gadgets virtually anywhere on earth and have currently become crucial communication items in places where your Smartphone’s network coverage gets unreliable and out of range. While there are various options available in the market, choosing the right one can be a headache. To help you with this problem, here are four satellite phones to consider. Lets jump right into it !

the Iridium 9575 is one of the compact handsets today. Also known as “The Iridium Extreme^®” This handset has a lot of features that make it among the best satellite phone to survive in the most unforgiving places on earth. Built to military-grade durability, the Iridium 9575 is the most rugged satellite phone to have been developed to date. The handset comes with an Ingression Protection rating of 1P65, giving it the capability to resist shock. Don’t worry about the dirt while in the desert or wherever you are: the Iridium 9575 is dust-proof and resistant to jet-water.

If you ever find yourself in a tough spot, Iridium Extreme^® is ready to help with a dedicated, programmable, one-touch SOS button. With one push, you can access 24/7 emergency assistance anywhere in the world by registering for GEOS Emergency Monitoring through Travel Safety Group Limited.

For vacation enthusiasts, the  Iridium 9575 supports online tracking and Google mapping services. The GPS-enabled location-based services make this handset ideal for use in camping and 4WD adventures. Its battery supports 4 hours of talk time and can last for 30 hours on standby mode. It is an ideal gadget for use by various people of professional fields in especially in the following industries but not limited to the military personnel, emergency crews and government operations

Still on the Iridium family is the Iridium 9555. Wherever you are planning to go, you can grab yourself the Iridium 9555 which can handle

any environment: from baking deserts to frozen ice packs. Its sleek design is just unmatched in my opinion, light weight and very  easy to operate,  when it comes to fu

nctionality this phone meets all requirements. The popular satellite phone has an industrial grade hardbody and its small size, durability and (as mentioned) easiness to use makes the model among the best selling satellite phones to have ever been produced. The handset operates on a global mobile communication network, which makes it the gadget of choice for anywhere on the planet that one wants to be able to make a phone call at their demand. It has a powerful battery of up to 4 hours talk time and 30 hours on standby mode. fun fact, at Electric Bug our hire fleet is made of Iridium 9555 hand sets, as we know they will work everywhere with out fail!.

To concluded, it is built to work even in the harshest environments. So, customers working on the toughest environments need to worry no more as this phone comes as a lifesaver wherever and whenever it is needed and we connect all Iridium phones under the Pivotel network through their phone plans.

The list cannot be complete without Thuraya XT-LITE. This is a value satellite phone that was developed to cater for the cost-conscious customers. However, the price is not a factor compromising quality as the handset comes with an uninterrupted connection with over two-thirds global satellite coverage. With a Thuraya XT LITE, you can receive call notifications even when the antenna is stowed, enabling you to stay connected every time.  A recently, very popular phone and this could be why!

With up to 6 hours’ of talk-time & 80 hours’ standby time your in reliable hands when it comes to a battery and you can set your phone to any of the 12 languages available; User-friendly menu and interface is what drives the popularity of this phone. The XT-LITE satellite handset is designed for ease of use. We connect the XT light to the Thuraya network through our partners at Pivotel, with an affordable plan starting at only $15/month with a minor connection fee this phone is hard to look past when it comes to value for your hard earned money, see the plans here!

In need of a tough and reliable satellite phone for your tough world? Isatphone 2 is the right choice for you. This handset was designed to cope with any environment you can think of; be it high heat or icy blasts, heavy downpours or desert sandstorms.

This handset comes with an unrivalled battery life that offers 8 hours talk time and can stay for up to 160 hours on standby mode. Isatphone 2 has an excellent voice quality and reliable satellite communication as it operates over the worldwide Inmarsat network, which we connect customers on through Pivotel, see the plans here!, with a 99.9% average availability you can trust this device. The Isatphone 2 is, therefore, a satellite phone you can depend on wherever you go.  It is an ideal choice for demanding users in sectors such as oil and gas, the media and NGOs which operate in remote areas.

In conclusion, A satellite phone is a great accessory to have and some what essential for any emergency situation you could find yourself in, making the choice of which phone to buy is now easy because whichever satellite phone you choose under which ever respective network , we here at Electric Bug are here to assist you with all this as well as all hiring, repairs and plan connecting enquiries you may have before you embark on that big trip or work mission! Thank you for reading, we look forward to seeing you soon.