- What is the coverage area for the Iridium satellite phones?
The Iridium satellite phones are capable of making and receiving calls anywhere in the world, including the North and South poles and the oceans. The only exceptions will be those areas restricted by the U.S. Department of State. Currently, restricted areas include: Cuba, North Korea and North Sri Lanka.
- Are there any long distance or roaming charges?
No. You always pay your per minute rate no matter where on earth you are. The only exception is when calling other NON-Iridium Satellite Phones where the charges can be up to $12 per minute.
- Can I use the satellite phone indoors?
No. Successful use of the phone indoors will be limited without the use of a external antenna.
- Can I use the satellite phone in my car?
Successful use of the phone in your car will be limited without the use of the portable auxiliary antenna that magnetically attaches to the roof of your car.
- How big are the Iridium satellite phones?
The 9555 satellite phone is 5.6" H (with antenna down) x 2.16" W x 1.2" D. The 9555 antenna is 6" Extended. The 9555 weighs 9.4oz or .59lbs
The 9505 & 9505A satellite phone are 6.25" H (with antenna folded down) x 2.5" W x 2.25" D (with antenna). The 9505/9505A antenna is 6.25" H. The 9505A weighs 13.2oz or .83lbs.
The 9500 satellite phone is 7.5" H (with antenna folded down) x 2.5" W x 2.75" D (with antenna). The 9500 antenna is 7.5" H.
- How much do the Iridium satellite phones weigh?
-The 9555 is 9.4 ounces or .59 pounds (266 grams)
-The 9505 is 13.2 ounces or .83 pounds(375 grams)
-The 9500 is about a pound (454 grams).
- Who is manufacturing the Iridium satellite phones?
Motorola manufactured the 9500 and the 9505 model phones. Most recently Iridium has taken over manufacturing of the 9505A and the 9555 model phones.
- Can I purchase insurance or extended warranty for the satellite phones?
We do not have have insurance, but do provided extended warranties on all units including rentals. Please contact your sales representitive for more information. Toll Free: 877-258-3496
- What is the approximate talk time for the batteries on the satellite phones?
Generally, the average talk time is 2-3 hours. This will vary based on battery type, battery age and phone model. We always advise carrying a spare, fully charged battery. The phones will also work without a battery, but while plugged in to an appropriate electrical source.
- Does the temperature affect the life of a battery?
Yes, exposure to extreme heat or extreme cold will shorten the life of a battery.
- Does the weather affect my phone?
No, not at the L-band. However, the weather can affect the transmission from the satellite to the ground station.
- Are the Iridium satellite phones water-resistant?
No. The phones should be kept out of the rain and not exposed to water.
- If I already have my own satellite phone or pager, can I still get service?
Yes. BlueCosmo Communications offers service on the Iridium Satellite Series 9500 and 9505, 9505A & 9555 Satellite phones, the 9501 pager, and the Kyocera satellite phones.
- Can I use my old SIM card?
No. In order to obtain Iridium service, it will be necessary to purchase a new SIM card from BlueCosmo Communications.
- Can I keep my old phone number?
No. Your phone number is associated with your SIM card, and since you will need to obtain a new SIM card, you will also receive a new number.
- What is a phone reflash?
The phone reflash is an upgrade to the satellite phone. The reflash offers improved voice quality, decreased dropped call rates, and allows for data transmission. The satellite phone must be sent to BlueCosmo Communications main office for the reflash.
- Would I need the reflash performed on my satellite phone?
If you purchased your phone prior to March 31, 2001, AND you are concerned about the voice quality, dropped call rates, or being able to send and receive data via your satellite phone, you would want the reflash.
- Can I get the reflash on my Kyocera satellite phone?
No, we are unable to reflash the Kyocera satellite phones.
- What is the function of the SIM card?
SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards are currently used in all GSM-based systems. The SIM card is a removable module that contains user identity, account information, and stores phone numbers which can be used in any compatible phone where your SIM card is present. When inserted into a telephone, it allows you to place or receive calls. Any Iridium SIM card will work in any Iridium Satellite Phone
- What type of phone number will I receive?
The phone number is a 12-digit Iridium phone number assigned by BlueCosmo Communications that is specific to the Iridium network. Iridium has it's own country code of 8816 which is then followed by 8 digits. (E.g. 8816-315-12345) When placing calls to and from Iridium you must always use international dialing. (E.g. From North America dial 011-8816-315-12345)
For international rates to call an Iridium phone please contact your Long Distance Provider and ask the per minute rate to call Iridium or country code 8816. Average pricing is $7+ per minute.
There is an optional US based phone number for an additional cost on monthly billed plans. Not available on pre-paid services.
- Can I choose my Iridium satellite phone number?
No.
- Are calls to the Iridium satellite phone a 'local' call?
No. Calls place to the Iridium satellite phone are considered an international phone call.
- Is there an access number to reach the Iridium satellite phone?
Yes. There is an access number with a 480 area code. The caller will dial the access number and at the prompt, enter the 12-digit Iridium phone number they are trying to reach. The call will then be routed to the phone. Calls placed in this manner are called "Two-Stage Dialing," and there is a charge to the Iridium subscriber for this type of incoming call.
- If I buy two phones, can they share a service plan?
No. Each phone is required to have its own SIM card to operate. Each SIM card has a unique phone number, and each phone number would need to be set up on an individual service plan.
- What service features are available on the Iridium phones?
Voice mail, short messaging service (SMS), call forwarding, call barring and Two-Stage dialing are all available on all BlueCosmo Communications service plans. Voice mail is available on all plans, and call forwarding, call barring, SMS and Two-Stage dialing are included on all plans.
- Can I get cellular on the Iridium satellite phones?
No. At this time, Iridium is not supporting cellular service on the satellite phones.
- What is short messaging service (SMS)?
The person trying to contact you on your Iridium satellite phone can send a short text message (under 160 characters) directly to your handset. There is no charge riecive the SMS. Keep in mind that your handset must be on to receive the message, and the Iridium system only stores these messages for eight(8) days. There are two ways to send a SMS message:
- Visit messaging.Iridium.com to Send a Text Message.
- Open a new e-mail, and send to '8816xxxxxxxx@msg.iridium.com'. Do not include a subject line as it will not be included in the message body. Type in a short text message (under 160 characters), and hit 'send'.
- Is Emergency 911 calling available on the Iridium network?
Yes, 911 Emergency service is available in North America only. You only need dial 911 to be connected to a central Emergency Services representative. No special prefixes or country codes are needed when dialing 911. When traveling outside North America it is advisable to have the emergency contact numbers with you.
