Globalstar Satellite Phones - Answers

How does the Globalstar handset work?

Globalstar customers make or receive calls using the hand-held phone or with the hands free car kit. The phones communicate via a Globalstar satellite that bounces the signal back down to the nearest earth station that interconnects to the local telephone system. The process takes roughly 10 milliseconds, delivering excellent voice clarity and no perceptible voice delay.

Customers can configure the phone so that it is always in Globalstar mode. When you have activated and are within a cellular serviced area and the Globalstar handset is set to cellular preference, the unit will automatically default to the cellular network.

(Globalstar phones are no longer activated on cellular networks)

Do Globalstar's satellite phones work just like cell phones?

Globalstar satellite phones offer many of the same characteristics as cellular phones, including a similar user interface and design. One of the main differences between satellite and cell phones is that the user must put up a larger satellite antenna in order to receive satellite signals.

Globalstar features one of the smallest and lightest handsets in the satellite industry. Satellite phones are slightly larger in size than cellular phones because the antenna system required to communicate on the satellite frequencies must be larger than a cellular phone antenna.

Another fundamental difference between traditional wireless phones and Globalstar satellite phones, is that when the phone is in satellite mode, as with all satellite mobile handheld phones, it must be within satellite line-of-sight in order to complete calls. Therefore the mobile handset cannot be used indoors.

However, Globalstar phones will work indoors in cellular mode when the user is within a cellular - serviced area. If satellite phone services are required indoors, Globalstar offers two options. The GSP-2900 fixed satellite phone and the FAU-200. Either can be used indoors in satellite mode as they have external remote antennas to create line of sight with the Globalstar Satellite Network.

What are the differences between the FAU-200 and the GSP-2900 Fixed Satellite Phones?

When was Globalstar made available in North America?

Globalstar has been rolling out its services on a progressive basis since the fall of 1999.

Who has subscribed to Globalstar services?

It is estimated that 50 per cent of the world has little or no phone service. The advent of affordable satellite telephony and other wireless services will change this, since it eliminates the need for costly landline or wireless network infrastructures. In fact, industry experts anticipate that the market potential for mobile global satellite communications is between 10 and 30 million customers.

Across North America, business, government, and even the general public need the ability to communicate wherever they are located or travelling. With many regions not having existing landline or cellular coverage there is distinct need for Globalstar's reliable and quality voice and data services.

These users are from a variety of industries:

How much do Globalstar Phones and Services cost?

Phones: Globalstar's mobile unit, the GSP-1600 (link), has an MSRP of $495, by far the most competively priced satellite phone in the market. Fixed units range from $949 for the FAU-2000 (link), voice only unit, to the GSP-2900 (link) fixed satellite phone for $1,999 which includes data service as well as voice capabilities. Click here for a link to the Globalstar products page to view more features and benefits of Globalstar phones.

Airtime Rates: Globalstar offers the best-in-class satellite call rates in the US or Caribbean. Calls from anywhere in the US or Caribbean can start as low as $0.17 per minute on the Powerline 3000 (link) price plan. Other price plans are available. For long distance rates, visit the long distance rate calculator (link) for specific country rates. Globalstar USA offers service that is effectively priced for the user, while offering convenience, unmatched service quality and leading edge applications and features.

Why is Globalstar the best satellite service in the USA?

Globalstar's innovative, yet proven technology, delivers higher dependability, stronger voice clarity and lower costs than the competition:

More dependable - Globalstar offers true satellite diversity. At least two satellites and as many as four satellites are in view at any one time to make and receive Globalstar calls, resulting in fewer dropped calls.

More user friendly - Globalstar's handset is one of the smallest and lightest handsets on the market making it easy to carry with you wherever you go.

Better quality - Globalstar uses Qualcomm's CDMA technology, resulting in superior voice quality and security with less potential for signal blockage from buildings, terrain or other natural features.

Globalstar's constellation of satellites is Low Earth Orbiting (LEO'S) offering voice transmissions with an imperceptible voice delay. This allows for natural communications without awkward pauses or silences.

More cost effective - Globalstar offers the best-in-class satellite call rates in the USA or Caribbean.

What is Globalstar's international coverage?

Globalstar offers roaming in over 110 countries serving 90% of the world's population. For specific countries, please visit our page.