Workboat broadband for a life of leisure
Marine satellite communications experts Global Telesat Communications has launched what it claims is the most cost effective global broadband voice and data service through a single antenna, Inmarsat FleetBroadband Sailor 150 (FB150).
The FB150 is now extended to leisure boaters who require access to the internet or to make voice calls. Formerly reserved for work boats or fishing vessels, FB150 is compact and light enough for use on any size of boat, meaning those on board can experience full IP streaming on a global scale, enabling them to keep up to date with the news, email friends or check the most recent weather forecasts from on board, at speeds of up to 150 kbps.
The antenna is contained in a 29cm diameter radome which weighs only 3.9kg for ease of placement on board even the smallest of leisure and workboats. There is a specially designed mobile phone style handset included in the package to deal with voice calls and the system can also incorporate SMS text messages and voicemail services.
The cost of the system is £4,150 ex VAT. This includes the antenna, the terminal, SIM card for voice calling and the accompanying handset. After the $25.00 activation fee, there is no monthly airtime contract, and there is no minimum term. All that is required is one month’s notice. Voice calls and voicemail cost from $1.30 and $1.10 per minute respectively. Text messaging costs $0.75 per SMS.
The FB150 provides a reliable and user friendly system. The chance of a loss of functionality in bad weather has been totally eradicated and the ease of installation, use and maintenance of FB150 is impressive.
The FB150 is part of a three model range, with the FB250 and FB500 completing the FleetBroadband series.
