New Enhanced One-Way SPOT Messaging Devices | Outdoor Gear | Kananaskis Outdoors Forum

Post edited 8:04 pm – June 9, 2010 by Gerard L

Until now, one-way SPOT units could simply transmit simple text messages with GPS positions for emergency purposes. Starting this Summer (2010), U.S.-based DeLorme is offering its Earthmate PN-60W coupled with its SPOT Communicator, combining GPS with custom messaging and emergency notification.  The handheld device is equipped with an internal keyboard for message composition.

The price of the system is around $550, which is significantly higher than more basic emergency SPOT devices.  Various subscription services are being offered.  The price is still below the Iridium two-way communication system but with the one-way transmission limitation.  SPOT uses non-geostationary Globalstar satellites, which are lower in number than those of Iridium.  While I have not tested SPOT/Globalstar coverage in the Canadian Rockies, one can assume that coverage would not be quite as good as Iridium.  However, for one-way messaging, delays of minutes are generally not an issue.  Unfortunately, one still does not have the comfort of receiving answers to out-going messages or even if someone is “listening” and, hence, if help is coming in case of emergency.