Satellite Text Messaging

Satellite phone popularity is on the rise ever more. They work where traditional and cellular phones do not and are great for back up communications in cases of emergency or natural disaster.

But to some, this convenience can come at a premium. However, just because you need on-demand access doesn't mean it has to cost you.

Welcome satellite text messaging... it's free to receive and discounted to send with the Iridium 9505A handheld pre-flashed with SMS software.

Send a text to an Iridium subscriber for free via:

• Web: http://www.wcclp.com/sendTextMsg.asp
• Email*: 8816xxxxxxxx@msg.iridium.com (x's represent your sat phone number)

* Make sure your e-mail editor is set to Plain Text

Sending messages from your Iridium 9505A to another Iridium sat phone (9505 or 9500) is also just as easy. Up to 160 characters are allowed. The cost is minimal, so check your service provider for your specific rates.

To send a text message, first program the Iridium Service Center number into your 9505A:

• Press the "Envelope" button
• Scroll to "Message Settings", press "OK"
• Scroll to "Service Center", press "OK"
• Enter "0081662900005" or "+881662900005", press "OK

After the Service Center number has been programmed, proceed with the following to send a SMS from your Iridium 9505A

• Press the "Menu" button
• Scroll to "Message Editor", press "OK"
• Enter the destination phone number (preceded by 00 or +)
• When complete, display will read, "Message Sent"
  

Sending a text from Iridium 9505A to an e-mail address:

• Press the "Menu" button
• Scroll to "Message Editor", press "OK"
• Enter e-mail address [space] your message (up to 160 characters including email address), press "OK"
• When it asks for "Destination?", dial "00*2" or "+*2", press "OK"
• When complete, display will read, "Message Sent"

By default the Iridium will attempt to deliver the message for up to 192 hours (8 days) before deleting it.

Text messaging is practical for those that need to send a quick message to an individual (e.g. "Call Home", "Meet me at the peak", "It's a boy!")

SMS is also invaluable to companies and groups where home-base dispatches to multiple teams in the field (e.g. "meeting canceled", "report to sector 8", "contract approved... proceed with plan".