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The Globalstar GSP-1700 is one of the many satellite phones available in the market today. If you need a satellite phone for hiking or backpacking, you can go for it, but the question is, should you? What makes this a good satellite phone and a worthy pick above its’ competitors?
Not to worry, I’m here to assist you, having done ample research on the product. So, reading this Globalstar GSP-1700 review will help you decide if you should purchase this device or not.
Globalstar GSP-1700 Satellite Phone Review
With this satellite phone, you can make calls, send voicemails, and short SMS. It supports Standard International Dialing with the “+” prefix so you can make more accurate calls. Your call history is preserved in a log. The Globalstar GSP-1700 satellite phone can also be used to browse the internet, and it is fast at 9.6 Kbps.
Using the phone is easy; you can configure the ringtones, display color scheme, and features volume, battery, and signal strength indicators. You can save a total of 99 phone numbers in the internal address book. Furthermore, there’s an option to hide numbers in a secret memory.
The Globalstar GSP-1700 satellite phone features a relatively long-lasting battery. It is a 2600mAh battery, providing up to 36 hours of standby time and 4 hours of talk time. Additional security is provided with a lock code so you can keep others off the phone.
Globalstar GSP-1700 Manufacturer’s Details
The company behind this portable satellite phone is Globalstar. As a brand, Globalstar provides satellite solutions to individuals and businesses. They are renowned for their affordable and reliable mobile voice and data communication services.
Globalstar boasts of second-generation ground infrastructure and LEO satellites. Their services are global as their satellites pick up signals from more than 80% of the earth’s surface. They provide coverage in six continents and more than 100 countries. Globalstar offers services to other industries, including government & public safety, translation, energy, construction, commercial maritime, agriculture, and forestry.
- Portable
- Lightweight
- Global coverage
- Short SMS
- Internet
- Easy to use
- User-configurable
- Secret memory
- Hardware not very durable
- It doesn’t work inside a building or car.
Verdict
The Globalstar GSP-1700 is an ideal satellite phone for portability. It works for calls, SMS, voicemails, which are the basic features you’ll need on a satellite phone. However, this is one satellite phone that you should use with care as the hardware is not very durable.
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Who is the product for?
When people purchase satellite phones, they sometimes have some particular features in mind aside from the basics. The basics here are calling and sending text messages in remote areas, which the Globalstar GSP-1700 satellite phone does.
The phone is for you if you’re going on one-day or two-day backpacking or hiking trip. This is because of the battery life. With 36 hours standby time, you won’t inconvenience yourself with constant charging until you’re back from your trip.
Also, if you’ll need to access the internet on your trip, the product is for you. You can send emails, share files, and surf websites, conveniently at a very fast speed.
A lot of persons consider satellite phones difficult to use. Such does not apply to the Globalstar GSP-1700 satellite phone as it’s a simple device. Aside from the fact that many settings are configurable, there are indicators to keep you informed of your signal and battery life. Also, you can pick phone calls by pressing any button.
You don’t need to purchase this satellite phone if you want to access features like GPS tracking and Bluetooth.
Key features and benefits
Portable
The number one feature of this satellite phone is portability. It is a lightweight and compact device, which makes it ideal for backpacking and hiking. On such trips, you’ll want to save as much space as you can.
Calls and SMS
These are the two basic features of a satellite phone. With an active service plan, you can make calls and send short SMSs using the Globalstar GSP-1700 satellite phone. The phone features an SMS shortcut, and there’s a mailbox that retains all your messages. Furthermore, you don’t have to press a specific button to answer calls; any button will work.
Fast Internet
With internet support, you can send emails and surf the web with this device. At a 9.6 kbps data speed, browsing is relatively fast, but you can make it even faster. With a USB data cable, you can increase the speed to 38,400 bps. Also, the phone supports TCP/IP and modems.
Easy to use
This device lets you configure almost everything to your preference. You can configure the color scheme, ringtones, call timer, and minute alert. The volume keys are featured on the side for easy access, and the device features an illuminated keypad, which makes it usable at night and in low-light areas. Finally, it supports a headset so that you can go hands-free.
Memory
The Globalstar GSP-1700 has an internal address book that can take 99 entries. You can also store very private numbers in a secret memory, so they are hidden from others. The device stores all your messages and voice mails in a mailbox. Finally, it has a call log that retains your missed, received, and dialed calls.
Quality display
This satellite phone features a backlit color display with 12-character, 4-line LCD. From your screen, you can view battery, volume, and signal indicators. There are different color display schemes featured for you to choose from.
Battery life
The Globalstar GSP-1700 might not have the best battery, but it’s one you can rely on. As previously mentioned, the 2600mAh battery has a standby time of about 36 hours and a talk time of about 4 hours. On standby, it can get through a day without charging. The battery charges fast, too with the included AC charger.
Security
Like most satellite phones, this one features a default keypad lock. However, the Globalstar GSP-1700 has additional security with a 4-digit security code lock.
FAQ & Additional Tips
- How much does this product cost?
The Globalstar GSP-1700 is a relatively affordable satellite phone with a price starting from around $400. However, note that you’ll need to purchase a service plan to use the device. The plans are flexible, and you can pay per month or year.
- Where can you purchase the Globalstar GSP-1700 satellite phone?
The Globalstar GSP-1700 satellite phone is available for purchase on Amazon and other online stores, including Walmart, eBay, and Satellite Phone Store. You can purchase service plans from the Globalstar website.
- What is included in the purchase pack?
When you purchase the Globalstar GSP-1700 satellite phone, you get the following in the box;
- AC charger
- Quick-start guide
- User manual
- CD-ROM
- How is the device used?
This is an easy-to-use satellite phone. A user manual and quick start guide are included to instruct you on how to use the phone. To start using, you have to install the battery, adjust the antenna, and you’re good.
- Does it have a warranty?
Yes, the Globalstar GSP-1700 satellite phone is covered with a 1-year warranty.
Conclusion
With its pros and cons, the Globalstar GSP-1700 is not a perfect satellite phone but, it is great. As a portable backpacking satellite phone, you can take it along with you anywhere with ease. With global coverage, six continents, and 120 countries, you can use the phone everywhere.
Furthermore, this device is recommended for its ease of use and convenience. As discussed in this Globalstar GSP-1700 review, you can configure the display and ringtones to your preference, and a user manual is included to guide you. You can get it from different online and offline stores, but I recommend buying from Amazon.
