Saving money using satellite phones

There are two main types of satellite phones. One is used by sailors and mountaineers for example that communicate directly with a satellite. The other works in conjunction with any broadband service, but needs at least a 2Mb speed for clear reception. The first is expensive compared to those working via broadband, which is also known as a VoIP telephone.

Most people that choose a satellite phone have satellite broadband due to the slow speed or non-availability of a landline service, although it is not a requirement. They choose it as the price of renting a satellite telephone number and taking an associated call package is less than a standard monthly line rental charge. They can choose a French or UK number and have the option of keeping their existing French number. You may want to rent both a UK and a French number if that suits your business.

The equipment consists of a small box which you connect between your modem and telephone, or you can buy a full handset with the box built in that connects directly to your modem.

Either way the small size of the equipment makes it portable. This allows you to make and receive calls from any modem, so is ideal if you work in offices in the UK and France. As your telephone number is an ‘internet’ number it will receive calls anywhere in the world as long as you have access to a modem. It has an answerphone that will also work no matter where you are.

One difference between using this type of phone and one connected to a land line is a small delay between when you speak and the other person hearing you.

Similarly you will experience a small delay after they have spoken due to the length of time it takes for the signal to go from the phone to the satellite and then the other person.

Question answered by Bob Elliott from the telephone and broadband provider, UK Telecom. See uktelecom.net for more information on their services in France

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