7th September 2017
For many people a satellite phone or device is something that lives in a drawer and is only brought out of hibernation when really needed. Following the devastation caused by Harvey and Irma so far this hurricane season, we urge anyone with a satellite phone, preparing for extreme weather, to get it out of the box and test that it’s working.
As firmware (software) updates for satellite devices are released periodically by manufacturers for bug fixes and network enhancements, it can be one of the most important things to check after a long period of non-use.
Please see our instructions below for checking that your firmware is up to date, and that your device will be working at its optimum.
Inmarsat handset firmware
You can check the firmware version installed on Inmarsat handsets by going to Menu > Settings > About
The Latest firmware versions for Iridium handsets are shown below.
- IsatPhone 2: Version 02.00.01
- IsatPhone Pro: Version 5.17.2
If you need to update your firmware, links to the latest firmware versions can be found by clicking here.
Inmarsat BGAN terminal firmware
As there are a range of BGAN terminals available from different manufacturers including; Harris FALCON, Hughes, Cobham SATCOM and Addvalue, we recommend you visit this page to identify the correct firmware information for your specific terminal.
Iridium handset firmware
You can check the firmware version installed on Iridium handsets by going to Menu > Setup > Phone Information
The Latest firmware versions for Iridium handsets are shown below.
- Iridium 9555: Version HT17001
- Iridium Extreme 9575: Version HT15002
- Iridium Extreme PTT: Version HP17002
If you need to update your firmware, links to the latest firmware versions can be found by clicking here.
Iridium GO! device firmware
You can check the firmware version installed on Iridium GO! devices by pressing the left or right navigational buttons to bring up the menu: Menu > Information
The latest firmware version for the Iridium GO! is shown below:
- Iridium GO!: Version 1.5.2
To update your firmware, the latest links can be found by clicking here.
Testing your satellite phone
We also receommend you test that your satellite phone is working. To test your satellite phone, take it outside, ensure the antenna is pointing upwards with no physical obstructions, and follow the instructions below, depending on whether you have an Iridium or Inmarsat phone.
Iridium - make a free test call from your Iridium satellite phone by dialling +1-480-752-5105
Inmarsat - make a free test call from your Inmarsat satellite phone by dialling +870 776 999 999
If you have tried to upgrade your firmware, or test your device without success, we recommend that you contact our Technical Support team for assistance:
[email protected]
UK: +44 (0) 191 258 8649 option 1
US Toll free: + (1) 877 223 5075 option 1
Asia: + 65 3108 0519 option 1
Aus: + 61 2888 00171 option 1
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Activating SIM cards and adding credit
If you have not used your satellite phone for an extended period of time, you may also need to reactivate your SIM card and add credit.
If you have an account set up with us, you know the type of sim and plan activation you require, you can contact our Airtime Customer Services team to process your request.
If you don't have an account set up, are unsure about the type of activation you require, or would like to talk about prepay or postpay credit options available, then we suggest you call our Americas office.
Contact details for airtime customer services and our Americas sales office are as follows:
Airtime Customer Service for specific activation requests: [email protected]
Americas Sales Team for activation advice: +1-480-857-6656
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