Choosing the right data terminal
The first selection criterion is the destination and the method of travel
Are you traveling by car, on land, or by sea with your own or chartered boat?
Your travel destination is also decisive with regard to the selection of the right terminal and satellite network, since, for example, there are fewer network providers to choose from for the Atlantic than for the Mediterranean or the Arabian Sea. From a technical point of view, what is relevant for the selection is which Internet services you will need for your trip or deployment. If you are mainly concerned with tracking, short text messages or short weather information, other devices can be used than for broadband connections with which you can surf the Internet almost as usual and create all services from apps to VPN connections directly to your corporate network. To determine the hardware and provider, it is advisable to make a rough calculation of the expected data volume to find the most cost-effective tariff for you. When using your own IT hardware, it makes sense to install a laptop, tablet or smartphone with only the software you actually need. Keep in mind that many apps want to "call home" permanently and do so, causing very high data consumption very quickly, which can be very expensive. A properly set up firewall or an app like NETGUARD for Android, tablets and smartphones can prevent unwanted traffic. It is possible to set up consumption limits on the operator side that block access when a certain level of consumption is reached. It should be noted that the consumption count does not always run in real time but can also be delayed by various factors and the set limit can also be exceeded. We expressly point out that each tenant and all their users are fully responsible for consumption and will be charged without deduction. With regard to the importance of maintaining communication at sea or away from any mobile phone coverage, a full lockout of the terminal can become critical as it is then no longer possible to communicate in an emergency. Experience has shown that the data consumption predicted for the voyage was usually higher than expected, so it is usually much cheaper to use a larger data package to be able to surf the Internet more carefree and save yourself high costs. Installation and assembly, with the terminals offered by us for renting, assembly devices for KFZ and boat are included. On car roofs you use magnetic feet and for mounting on the boat a mast holder for vertical masts. With the antenna cable you connect the terminal below deck or inside the vehicle on boat and car. Depending on the terminal, this can be connected by 12V or 110/230V. When laying the cable, please note that these high-quality but sensitive high-frequency cables must not be kinked, pinched or otherwise damaged.
Telephoning with data terminals
Depending on the manufacturer and network operator, the terminals are equipped with a telephony module or can be used with VoIP phones or apps. Certus offers 3 phone numbers in the Inmarsat network directly on the terminal or VoIP depending on the service, in the network of Thuraya you use VoIP or the Thuraya Talk App. Please note that for VoIP connections, depending on the provider of the VoIP service, a certain data consumption will be charged per MB.
The right SIM card for your destination
In order for us to offer the most cost-effective tariff option for your trip, please inform us about your destination. For example, Thuraya offers the NOVA SIM card, which is cheaper in NOVA countries, and the Standard SIM, which is much cheaper for use on marine areas in international waters.
Travel with data terminals and phones
Our rental data terminals are packed protected in airworthy robust suitcases. The suitcases weigh between 20 and 30kg depending on the terminal and can be checked in as regular luggage according to IATA, as no lithium batteries are included. Satellite phones usually have to be carried in the cabin due to IATA regulations (note these may vary by country of departure and airline). Batteries must be installed on the device and the device must be secured against accidental power-up. Spare batteries must be packed short-circuit-proof. Please check with your airline the current valid guidelines for the transport of batteries before check-in. In case of improper transport, confiscation or destruction by the airport, the renter is liable for the replacement value.
Entry regulations in countries with restrictions or prohibitions for satellite communication and technology
The renter is responsible for checking and complying with the current regulations. In case of unauthorized or illegal import of our equipment and resulting confiscation, the renter is liable for all legal consequences and the replacement value for the equipment. The resulting non-use of the rental object does not release the renter from the rental payment. Currently (as of 07/2021), the following countries are possibly affected: Cuba, North Korea, India, partially Russia, Syria, various countries in Africa. For governmental organizations or organizations with legitimate interest it is, to our knowledge, quite possible to obtain special permits for the import and use of satellite communications from the national representation in Austria. In such a case, please inform us before signing the lease agreement.
