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Learning More About Technology

When I realized that I wanted to go back to school, I stopped to think about what I would need to do. It had been years since I cracked open a textbook, much less learned something new on a computer. However, I wanted to succeed, so I started to learn more about technology. I spent hours brushing up on my computer troubleshooting skills and when I was done, I felt a little more prepared. After I started school, I learned even more. I made this blog to teach other people a little about technology, so that you can keep up with your peers.

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Learning More About Technology

The Backpacker's Muse: Can Satellite Two-Way Radio Help Increase Your Confidence While Hiking?

by Alyssa Bates

Being out of cell phone range while you're roaming the woodlands on your own can get dicey if you find yourself in sudden need of help. If you're a technology-driven backpacker, you appreciate having a satellite two-way radio on hand. More than a cell-phone, more than a glorified walkie-talkie, these radios can save your life. Let's unpack.

Communication Is a Two-Way Street to the Stars

Let's face it, satellite technology wrapped up in a light, compact device that looks admittedly very different than your common cell phone is--dare I say it? Cool. Imagine being out in the middle of nowhere, pulling out this smallish communicator and being able to text or call someone your location if you're lost or hurt. Not only is it great peace of mind, it's just good sense--if not for yourself, but for your loved ones back home who worry if they can't contact you. In dire emergencies, nothing is better than a personal beacon to transmit your location.

Satellite technology sends radio signals from and to earth. This enables first responders to hone in on where you are quickly and accurately. It also allows you to connect with loved ones so that they know where you are.

Honing in on the Choices

According to adventurer Andrew Skurka, here are three basic kinds of satellite devices to choose from:

  • A personal locator beacon: uses satellite GPS to show where you are located, not every satellite two-way radio has this feature. Personal locator beacons are only to be used in an emergency when all other self-helps have been tried. Coverage is global.
  • A satellite phone or two-way radio: best for groups and when you are traveling in areas of unknown or risky logistics. Make sure that you have satellite coverage. Some two-way satellite phones and radios need you to find a patch of clear sky in order to make the connection.
  • A satellite messenger: the most economical communication device, great for non-emergencies.

Most two-way radios, specifically, have 22 channels, some of which you must be licensed to use, like the General Mobile Radio Service. Satellite two-way radios have up to a 25-mile coverage when conditions are excellent, but around a couple miles when conditions are not. Two-way radios can be inhibited by hilly areas, inclement weather, vehicles, and the human body. You can only use two-way satellite radios in the United States and Canada due to their aligned frequencies.

Choose your satellite device depending on where your backpacker's muse takes you. Go ahead and be a trail-blazer in the wild blue yonder. Satellite radio's got you covered.

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