Spot Satellite Messenger

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Reviewed by 3 Trailspace users

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Description

The SPOT Satellite Messenger is a gps receiver made by Spot. It has an average rating of 4.5 stars (out of 5), based on 3 user reviews.

Here's what other sites are saying:

From OEGear.com:
"With a SPOT Satellite Messenger, Backpacker April '08 states, ''Now you can call in a rescue—or simply send the OK signal—from anywhere.'"

From Campmor:
"With the SPOT Satellite Messenger, you and your loved ones have peace of mind knowing help is always within reach. SPOT is the only device of its kind, using the GPS satellite network to acquire its coordinates, and then sending its location - with a link to Google Maps - and a pre-programmed message via a commercial satellite network. And unlike Personal Locator Beacons, SPOT does more than just call for help. Tracking your progress, checking in with loved ones, and non-emergency assistance are also available, all at the push of a button. And because it uses 100% satellite technology, SPOT works around the world - even where cell phones don't. Functional Specifications Four key functions: Alert 9-1-1 - Dispatch emergency responders to your exact location SPOT sends one message every 5 minutes until power is depleted or 911 is cancelled. Ask for Help - Request help from friends and family in your exact location SPOT sends one message every 5 minutes for one hour or until Help is cancelled Check In - Let contacts know where you are and that you're okay SPOT sends three identical messages to the SPOT service for redundancy. The first of those three messages is delivered. Track Progress - Send and save your location and allow contacts to track your progress using Google Maps SPOT sends one message every 10 minutes for 24 hours or until SPOT is powered off. Size: 4.38 X 2.75 X 1.5" (111 mm x 69 mm x 44 mm) Approximate Weight: 7.37 ounces (209 grams) Coverage: SPOT works around the world, including virtually all of North America, Europe and Australia, portions of South America, Northern Africa and Northeastern Asia, and hundreds or thousands of miles offshore of these areas. See coverage on findmespot.com for maps and current coverage. Battery Life: (Includes 2 AA 1.5V lithium batteries) Power on, unused: Approx. 1 year SPOTcasting tracking mode: Approx. 14 days 9-1-1 mode: Up to 7 consecutive days SPOTcheck OK/v: 1900 messages Floats in water Waterproof to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes Requires Subscription Services click here for more details"

From Backcountry.com:
"When you're headed into the backcountry or traveling abroad in unfamiliar territory, pack the SPOT Satellite Messenger for worldwide satellite tracking and emergency alert capabilities. The SPOT utilizes GPS technology to transmit your location to your SPOT account every 10 minutes. Send a check-in signal and your coordinates (which can be tracked with Google Maps) to your friends and loved ones via text message or email, or send a help signal for non-life threatening situations when you need assistance. When you send a 911 signal, the GEOS International Emergency Response Center alerts the appropriate agencies (SAR, paramedics, embassy, etc.) of your exact location, and notifies your emergency contact about the receipt of a distress signal. For maximum reliability, The SPOT also performs a self-diagnostic test each time you turn it on. The SPOT requires a yearly service plan for activation. Backcountry.com athlete Karl Meltzer will carry the SPOT when he attempts to run the Appalachian Trail in less than 47 days, starting August 5. Follow his progress with the SPOT at www.whereskarl.com."

From EMS:
"SPOT is the first GPS based system for alerting friends and family of your progress, sending for help or activating a 9-1-1 alert. SPOT is the only system to use GPS satellites so it works anywhere in the world, even where cell phones don't. Unit requires online activation and subscription; full basic subscription costs $99.99 per year, other subscription may vary. Check-In, SPOT sends and email to your contact list with your preprogrammed message and a link to GoogleMaps showing your exact location. SPOT will also let contacts constantly track your progress with GoogleMaps updating every 10 min. Ask for help, SPOT sends a message letting your contact list know that require assistance. Help mode sends an updated location every 5 min for 1 hour so you can keep moving. ALERT 9-1-1 mode for critical and life threatening situations dispatches a signal to emergency responders. Includes 2 AA lithium batteries which sends approximately 1900 messages or 7 days continual emergency use. Battery indicator flashes red when 30% usable battery life remains."

User Reviews

SPOT Satellite Messenger
Reviewed by smartacus, Aug 19, 2008

"This is an affordable, effective device for reassuring your loved ones that you're okay--or, if necessary, summoning emergency services. I'm thrilled that a consumer device like this exists for a reasonable price. My only complaints are with the interface."

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SPOT Satellite Messenger
Reviewed by Mike Peterson, Jul 01, 2008

"I hike, bike, and ride motorcycles often. This has been a great addition just in case something goes wrong. Originally I bought it for personal safety, but it has also provided an unintended benefit for family and friends who can track my progress."

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SPOT Satellite Messenger
Reviewed by Rose Thompson, Feb 09, 2008

"My husband got us this for extended horsepacking trips that I and my neighbor friends take. We've only used it hiking so far but it has worked very well from places we don't get cell coverage. Your message shows up on pre-set email addresses and/or a text message on a cell phone."

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