SPOT Satelite Messenger- Very Disapointed
I purchased a SPOT satelite messenger before my ride from the US to Argentina. I spent $150 for the unit, then I signed up for the service ($100 annually), the tracking feature ($50 annually), and the "extraction insurance," ($9.99 annually). I was very hopeful that it would help me stay in touch with my family- at least to let them know I was OK and, if needed, to ask them to send help.
My SPOT didn't work as advertised. You're supposed to be able to set it to TRACK mode and have it post your position on a global map. You're supposed to be able to press an OK button to send emails and text messages with your position.
From the US to Veracruz, Mexico, my OK messages went through perfectly. From Veracruz to Panama, about 1/2 of the OK messages went through. I got so disgusted with it that I stopped sending regular OK messages, and relied instead on my Iridium Satelite phone and my PLB. In places where my GPS was getting good signals, and my SAT phone worked, my SPOT failed to deliver tracking or OK messages.
Once I got back to the US I re-tested it, and, from the dashboard of my truck, once again had 100% success with OK messages.
Save your money. Don't buy a SPOT. Instead, rent or buy a Satelite phone, and carry a PLB.
|