Now that Garmin's new inReach has arrived on SA shores, local explorers never need feel cut-off from the outside world ever again. Combining the nav giant's legendary GPS prowess with affordable satellite-based SMS communications, including direct SOS access to the global GEOS emergency monitoring centre. This amazing, game-changing device can do way more than just prevent you from getting lost or keep you in touch with family back home – it could potentially save your life. Here's all you need to know about the two inReach models , the SE+ and Explorer+, including how much they cost and how the available data plans to access Iridium's satellite network are structured.
Fast, reliable and with footprints encompassing every remote corner of the planet, everyone agrees that satellite networks provide the ultimate communications solution – regardless of whether you're an overland adventurer intent on visiting isolated areas, or a dedicated bluewater sailor seeking freedom far offshore. Sadly though, this uber-convenient form of staying in touch, however desirable, has always had one downside; and it's a big one: cost. In the past, prohibitive airtime tariffs have prevented many explorers (especially those financing their own trips) from investing in this potentially lifesaving technology. Effectively forcing them to cut corners and compromise their safety, simply because of budgetary constraints.
Fortunately, this is no longer the case. Garmin's new inReach (available in two models, the inReach SE+ and inReach Explorer+) brings affordable satellite communications to all of us. Combining reliable GPS navigation, with the ability to communicate via SMS over Iridium's extensive satellite network into one practical device – these ground-breaking, robust outdoor handsets allow adventurous individuals to not only better invest in their own safety for future expeditions, but also provide regular reassurance to family members back home while they're gone. Oh, and they'll not get lost while doing it either.
As satellite communicators, both the SE+ and Explorer+ work exactly the same way. However, when it comes to their navigational ability, they differ markedly. The basic inReach SE+ uses GPS to provide basic grid navigation and allows one to drop waypoints, mark key locations, track one's progress and follow breadcrumb trails back to base. While the more expensive inReach Explorer+ takes things a lot further – providing full-fledged GPS on-map guidance, with preloaded DeLorme TOPO mapping and waypoint routings viewable directly on the unit. It also comes with a built-in digital compass, barometric altimeter and accelerometer; placing it firmly in the top tier of available high-end navigation devices.
Shoot the breeze with friends or call the cavalry
Operating on Iridium's satellite network, a synchronized constellation of 66 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites that deliver seamless 100 percent coverage worldwide. Both models provide affordable, two-way SMS communications between you and any smartphone or email address, regardless of your location on the planet – allowing you to remain in regular contact with loved ones at home or, if you're working, communicate with colleagues back at head office.
Should you get yourself into serious trouble in a remote location, the two-way communication advantage these units provide will quickly become apparent. That's because, the moment you press their dedicated SOS buttons, the global rescue experts at the GEOS Emergency Monitoring Centre, based in Houston, Texas kick into high gear. These guys have supported rescues in over 140 counties and saved many thousands of lives all over the world. After providing you with confirmation that help is on the way, they'll then track your location 24/7 and maintain a two-way conversation with you until the situation is resolved – updating you regularly on how rescue efforts are proceeding, and passing on relevant information from you to the rescue teams as required.
Here's how simple it is to call for help
1. All handsets have to be registered on the GEOS portal, so they already know who you are.
2. You press the SOS button to send an emergency alert.
3. GEOS quickly responds in your native language.
4. You describe your emergency so responders know whom and what to send.
5. Responders advise you when to expect assistance – and suggest potentially life-saving actions to take in the meantime.
6. You communicate with friends and family, letting them know the situation and where to contact the rescue team.
7. Help arrives.
The inReach technology from Garmin provides the following capabilities:
Stay connected
Keeping friends and family up to speed with what you're doing is easy – just turn on the tracking function and you're sorted. Once activated, your inReach device will send waypoints at preselected time intervals, allowing followers to track your whereabouts online. You can also invite those back home to use MapShare to ping your inReach unit and see your GPS location, track your movements and exchange messages in real time. You can even embed your MapShare page on a blog, Website or social media platform. Nifty!
The ability of both units to pair with compatible smartphones provides users with even more functionality and convenience. The free Earthmate app syncs your inReach handheld via Bluetooth with compatible Apple or Android devices, providing you with access to unlimited maps and aerial imagery. It also allows you to conveniently use all of the inReach features on your paired mobile device. For easier messaging, you can also sync your inReach with your phone’s contact list to reach anyone, anywhere – but with less hassle and fewer keystrokes than you'd require when just using the units themselves.
Those who like to watch the weather will appreciate the optional inReach weather forecast service. This provides detailed updates directly to your device, compatible smartphone or tablet (when paired with the Earthmate app), so you can plan for the weather you'll encounter en route. Basic and premium weather packages are available. You can also request weather forecasts for your current location, any other waypoint or destination on your itinerary.
Finally, every inReach device comes with free access to a cloud-powered portal, allowing you to plan your trips with routes and waypoints. You can also create preset messages and quick texts, sync and manage your device settings, update firmware, download additional TOPO maps, link your social media accounts, store all your location tracking data and much more.
Payment plans and your options
To access the Iridium network and communicate via an inReach SE+ or Explorer+, an active satellite subscription is required. Data plans are split between consumer and enterprise usage, with a number of options available in both categories to help users find one that best suits their needs. Individual users can also opt for either an annual contract package or a flexible month-to-month airtime plan, which allows them to only pay for service when it's required.
Consumer satellite subscription plans
Billing occurs monthly and annual subscriptions require a 12-month contract. That said, if you go for one of the Freedom Plans – the option that would most probably work best for most people – you're only required to make a 30-day commitment. You can then move freely up and down plans at no extra charge, however going up a plan requires you take on an extra 30-day commitment.
For annual subscriptions, there's a one-time R399 activation cost. Moving up a plan is free, and moving down a plan incurs an extra R499 fee. To enrol in any of the Freedom Plans there's an annual program fee of R499.
Freedom Plan users can suspend their service on a monthly basis at no charge and still retain access to all their inReach data stored on the Explore portal. However, be warned – your selected plan will auto-renew each month unless you manually change your account details on the portal yourself.
Consumer Satellite Subscription Plans
Enterprise satellite subscription plans
Enterprise satellite subscriptions incorporate flexible, byte-based airtime plans designed to meet the unique needs of enterprise operations across multiple industries and geographies. A robust back-office is also provided, allowing organisations to control the end-user experience, conduct team or asset tracking, facilitate centralised billing as well as the management of a fleet of devices.
Here's a breakdown illustrating how many bytes are typically used during each application:
Enterprise Satellite Subscription Plans
More features you should know about
Both the inReach SE+ and Explorer+ feature internal rechargeable lithium batteries, so you can count on a long battery life in every mode of operation – up to 100 hours in 10-minute tracking mode (default); up to 75 hours in 10-minute tracking with 1-second logging; up to 30 days at the 30-minute interval power save mode; and up to 3 years in standby mode. Batteries are recharged via the standard microUSB power cable (provided) or optional in-vehicle 12v charger. And, as you'd expect from Garmin, both units are tough, durable, impact resistant and water-rated to IPX7 – so no matter what the elements throw at you, they'll stay up and running. – (c) 2017 NavWorld
Specifications
Unit dimensions (W x H x D): 6.8 x 16.4 x 3.8 cm
Display size: 2.3-inch (5.9 cm) diagonal
Display resolution (W x H): 200 x 265 pixels
Display type: Transflective colour TFT
Weight: 213 g
Battery type: Rechargeable internal lithium-ion
Battery life: Up to 100 hrs at 10-min tracking mode (default), up to 30 days at 30-min interval power save mode and up to 3 years in standby mode.
Water rating: IPX7
Interface: High-speed USB and NMRA 0183 compatible
Internal memory: 2 GB
Waypoints: 250 Routes
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Customers will still have the option of placing orders that fall below this qualifying value conditional on these orders clearly specifying a Delivery Charge of R 172.50 Incl. VAT.
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