Saving Lives with IoT & Satellite Connectivity

Posted by
Sandra Mueller

Saving Lives with IoT & Satellite Connectivity

On this week’s episode of Real World IoT, host Ken Briodagh talks satellite connectivity and asset tracking with Globalstar’s Ron Wright and David Chalona. Both Regional Sales Managers, Ron holds over 25 years of industry experience in sales and marine technology, while David is a veteran technician with cloud services and IoT networks. Globalstar is a quickly growing company, dedicated to providing data and voice communications in low connectivity areas. With an extensive satellite network, picking up signals from over 80% of the Earth’s surface, Globalstar provides reliability and operability worldwide, connecting users in areas where traditional networks are unreliable or unavailable. Most importantly, Globalstar's connectivity is provided with extreme reliability by means of their strategically designed LEO network.

Real Life Rescues

Our world today is extremely reliant on connectivity and the ability to access the proper resources when needed. Emergency situations are never predicted, and sometimes the ability to call for help can be the deciding factor between life and death. “Most people do not expect to have to need their device,” Chalona mentions, “but as much as we are busy planning, life happens.” Globalstar recognizes the volatility of life and has dedicated part of their mission to making rescues in out-of-range locations. To date, Globalstar’s satellite network has crested over 6,000 rescues to date, equating to over 12,000 saved lives.

Use Cases

Outside of human rescues, Globalstar’s devices offer connectivity and data tracking which can be utilized by businesses and outdoor adventurers alike. Their three leading devices include the SPOT X, SPOT TRACE, and the SPOT GEN3. While the SPOT X is a two-way messaging product, with connectivity reaching well beyond any regular radio or satellite device, the SPOT TRACE offers motion detection and reporting. The SPOT GEN3 is a hybrid of the two, offering a built in “SOS” function in addition to real-time data reports. Globalstar is used by companies in a wide variety of fields. One notable case study is that of M Betters Construction. As a multi-state construction company, they are able to use the SPOT TRACE devices to track the status and location of their heavy equipment. Updates are sent every 2.5 minutes, whether it is at a job site or on the move. With so many assets, being able to keep tabs remotely can ensure jobs remain on schedule, and that nothing is left behind. The SPOT TRACE device has also helped with theft prevention. By connecting to Globalstar’s “findmespot” website, an automated log can be created and shared, allowing for quick and easy monitoring.

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