Thread: Garmin inReach - GPS, SOS, two way satelite text communication

Originally Posted by gimp

More satellites but much less transmission power, through 3rd parties for SOS rather than direct to RCCNZ, variables like "used most of the battery texting the mrs so now I have 5 mins of SOS time", no 406mhz beacon backup function, etc. I like them for texting but wouldn't trust for PLB. Also I prefer a satphone because ie you might be in South Westland and want to contact James Scott for a pickup. He's got no cell reception so can't text, so you need to call him. Can't call with an Inreach.

Iridium "Go" looks good. Keen to get some time on one of those this summer.

Not sure on this new model but Iv had the original for a few years. The battery life is very good, I had it on Stew Island for a week and it still had plenty of charge after using it very day and sending "ha you should be here " txts. Sending texts wont drain the battery , well maybe if your 14 with your first ever girlfriend.
. It only needs to get a signal for a short time to send an sos message which has the cords attched.
You can easily text home and get Mrs to ring your taxi. You can turn on the bread crumbs feature so your position can seen by who ever you want when ever you want.
IIRC its monitored in Texas , they quote 6mins? till NZ service has the information, pretty sure its been used here with a successful outcome .Mapping through the earthmate app Bluetoothed to the phone is good.