HF Advantages Over Satellite

Complex situations often cannot be communicated by voice alone and hence HF provides the option to send images over the HF link to provide additional situational awareness. Unlike satellite, the data usage for image transfers is does not have an additional cost and is not restricted by data usage limits.

With HF networks, the owner or user has full ownership and hence not dependent upon third party infrastructure as with satellite communication. The control offered within a HF network also enables real time broadcast capability allowing the radios to be configured to a pre-set frequency which results in calls being negligible delay.

The availability of satellite phones is volatile compared to HF and they are renowned for their “dead” spots and service “drop outs”. The absence of base or mobile stations for back up makes it virtually impossible to communicate in case of an emergency. On the other hand, HF radios with digital voice capability have been proven to provide a communications link even in the most challenging environments and conditions. The combination of HF and VHF on a communications network increases coverage strength by providing VHF PTT communications for short-range transmission and HF over long distances.

On a service cost and setup comparison, HF has a relatively higher initial outlay. However, once setup, HF radio has no ongoing costs, unlike satellite phones, which require an ongoing monthly subscription fee. Furthermore, HF networks can be connected to emergency providers to provide one-touch emergency response to the users’ location, without any additional cost.