Stay Connected Beyond Cell Coverage
Based on an article by Mark Corke for BoatUS
KVH delivers higher data speed, greater Internet range offshore with its new TracPhone LTE-1.
Everyone wants to stay connected these days, and while regular cellphone coverage continues to get better and more reliable, those who head 20-miles offshore quickly find themselves out of range.
Realizing that even coastal cruisers want to stay in touch, KVH, one of the leaders in marine communications technology, launched the TracPhone LTE-1. Unlike the satellite communications technology that is the bedrock of KVH's business, TracPhone LTE-1 is a cellular product, which the manufacturer says will keep you connected up to 20 miles offshore.
"The TracPhone LTE-1 is a game changer for boaters who want to stay connected with HD streaming, video chatting, and more," says Martin Kits van Heyningen, KVH's chief executive officer. "We've taken the same end-to-end approach we use with our satellite-based products to ensure the best experience for our customers by providing everything they need — from hardware to airtime — to enjoy fast Internet access on the boat."
The outward appearance of the LTE-1 is the familiar KVH dome, albeit in a smaller package that measures just over 12 inches in height and width, so it should be an easy, unobtrusive fit on almost any boat. Under the hood are dual antennas, modem, GPS, and Wi-Fi router so you won't clutter up in the inside of the boat with hardware.
Data speeds are reported to be 100Mbps download and 50 Mbps upload — fast enough to stream video content and post your favorite boating pictures to social media