Go on adventure and stay connected with the ZOLEO satellite communicator

Snowmobiles satisfy a need for escape and, for that reason, some will go into remote locations in Quebec’s territory. Most will use federated trails, or go off trail through forestry roads, lakes, and power lines. However, before heading to these remote locations, the security aspect needs to be considered.

Of course, it is always important to have a minimum of equipment to handle some issues if something goes wrong. On the other hand, in a critical situation where help is needed, what would you do?

This brings me to introduce the ZOLEO satellite communicator. This device allows you to communicate via satellite when the cellular network is unavailable. In my opinion, this small electronic is essential for any adventurer off the grid.

A Product to Discover Absolutely!

The ZOLEO satellite communicator is a product that should absolutely be considered for any adventurer. Last season, I brought it with me whenever I went riding, and I must say that I greatly appreciated the entire product. When I think of the ZOLEO satellite communicator, I think of an affordable, easy-to-use product with an intuitive mobile application. Furthermore, its fast and reliable satellite connection allows messages to be sent and received easily. When you have it in your hands, it gives a great impression of quality with a textured rubber cover and flawless finish. Additionally, if you have any questions about the product’s usage, the manufacturer’s website is filled with very relevant explanatory sections. 

ZOLEO: A Game-Changer in Satellite Communication

The ZOLEO satellite communicator is a very complete product with an interesting price. I can take it everywhere with me on my trips because of its small size and strong resistance to the elements. In addition, its various features make the user experience easy and user-friendly.

ZOLEO, a Canadian corporation, was founded in 2018 through a collaboration between Beam Communications and Roadspot. These are two companies recognized in the field of satellite telecommunications. The ZOLEO satellite communicator aimed to bring an affordable and reliable solution to those who need to communicate in areas where there is no cellular signal. Upon its launch, this device stood out by being the first on the market to offer a multi-network capability. Indeed, ZOLEO can switch between Wi-Fi, cellular, or Iridium satellite networks to send and receive messages. Since then, this product has continued to gain popularity and has an excellent reputation among outdoor enthusiasts.

Key technical points you need to know

Iridium Network: Reliable Global Coverage for the ZOLEO Communicator

As I said earlier, the ZOLEO communicator connects to the Iridium satellite network. In the field of telecommunications, it is the best you can find. Indeed, this network covers the entire globe, so no worries! If you want an optimal signal, make sure you are in an open area with the top of the device pointing towards the sky.

Compact Satellite Communicator: Smaller Than Your Cell Phone

The ZOLEO satellite communicator measures 9.1 × 6.6 cm, and a weighs only 150 g. This means the device is easily storable in a glove box, backpack, or tunnel bag. Therefore, you can carry it without restricting your storage capacity, which is precious for those who leave “fully loaded”!

ZOLEO Durability: Built for Harsh Environments and Tough Conditions

You won’t have to be worried about the resistance to the elements and the robustness of this device during your adventures. The ZOLEO satellite communicator has an IP68 certification. This means it resists dust and water (1.5 m deep for 30 min.). So don’t let trails, which look like a snocross track, bother you! Its design, in accordance with the MIL-STD 810G military standard, also allows it to withstand shocks. However, being a safety device, I still believe it should be handled with care. For example, I recommend using a protective case as an excellent way to keep it intact.

Battery Life and Longevity: Over 200 Hours of Continuous Use

Another important element for snowmobilers is the durability of the lithium-ion battery used in the product. As you may know, these are less efficient in the cold. The manufacturer claims a battery life of more than 200 hours per charge when the device checks messages every twelve minutes. However, this is under ideal conditions. In the cold, the autonomy of the battery will probably be less. Personally, I never had any issue with the battery getting drained fast, even in cold temperatures (below -20 °C). I recharged when needed, and, to maximize the charge, I put the device in a small case inside the glove box of my snowmobile.

The ZOLEO communicator is loaded with great features

Three Types of Networks at Your Disposal 

As mentioned in the product presentation, one of the key points in the product offer is network switching according to availability. I believe this advantage will appeal to people who frequently switch between covered and uncovered areas. This makes it possible to centralize messages in the mobile application for daily communication and to avoid using up the satellite message quota allocated by the plan. Although the company has emphasized this innovative feature, I believe that for most people who will use the product as a safety tool, it will not necessarily be useful. Also, note that when the communicator switches to the cellular network, it is on your phone’s network provider.

An Intuitive Mobile Application

The mobile application is very user-friendly. It has a design that allows simple and intuitive use. You will have no problem finding your way around. Additionally, the device quickly connects via Bluetooth to the phone, which is a good thing. Here are the four main sections:

• “Conversations” → Displays ongoing conversations.
• “Weather” → Shows weather forecasts according to the requested location. Note that each weather forecast request consumes one message.
• “SOS” → Allows you to send an SOS alert.
• “Account settings” → Allows you to modify the application and device settings.

Let Your People Know That Everything’s OK

The ZOLEO satellite communicator has a “Check-In Message” function, which quickly and simply shows signs of life. Indeed, it only requires pressing the physical button with a checkmark icon on the device. The system will then send a pre-programmed message and the current location to a predetermined contact list.

SOS Alert: Emergency Response at the Press of a Button

The SOS emergency function should be used in critical situations where a person’s life is in danger. Pressing the red button for three seconds triggers a real emergency process at any time or day of the year. 

When the SOS is sent, here is what happens after the 10-second validation:

• Global Rescue receives the SOS and will communicate with you via the ZOLEO satellite communicator.
• Once the emergency event is validated, rescue services are contacted.

Your preconfigured emergency contacts may also be notified if the agent needs additional information. For those who do not know, Global Rescue is a recognized company specializing in rescue services. Note that this function remains available even if your phone battery is dead and you no longer have access to the mobile application. That is because there is a physical button on the device protected by a cap that you can press.

Location Sharing: Keep Your Loved Ones Updated in Real-Time

You can also add a location sharing function to your plan in the app. It will give all your positions by sharing breadcrumbs on a map. For lone riders, this is a great way to let your family keep an eye on you. That way they can easily know where you are at all times.

Stay in Touch Without Breaking the Bank!

Not so long ago, there were few simple and practical options available for people wanting access to an affordable satellite communicator. As with any uncommon technology, a high price had to be paid to get one. Today, this type of product is much more accessible to people who wish to acquire one as a safety instrument. Regarding the ZOLEO satellite communicator, the cost is relatively affordable. You need to pay $269 for the communicator, then three plans are offered to access the service.

Here is a table of the different plans, as it is explained on ZOLEO’s website:

Note that for the first time, there will be an activation fee of $25 to be added when activating the device, and there will be a minimum duration of three months to keep it active on one of the three plans. This means that the device can be activated for the months of January, February, and March and then be deactivated. A fee of $5 per month is payable to keep the assigned phone number and ZOLEO email address in the inactivated period. If you do not want to pay the monthly suspension fees, you can deactivate the device. In this case, the phone number and email address will be lost. Upon reactivation, you will have to pay a $25 fee to reactivate it and receive a new phone number and email address.

Why should you get a Satellite Communicator Like the ZOLEO?

In my opinion, if you are planning to go into remote areas, a satellite communicator is an essential tool to ensure safety. Of course, there is a possibility that you may never use it, but I think it should be seen as life insurance. Indeed, if one day an emergency happens to you or someone you meet in the heart of the boreal forest, you will be happy to have invested in a ZOLEO communicator.

It is the ideal product for any outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for a simple way to communicate or to stay secure. The ZOLEO communicator is easy to use and easy on your money. In addition, you can bring it with you on your adventures, and you won’t have to worry about the possibility of it to get exposed to the elements.

Interesting Facts

• A mail and phone number are associated with the communicator. It gives you the possibility to have one and only discussion with different people. That way, any of your friends can initiate the chat.

• A function named “Find my device” activates a ringtone to locate the ZOLEO communicator if it is within a 50 m radius.

• Messages between ZOLEO app users can contain up to 900 characters. For an SMS, the limit is 160 characters, while an email allows up to 200 characters.

Weaknesses

• Automatic location sharing requires an additional monthly fee. Although the price is reasonable, it would be interesting to have this feature included in all plans.

• A phone is necessary to send and receive personalized messages. If your phone runs out of batteries, you have two options. Send a “Check-In Message” or trigger an SOS using the physical buttons on the device.

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