G-Layer YB3 Yellowbrick

Is it similar to the Spot devices? I have a Spot 2 which works extremely well.

Bit hard to relate the pros and cons without a comparison.

The Spot devices are simplex only so you never know if your message got through. Perhaps better to compare with inReach which are duplex (send AND receive). We don't have the yellowbricks but do have the inReaches from $249 for members. Any comparison we would make would be from the specs only so google is your friend.

The inReach devices have a slightly better environmental rating. Functionality is about the same.

The other thing to consider is the plans for service. The new inReach plans are great, and have no connection fee until 31.12.14. I have it on authority that inReach will be introducing an account suspension plan in the new year.

Kev

The Brick is 2-way. Some user reports here: http://www.g-layer.com.au/yellowbrick/yellowbrick-review/

Maybe also check out the inReach Explorer; it includes a GPS screen & functions.

The plans for most of these devices in Australia have been extortionate cp. with o/s. I'm looking forward to the new offerings mentioned on this site.

The Fed govt did no favours to casual sat comm users by subsidising satphones. That just inflated the price of this mode of communication.

It may be cheaper to use a sat phone or if budget conscious a Spot Messenger.

From their website.......
"Credits are used each time you transmit. 1 credit is used per tracking position or per 50 characters of message sent or received. 1 credit is also used if you check your mailbox and there are no messages waiting (A mailbox check)."

So if you send out 5 tracking positions a day it will cost you 90 cents per day.

And with text messaging; 50 characters is not many to say something with.

Plus you are charged for incoming messages as well.

If you want safety and security as you will be travelling alone for most of your trip a sat phone is the way to go...... cheap and efficient.

For use we have SPOT, Satellite Phone, HF Radio and PLB, reason for carrying 4 long range comms devices is not one is good at everything...... SPOT is on all the time for friends to follow us, Satellite phone is our main comms for day to day activities, HF radio breaks the boredom and PLB if it is an emergency and we can't use the Satellite phone.

I have an InReach SE model, just activating it now, I purchased through EBay from USA, they advised it was OK to work in Aus.
I am just in the process of activating it with the Australian service provider, Pivotel, who have advised that they will charge me a $170 extra to have it comply with Australian Communication laws.
Any savings made have now gone, beware.