KVH TracPhone FB500 FleetBroadband Satellite Telephone Dome
Best satellite solution for maritime professionals needing reliable offshore connectivity.
Experience seamless connectivity at sea with the KVH TracPhone FB500. This robust satellite telephone dome provides an "office at sea" solution, ensuring reliable, always-on Internet and email access via Inmarsat FleetBroadband service. Enjoy broadband data speeds up to 432 Kbps for critical maritime data, secure VPN connections, and voice communication. Designed for fixed marine installation, it guarantees global service coverage and operates on convenient pay-as-you-go plans, keeping you connected and enhancing operational efficiency.
$1999.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
4
/ 48
#4 in Satellite Phones
Price vs Category Average
+87%
Above average
Service Coverage Area
Global
/ Global
Who it's for
- Commercial operators needing reliable high-speed offshore internet
- Captains requiring consistent connectivity in harsh maritime environments
- Professional crews managing simultaneous voice and data operations
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious owners seeking affordable communication hardware
- Vessel managers looking to minimize recurring monthly data expenses
- Owners of smaller vessels with limited mounting space
Performance breakdown
Global Connectivity
Reliable Inmarsat network access ensures consistent coverage across all major oceans.
Data Throughput
Speeds up to 432 Kbps are sufficient for essential business communications.
Build Durability
Rugged dome design withstands harsh marine environments and constant weather exposure.
Installation Complexity
Requires professional fixed mounting and integration into existing shipboard systems.
Operational Versatility
Supports simultaneous voice and data for a true office-at-sea experience.
Security Standards
Robust VPN support provides necessary encryption for sensitive maritime business data.
Key Specs
Service Coverage Area
Global
Power Requirement
10-32 VAC
Data Speed
Up to 432 Kbps (uncompressed)
Certifications
Inmarsat approved; CE Marked
Form Factor
Dome, Fixed Mount
Connectivity
Internet, VPN, Telephone
Manufacturer
KVH, Thrane & Thrane, Cobham
Also Known As
Thrane and Thrane Sailor FB500
Features
- Always-on Internet and email access
- Reliable Inmarsat FleetBroadband service
- Access critical maritime data
- Maintain business efficiency at sea
- Supports secure VPN connections
- Global service coverage
- Pay-as-you-go plans
- Fixed marine installation
What customers say
Users consistently praise the TracPhone FB500 for its exceptional reliability and robust quality. Maritime professionals depend on its unwavering performance, noting that it delivers high speed data and voice communication without fail, even when facing challenging weather conditions. Although the initial investment is significant, customers agree that this dependable performance fully justifies the premium cost. It stands out as a trusted solution for critical fleet operations where connectivity cannot be compromised.
Know before you buy
The system provides uncompressed data speeds of up to 432 Kbps. This is sufficient for essential maritime data, email, and maintaining a reliable VPN connection while at sea.
Yes, the FB500 operates on the Inmarsat FleetBroadband network. You will need to set up a service plan, which is available through flexible pay-as-you-go options.
Yes, the system is designed for global service coverage. As long as you are within the Inmarsat satellite footprint, you will maintain connectivity regardless of your location.
Absolutely. The FB500 is designed to handle simultaneous voice communication and data traffic, effectively acting as an office at sea.
No, the TracPhone FB500 does not include a built-in GPS. Its primary function is to provide satellite communication and data connectivity for your vessel.
The unit requires a power input of 10-32 VAC. Ensure your vessel's electrical system is compatible with this range before proceeding with the fixed marine installation.
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Ready to buy?
$2000