By working in conjunction with an app, the ruggedised SATcase™ can transform the common smartphone into a sophisticated satellite phone.

As extraction sites and quarries are often located in areas where mobile phone service is poor or unavailable, the device enables miners to stay in communication with the rest of the world via satellite.

The ability to keep lines of communication open means the SATcase is also a useful tool for geologists and seismic workers. By having access to their own smartphone, personnel can use the device with certified company apps that are enabled through the satellite system. Real-time feedback on bore sample collection and seismic testing is possible even out of range of normal GSM/mobile communications.

Mines can be dangerous environments and the possibility of fire, floods and accidents often puts the lives of workers at serious risk. With this in mind, the SATcase also includes a number of emergency features such as an SOS button,two way rescue communications, online track and trace for live monitoring, silent alarms and infrared strobes. All are instrumental in shortening the time a Search and Rescue operation may take if an accident occurs, especially if the accident happens in a remote location that is difficult to find.

Founder and CEO of SATcas, Jim Thomson, said: “I really believe that investment in new technology can have a positive impact on the mining industry. The SATcase™ is just one example and could not only help to drive growth by keeping lines of communication open in remote areas but also save the lives of miners working in hazardous environments.”

SATcase is compact enough to fit in a jacket pocket and reduces the amount of devices needed for different tasks, making it a more practical option than regular, bulkier satellite phones.