Pactor 4 Alternative?

[Madehn]

Installing my M802 into the boat next week- got everything that i believe i need now EXCEPT the Pactor 4 modem--- went to look at it and darn near had an allergic shock experience from the sticker on that beast. looks like 1500 bucks for the 7400 model which staggered my small brain when i converted that into rum drinks not swallowed. Is there a better alternative. I want to be able to get weather and email while out and about, not depending upon wireless hot spots etc. Also seem to be a few email programs out there in use- any feedback as to which is the best and why? Thanks in advance for everyone's expertise.

[Jammer]

Where are you going to go?


You can get a Google Fi and have inexpensive coastal coverage in most places worldwide and get your weather and email.


There are voice-based and weatherfax weather options in most areas on SSB.


Pactor makes sense if you are making multi-day passages on the high seas or are anchored for extended periods in remote areas that lack any kind of phone service. Sailmail is perhaps the most highly regarded HF email provider by virtue of their reasonable prices, lenient usage policies, and well-placed and well-maintained shore stations worldwide.


But the number of HF email subscribers has been in decline for several years as the quality, coverage, and cost of cellphone data service improves -- and as cost-effective satellite options like InReach and Iridium Go have become available. Starlink will be next.

[toddster8]

Well, you can always pick up a Pactor 3 on Ebay, if you can stand not having the latest and greatest.


Otherwise, the basic calculus is

SSB+Modem = Expensive install, no monthly fee (Except SailMail currently $23 a month)

Satellite services = Relatively inexpensive install, but potentially hefty monthly fee. And Stop Working if your monthly payment didn't go through for any reason.

Bare-bones sat (e.g. InReach) is maybe comparable to SailMail ($25 a month) but you only get 1 or 2 txt messages a day plus $1 for the weather.

BTW: This is what you get for $1:


Maybe not so great but OTOH, you can stick it in your pocket and take it anywhere with you.

[Dockhead]

Used Pactor 3. Works great, not expensive.


Or Iridium Go. $139 per month for unlimited data.

[Madehn]

Thanks for the replies- looks like i have some more research to do