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Iridium GO! exec – Help, FAQs & User Support

Overview: What the Iridium GO! exec Is (and Isn’t)

The Iridium GO! exec is a portable satellite communications hub built on Iridium’s Certus 100 network. Unlike older satellite hotspots, it combines Wi-Fi data, direct voice calling, and messaging in a single rugged unit designed for marine, expedition, aviation, and remote land use.

It is not designed for streaming, video calls, or heavy browsing. Instead, it excels at:

  • Reliable email and messaging

  • WhatsApp text and voice notes

  • Weather downloads

  • Emergency calling

  • Low-bandwidth internet access anywhere on Earth


Iridium Go Exec FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (General)


Does the GO! exec need a phone to make calls?

No. The GO! exec has a built-in speaker and microphone, allowing you to dial and receive calls directly from the device itself. You can still use a smartphone if you prefer, but it’s not required.

What kind of data speeds should I expect?

The GO! exec operates on Certus 100 and delivers real-world speeds suitable for messaging, email, GRIB weather files, and light browsing. It is significantly faster than legacy Iridium GO! units but remains a low-bandwidth service by design.

Is the GO! exec a replacement for Starlink?

No. The GO! exec is a global mobility solution, while Starlink is a high-bandwidth regional internet service. Until Starlink mobile solutions are legally available and supported in South Africa, the GO! exec remains the most practical always-legal option.

SIM Cards & Airtime

Can I use my old Iridium GO! SIM?

No. The GO! exec requires a dedicated Certus SIM, which is different from standard Iridium voice or legacy GO! SIM cards.

Can the SIM be reused?

Yes. The same SIM can be activated, suspended, and reactivated over time. This avoids the need to buy multiple SIM cards.

Can I switch airtime plans later?

Yes. Monthly and usage-based plans can be changed depending on your travel needs. This flexibility is ideal for seasonal users.


Power & Charging


How is the GO! exec powered?

The unit uses USB-C power input (5V) and includes a suitable charger.

Can I connect it directly to 12V on a boat or vehicle?

Not directly. You must use a regulated 12V-to-5V USB-C converter. Supplying raw 12V can permanently damage the unit.

Battery performance

  • Several hours of active calling

  • Extended standby time when idle

  • Designed for emergency and intermittent use, not 24/7 streaming


External Antenna Information


Can I reuse my old Iridium GO! antenna?

No. The GO! exec antenna operates on different frequencies and requires the dedicated Certus-rated antenna supplied or approved for the exec.

Can I extend the antenna cable?

Antenna cable length should be kept as short as possible. Exceeding recommended lengths can result in signal loss and unstable connections.


Making Voice Calls


How do I place a call?

Calls can be made:

  • Directly from the GO! exec touchscreen

  • Via the mobile app when connected over Wi-Fi

Can I receive calls?

Yes. The GO! exec has its own satellite phone number once activated.


Messaging, WhatsApp & Email


Can I use WhatsApp?

Yes — text messages and voice notes work well. Images and videos are not recommended due to data size.

Can I check email?

Yes. Email works reliably, especially when configured for low-bandwidth or compressed modes.


Firmware & App Updates


How do I update the GO! exec?

  1. Connect your phone or tablet to the GO! exec Wi-Fi

  2. Open the GO! exec companion app

  3. Navigate to Settings → Device Administration

  4. Run firmware updates as prompted



Pre-Departure Checklist (Highly Recommended)

Before heading offshore or into remote areas:

  • Fully charge the unit

  • Confirm SIM activation

  • Test a real satellite call (not indoors or in marinas)

  • Update firmware and apps

  • Check antenna placement and cable connections

  • Verify emergency contacts

  • Download weather data in advance

  • Understand your airtime plan limits

This checklist prevents 90% of first-time issues.


Data Usage & Cost Control


How do I avoid excessive data usage?

  • Disable background app syncing

  • Use text-only messaging where possible

  • Avoid cloud backups

The GO! exec is designed for controlled, intentional usage, not always-on browsing.


Storage & Long-Term Care


How should I store the device?

  • Charge battery to at least 50%

  • Enable storage mode

  • Store in a dry, sealed environment

  • Suspend the SIM if unused for extended periods

Proper storage significantly extends battery lifespan.


Reset & Troubleshooting


How do I reset the GO! exec?

A recessed reset button allows a full reboot using a paperclip. This is useful if the unit becomes unresponsive.

Common causes of connection issues

  • Obstructed sky view

  • Incorrect antenna orientation

  • Excessive antenna cable length

  • Outdated firmware


Iridium GO! exec vs Older Iridium GO!

Feature

GO! exec

Legacy GO!

Voice calling

Direct on device

Phone-dependent

Data speed

Faster (Certus)

Very slow

Touchscreen

Yes

No

WhatsApp support

Yes

Limited

Antenna compatibility

New

Legacy

Who the Iridium GO! exec Is Best For

  • Yacht owners and sailors

  • Overland expeditions

  • Game reserve operators

  • Emergency preparedness

  • Remote professionals

  • Anyone needing legal, global satellite connectivity


Managing Data Sessions on the Iridium GO! exec (Web App Profiles Explained)


One of the smartest features of the Iridium GO! exec is the ability to control how your data is used. Because satellite data is valuable and limited, the GO! exec allows you to decide exactly what type of internet activity is allowed at any given time.

This is done using Data Session Profiles inside the GO! exec web interface.


What Are Data Session Profiles?


Think of data session profiles as pre-set internet rules.

Instead of letting your phone, tablet, or laptop connect freely (which could quickly consume data), the GO! exec lets you choose a profile that determines:

  • What kind of traffic is allowed

  • Which apps can access the internet

  • How much background data is blocked

  • Whether browsing, messaging, or email is prioritised

This gives you control, predictability, and peace of mind, especially offshore or in remote areas.


Why Data Profiles Matter on Satellite Internet


Satellite connectivity works very differently from mobile or fibre internet.

Apps are often designed to:

  • Sync in the background

  • Upload photos automatically

  • Download updates without warning

On satellite, this can mean unexpected data usage and high costs.

By using profiles, the GO! exec ensures:

  • Only the data you intentionally want is used

  • Background activity is restricted

  • Essential services work reliably

  • Your airtime lasts longer


Types of Data Profiles Available


1. App-Focused Profile (Recommended for Most Users)

This profile is designed for specific, approved apps rather than open internet access.

Best used for:

  • Email

  • WhatsApp (text and voice notes)

  • Weather downloads

This is the default and safest option for everyday use.


2. Web Access Profile (Limited Browsing)

This profile allows controlled web browsing but still blocks heavy or unnecessary content.

Ideal when you need to:

  • Access a specific website

  • Download a document

  • Perform basic online tasks

It is intentionally restricted to avoid:

  • Image-heavy sites

  • Auto-playing media

  • Large downloads


3. Open Data Profile (Advanced Users Only)


This profile removes most restrictions and allows general internet access.

It should only be used when:

  • You fully understand satellite data usage

  • You are monitoring consumption closely

  • You need short-term unrestricted access

For most users, this profile should be used sparingly, as it can consume data very quickly.


Switching Between Profiles


Changing profiles is quick and easy:

  1. Connect your phone, tablet, or laptop to the GO! exec Wi-Fi

  2. Open a web browser

  3. Access the GO! exec web interface

  4. Navigate to Data / Internet Settings

  5. Select the desired data profile

  6. Apply the change before starting your data session

Each profile change applies instantly to all connected devices.


Best Practices for Using Data Profiles


To get the most from your GO! exec:

  • Use app-based profiles whenever possible

  • Avoid leaving open data sessions running unnecessarily

  • Close apps when finished

  • Disable automatic cloud backups on connected devices

  • Test profiles before heading offshore

These small steps can dramatically extend your available airtime.


Real-World Example


Many users run two profiles:

  • Profile 1: Messaging, email, and weather (used 90% of the time)

  • Profile 2: Limited web access (used only when necessary)

This approach ensures connectivity without surprises.


Data session profiles are one of the most important yet overlooked features of the Iridium GO! exec.

They:

  • Protect your airtime investment

  • Prevent accidental data drain

  • Make satellite internet predictable

  • Turn a complex system into a user-friendly one

Once set up properly, you’ll spend less time worrying about data and more time focusing on your journey.

 
 
 

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