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{"id":1324830687274,"title":"RockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device","handle":"rockblock-satellite-communication-device","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eThe RockBLOCK Mk2 allows you to send and receive short messages from anywhere on Earth with a clear view of the sky. It works far beyond the reach of WiFi and GSM networks. Maybe you want to transmit weather information from mid-ocean? Or use it to control your robot in the middle of the desert? Perhaps you need to communicate in an emergency, when other networks might not be available? The Mk2 can help you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eAt the heart of Mk2 is an Iridium 9602 modem. The Mk2 hosts the 9602 and provides it with an antenna, and its power supply requirements. It exposes the modem’s serial interface via a breakout connector over serial, or USB (via a USB\/serial adaptor).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"width: 48%; float: left;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eIt takes it’s power from a standard 0.1″ pitch direct header connector, or alternatively via an FTDI to USB adaptor (to power\/control from a USB port). If you’re using the PCB assembly version with a direct header, your host needs to supply a minimum of 100mA @ 5V.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"width: 50%; float: right;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eIf you’re interested in a smaller version of the unit, then the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosat.com\/product-category\/transceiver\/\"\u003e9603\u003c\/a\u003e version of the product might suit you better – designed primarily for product developers and system integrators where space inside an enclosure is at a premium.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003espace\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eProduct Details\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"height: 291px; width: 800px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePowered By\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eDirect Header Connector, or optional FTDI USB adaptor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in Antenna\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYes (\u0026amp; optional ‘SMA’ version for external antenna)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransmits Using\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/iridium.com\/\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eIridium\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eRockBLOCK Mk2 Naked: 76 grams\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eRockBLOCK Mk2 Naked: 76.0 x 51.5 x 19.0mm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWaterproofing\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eRockBLOCK Mk2 Naked is not waterproof. If you need a waterproof unit, look at the RockBLOCK+\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIdeal For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eIntegration into existing devices\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"shop_attributes\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"product_weight\"\u003e2 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"product_dimensions\"\u003e10 x 8 x 10 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBrands\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosat.com\/brands\/rockseven\/\" rel=\"tag\"\u003eRock Seven\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eIridium SBD Service Plans\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"table-title\" style=\"text-align: center;\" itemprop=\"about\"\u003eIridium SBD (Short Burst Data) Airtime Service Plans for IOT \u0026amp; M2M SBD\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"shop_attributes\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#0787ea\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlan Name\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#0787ea\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBilling Period\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#0787ea\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContract Period\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#0787ea\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIncludes \/ Monthly Allowance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#0787ea\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional Usage Per KB\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#0787ea\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonthly Price\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosatellite.com\/products\/iridium-sbd-base-plan\" title=\"Iridium Satellite Base SBD Service Plan\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBase SBD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e 1 Month\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e 3 Months\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0 KB (0.00 bytes)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$1.50 \/ KB (1000 bytes)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e $26.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosatellite.com\/products\/iridium-sbd-starter-plan\" title=\"Iridium Satellite Starter SBD Service Plan\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStarter SBD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e1 Month\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e6 Months\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e8 KB\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (8000 bytes)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e$1.45 \/ KB (1000 bytes)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e $28.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosatellite.com\/products\/iridium-sbd-standard-plan\" title=\"Iridium Satellite Standard SBD Service Plan\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eStandard SBD\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003cspan\u003e1 Month\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003cspan\u003e12 Months\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e12 KB\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (12000 bytes)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$1.35 \/ KB (1000 bytes)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e $32.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosatellite.com\/products\/iridium-sbd-research-plan\" title=\"Iridium Satellite Research SBD Service Plan\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResearch SBD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e1 Month\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e12 Months\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e17 KB\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (17000 bytes)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e$1.25 \/ KB (1000 bytes)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e $44.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosatellite.com\/products\/iridium-sbd-base-plan\" title=\"Iridium Satellite Enterprise SBD Service Plan\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEnterprise SBD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003cspan\u003e1 Month\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003cspan\u003e12 Months\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e30 KB\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (30000 bytes)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$1.15 \/ KB (1000 bytes)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e $54.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDownloads\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosat.com\/download\/rockblock-brochure\/\" title=\"RockBLOCK Brochure\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/files\/pdf-icon_large.png?v=1519722721\" alt=\"RockBLOCK Brochure\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003eBrochure\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do I control the sleep pin?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe sleep signal is internally pulled high on the RockBLOCK and RockBLOCK+ products, so you can leave it disconnected if you want to leave the modem 'awake' all of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo turn 'off' the modem, pull the line to ground.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnit refuses to give me data using the SBDRT command?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e If you are using the SBDRT command, and the modem appears to 'hang' when you issue the command, it is probably due to flow control configuration. The default state for the RockBLOCK and RockBLOCK+ units has flow control turned ON in the modem. When running in 3-wire serial mode, flow control should be turned OFF, which will ensure you get responses to your requests. Use the command AT\u0026amp;K0 at the start of your command sequence. This turns flow control off, and should solve the problem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does it work?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e RockBLOCK uses the Iridium Satellite network. Specifically, it uses an Iridium service called ‘Short Burst Data’ (SBD). There’s some official info here. At the heart of RockBLOCK is an Iridium 9602 modem. The RockBLOCK hosts the 9602 and provides it with an antenna, and its power supply requirements. It exposes the modem’s serial interface via USB (or directly – PCB assembly version only). Full documentation for the 9602 modem can be found here: Iridium 9602 SBD Transceiver Product Developers Guide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is it powered?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e RockBLOCK takes its power from the direct header connector, or alternatively via the optional FTDI\/USB adaptor. If you’re using the PCB assembly version with a direct header, your host needs to supply a minimum of 100mA @ 5V.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much data can I send\/receive\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e 340 bytes FROM RockBLOCK. 270 bytes TO RockBLOCK.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow quickly can I send a message?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Testing shows that it generally takes around 20 seconds from power-up to successful transmission, with a perfect view of the sky. With a very restricted view, it may take several minutes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow frequently can I send a message?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e You should be able to complete an Iridium SBD session roughly every 10 seconds, assuming a perfect view of the sky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I connect an external antenna?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Yes, there is a version of the RockBLOCK available with an SMA connector (instead of the built-on antenna) which allows you to attach an external Iridium antenna.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo you have USB drivers for my XYZ platform?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Almost certainly. If you have purchased the optional FTDI-USB adaptor then you will need to install the FTDI drivers. You can check on their website (http:\/\/www.ftdichip.com\/FTDrivers.htm), where you will find drivers for Linux, Mac, Windows, Android and others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat about software?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e The RockBLOCK appears as a serial interface, and you can talk to it using a simple set of AT commands. It is expected that you'll be able to integrate it into your own software with minimal effort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCould you give us some sample code to get started?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThere is a Node.js library available and an Arduino library which you can get via the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/rock7.com\/products-rockblock\"\u003eRockBLOCK page\u003c\/a\u003e - There is also an excellent Python project for Raspberry Pi, which would make a great starting point for any Raspberry Pi users \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.makersnake.com\/rockblock\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewhich can be found here\u003c\/a\u003e - Rock Seven is working on publishing some samples for other languages as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do my messages get back to me (on Earth)?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"vc_toggle_content\" style=\"display: block;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMessages sent from RockBLOCK can either be delivered to your chosen email address, or sent to your own web service as a simple HTTP POST. The message data will be hex encoded so there are no character set problems. Full details of RockBlock's web service are available in their \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosat.com\/download\/rockblock-web-services-guide\/\"\u003eWeb Service Guide available for download here\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-11336\" src=\"https:\/\/apollosat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/RockBlock9603_FAQ1.png\" alt=\"RockBlock 9603 - FAQ1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apollosat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/RockBlock9603_FAQ1.png 441w, https:\/\/apollosat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/RockBlock9603_FAQ1-300x280.png 300w, https:\/\/apollosat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/RockBlock9603_FAQ1-150x140.png 150w, https:\/\/apollosat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/RockBlock9603_FAQ1-270x252.png 270w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 441px) 100vw, 441px\" width=\"441\" height=\"412\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do I send data to my RockBLOCK?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eYou can make a simple HTTP POST to RockBLOCK's web service. The message is queued on the satellite network almost instantly, ready for RockBLOCK to download (on your command).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes RockBLOCK get notification of a new message waiting?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eYes, as long as you configure it correctly. Check the 9602 documentation for the 'Ring Alert' feature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow Rugged\/Waterproof is it really?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Very! The RockBLOCK+ is a completely encapsulated design, so it is at least IP68 (submersible for extended periods). Just don't expect it to send messages from under water!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo I get positions with my messages?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThe RockBLOCK does not have a GPS chip inside it. It‚Äôs invisaged that if you want position reports, you would use an off-the-shelf GPS module with your solution, and get position data from that. However, it is worth noting that with each Iridium transmission we do get an approximate position report - this varies in accuracy from 100km to 1km, and therefore cannot be relied upon for very accurate tracking, but RockBLOCK does provide this information for you (along with the approximate accuracy, 'CEP' in km) with your messages. If you are looking for a dedicated tracking satellite tracking device, then you might want to consider our RockSTAR product.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf I have a whole set of RockBLOCK's, how does billing work?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Billing is flexible, and allows you to pay only when you are using your devices. Line rental is sold in one-month blocks, and credits are bought in packs. If you have several RockBLOCKs, credits are shared from a credit pool amongst all your devices and you don't need to buy separate packs of credits for each device. Similarly, if only some of your devices are being used at any one time, you don't need to pay for line-rental on those which aren't in use.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2018-03-07T21:34:02-08:00","created_at":"2018-03-07T21:34:05-08:00","vendor":"Rock Seven","type":"Satellite Tracking","tags":["Brand_Rock Seven","Coverage Area_True Global","Network_Iridium","Type_Modem"],"price":51500,"price_min":51500,"price_max":51500,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":33015831920675,"title":"25mm Patch On-board","option1":"25mm Patch On-board","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"RCKBlkMk2-Onboard","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":3612537094186,"product_id":1324830687274,"position":1,"created_at":"2018-03-07T21:34:05-08:00","updated_at":"2019-11-03T16:06:19-08:00","alt":"RockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device - Apollo Satellite","width":1067,"height":1200,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-ProductFeature_b3d73287-98db-4dc1-a33f-d2609f72d224.jpg?v=1572825979","variant_ids":[33015831920675]},"available":true,"name":"RockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device - 25mm Patch On-board","public_title":"25mm Patch On-board","options":["25mm Patch On-board"],"price":51500,"weight":454,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":"RockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device - Apollo Satellite","id":2014085873706,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.889,"height":1200,"width":1067,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-ProductFeature_b3d73287-98db-4dc1-a33f-d2609f72d224.jpg?v=1569353544"}}},{"id":33015831953443,"title":"SMA External Antenna","option1":"SMA External Antenna","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"RCKBlkMk2-SMA","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":3612537225258,"product_id":1324830687274,"position":3,"created_at":"2018-03-07T21:34:05-08:00","updated_at":"2019-11-03T16:06:19-08:00","alt":"RockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device - Apollo Satellite","width":1067,"height":1200,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-DeviceImage2.jpg?v=1572825979","variant_ids":[33015831953443]},"available":true,"name":"RockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device - SMA External Antenna","public_title":"SMA External Antenna","options":["SMA External Antenna"],"price":51500,"weight":907,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":"RockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device - Apollo Satellite","id":2014085939242,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.889,"height":1200,"width":1067,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-DeviceImage2.jpg?v=1569353544"}}}],"images":["\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-ProductFeature_b3d73287-98db-4dc1-a33f-d2609f72d224.jpg?v=1572825979","\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-DeviceImage1-1.jpg?v=1572825979","\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-DeviceImage2.jpg?v=1572825979","\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-DeviceImage3.jpg?v=1572825979"],"featured_image":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-ProductFeature_b3d73287-98db-4dc1-a33f-d2609f72d224.jpg?v=1572825979","options":["Antenna Style"],"media":[{"alt":"RockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device - Apollo Satellite","id":2014085873706,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.889,"height":1200,"width":1067,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-ProductFeature_b3d73287-98db-4dc1-a33f-d2609f72d224.jpg?v=1569353544"},"aspect_ratio":0.889,"height":1200,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-ProductFeature_b3d73287-98db-4dc1-a33f-d2609f72d224.jpg?v=1569353544","width":1067},{"alt":"RockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device - Apollo Satellite","id":2014085906474,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.889,"height":1200,"width":1067,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-DeviceImage1-1.jpg?v=1569353544"},"aspect_ratio":0.889,"height":1200,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-DeviceImage1-1.jpg?v=1569353544","width":1067},{"alt":"RockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device - Apollo Satellite","id":2014085939242,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.889,"height":1200,"width":1067,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-DeviceImage2.jpg?v=1569353544"},"aspect_ratio":0.889,"height":1200,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-DeviceImage2.jpg?v=1569353544","width":1067},{"alt":"RockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device - Apollo Satellite","id":2014085972010,"position":4,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.889,"height":1200,"width":1067,"src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-DeviceImage3.jpg?v=1569353544"},"aspect_ratio":0.889,"height":1200,"media_type":"image","src":"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/products\/RockBLOCK-DeviceImage3.jpg?v=1569353544","width":1067}],"content":"\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eRockBLOCK Satellite Communication Device\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eThe RockBLOCK Mk2 allows you to send and receive short messages from anywhere on Earth with a clear view of the sky. It works far beyond the reach of WiFi and GSM networks. Maybe you want to transmit weather information from mid-ocean? Or use it to control your robot in the middle of the desert? Perhaps you need to communicate in an emergency, when other networks might not be available? The Mk2 can help you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eAt the heart of Mk2 is an Iridium 9602 modem. The Mk2 hosts the 9602 and provides it with an antenna, and its power supply requirements. It exposes the modem’s serial interface via a breakout connector over serial, or USB (via a USB\/serial adaptor).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"width: 48%; float: left;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eIt takes it’s power from a standard 0.1″ pitch direct header connector, or alternatively via an FTDI to USB adaptor (to power\/control from a USB port). If you’re using the PCB assembly version with a direct header, your host needs to supply a minimum of 100mA @ 5V.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"width: 50%; float: right;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eIf you’re interested in a smaller version of the unit, then the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosat.com\/product-category\/transceiver\/\"\u003e9603\u003c\/a\u003e version of the product might suit you better – designed primarily for product developers and system integrators where space inside an enclosure is at a premium.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003espace\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eProduct Details\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"height: 291px; width: 800px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePowered By\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eDirect Header Connector, or optional FTDI USB adaptor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in Antenna\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYes (\u0026amp; optional ‘SMA’ version for external antenna)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransmits Using\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/iridium.com\/\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eIridium\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eRockBLOCK Mk2 Naked: 76 grams\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eRockBLOCK Mk2 Naked: 76.0 x 51.5 x 19.0mm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWaterproofing\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eRockBLOCK Mk2 Naked is not waterproof. If you need a waterproof unit, look at the RockBLOCK+\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIdeal For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 400px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eIntegration into existing devices\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"shop_attributes\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"product_weight\"\u003e2 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"product_dimensions\"\u003e10 x 8 x 10 in\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBrands\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosat.com\/brands\/rockseven\/\" rel=\"tag\"\u003eRock Seven\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eIridium SBD Service Plans\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"table-title\" style=\"text-align: center;\" itemprop=\"about\"\u003eIridium SBD (Short Burst Data) Airtime Service Plans for IOT \u0026amp; M2M SBD\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"shop_attributes\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#0787ea\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlan Name\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#0787ea\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBilling Period\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#0787ea\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContract Period\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#0787ea\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIncludes \/ Monthly Allowance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#0787ea\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional Usage Per KB\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#0787ea\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonthly Price\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosatellite.com\/products\/iridium-sbd-base-plan\" title=\"Iridium Satellite Base SBD Service Plan\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBase SBD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e 1 Month\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e 3 Months\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0 KB (0.00 bytes)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$1.50 \/ KB (1000 bytes)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e $26.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosatellite.com\/products\/iridium-sbd-starter-plan\" title=\"Iridium Satellite Starter SBD Service Plan\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStarter SBD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e1 Month\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e6 Months\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e8 KB\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (8000 bytes)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e$1.45 \/ KB (1000 bytes)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e $28.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosatellite.com\/products\/iridium-sbd-standard-plan\" title=\"Iridium Satellite Standard SBD Service Plan\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eStandard SBD\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003cspan\u003e1 Month\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003cspan\u003e12 Months\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e12 KB\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (12000 bytes)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$1.35 \/ KB (1000 bytes)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e $32.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosatellite.com\/products\/iridium-sbd-research-plan\" title=\"Iridium Satellite Research SBD Service Plan\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResearch SBD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e1 Month\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e12 Months\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e17 KB\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (17000 bytes)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e$1.25 \/ KB (1000 bytes)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd bgcolor=\"#fafafa\"\u003e $44.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosatellite.com\/products\/iridium-sbd-base-plan\" title=\"Iridium Satellite Enterprise SBD Service Plan\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEnterprise SBD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003cspan\u003e1 Month\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e \u003cspan\u003e12 Months\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e30 KB\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (30000 bytes)\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$1.15 \/ KB (1000 bytes)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e $54.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDownloads\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosat.com\/download\/rockblock-brochure\/\" title=\"RockBLOCK Brochure\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2962\/4800\/files\/pdf-icon_large.png?v=1519722721\" alt=\"RockBLOCK Brochure\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003eBrochure\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do I control the sleep pin?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe sleep signal is internally pulled high on the RockBLOCK and RockBLOCK+ products, so you can leave it disconnected if you want to leave the modem 'awake' all of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo turn 'off' the modem, pull the line to ground.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnit refuses to give me data using the SBDRT command?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e If you are using the SBDRT command, and the modem appears to 'hang' when you issue the command, it is probably due to flow control configuration. The default state for the RockBLOCK and RockBLOCK+ units has flow control turned ON in the modem. When running in 3-wire serial mode, flow control should be turned OFF, which will ensure you get responses to your requests. Use the command AT\u0026amp;K0 at the start of your command sequence. This turns flow control off, and should solve the problem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does it work?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e RockBLOCK uses the Iridium Satellite network. Specifically, it uses an Iridium service called ‘Short Burst Data’ (SBD). There’s some official info here. At the heart of RockBLOCK is an Iridium 9602 modem. The RockBLOCK hosts the 9602 and provides it with an antenna, and its power supply requirements. It exposes the modem’s serial interface via USB (or directly – PCB assembly version only). Full documentation for the 9602 modem can be found here: Iridium 9602 SBD Transceiver Product Developers Guide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is it powered?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e RockBLOCK takes its power from the direct header connector, or alternatively via the optional FTDI\/USB adaptor. If you’re using the PCB assembly version with a direct header, your host needs to supply a minimum of 100mA @ 5V.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much data can I send\/receive\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e 340 bytes FROM RockBLOCK. 270 bytes TO RockBLOCK.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow quickly can I send a message?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Testing shows that it generally takes around 20 seconds from power-up to successful transmission, with a perfect view of the sky. With a very restricted view, it may take several minutes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow frequently can I send a message?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e You should be able to complete an Iridium SBD session roughly every 10 seconds, assuming a perfect view of the sky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I connect an external antenna?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Yes, there is a version of the RockBLOCK available with an SMA connector (instead of the built-on antenna) which allows you to attach an external Iridium antenna.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo you have USB drivers for my XYZ platform?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Almost certainly. If you have purchased the optional FTDI-USB adaptor then you will need to install the FTDI drivers. You can check on their website (http:\/\/www.ftdichip.com\/FTDrivers.htm), where you will find drivers for Linux, Mac, Windows, Android and others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat about software?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e The RockBLOCK appears as a serial interface, and you can talk to it using a simple set of AT commands. It is expected that you'll be able to integrate it into your own software with minimal effort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCould you give us some sample code to get started?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThere is a Node.js library available and an Arduino library which you can get via the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/rock7.com\/products-rockblock\"\u003eRockBLOCK page\u003c\/a\u003e - There is also an excellent Python project for Raspberry Pi, which would make a great starting point for any Raspberry Pi users \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.makersnake.com\/rockblock\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewhich can be found here\u003c\/a\u003e - Rock Seven is working on publishing some samples for other languages as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do my messages get back to me (on Earth)?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"vc_toggle_content\" style=\"display: block;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMessages sent from RockBLOCK can either be delivered to your chosen email address, or sent to your own web service as a simple HTTP POST. The message data will be hex encoded so there are no character set problems. Full details of RockBlock's web service are available in their \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/apollosat.com\/download\/rockblock-web-services-guide\/\"\u003eWeb Service Guide available for download here\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-11336\" src=\"https:\/\/apollosat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/RockBlock9603_FAQ1.png\" alt=\"RockBlock 9603 - FAQ1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apollosat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/RockBlock9603_FAQ1.png 441w, https:\/\/apollosat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/RockBlock9603_FAQ1-300x280.png 300w, https:\/\/apollosat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/RockBlock9603_FAQ1-150x140.png 150w, https:\/\/apollosat.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/RockBlock9603_FAQ1-270x252.png 270w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 441px) 100vw, 441px\" width=\"441\" height=\"412\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do I send data to my RockBLOCK?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eYou can make a simple HTTP POST to RockBLOCK's web service. The message is queued on the satellite network almost instantly, ready for RockBLOCK to download (on your command).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes RockBLOCK get notification of a new message waiting?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eYes, as long as you configure it correctly. Check the 9602 documentation for the 'Ring Alert' feature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow Rugged\/Waterproof is it really?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Very! The RockBLOCK+ is a completely encapsulated design, so it is at least IP68 (submersible for extended periods). Just don't expect it to send messages from under water!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo I get positions with my messages?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThe RockBLOCK does not have a GPS chip inside it. It‚Äôs invisaged that if you want position reports, you would use an off-the-shelf GPS module with your solution, and get position data from that. However, it is worth noting that with each Iridium transmission we do get an approximate position report - this varies in accuracy from 100km to 1km, and therefore cannot be relied upon for very accurate tracking, but RockBLOCK does provide this information for you (along with the approximate accuracy, 'CEP' in km) with your messages. If you are looking for a dedicated tracking satellite tracking device, then you might want to consider our RockSTAR product.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf I have a whole set of RockBLOCK's, how does billing work?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Billing is flexible, and allows you to pay only when you are using your devices. Line rental is sold in one-month blocks, and credits are bought in packs. If you have several RockBLOCKs, credits are shared from a credit pool amongst all your devices and you don't need to buy separate packs of credits for each device. Similarly, if only some of your devices are being used at any one time, you don't need to pay for line-rental on those which aren't in use.\u003c\/p\u003e"}