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cell rental frequently asked questions - FAQ's

Satellite handsets

How can I register onto a Satellite or GSM network using the Thuraya handset?

I am unable to pick up a signal with the Satellite phone?

I have a signal but I am unable to make or receive a call?

I have an Iridium phone and the VoiceMail is not picking up on the line, how can I correct this?

The "SIM Blocked" message no longer displays on the screen. How will I be able to input the PUK code assigned to the SIM to unlock the SIM?

The wrong PIN code was inputted for the phone and now the SIM is blocked, how can I unblock the SIM?

What do I do if the phone says Check Card?

What do I do if the phone says Unregistered SIM?

What is international roaming?

What is the PIN code for VoiceMail on Satellite phones?

When someone calls me on the Satellite phone, the caller hears beeps. Is this normal?

How can I register onto a Satellite or GSM network using the Thuraya handset?

Determine if you see a triangle at the top of the screen (GSM Mode).
If so press the Menu Key, then 5 to display the current settings.
Select Change and press Select.
Scroll to either SAT ONLY, SAT PREFERRED, or GSM ONLY and make the appropriate selection.

I am unable to pick up a signal with the Satellite phone?

You must be outside in order for a strong signal to come through.
Make sure you are not in a building.
Make sure no buildings or large structures are impeding the signal.
You must have a line of sight to the sky.
Move the phone around slowly until it registers.
If at first you do not see the network, try turning the phone off and on again, making sure you have an aerial pointing in a new direction.

I have a signal but I am unable to make or receive a call?

Make sure you have at least three signal bars and are dialing correctly.

I have an Iridium phone and the VoiceMail is not picking up on the line, how can I correct this?

If the Iridium phone does not have a VoiceMail service you may be able to add the service through the handset by following the steps below:
Take the handset outside, turn it on and make sure you have a strong signal.
Press the Menu button.
Scroll to Call Related Features and press OK.
Scroll to Forward When Unavailable.
The handset will now check the forwarding configuration in the handset.
If the phone comes up with "Off", press the right arrow so the screen reads "On" and press Ok.
Scroll to Other Number and press OK.
Enter the Iridium Voicemail Number - +8816629900000 and press OK.

I have moved to a different location to get a signal and the Satellite phone still will not work?

Remove the antenna and connect it back to the Satellite phone making sure it is locked firmly into place. Once in place, make sure the antenna is extended at a 45 degree angle.

The "SIM Blocked" message no longer displays on the screen. How will I be able to input the PUK code assigned to the SIM to unlock the SIM?

In order to input the PUK code for the SIM card. type in the following sequence:
star, star, 05, star (**05*).

The wrong PIN code was inputted for the phone and now the SIM is blocked, how can I unblock the SIM?

To protect you in the event of theft, the SIM card is immediately locked if someone keys in three different incorrect PIN codes in succession. The message "PIN locked" will appear on the screen. In this event, you can fall back on the PUK code, which comprises eight digits.
Enter this code in order to unlock your mobile phone, and then follow the instructions on the screen.

Note: If you are using your own SIM card from your original phone, please contact your service provider.

If you are using a Cellhire SIM card, please contact Global Support.

What do I do if the phone says Check Card?

When this error message displays on the screen, there could be one of two resolutions:
The SIM card is not inserted correctly, in which case remove the SIM card and re-insert SIM.
Or the SIM card is not connecting with the phone, in which case remove the SIM card, wipe the gold contacts and re-insert SIM.
If this does not resolve the problem, the equipment will need to be replaced.

What do I do if the phone says Unregistered SIM?

When this error message displays on the screen, there could one of two resolutions:
There could be an issue with the SIM and it needs to be replaced.
Or remove the SIM card and wipe the gold contacts and re-insert SIM.

What is international roaming?

International roaming is the ability to make and receive calls, text messages, e-mails and access the Internet while traveling inside or outside of your home country.
Cellhire has agreements with networks all over the world to make calling while overseas as easy as calling while at home.

What is the PIN code for VoiceMail on Satellite phones?

The PIN code for VoiceMail is 1020.

When someone calls me on the Satellite phone, the caller hears beeps. Is this normal?

The caller will hear what sounds like beeps or a long engaged signal when making a call.
This signals that the phone is ringing or the system is trying to connect.