ISS On-Orbit Status, 12-09-2003

Jacques van Oene wrote:
ISS On-Orbit Status 12 Sep 2003
[snip]
Work continues at both MCCs on the identification of mutually acceptable
procedural safety controls for the upcoming power-charging of the battery of
the new Motorola-9505 Iridium satellite phone, which was delivered by
Progress 12P with a Garmin GPS (global positioning system) locator for the
mandated use on Soyuz 7S during its return on 10/28. [The charging is
tentatively planned for next Friday, 9/19. Safety procedures during the
activity include placement of the entire phone headset assembly in a CTB
(collapsible transfer bag) container, locating the activity in an area
maximizing smoke detection capability, and keeping a Russian PFE (portable
fire extinguisher) readily accessible. Final decision is up to the MMT
(Mission Management Team), meeting on 9/15.]

[snip]

Obviously a concern for fire. I wonder why? If this is a standard
motorla battery, it'll give them 2 hrs of talk time, after which they'll
have to throw it in the CTB again for charging! Seems like all the
safety concerns would have been addressed on the ground prior to
delivery on orbit. If this turns out to be the standard charging
procedure, the phone is hamstrung from the start. Specs on the phone:

Motorola 9505 Portable Satellite Phone
What is it?
Now smaller, lighter and more resistant to water, dust and shock than
Motorola's previous offering, this newest addition to the Motorola
Satellite Series (TM) portfolio is ideal for industrial or rugged
conditions, yet appealing to the traveling professional.

Why do you need it?
Business, adventure, or pleasure, you can stay in touch across seas and
time zones, in remote locations and on the go. One telephone number,
through the use of a mini personal subscriber identity module (SIM)
card, can help keep you connected.

Features
Smaller and lighter
Packed with Features, yet Simple to Use
Quick Access Interface
Water, shock & dust resistant for rugged environments
Data Capable - Use your satellite phone to transmit data with an
optional RS232 adapter
IrDA Port (for future applications)
21 Language Choices for Prompts
Vibracall Alert
Illuminated holographic display
Color - Silver

Talk Time Features:
Provides up to 24 hours of standby time with standard battery
Provides up to 2 hours of talk time with standard battery

Display:
4 x 16 character Illuminated Graphic Display
Illuminated Holographic Display

Calling Features:
Auto Redial Notification
Call Barring
Call Forwarding - Unconditional, mobile subscriber busy, subscriber not
reachable
Clear Last Digit/Clear All Digits
Fixed Dialing
International Access Key Sequence (+ key)
Mailbox for Numeric & Text (120 characters)
Quick Access Interface
Selectable Keypad tone (3 choices)
Selectable Ringer tone (10 choices)
Keypad Disable
Unanswered Call Indicator
Volume Adjustment (earpiece or ringer)

Memory:
100 Alpha and Numeric Memory Storage
Last 10 Numbers Dialed
Name Storage (recall by name or location)
Memory Scroll by Location
32-Digit Number Capacity Phone Book
16-Digit Name Tag
One-Touch Dialing
Subscriber Identity Module Card (additional memory storage)

Indicators/ Alert Features:
Battery Meter
Signal Strength Meter

Visual/Audible Features:
Battery Meter (always shown in display)
Illuminated Keypad
Low Battery Warning
Status Review of Features
Visual Display of Volume Settings

Usage Control Features:
Automatic Display Call Timer
Automatic Lock
Call Restrictions
Display Call Timers (last call / total calls)
Display/Change Unlock Code
Electronic Lock
Programmable Audible Call Timer
Subscriber Identity Module PIN Availability (security code)