2021 NMEA Awards: Wi-Fi/Cellular Device: KVH TracPhone LTE-1

Powered by LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) network technology, TracPhone LTE-1 is a compact, marine-grade system for use in U.S. waters. KVH says it’s faster than 4G LTE and includes a high-gain, dual antenna array, modem, GPS and W-Fi router in the dome. The comprehensive approach taken by KVH convinced the judges in the 2021 National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) 2021 Awards program to name the TracPhone LTE-1 the winner in the Wi-Fi/Cellular Device category.

Total Package

KVH says the TracPhone LTE-1 has everything needed to head offshore and still enjoy streaming video and music, Wi-Fi calling, browsing the web, checking email and social media and more. The LTEA technology permits fast streaming and more range thanks to high-gain dual LTE-antenna array. A 10 GB monthly data plan and the option to add more data enhances the service’s utility.

The antenna dome is compact at 13.5” by 13.3” (34.2 cm x 33.7 cm) and it weighs 6.25 lbs. (2.8 kg). It requires one Cat 6 double-shielded 50’ (15 m) power cable and other options are available. The antenna switches automatically between two leading U.S. carriers. Multi-device connectivity supports all guests and their devices. It’s a simple plug-and-play installation and it supports Wi-Fi calling for service farther offshore.

An LTE-managing app lets the user customize onboard Wi-Fi, see data usage and receive usage alerts via text or email.

The TracPhone LTE-1 makes sure that first-catch photo gets to everyone in the family.

KVH offers broadband airtime plans, including metered VSAT, dual-channel VSAT, dual channel plus C-band VSAT and LTE cellular. It’s designed to access every application an with the convenience of flexible month-to-month subscription and optional least-coast routing. A user can choose the plan that best first his/her needs.

Options include 75’ (23 m) or 100’ (30 m) ethernet cables and available rail and pole m ounts.