Thread: Best phone and pc package for FIFO

Originally Posted by biggin

Now I am considering heading to outback Queensland for work on a two weeks on/one off basis, I thought I should upgrade all my electronic equipment to provide the best communications, ie phone, PC and internet connectivity.
I would be looking for the usual features such as light weight, robust, long battery life, good reception, fast processor, best software, best service providers etc.
You can probably tell I am a bit of a novice at this stuff, but you've got to start somewhere.
Cheers,
biggin

Many of your features are not compatible with each other (e.g. lightweight is not compatible with having BOTH a long battery life and fast processor).

What is your preference in order?

I told you I was a novice
I am probably looking for a good all-round package then.
Don't know what Skype is yet, but I may have to get into that.
I'm surprised there aren't packages available out there, aimed specifically at the FIFO's.

Skype is a software package that enables you to video conference with another person with Skype on their system over the internet in real time, works reasonably well depending on your net speed connections and will work on windows or iMac platforms. Skype is free but you can pay money to them and use it as phone for calls cheaper than your telco provider.

iMac has a feature called FaceTime which does the same as Skype but it is only a Apple to Apple product can be used on iMac, iPhone, iPods, iPads and again works well and is free of cost over your internet connections.

Mining camps FIFO construction camps generally have wifi or internet to don gas you should check on what they have, if they have wifi then l wouldn't use my mobile to make calls and instead use Skype or FaceTime to make video conference calls for free.

I work away a lot and only need my iPad and phone, both connected with Telstra

I have Skype on the pad it's what I use to talk to the wife

I'm working FIFO in WA on the Gorgon Project and for me the best combo is iPhone and iPad. I can use Skype on both with the free wi fi with have on board the vessel. Telstra has the only coverage out here so check who has the best coverage where you are going to working.

I do both domestic and international FIFO and have a small laptop with Skype and a Galaxy Note connected to Telstra. Generally it is only Telstra which have towers at the majority of the minesites.
Whatever laptop you use make sure you have suitable programs that are able to open all the common office programs.
Enjoy your new lifestyle as it can be used to great benifit to you and your family.