Impressive circa 1989-90 Magnavox Model MX 2020P Satellite Phone, serial no. 1368, with original "MagnaPhone" transit case and instruction sheets. An early 'portable' satellite communications device, the MagnaPhone could provide telephone, fax, telex and data communications from anywhere in the world. It could connect to computers, modems, remote radio repeaters, and encryption devices. Designed to withstand the world's worst conditions in its most remote locations, the unit could operate in extreme temperatures (-40° C to +60° C) and tolerate wind-driven rain, snow, and sand. This example features a hard "Magnavox" satellite dish, four folding legs, and includes its power cable.
As a fully equipped portable satcom suite, the MagnaPhone found a wide variety of applications—from military excursions to Everest expeditions, it could be counted upon to coordinate a wide variety of communications under any circumstance. It is a visually intriguing predecessor to today's handheld phones, with impressive capabilities for its time. A similar example is held by Australia's Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences.
