DC to AC Inverters

Endicott Research Group Inc. introduced the DMB Series of closed-loop DC to AC inverters for backlighting large liquid crystal displays (LCDs) with up to four cold cathode fluorescent tubes (CCFTs). Brightness can be controlled while remaining "flicker-free" throughout the entire range. The series is priced at less than $50 each in quantities of 1,000 or more. For more information, visit www.ergpower.com, phone 800-215-5866, or send e-mail to [email protected].

Weather Computer

Sporty’s has revived its hand-held "whiz-wheel" Weather Computer for pilots. This 8-inch (20.3-cm) diameter tool was originally designed for training Air Force pilots for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) renewals. The Weather Computer is priced at $8.95. Phone Sporty’s at 800-LIFTOFF or 513-735-9000.

FliteStar, FliteMap 8.1

Jeppesen has released its FliteStar and FliteMap version 8.1–the fifth release of the company’s flight planning and moving map programs since the introduction of version 8.0 in July 1999. It will be sent free to NavData customers at their next revision. FlightStar and FliteMap users not on a revision service can purchase version 8.1. FliteStar and FliteMap 8.1 offers European users new JAA and JAR-Ops capabilities in the form of an enhanced Nav Log. The corporate version includes the ability to set fuel density in the aircraft weight and balance. In the Western Hemisphere, contact Matt Ruwe at 800-621-5377, ext. 4779, or 303-328-4779; in the Eastern Hemisphere, phone (49) 6102-5070; or visit www.jeppesen.com.

Transceivers

Tyco Electronics Corp.’s Fiber Optic Division introduced AMP Gigabit Ethernet SFF MT-RJ transceivers, or AMP Fibre Channel SFF MT-RJ transceivers. These transceivers, when combined with Vitesse Semiconductor Corp.’s family of gigabit four-channel "quad" serializer-deserializer (SerDes) IC chips, offer a physical layer power savings of up to 30% per port, Tyco says. The AMP Gigabit small form factor (SFF) MT-RJ transceivers interface with gigabit Ethernet and fibre channel SerDes chip ICs. Contact Tyco Electronics, Fiber Optic Div., at phone 717-985-2305, or send e-mail to [email protected].

Voice Warning Systems

Specialty Enterprises Ltd. offers its family of voice warning systems for military and commercial aircraft. The systems provide the means to complement visual warnings with voice warnings and integrate existing aural and voice warnings, so that the most urgent warnings are prioritized. Systems are available with discrete and/or digital interfaces and may be connected to an ARINC 429, Mil-Std-1553 or PC bus. Direct inquiries to Bob Romandetto, 301-990-7337.

Gigabit Interface Converters

The dataMate business unit of Methode Electronics Inc. now offers a new 3.3-volt gigabit interface converters (GBICs) for datacom applications using copper cabling. The company says it’s the first major industry player to offer a complete family of low-voltage copper GBICs. The dataMate 3.3-volt GBICs for copper-based networks are hot-pluggable and are compliant with GBIC operational specifications for copper links. They feature built-in protection circuitry to avoid failure should they accidentally be plugged into conventional 5-volt systems. For more information, contact dataMate products, Methode Electronics Inc., phone 708-867-9600, fax 708-867-3149, or see www.methode.com.


Receive the latest avionics news right to your inbox