Flightcell have released firmware versions 4.8.2 and 3.8.2 for all DZP_04 Platform 3 and Platform 4 product variants. This new release of firmware contains bug fixes.

Please note the release is Recommended. Refer to the Compliance section of the Service Bulletin to see how you are affected by this release.

To view the Service Bulletin and to download the new firmware click here

Global supply of electronic components is in a critical state, as a result we have done our best to carry significantly more component inventory than we need, and more that we have ever held in our history. Unfortunately some lead times have blown out beyond all expectations, and supply reliability has also become a major problem. We have now been significantly impacted by this.

Flightcell received notification yesterday that a critical component supplier has deferred an imminent delivery out to May 2022. The component is unique and not readily replaceable by an alternative. Without this component we cannot build new DZMx systems, and we cannot perform most product upgrades.

We are doing everything we can to have this order expedited, however the manufacturer has been constrained by their supply of materials to manufacture the components. This will have a significant impact on our upgrade program, which provides for upgrading DZMx units to ensure continued operation after the closure of 3G services in the United States. The upgrade offer provided for a new cell modem to provide full services on the 4G network, and upgrade of the DZMx to the latest hardware standard.

We have enough components on hand to perform full upgrades on systems that are currently here in New Zealand, however we are not going to be able to provide the full upgrade on any other DZMx units until we receive these components.

If you have booked in units for upgrade and have not yet sent these, we ask that you PLEASE DO NOT SHIP THESE UNITS, as they will not be able to be fully upgraded.

We can provide the option to upgrade the cell modem only in platform 3 DZMx systems, which will provide for continued voice and tracking services on the 4G network. We can provide this modem upgrade for USD1,500. To determine if this is feasible contact us.

If you are in the USA and are relying on the product upgrade for continuity cellular services after AT&T shut down 3G, we suggest you move your account to T Mobile whose 3G services are not due to shut down until later in 2022. In addition the DZMx Iridium satellite system will continue to provide critical voice and tracking services uninterrupted.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this has caused, this is well beyond our control, but we are looking at all avenues to retain continued supply. We will keep you up-to-date as new information arises.

US Market - DZMx Cell Modem Replacements & Upgrades

This information ONLY refers to aircraft operating in the US market with DZMx systems that have a cell modem for data and voice services. If your DZMx is satellite only please disregard this email.

Flightcell wishes to advise of changes to the US cellular networks that will impact Flightcell DZMx users. We are aware that some users are already experiencing problems getting new units registered with cellular provider AT&T.

US cellular providers have announced that they will switch off the current 3G networks starting with AT&T from February 2022 in order to relocate the spectrum to 4G & 5G. The 3G/4G modem in your DZMx does not support voice calling in the US on 4G. Voice calling is achieved using the 3G network. This means from February 2022 these modems on AT&T will not support voice calling and may not support data either. T-Mobile is scheduled to follow in April 2022.

The great news is that your DZMx is a modular future proofed system, meaning modem and hardware upgrades are now available without the need to replace your DZMx.

Flightcell has already developed the modem upgrade solution for your DZMx. We are currently certifying a Sierra Wireless modem for the Americas. This modem is being certified for AT&T and "First Net" (Band 14) the new First Responder band. This new modem is able to access AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon services. The upgraded modem is AVAILABLE NOW for installation on your DZMx.

All new 4G voice capable DZMx are now supporting 4G voice over what is called VoLTE (voice over LTE). VoLTE is the only way to do voice on a purely 4G network.

What does all this mean for you?

• AT&T are no longer allowing any more 3G voice dependent products onto the network.
• The previous 4G modem in your DZMx does not support VoLTE.
• Flightcell have available the new VoLTE capable modem which will operate on T-Mobile, Verizon, and will soon be certified for use on AT&T and FirstNet.
• If an upgrade is required you will need to send your DZMx to Flightcell for upgrade.

Do I need to upgrade my DZMx?

Any units that do not have a cell modem do not need to do anything.Any unit(s) with the part/dash numbers DZP_04-XXX-XXX with a F in the last three letters of the dash number will NOT need to do anything - this unit already has the new Americas modem and will function once 3G is switched off.Any unit(s) with the part/dash numbers DZP_04-XXX-XXX with a P in the last three letters of the dash number will need the modem upgraded to the new Americas modem.Any unit(s) with DZP_04-9XX, DZP_04-8XX, DZP_04-7XX, DZP_04-3XX or DZP_04-2XX will need to purchase a hardware upgrade and the new Americas modem.

In the event your DZMx unit(s) need modem or modem and hardware upgrades, they will need to be returned to Flightcell. Please allow for a minimum two week turnaround excluding shipping.

To arrange for your DZMx unit(s) to be upgraded complete the application form below. Flightcell will then be in contact to provide a quote for the necessary upgrades, schedule in your upgrades and answer any questions you may have.

Fort Lauderdale, FL., July 23, 2020 - ACR Electronics, Inc. today announced its popular ARTEX ELT 345 Emergency Locator Transmitter is now FAA approved with multiple antenna and remote switch options. The small form factor and light-weight ELT 345 is the fastest selling ELT on the market thanks to its competitive price and industry-leading quality standards. Now approved with a 15-inch antenna and a new two-wire slim-line remote switch, the ELT 345 is available in three different retrofit configurations featuring flexible options that allow for easier and less expensive installations on experimental and general aviation aircraft.

The ARTEX ELT 345 transmits on 406 MHz and 121.5 MHz frequencies, providing pilots with a state-of-the-art emergency distress beacon that maximizes frequency stability and power while incorporating a built-in GPS navigational interface. Utilizing the three Cospas-Sarsat Satellite systems, the GEOSAR, LEOSAR, and the new MEOSAR constellations, the ARTEX beacon provides search and rescue forces around the world with the user's ELT emergency distress message and location in less than three minutes.

"With the rapid success of the ELT 345 and the demand from the market for additional antenna and switch options, we now have an economical solution for more GA and experimental aircraft," shared Marc Medeiros, Vice President of ARTEX products. "Our full line of ELT 345 kits allows aviators to choose from a more tailored and installation friendly assortment that are built to the highest quality standards in the industry." ARTEX ELTs are made in the U.S.A. and exceed government and regulatory certification and quality standards.

Each of the three comprehensive kit options features a two-wire remote switch, coax cable, and antenna, along with the ELT 345 beacon and installation kit. The primary difference between the kits pertains to the antenna and/or switch offering. The most economical option features the standard 23.5-inch black whip antenna and standard two-wire remote switch. The newly approved ELT 345 kits include a lower profile 15-inch black whip antenna, designed for installations where a shorter form factor is required. Lastly, the new slim-line remote switch is perfect for ACK and Ameri-King ELT replacements as it requires no modification to the switch panel cut-out when replacing a legacy phone cord style switch. As an added benefit, the slim-line switch requires no batteries and operates using two-wire connectivity for dependable cockpit panel operation.

Key ARTEX ELT 345 features and specifications:

• Quick, easy, and affordable retrofit ELT kits for general aviation and experimental aircraft
• Single antenna output for emergency transmission on both 406 MHz (Cospas-Sarsat) and 121.5 MHz (local Search & Rescue) frequencies
• Enhanced position accuracy within 100 meters through built-in GPS interface
• Encoded digital message broadcasts aircraft identification/registration and provides access to owner/emergency contact details
• Rugged stainless-steel mounting tray designed for increased stability in compliance with current FAA guidelines
• The ELT and installation can be tested with a satellite-based online confirmation test via ARTEX's proprietary satellite testing service 406Test.com (available in North and South America)

8102 Our most affordable option (part number 8102), comes with our standard black whip antenna (23") and standard 2-wire remote switch.
8107 8108 The other two kits include a lower profile antenna option featuring a black whip antenna (15") designed for installations where a shorter form factor is required. Lastly, while the 8102 and 8107 kits include the standard 2-wire remote switch, the 8108 kit features a new slim profile switch.

Up to $150 Savings on GPS, Communications and Navigation Products.

View Details

Flightcell is about to release a new product called the DZMx Plus. The Plus is primed to replace existing legacy SATCOM and tracking units. Click here for Flightcell's AEA new product introduction presentation.

uAvionix today announced it has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)Technical Standard Order (TSO) approval for its tailBeacon integrated rear position light ADS-B OUT solution. Much like the popular skyBeacon, the tailBeacon has been optimized for ease of installation times of less than one hour, including documentation. The tailBeacon system consists of a total of four (4) TSOs:

• ADS-B (TSO-C154c, Class B1S)
• GPS (TSO-C145e, Class Beta 1)
• Barometric altitude sensor (TSO-C88b)
• Position Light (TSO-C30c, Type III)

In preparation for approval, uAvionix has installed a kegerator, returned the defib machine, tooled a second manufacturing line and obtained FAA Manufacturing Inspection District Office (MIDO) approval. uAvionix has already initiated the Supplemental Type Certificates (STC) program with the FAA and is ready to perform the required STC flight testing, and deliver product shortly thereafter.

tailBeacon is available at www.dallasavionics.com.

(OCALA, FLORIDA, February 4, 2019) Dallas Avionics announced today that they are hosting a social event along with FLIR, and Churchill Navigation from 20:30 to 22:30, Wednesday, February 6, at the Hilton Hotel pool. There will be drinks, light refreshments, and music.

"We wanted to thank our customers for their hard work, dedication to safety and show our support for them at the APSA safety seminar," said Dallas Avionics Southeast Regional Salesmen Todd Enloe.

All attendees from the APSA safety seminar are welcome to attend. During the safety seminar, Dallas Avionics will discuss the latest Technisonic, Jupiter Avionics, AEM, Laserdyne, Power Sonix, and RockAIR equipment.

"We appreciate the support from Dallas Avionics, FLIR and Churchill Navigation at our upcoming Ocala Safety Seminar. One of our core Association values is networking and social events such as the one they are sponsoring certainly facilitate networking amongst members. Besides the educational programs we provide, one of the greatest benefits of membership is opportunities to network with your peers," said APSA Executive Director/CEO Dan Schwarzbach.

Dallas Avionics' Kenny Hall serves as the Business Development Manager for the public safety sector. "The men and women that attend the continuing education sessions at APSA's safety seminar and annual convention are the ones serving on the front lines protecting us every day. We wanted to support them, inform them about the latest updates on equipment that is available and thank them for their service. By keeping them up to date on emerging technology and products, we hope we are helping them complete their missions safely every day."

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
ARTEX Legacy ELT Battery Packs Will Be Discontinued

Recent Communication From The FCC (§ 87.195)
"In this Fourth Report and Order, we prohibit the certification and, after a six-month transitional period, the manufacture, importation, and sale of 121.5 MHz ELTs. This will accelerate the transition to 406 MHz ELTs and, as a consequence, enhance the ability of search and rescue personnel to locate and bring aid to the victims of plane crashes and provide safety benefits to search and rescue personnel as well as pilots and passengers."

ARTEX Legacy ELTs
The 121.5 and 243 MHz ELT systems first launched in 1984 and were formally obsoleted in 2013. ARTEX, added additional life to its products by continuing to manufacture these battery systems with no disruption. Due to the age of the ELT and the difficulty in parts procurement, we have elected to obsolete these battery systems in 2020.

ARTEX Replacement Assistance
The good news is ARTEX has a complete line of world class products for every aircraft type. Your continued allegiance to ARTEX ELT is appreciated. To make this transition as easy as possible, we have a product upgrade chart available to minimize installation costs along with special promotions for existing customers who make the move to a new ARTEX 406 MHz ELT

Learn More

Please visit www.121MHz.com for Assistance and Promotions in Upgrading Your ARTEX ELT

• ARTEX ELT 345 - Best ELT Value - No Promotion Available
• ARTEX ELT 1000 Rebate Promotion Available - $100 Visa Gift Card
• ARTEX ELT 4000 Promotion Available - $200 Visa Gift Card
• ARTEX C-406 Series Promotion Available - $200 Visa Gift Card

ELT Upgrade Rebate Promotions REQUIRES the electronic housing of the eligible legacy ELT be returned to ARTEX with the completed Rebate Form and Proof of Purchase. Terms and Conditions can be found on the Rebate Form Below.

Rebate Form

Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. What ARTEX ELT models are discontinued

A. ELT Models: 110-4, 110-B, ELT 100, ELT 100HM, B121, G406-1, G406-2, ELT 200, ELT 200S, ELT 200HM

Q. What ARTEX ELT Batter Packs are being discontinued at the end of 2019?
A. The following battery pack part numbers will be discontinued at the end of 2019: 452-0130, 452-0130-2, 452-0130-3, 452-0131, 452-3061, 452-3063, and 452-3065

Q. If I choose to replace my existing 121 ELT battery am I still in compliance with FCC/FAA regulations?
A. Yes, but only for the 2 year life of the battery pack. Once your battery pack expires, you will need to replace your existing 121 MHz ELT with a 406 MHz ELT.

The day has finally come! A 272 aircraft AML for skyBeacon has been received. See this newsletter for information on the following!

• skyBeacon STC data package accepted by FAA with 272 aircraft AML
• Shipping information
• How to get skyBeacon installed
• Where to purchase
• How to get your $500 FAA rebate
• Wingtip fairing adapters
• Starboard options - skyLight and skySensor

For Frequently Asked Questions Click Here!

The release of built in WiFi and Bluetooth for the Flightcell DZMx has meant an overhaul of the product's architecture, and with it, some exciting new capabilities.

Until now, all DZMx's in service have been running version 1 or version 2 firmware. The latest version 3 firmware offers up a future-proofed platform that is compatible with wireless smart devices.

WiFi provides an onboard hotspot and router for smart devices and connected equipment aboard the aircraft. Bluetooth allows you to pair a smart device to the aircraft ICS/headset - like you do in your car when you pair to the car audio system. Click here to check out the DZMx Connect app that works with DZMx WiFi.

The DZMx hardware has also been improved; including an enhanced audio board that produces HD quality voice. Customers will notice a dramatic improvement in audio quality as a result.

New units will be shipped with version 3 firmware and the can be ordered with or without WiFi and/or Bluetooth and they can even be ordered as WiFi and/or Bluetooth ready if the functionality is likely to be needed at a later date. The remote activation is done using a software key. Contact Flightcell or contact your Reseller for more information.

New DZMx's can also be ordered with or without WiFi or Bluetooth hardware and capability.

Existing DZMx customers have several upgrade options and they are:

• Option 1: Upgrade to fully operational WiFi (incl Bluetooth and v3 firmware)
• Option 2: Upgrade to fully operational Bluetooth only (inc v3 firmware)
• Option 3: Upgrade to WiFi or Bluetooth ready. Can activate functionality remotely at a later date with this option. (inc v3 firmware)
• Option 4: Upgrade firmware only, to keep up with software feature developments/product enhancements. Summary of ordering options & product code

Advanced replacement options available as an additional service. Click here for upgrade documentation.


New and upgrade options and their associated product codes
* Bundled free of charge

This is a jam-packed newsletter full of BIG NEWS. Grab a cup of coffee, here is what's in store:

• skyBeacon STC data package accepted by FAA with 272 aircraft AML
• Shipping by the end of November
• How to get skyBeacon installed
• Wingtip fairing adapters
• tailBeacon update
• Starboard options - skyLight and skySensor

STC Data Submitted to FAA
Its been just over 2 months since we announced skyBeacon received its 5 TSOs. At the time, we thought the STC was just a couple of weeks away...

We keep on learning. Our initial STC flight turned up an issue we hadn't previously discovered. It's resolved now, but it resulted in a TSO minor modification, subsequent test flights, and finally another STC flight. Despite rumors or speculation to the contrary, the delay has been of our own making, and has nothing to do with our dispute with a competitor. The data package has been accepted by the FAA and we are now awaiting signatures.

Built in WiFi and Bluetooth is now available for the Flightcell DZMx, providing wireless access to broadband data* and audio from connected smart devices. No external WiFi router required!

Coupled with the WiFi is a 'DZMx Connect' app offering:

1. SMS & SBD messaging
2. Voice calling capability
3. DZMx configuration & contacts management

The DZMx Connect app is available for download from iTunes & Google Play and works with all WiFi and Bluetooth enabled DZMx's.

Built In WiFi
DZMx with WiFi provides a cellular broadband data connection for onboard smart devices and connected equipment. The WiFi antenna and components are installed inside the existing DZMx housing; measuring just 125mm x 120mm x 55mm (4.95" x 4.72" x 2.18"). This is an optional extra for all new DZMx purchases and Bluetooth functionality is bundled with the WiFi at no extra cost**.

Built In Bluetooth
DZMx Bluetooth pairs and connects onboard devices to the aircraft's ICS. Mobile phone calls can be taken through the headset, providing pilots or crew with a handsfree capability, and there is the added ability to stream audio. The Bluetooth antenna and components are installed inside the existing DZMx housing. DZMx Bluetooth is an optional extra for all new purchases**.

Upgrade your Current DZMx
Customers have the option to upgrade their existing DZMx units to WiFi + Bluetooth, or Bluetooth only. The upgrade involves new hardware, including a HD audio board, and new next-generation v3 firmware. Contact Flightcell or your supplier for details.

*applicable to cellular capable DZMx's only **additional activation charges apply

Avionics manufacturer uAvionix believes it will have FAA technical standard order (TSO) approval for its innovative skyBeacon wingtip position light and integrated Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Out transmitter before EAA AirVenture, or someone will walk the plank-figuratively, anyway. "We will either bring skyBeacon to sell and install on your aircraft, or a dunk tank for our certification lead," said Paul Beard, the company's CEO.

ADS-B uses satellites instead of ground-based radar to determine aircraft position, and is a key technology behind the FAA's Next Generation Air Transportation System. The FAA has mandated ADS-B Out for flight after Jan. 1, 2020, in airspace where a Mode C transponder is required today. uAvionx said the skyBeacon, which incorporates a WAAS GPS position source as well as LED position and anticollision strobe lights, when paired with an existing Mode C transponder will meet the requirements of the FAA mandate.

In an update emailed May 17 to customers, uAvionix said it will submit its TSO application to the FAA before the end of this month, "meaning that all development, testing, and verification work is complete and we are requesting approval to manufacture and sell the device," said Ryan Reed, communications director for the company. "Because of the level of involvement the FAA has had in the project, we anticipate a quick approval."

"We are on the final stretch having achieved numerous major milestones in the skyBeacon certification process," the email said. "Specifically, skyBeacon has seen rigorous environmental and performance testing, exceeding required standards and ensuring compatibility with a wide variety of aircraft. We've worked with the FAA to gain a groundbreaking approval for integrating the modern microelectronics necessary to make skyBeacon a reality. Despite these successes, we haven't yet crossed the finish line. Over the last several months we've quadrupled our team, devoting significant resources to quickly complete the skyBeacon TSO. We are humbled by the response and continued support of our customers who have partnered with us to help shape a unique vision of aviation."

A non-TSOed version of the skyBeacon is available today for experimental and light sport aircraft.

The company has started sourcing the parts for the first production run and does not anticipate any delays in fulfilling orders, Reed said, adding that uAvionix plans to offer a limited number of installations on the field during EAA AirVenture this summer. The cost will be approximately 15 minutes of shop time, he added.

(DALLAS, TEXAS June 4, 2018) Dallas Avionics, Inc. announced today that the company is now taking pre-orders on the soon-to-be-certified uAvionix skyBeacon. The skyBeacon is the first in the series of uAvionix's revolutionary ADS-B solutions for the certified aircraft market. The skyBeacon offers wing-tip mounted ADS-B OUT with WAAS GPS and LED position and anti-collision strobe lights that meets the requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ADS-B 2020 mandate when paired with an existing Mode C transponder.

"The skyBeacon offers owners of light aircraft a cost effective, ADS-B solution that is easy to install and also provides nice LED navigation and anti-collision lighting as a value add," said Dallas Avionics sales representative Scott Edwards.

The skyBeacon works with any existing mode C transponder. Installation time is expected to be less than 15 minutes instead of hours for competitive solutions, resulting in the lowest cost of ownership for a compliant, certified ADS-B out solution.

"We will begin taking pre-orders for skyBeacon for an introductory retail price of $1,849 on June 4. This is the lowest cost of ownership product on the market for ADS-B compliance, including installation" said Edwards.

The skyBeacon has completed environmental testing and is currently undergoing performance testing and uAvionix expects that the TSO will be completed by the end of June.

"We are pleased to be working with Dallas Avionics to bring the skyBeacon to their loyal customers," said President of uAvionix Christian Ramsey. "The skyBeacon was designed to help the general aviation market meet the FAA requirements in a cost effective, easy to install solution."

Dallas Avionics, Inc. is uAvionix's distributor for all certified aircraft, rotorcraft and LSA/experimental products. uAvionix is currently developing the new tailBeacon, which is also pending FAA approval, and the skySensor that will provide ADS-B IN capabilities as a companion to skyBeacon. Contact Dallas Avionics at 800-527-2581 to pre-order the skyBeacon.

Years after 9/11, first responders still remember the coordination problems they experienced due to a lack of interoperable radio communications. Even today, interoperability between different first responder agencies is not a given - which is why the Technisonic cross-band radio solution being offered by Texas' Dallas Avionics is worthy of note.

Based upon the Technisonic TDFM 9100 Series P25 FM Communications transceiver integrated with the Iridium satellite telephone, this RF package allows agencies to work together across radio and satellite bands.
"The Technisonic TDFM 9100 acts as what is known as a 'cross-band repeater'," said Scott Hurst, Dallas Avionics' sales and technical support manager. "Say you have someone who is on 800 MHz, and you've got someone else in the air who is on VHF: We're able to do a patch between those guys," he said. "So if law enforcement is doing a vehicle chase across multiple municipalities, they can now link everyone together. And should we ever have another 9/11-type disaster, the cross-band repeater function could link first responders on different radio system together if a repeater tower went down."
"Another big thing that's come out, since Latitude Technologies has teamed with Technisonic, is the ability for helicopter operators to have Push-to-Talk (PTT) connections to other aircraft and ground stations in their talk group via radio and Iridium satellite; no matter when they are in the world," Hurst added. The talk groups can be configured and altered as needed by the operators' Web Based Dispatch centers. "No one has to dial up phone numbers anymore: The talk groups can be set up to do this automatically via PTT," he said. "Helicopter operators now have access to true interoperable communications; no matter what the band, platform, and locations of the users."

Technisonic Enables Interoperability
As noted above in the Dallas Avionics' section, Technisonics has worked Latitude Technologies to create a P25 / Satellite integration capable of supporting cross-band repeat. One that can interconnect a range of radio bands (VHF, UHF, 700 and 800 MHz) with satellite communications via the Iridium satellite network.
For the record, "Project 25 or P25 is a common set of digital protocols that when implemented, would support interoperability across radio manufacturers," said the Technisonic website (www.til.ca).
"Today's mission based aircraft operate all across the P25 spectrum, whether you are talking across the county or across the state, P25 capability is required."
Technisonic makes a range of P25 airborne FM transceivers, grouped together in its TDFM-9000/9100/9200/9300 series product line.
"Our specialty lies in designing radios that meet the unique communications needs of our clients," said Jim Huddock, Technisonic's business development manager. "An EMS helicopter may have a requirement for a UHF radio, to speak on the hospital frequency, where a federal mission-based helicopter is more focused on VHF." In either case, Technisonic interviews the customers to find out what their missions requirements are and how their radios are used aloft, and then configures transceivers to meet their needs.
In addition to adding satellite calling and PTT functionality to their TDFM line of radios (again in partnership with Latitude Technologies), Technisonic has found a way to integrate users' legacy non-P25 radios into their TDFM P25 radios using Multi Communications Ports (MCPs). "The MCP allows us to connect an external transceiver directly into our radio," said Huddock. "This provides a simple, easy-to-use connection, avoiding the need to rewire audio panels."

ACR Electronics unveils the world's first and only 406 MHz approved non-rechargeable lithium battery special conditions exempt transport-grade alkaline battery-powered solution.

ARTEX, an ACR Electronics, Inc. brand, is introducing the world's only 406 MHz approved transport-grade alkaline battery-powered Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT). The development of the innovative ARTEX ELT 4000 featuring an alternative power source to traditional lithium batteries offers OEMs, airlines and operators an ELT that is exempt from FAA non-rechargeable lithium battery special conditions, while introducing significant benefits and savings in the cost of ownership through reduced, acquisition, installation, and maintenance.

The ELT 4000 is ideal for simplified forward fit and retrofit opportunities. Unlike legacy ELT systems, it is a one-piece solution featuring built-in NAV interface (ARINC 429), allowing for connection to on-board GPS. As it is a single output ELT, the ARTEX device uses the same RF output and only one coax cable to transmit both 406 MHz and 121.5 MHz signals. It features further options including a two-wire remote switch that does not require any aircraft power.

The ARTEX ELT 4000 has received Cospas-Sarsat and FAA TSO certification and production units are now shipping. Activated manually using cockpit remote switch or automatically via internal G-Switch, the 406 MHz signal is transmitted to the Global Cospas-Sarsat satellite network and routed to the nearest Search and Rescue agency. GPS data embedded within the digital transmission reduces the search radius to 100 meters.

The ARTEX ELT 4000 is also approved and available in a Helicopter Model (HM) with a 5-axis G-Switch.

ACR Electronics, Inc. designs and manufactures an array of ARTEX ELT's, battery packs, and ELT accessories. ARTEX ELT's serve a wide category of aircraft ranging from general aviation to the world's leading airframe manufacturers, large commercial airlines, and government aircraft.

The Flightcell DZMx is to have optional Bluetooth, allowing onboard devices to pair and be connected to the aircraft ICS. Mobile phone calls can be taken through the headset, providing pilots and crew with a handsfree capability and they can now listen to streaming audio.

This is the latest of a string of developments inside Flightcell DZMx product platform, a platform that continues to lead the industry when it comes to integrated satellite and cellular voice, data and tracking solutions. Bluetooth will be an optional extra for all new purchases that ship from July 2018.

DZMx customers will also have the option to upgrade existing units and it is recommended that this is done in conjunction with the DZMx WiFi upgrade option. Flightcell has achieved significant business success with a wide-range of companies and organisations that include the U.S. State Department, U.S. Air Force, Army and Marine Corps, U.S. and European airborne police forces, Colombian, Chilean, South Korean and Turkish Air Forces, British and Norwegian Search and Rescue, and EMS operators in more than a dozen countries. As well, leading aircraft manufacturers such as Leonardo Helicopters, Lockheed Martin, Bell Helicopters, Airbus Helicopters and Sikorsky install Flightcell's DZMx systems on new production aircraft.

Find out more about Flightcell DZMx Bluetooth at Heli-Expo Booth C2141.

The Flightcell DZMx, the all-in-one solution for global voice, data, messaging and tracking, is to be enhanced with a built-in WiFi hotspot and router. This provides a cellular broadband data connection for onboard smart devices and connected equipment without the need for a separate WiFi router installation. The WiFi antenna and components are installed within the existing DZMx housing.

"Space is at a premium in the cockpit, which is why we have designed the DZMx to be a compact all-in-one unit in the first place", says John Wyllie, CEO Flightcell. "We've now provided our customers with an additional, and highly desirable, capability and at the same time we are saving them the cost, time and space that a separate installation demands."

Built-in WiFi will be an optional extra for all new purchases that ship from July 2018. DZMx customers will have the option to upgrade their existing units.

Flightcell has achieved significant business success with a wide-range of companies and organisations that include the U.S. State Department, U.S. Air Force, Army and Marine Corps, U.S. and European airborne police forces, Colombian, Chilean, South Korean and Turkish Air Forces, British and Norwegian Search and Rescue, and EMS operators in more than a dozen countries. As well, leading aircraft manufacturers such as Leonardo Helicopters, Lockheed Martin, Bell Helicopters, Airbus Helicopters and Sikorsky install Flightcell's DZMx systems on new production aircraft. This is the first of two technology releases by Flightcell leading up to Heli-Expo 2018 - expect another announcement within the week. They will be demonstrating this capability at Heli-Expo Booth C2141.



Flightcell International is a global producer of airborne integrated-mobile communications, providing satellite and cellular data, voice and tracking to over 3500 commercial and military aircraft worldwide. Flightcell are the innovators and manufacturers of Flightcell DZMx, the world's only all-in-one Iridium and cellular solution for voice, data, and aircraft tracking. For more information, contact Flightcell International Limited, phone +64 3 545 8651, email info@flightcell.com, visit www.flightcell.com or follow them on social media: LinkedIn, Facebook, & Twitter.

Late last year we integrated a Zoll X Series monitor/defibrillator and a LifePak 15 monitor/defibrillator with the DZMx and a WiFi hub. We tested them with the help of Zoll NZ, St John NZ and GCH Aviation (formerly Garden City Helicopters).

We successfully and repeatedly sent 12-Lead ECG reports from the monitors to their respective data centers over DZMx cell data!

What does this mean for your customers?
They can now transmit patient ECG information to the Emergency Department (ED) while inbound, instead of waiting until they arrive. This allows more time to mobilise the cardiac team and prepare stents if they are necessary. This technology make life a lot easier for the crew, but more importantly it will save lives.

Customers may have monitors with in-built cellular capability, however without an installed external antenna the range is limited. A DZMx installed solution will be far superior to anything they have already.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Helicopter Air Ambulance (HAA) mandate as detailed in advisory circular AC 135-14B specifies that operators must install a Flight Data Monitoring System (FDMS), that meets certain criteria, in each HAA by April 23, 2018.

The Flightcell DZMx will be compliant with this mandate. It will be capable of recording flight performance data including at minimum: latitude, longitude, barometric altitude, and date/time of recording, once per second and have sufficient memory to retain the data over 4 hours of flight time.