Garmin International has introduced their new GMA 347 audio panel. The GMA 347 builds upon the successful attributes of the GMA 340 while adding distinctive features such as automatic squelch, digital clearance recorder, full-duplex telephone interface, and additional inputs.

“The GMA 347 audio panel meets the needs of aircraft owners who require industry leading communication integration,” said Gary Kelley, Garmin’s vice president of marketing. “The versatility of the audio switching functions helps reduce cockpit workload and makes the flight more enjoyable for the pilot and crew.”

One of the new features of the GMA 347 is the automatic squelch option, which makes the entire audio experience quieter and clearer. Since there are some occasions when pilots would not want an automatic squelch – such as high noise environments – the GMA 347 also retains the manual squelch adjustment feature. Garmin has also added three more unmuted, unswitched inputs with individual volume control to the GMA 347.

The GMA 347’s automatic digital clearance recorder will help pilots manage the demands of a busy cockpit. The unit continuously captures the last two and a half minutes of audio switched through the panel. If a pilot misses a frequency change or clearance, they can replay the necessary information by simply pressing the “play” button.

In addition, the GMA 347 has a full-duplex telephone interface with intercom isolation and disable capability. This feature allows private telephone calls by the pilot or copilot, or multi-party calls with crew and/or passengers.

Pilots will also appreciate the audio panel’s “configuration module.” A small chip keeps track of the audio panel’s configuration at all times. If the audio panel is ever replaced, all the pilot’s preferred settings are automatically loaded into the unit.

The GMA 347 is available immediately for an estimated retail price of $2395.00

FMI: www.garmin.com