Factory Option Enhances NVG Ops for Helo Operators

Avidyne Corporation has announced the addition of Night Vision Goggle (NVG) compatibility as a factory option for their IFD550, IFD545, IFD540, and IFD510 (IFD5-Series) integrated avionics suites.

The change is a nice addition to the lineup for the small but vital niche of all-weather, day/night operators in public safety, military, and security services, allowing them to avail themselves of familiar Avidyne systems while enjoying its somewhat more accessible price point. NVG mode is more than just a brightness shift, they note - the system requires an entirely different color spectrum for acceptable contrast through the tubes. Reds and yellows have to be dimmed without affecting their green and blue components, allowing for an even, legible FMS readout, and that takes some extra work at the factory. NVG compatibility adds $3,600 to the MSRP of IFD-series avionics, with more in the Avidyne lineup expected to see similar options arise soon.

“The helicopter segment is a growing market for Avidyne, and we continue to add new features to support our customers’ needs,” said Avidyne President, Dan Schwinn. “We now offer NVG-compatibility, initially on our IFD5-Series with additional models to follow.”

“NVG compatibility is just the latest of a whole host of helicopter-specific functions we offer on Avidyne FMS systems—including helicopter approaches and helipad database, powerline database, an easy-to-use ‘hybrid touch’ user interface with both touch screen and knob-button control, radar altitude display, RS-170 video display, and wireless connectivity—providing Search & Rescue pattern import from Foreflight,” said Ed Paulsen, Avidyne’s Vice President of Sales and Business Development. “The Avidyne IFD5-Series is an easy slide-in replacement option for customers with aging GNS-5XX series navigators, and this NVG option adds significant utility and safety enhancement for our helicopter customers.”

FMI: www.avidyne.com