STC Allows For Activation Of Mk10 Wireless Keyboard, Avidyne’s First Bluetooth Functionality For IFD440 & IFD40 Systems

The FAA has granted Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval of their MK10 Bluetooth keyboard, the first Bluetooth-enable functionality for the IFD440 and IFD540 FMS/GPS/NAV/COM systems. The MK10 Bluetooth Keyboard allows pilots to wirelessly control their panel-mounted IFD440 or IFD540 system. Activation of Bluetooth functionality requires IFD440/IFD540 software Release 10.1.1.

“The MK10 Keyboard makes flying even easier by providing wireless control of many of the IFD440/ IFD540 functions,” said Tom Harper, Avidyne’s Director of Marketing.   “And because the 440 and 540 have integrated Bluetooth and WiFi capability, all current and future owners can enable this and future functionality via software, without the need to add expensive remote boxes and additional wiring.”

“The MK10 Bluetooth keyboard is the first enablement of wireless functionality for our IFD440 and IFD540 systems,” said Dan Schwinn, Avidyne’s President & CEO.  “Avidyne will continue to add other wireless enablements over the life of these products using Bluetooth and WiFi capability, which will provide additional levels of system integration and ease of use.”

Initially, the MK10 will allow remote entry of waypoints and flight plans, plus map range changing, and alpha-numeric data entry. An upcoming release (R10.2) will fully enable all MK10 functions including page and tab selection, Direct TO, and others.

The MK10 Bluetooth keyboard has a retail price of $299.   For a limited time, all customers who register (or who have registered) on www.MyAvidyne.com will receive an MK10 Keyboard at no charge.

Bluetooth activation requires Release 10.1.1 software. The software is available at no charge for all current IFD440 and IFD540 owners, and is available through all authorized Avidyne dealers.

(Images provided with Avidyne news release)

FMI: www.avidyne.com