Certification And Features Cut To Keep Price Under $1000

PS Engineering has developed an audio panel it says is uniquely suited to the needs of LSA and   homebuilt aircraft. To cut costs, the 4-place intercom skips the typical Marker Beacon Receiver and Speaker Amplifier in addition to lacking any FAA approvals.

The PMA5000EX features a 4-place hi-fi stereo intercom that uses PS Engineering's IntelliVox squelch protocol and includes a High Noise capability. IntelliVOX is a patented squelch protocol developed by PS Engineering that eliminates manual intercom squelch, adjusting dynamically to cockpit sound conditions.

The PMA5000EX supports two VHF COMs, two switched navigation receivers, 4-way mute, and monitor mode.  Two switched AUX inputs feature the ability to temporarily mute the audio for 60 seconds.  A front panel utility jack accepts most cellular phones, music inputs, and audio advisory inputs from portable devices.

PMA5000EX Audio Panel

In addition to the switched inputs, the new audio panel also has four unswitched inputs for the priority alert audio sources such as engine analyzers, traffic and terrain monitors. One input operates even with the power off.

The PMA5000EX is not intended for installation in certified aircraft, and is not FAA-approved. "We continue to offer a full slate of fully internationally certified audio panels," said Gary Picou, Vice President of Quality Systems and Certification, "The PMA5000EX doesn't take anything away from our existing products, but gives us another competitive tool in a significant market."

The new audio panel will be available in February 2010 for $995, including a 1-year Pro-Support warranty.

FMI: http://www.ps-engineering.com/