Software Utility May Be Added To Expand EFBs

Latitude Technologies announced this week the company has completed testing and has conclusively proven the interoperability of the text messaging, telephone dialing, and device memory functions of its SkyNode S200 satcom voice and data transceivers with the tBagC2 Class 2 Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) from navAero Inc.

Interoperability with SkyNode S100 satcom data transceivers and the navAero EFB was also proven for geo-positioning and other flight data. The Latitude software utility will allow navAero EFB users to install software that complements and expands the core functionality of their EFBs.

Operators that integrate their navAero EFBs with SkyNode S200 transceivers will now also be able to access text messaging, conventional and speed dialing, and number recall functionality right on their touch screen EFB displays.

With the new utility, SkyNode devices will be able to provide high-performance WAAS and GPS position information to navAero EFBs for moving map and real-time, on-screen satellite weather displays for any position along the route.

Both companies state text messages from the cockpit and cabin can be sent and received with any web-connected device through Latitude's LWS Sentinel data service. Received messages can be displayed in-flight through the EFB, a PDA, or a laptop computer. Crew and passengers can communicate using operator pre-defined messages or messages can be typed free-hand.

This robust integrated on-board voice and data management solution can be purchased as separate components from the two manufacturers. It also can be retrofitted to already-installed navAero EFBs or SkyNode satcom devices. Avionics distributor, reseller, and installer information packages will be distributed in the future. 

FMI: www.navaero.com, www.latitudetech.com