PS Engineering Says PAR200 Is First Such Device To Be Certified By The FAA
An FAA certified VHF com radio with a fully integrated audio panel has been introduced by PS Engineering, which says it is the first such device to be available on the market. The PAR200 system combines an audio control panel, high fidelity 4-place stereo intercom with IntelliVox, Bluetooth connectivity, and a remote mounted EASA/FAA Certified Trig Avionics VHF aviation communications transceiver.
“Ever since we introduced the PAR100EX Experimental Aircraft Audio Selector Panel with a remote VHF com radio, pilots have been asking us, “When are you going to get it certified?” explained company founder Mark Scheuer. “The hurdle for us was not the certification an audio panel but was to team with a company that could deliver not only a certified remote mounted radio, but build it with the highest degree of precision.”
Partnering with the radio experts at Trig Avionics made integrating an important piece of avionics, with an advanced audio panel system, possible. PS Engineering’s customers will benefit from PS Engineering, Inc. and Trig Avionics individual talents. The companies say this system will save cockpit space and weight, provide sought-after functionality, and save money over stand-alone independent systems.
“Trig Avionics is excited about partnering with PS Engineering,” said Trig Avionics’ President, Andy Davis, “We are looking forward to getting into more airplanes with the PAR200, and the combination of our expertise will change the way certified four place aircraft and LSA aircraft avionics panels will be created.”
The companies say the PAR200’s low price makes it attractive for the “family flyer” Cessnas and Pipers of the world, along with the Light Sport aviation market. Eliminating one panel mounted radio saves panel space, reduces the cost of installation, and saves weight.
The right half of the PAR200 is dedicated to the com radio, with an LCD display that shows both Active and Standby frequencies, along with information such as the Monitor functions activity. Additionally, the system architecture assures that if the audio panel should have power disrupted, the display on the audio panel will remain active and allow control of the radio.
The left half has all of the audio panel controls for audio selection, intercom and music volume, intercom mode, and PS Engineering’s multiple music mute mode control. The PAR200 employs PS Engineering’s IntelliVox, a field proven automatic VOX circuit.
The PAR200 can be configured as stand-alone audio panel/intercom/radio or can be connected to a second radio, typically with navigating capabilities. The integrated Bluetooth system allows the PAR200 to interface with cellular telephones, giving the aircraft occupants ready access to their telephones. In addition, the Bluetooth will stream music from compatible devices like iPads and smart phones.
The list price of the PAR200, including the VHF com radio is $2,995, and deliveries will start in the third quarter of 2013.
(Images provided by PS Engineering.)