Sandel Avionics Announces SG102 AHRS for Helicopters

Tested to the demanding DO-160E helicopter vibration standard, the SG102 has a calculated MTBF of over 10,000 hours. Targeting helicopters with the popular Bendix/King KCS 55A compass system, the SG102 is plug compatible with the KG 102A directional gyro to facilitate upgrading. Other heading signal formats (XYZ, ARINC 429 and RS-232) are output by the SG102 to allow for upgrade of other directional gyros or to interface directly with Sandel’s SN3500 and SN4500 Primary Navigation Displays.

The SG102 also outputs attitude information that can be used for stabilization of radar antennas or remote cameras.

When combined with the mounting base, the SG102 helicopter version measures 5.0 x 6.1 x 2.7 inches and weighs 2.8 pounds, resulting in size and weight savings in addition to increased reliability when compared to electromechanical directional gyros.

“For the first time, helicopter operators wanting to replace high-maintenance gyros with solid state technology now have an affordable solution,” said Gerry Block, Sandel’s CEO. “They also have the option for a complete compass system upgrade when packaged with our SN3500 or SN4500 displays,” he added.

The SG102 ARHS received FAA TSO certification in February, 2008. Shipments of the helicopter version will begin in March, 2008 at an introductory price of $5,495 which includes the SG102 AHRS, MT102 magnetic transducer, mounting base and installation kit.

Sandel Avionics will be demonstrating its products at booth 2441 during the HAI Heli-Expo in Houston, TX, February 24-26, 2008.

Sandel Avionics, located in Vista, California, is a privately held company that provides compact integrated display systems for general aviation, business aviation, air transport and rotorcraft. Additional information can be found online at http://www.sandel.com/helos/.