Prime Avionics has been at the forefront of innovation in the field of Flight Data Recorders (FDRs) and Cockpit Voice Recorders (CVRs) for more than 25 years.
Prime Avionics’ critical thinking combined with the company’s optimistic, ‘can-do’ attitude has seen the company successfully complete avionics installations across a range of aircraft, many of which were deemed not to be feasible by other operators. While Prime Avionics’ proven track record of avionics installations is what initially attracts clients, its customer-centric approach to every project is why clients keep returning. With customer excellence at the heart of everything the company does, Prime Avionics prioritise finding and providing the most cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or safety. Its extensive portfolio of solutions ensures that the company can meet the diverse needs of its clients, offering products that are not only advanced but also economically viable.
This commitment to innovation and to providing cost-effective and reliable recording solutions for aviation, has seen Prime Avionics establish a strong reputation over the past quarter-century as an industry leader in the integration and implementation of FDRs and CVRs.
A) F1000 Flight Data Recorder with
A1) Data Retrieval Unit DRU/2
B) FA2100 Flight Data Recorder
C) Combination Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR)
D) HHNTI handheld multipurpose interface unit
E) Fairchild Model 2100 portable interface
Continuing a legacy of innovation
Prime Avionics’ current expertise spans a wide range of systems, from the F800 to the F1000 and F2100 and now extending to the latest combination units by Sentry Recorders. In the coming months, Prime Avionics will introduce several more groundbreaking products to its range. These new offerings will enable the replacement of legacy recorders with advanced, cost-effective models. This includes Quick Access Recorders (QARs) and data acquisition units designed to integrate seamlessly with most existing recorders.
Prime Avionics is continually exploring the market for the latest and most efficient products to offer its clients. One of these exciting offerings is the Micro Data Acquisition Unit (MDAU), a miniature, hermetically sealed acquisition unit ideal for installation in harsh and remote locations. By measuring input signals close to the source, this MDAU simplifies wiring harness design and improves signal fidelity. The unit includes captive fasteners to ease installation and minimise the risk of Foreign Object Debris (FOD).
The MDAU’s FPGA-based processing, coupled with high-speed analogue front ends, allows it to measure both digital (ARINC-429) and analogue (Synchro) signals using the same pins in different applications. The primary output capability is through a high-speed ARINC-429 bus. The total input capability is determined by exact signal selection and pin availability, such as:
- Differential (input): 11 channels
- Single ended (input): 22 channels
- Output transceivers: 2 channels
- Auxiliary outputs: 1 protected 28VDC
On the flight recorder, the product line meets all EUROCAE ED-112A requirements for all aircraft classes in CVFDR or standalone FDR or CVR requirements, including 25-hour cockpit audio and datalink / CPDLC. Standard digital recording interfaces include:
- ARINC717 (auto rate detection up to 2,048 wps)
- ARINC429 (4 channels, automatic rate)
- ARINC825 (single channel)
- RS422/485 (single channel)
- 10/100 Ethernet (3 ports) (e.g., for video recording)
Thanks to an internal web server and standard modular Ethernet jack, no specialist Ground Support Equipment (GSE) tools are required for download, which can connect to a standard portable computer. A restricted-access custom aircraft interface cable can be used to support the download of CVR audio data without needing removal from the aircraft and subsequent recertification. A standard Internal TPM 2.0 security chip enhances cybersecurity when connected to other Ethernet-based aircraft systems. The unit also incorporates dual redundant 28VDC power inputs and an internal Recorder Independent Power Supply (RIPS) as standard to support a 10-minute backup.
Expansion capabilities via internal daughter cards include:
- 8 Channel analogue (including internal Flight Data Acquisition Unit for conversion to ARINC-717)
- MIL-STD-1553B or Dual Channel CAN Aerospace
- Asymmetric (RSA-2048) and Symmetric (AES-256) encryption of recorded data
- Cellular download option (global frequency bands and embedded SIM)
- Internal Global Aeronautical Distress and Safety System (GADSS) triggering for external ELT and timeline recovery of flight data (TRD)
- Third-party analysis software on a dedicated 400MHz 32-bit ARM M7 processor with ECC
Partnership with QCM
In collaboration with its partner, QCM, a leading EASA-approved design organisation, Prime Avionics guarantees a smooth transition from current recording systems to its new, advanced units. This partnership enhances the capability to deliver superior solutions while ensuring minimal disruption to clients’ operations. Together, Prime Avionics and QCM provide a comprehensive and streamlined process for upgrading recording systems, tailored to meet the specific needs of any aircraft.
Commitment to excellence
Prime Avionics is committed to maintaining the highest standards of service and quality. Its team’s dedication to innovation and excellence ensures that the company remains a trusted partner in aviation recording solutions. With a dedicated team to handle report downloads, under normal circumstances, Prime Avionics can provide a turnaround time (TOT) of 48 hours. As Prime Avionics continues to explore the market with its partners on developing new products, Prime Avionics’ clients can rest assured that they are receiving the best possible solutions for their recording needs.
Conclusion
With a rich history of success and a forward-looking approach to technology, Prime Avionics is poised to continue leading the way in FDR and CVR solutions. Its cost-effective, high-quality products and strategic partnerships ensure that the company continues to meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry and is excited about future prospects to provide its new and existing clients with the best solutions for aviation recording requirements.
