Duncan Aviation Installs First Rockwell Collins SAT-906 SATCOM Dual Channel HSD System in Falcon 900EX

September 30, 2003

LINCOLN, NEB. — Duncan Aviation has successfully performed the first installation of Rockwell Collins’ dual channel HST-900 transceivers with Rockwell Collins’ SAT-906 SATCOM system. This Falcon 900EX is the first business aircraft in the world to have simultaneous INMARSAT Aero channels and dual Swift64 high-speed data (HSD) channels.

The Collins HST-900 empowers passengers with up to six voice channels and two digital channels providing quality voice and enhanced e-mail and internet access with data rates up to 128Kbs. Designed to work in concert with the Collins SAT-906 SATCOM system, the HST-900 uses Inmarsat’s Swift64 service. The installation includes a Collins Wireless LAN Unit (WLU) which saves weight, simplifies the installation and enables laptop users to gain access anywhere in the cabin without hard wire connections.

This installation permits the use of  INMARSAT Aero safety services in the flight deck and simultaneous voice and high-speed data in the cabin. This capability is made possible through a Rockwell Collins proprietary software management system that ensures the flight deck maintains its priority and pre-emptive receipt of essential communications.  The management system also validates frequency assignments to ensure there is no potential interference with GPS frequencies.  

The HST-900 is equipped with Ethernet, ISDN and RS-232 interfaces for maximum installation flexibility.  The system enables simultaneous use of high-speed data and Aero H/H+ services through a common 60-watt high power amplifier and high-gain antenna. Once installed, the HST-900 can be upgraded for new generations of Inmarsat high-speed data services without affecting the SAT-906 functionality.

Duncan Aviation is an aircraft service provider with 1,800 employees supporting the aviation needs of government and business operators and other service providers. These services include airframe, engine, avionics installations, interior and paint completions/modifications, avionics/instrument and accessory/propeller repair/overhaul and parts support. Complete service facilities are located in Lincoln, Neb., and Battle Creek, Mich. Additional locations include 21 satellite avionics facilities located throughout the United States, 20 government C-23 contract locations, a line service/regional support operation in Kalamazoo, Mich., and Lincoln-based AVPAC, a division that sells and consigns general aviation parts to aircraft operators and service organizations worldwide.

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