Satcom Direct's Proprietary Router Receives EASA Approval and FAA/TCCA Validation for Global 5000 and Global XRS Upgrade

March 18, 2014
The EASA-approved, FAA/TCCA validated modification upgrades the Rockwell Collins SAT-6100/-2100 single channel Satcom Swift64 to single channel Swift Broadband with Satcom Direct SDR Wi-Fi Router installation.

Satellite Beach, FL / March 18, 2014 – The Satcom Direct Router (SDR) allows business aviation customers to manage all of the cabin communications systems onboard the aircraft. The EASA-approved, FAA/TCCA validated modification upgrades the Rockwell Collins SAT-6100/-2100 single channel Satcom Swift64 to single channel Swift Broadband with Satcom Direct SDR Wi-Fi Router installation.

The SDR is Satcom Direct's first certified hardware product. The SDR allows multiple systems to operate on the aircraft without additional wireless access points, creating the ability for separate guest or dedicated VVIP networks. Units are currently being shipped to dealers throughout the U.S. and Europe.

"During modification, the aircraft's originally installed WLU-2100 Wi-Fi access point is replaced by the Satcom Direct SDR Wi-Fi Router," said Chris Moore, vice president, Satcom Direct International. "The upgrade adds exceptional add-on communication features and services." 

The installation was performed by RUAG Aviation in Munich, Germany. RUAG is a member of Satcom Direct's dealer network and a highly-valued partner.

The upgraded system allows passengers to use their own smartphones for voice communication during flight. It also provides multiple Wi-Fi access points (SSID) for VIPs and guests on-board with different service profiles. The system also features the latest technology in data compression and acceleration.

While on the ground, 3G/4G connectivity is possible through the SDR, and data plans for domestic and global roaming with the SDR’s Dual-SIM module are available to provide the best roaming rates around the world. Additionally, the SDR supports mobile applications for on-board cabin services such as moving map and Flight Tracker, command and control of satellite links, and real-time connection status reporting.

A detailed description of this modification as well as contact information for the approval owner can be found on www.sofi.aero (direct link: http://www.sofi.aero/?direct=330C-CN).

Satcom Direct: Satcom Direct is the leading provider of satellite voice and broadband data solutions for flight deck and cabin communications serving business, military, government, and heads of state aircraft. The company is a premier Inmarsat Distribution Partner, Iridium Service Partner, and ViaSat Yonder's preferred reseller, supporting more than ninety percent of all corporate flight departments worldwide. Satcom Direct continues to advance its services through mobile applications and value adds – from flight deck datalink to cabin communications – making Satcom Direct the leader in aeronautical satcom service.

Satcom Direct’s headquarters and primary operations center is located in Satellite Beach, Florida, with additional office locations in the United States (+1.321.777.3000); Canada (+1.514.900.3009); Brazil (+55.11.2538.9068); Farnborough, UK (+44.1252.554.460); Dubai, UAE (+971.488.79118); Hong Kong (+852.5364.0279); Geneva, Switzerland (+41.225.180.345); and Moscow, Russia (+7.926.283.66.06).

For more information regarding Satcom Direct, visit www.satcomdirect.com. To view Satcom Direct’s portable satellite communication equipment and services, including satellite phones and BGAN units, visit www.satcomstore.com, e-mail [email protected], or call +1.321.777.0771.