AFIRS 228... then, now and tomorrow"As part of this long-standing program, FLYHT supports its OEM partner in delivering a customized version of the AFIRS™
228S to support voice and data communications used in the cockpit of Airbus aircraft anywhere in the world through the Iridium® satellite network.
"The request by our long-term OEM partner to refresh the modem design is the surest indication that the AFIRS 228S line-fit program with Airbus remains strong..."" The page-long description of the AFIRS 228 from the FLYHT site back in 2014 can be viewed here...
https://web.archive.org/web/20140706081223/https://flyht.com/products/afirs-228 It was "Future Ready" with...
- 533 MHz Processor
- 1.5 million gate FPGA
- Certified Fully-partitioned Lynx OS ™ Real-time Operating System
- Dual Redundant 16 GB Flash Memory Cards
- Functions as Quick Access Recorder
- EFB in-flight connectivity (including iPad)
"2014: "The AFIRS 228 offers a modern 533 MHz processor, 1.5 million gate FPGA for data acquisition, and advanced digital signal processing capabilities combined with a certified, fully-partitioned LynxOS™ Real-Time Operating System. Dual redundant 16 GB flash memory cards provide robust data storage."
FPGA... "A
field-programmable gate array (
FPGA) is a type of configurable integrated circuit that can be programmed or reprogrammed after manufacturing."
The AFIRS versions FLYHT offers today are described in this website document...
https://flyht.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/FLYHT_AFIRS_228_Voice_and_Data_Comms-Solution.pdf AFIRS™ 228B
AFIRS™ 228S
AFIRS™ 228S — TSO (TSO-C159b (FANS 1/A, ADS-C, CPDLC compliant))
The core hardware seems to be the same today. The OS is not noted, and may still be Linux, but software would be the easiest thing to perpetuate anyway.
- 533 MHz Processor
- 1.5 million gate FPGA
- Dual Redundant 16 GB Flash Memory Cards
- Functions as Quick Access Recorder
- EFB in-flight connectivity (Including iPad)
While the adage: "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" has its place, it can be hard to carry on with older electronics when parts supply inventories dry up and preferred methods of connectivity are lacking.
A curiosity...
There is an AFIRS 220 being offered on eBay for $895 USD. Serial number 096.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/115418037821