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| Satcom Direct Router. Photo: Gulfstream |
[Avionics Today 06-22-2015] The FAA has approved installation of the next-generation Satcom Direct Router (SDR) for Gulfstream Aerospace, an enhancement that aims to simplify cabin communications on the company’s G550 and G450 aircraft.
“The addition of a smart router allows for more communications options in the cabin, including Satcom Direct’s GlobalVT, which allows passengers to use their personal smartphones to call and text in flight. Just as they would if they were on the ground, outgoing calls show the passengers’ personal phone number and incoming calls display the number of the person calling them,” said Mike West, vice president of product support sales and new business development for Gulfstream.
According to Gulfstream, the SDR offers 3-G cellular connectivity worldwide with any service provider while on the ground and provides the latest technology in data compression and acceleration. The SDR also supports mobile applications for onboard cabin services, including moving map and Flight Tracker, command and control of satellite links, and real-time connection status reporting.
The SDR interfaces with ViaSat’s Ku-band and Honeywell’s SwiftBroadband systems, and is designed to work with future connectivity systems, including Ka-band.
Installation of the SDR and accompanying software is standard on new G550 and G450 aircraft and available as a retrofit for in-service G550s and G450s. Passengers can download a mobile app on their smartphones to access Satcom Direct’s GlobalVT service.