International Communications Group (ICG) today announced the introduction of a new-generation Iridium satellite communications system for the aviation market.

The new CIS-100 is a single-channel Iridium transceiver with an internal GPS receiver and built-in cabin telecommunications unit (CTU) features. The unit is smaller, lighter and less expensive than other airborne Iridium terminals, and is designed primarily for use on helicopters and light aircraft. The compact rugged unit is just 9 x 5 x 3 in. (22.9 x 12.7 x 7.6 cm) and weighs less than 3.5 lbs. (1.6 kg).

"The CIS-100 has been developed to provide seamless inexpensive global air-to-ground voice and data communications to smaller aircraft, with the convenience of CTU functions for extension-to-extension dialing, call transfer, conferencing and follow-on dialing," said Armin Jabs, president of ICG.

"The new system is fully compatible with secure wire line communications devices using the FNBDT protocol for either Type 1 encryption or as an exportable encryption version, making it an ideal solution for many military aircraft and helicopter applications," added Jabs.

The CIS-100 can easily be connected to existing conventional telephony devices or legacy PABX systems via a standard two-wire "tip-and-ring" circuit or a four-wire audio circuit. It is easy to use, offering standard dialing conventions and PABX functions with familiar call progress tones and familiar operations.

The built in GPS receiver provides automatic flight-following services permitting periodic time and location updates to be sent to a data link services provider or directly to a flight department or dispatching center.