International Communications Group (ICG) today announced the introduction of the ICS-120 and ICS-220 Iridium-based aeronautical satellite systems with built-in ACARS data link capability.

The new systems are derivatives of the successful line of ICG Iridium products with the addition of a dedicated short burst data (SBD) transceiver exclusively for ACARS communications, to provide unrestricted access for the flight crew to air/ground Datalink services. The ICG products are compliant with the ARINC 741 protocol for satellite-based ACARS messaging. The devices are compatible with most CMU/DMU models, connecting via the ARINC 429 data bus, thereby eliminating the need for any additional interface devices. The ICS-120 has a single-channel full-service Iridium transceiver with an additional dedicated SBD transceiver for ACARS Datalink services and an internal GPS receiver to support automatic flight following (AFF). The ICS-220 consists of a dual-channel Iridium transceiver with an additional SBD-only transceiver for ACARS Datalink services.

ICG developed the ACARS messaging capability to be compatible with ARINC's ACARS services. The ICS-120 and ICS-220 are capable of supporting the full set of ACARS messages offered by ARINC DIRECT's data center, including position reports, flight plans, oceanic clearance, AFIS and graphical weather.

Both the ICS-120 and 220 systems provide a full range of cabin telecommunications unit (CTU) features, including intercom calling, call transfer, conferencing and follow-on dialing. Other enhanced features offered by the devices are credit card calling, digital echo suppression, store and forward fax service and secure voice operation.

"This is one of many 'firsts' by ICG," said Armin Jabs, president of ICG. "In line with ICG's history of leading the aeronautical industry with innovative solutions, ICG is the first manufacturer of Iridium systems to provide a direct plug-in product that is compliant with standard ACARS hardware and flight operations onboard an aircraft. In anticipation of the Iridium network receiving approval for aircraft safety messaging, the ICS-120 and ICS-220 have achieved DO-178 Software criticality Level D compliance."

Both products provide an inexpensive, seamless global communications solution. Ideal for any size aircraft from general aviation to air transport and air cargo.