AV8OR Handheld Capability Expanded

April 20, 2009

Honeywell has announced that owners of its Bendix/King AV8OR handheld navigator may now add XM weather products, an air traffic interface, obstacles and other functions via a free software download by going to Honeywell’s Wingman Services web site or the company’s web site.

Honeywell’s V1.04 software upgrade expands the handheld’s capability, and it includes the following new features:

Interface to the ZAON Portable Collision Avoidance System (PCAS XRX), giving pilots a display of airborne traffic

Expanded weather that includes PIREPS, TFRs, lightning and increased flexibility for weather display

GPS NMEA RS-232 output to interface to a non-certified autopilot

“Smart Profile” vertical display, which shows terrain, airspace and adds obstacles relative to the aircraft’s altitude

Larger text for easier readability

Increased flight log memory

“These new upgrades deliver enhanced situational awareness to the cockpit, and coupled with touch-screen convenience and flexibility reduce pilot workload through an intuitive format,” said Dan Barks, director, general aviation aftermarket avionics. “Pilots now have more flexibility in displaying weather, traffic, terrain and obstacles to provide a more intuitive and comprehensive situational awareness view of their flight path.”

In addition to the new software, AV8OR owners can upgrade their handheld with a free firmware download. The new firmware lowers the lowest brightness setting for improved night visibility and incorporates “intelligent updating,” which will automate any future software or firmware upgrades.

The AV8OR also provides advanced GPS navigation for automotive use. The AV8OR’s “Go Drive” software offers 2D and 3D turn by turn directions, over 10 million points of interest and advanced features to get pilots where they need to go after they land. It also includes an all-in-one multimedia player that plays music and displays movies, photos or e-books on its 4.3-inch diagonal screen.

The suggested retail price is $799; add XM Weather for $523. For more information and discount coupons, visit Honeywell/Bendix King.