Kontron, a global market leader for embedded computing technology (ECT) today introduced the COBALT 904 avionics server, extending the proven COBALT family of rugged small form factor systems to the worldwide aviation industry. Designed to speed development and time to deployment of commercial avionics in-flight entertainment and ground communications systems, the Kontron COBALT 904 features comprehensive avionics interface support required by commercial airlines, business jets and VIP aircraft. Certification to the DO-160G avionics standard for compatibility and safety of airborne electronics is underway and anticipated to be completed in early 2016.
Capitalizing on Intel fourth generation dual Core i5 processor performance, the COBALT 904's highly ruggedized features, sealed design and power-to-performance optimization are ideal for space constrained avionics deployment. The system enables performance beyond the fast-changing arena of in-flight entertainment, handling not only airborne applications such as HD video streaming, but also enhanced connectivity for crew services and communications. The system's high speed data transfer capabilities improve data loading via a dedicated USB 3.0 port, easily connecting flight and ground crew and enabling fast content updates .The COBALT 904 will be featured at the upcoming APEX Expo, September 28 – October 1 in Portland Oregon at Kontron's booth #660.
“The COBALT 904 avionics server has seen excellent early response from the market with significant interest coming from both US and European customers” said Andy Mason, Vice President Avionics Systems and Program Management for Kontron. “We have already received orders from two key suppliers of inflight cabin systems for business aviation as well as from a major business jet airframe manufacturer.”
The COBALT 904 is part of the highly scalable COBALT family of rugged small form factor systems, which have already been validated on military aircraft and ground vehicles. The result is a highly reliable airborne server that meets all commercial aviation environmental requirements, while minimizing size, weight and power. Using only components chosen from Kontron's embedded roadmap; COBALT also ensures long-term availability, protecting OEMs by eliminating risk of unplanned design changes and unexpected application modification.