The King Air 200 and 300 series aircraft are renowned for their reliability and versatility, making them the top choice for a wide range of special mission operations, including Firefighting, Forestry, Aerial Survey, Air Ambulance/MEDEVAC, Multi-Mission, Training, Utility and Transport, and ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance). However, when equipped with Garmin’s G1000 system, these aircraft can face significant challenges, particularly with the limited capabilities of the Garmin GMA 13XX audio panels. This is where CE Avionics’ King Air Tactical Audio STC upgrade proves invaluable.
The Challenge: Limited COM and Audio Panel Capabilities
The King Air’s G1000 system typically includes two GMA13XX audio panels, each with only three transceiver inputs/outputs (I/O). Generally, two of these are occupied by the FAA-required VHF AM 118-136 MHz aviation band communication radios, leaving just one transceiver I/O and potentially three additional receiver inputs, depending on the G1000’s configuration. This setup is often insufficient for the complex communication infrastructure required in special mission operations, which may rely on multiple transceivers, frequency monitoring, rear station communications, individual transmit capabilities, and advanced intercom systems.
These Special Mission operations often require various types of radios, such as:
- 30-512 MHz VHF/UHF FM radios
- 450-520 MHz Low Band UHF FM radios
- 764-870 MHz Low Band UHF FM radios
- P25-enabled radios
- HF radios
- Agency-specific radios
The Solution: CE Avionics’ King Air Tactical Audio STC
CE Avionics offers the ideal solution with its King Air Tactical Audio STC. In collaboration with Becker Avionics, Garmin International, and Special Mission Management, LLC, CE Avionics developed an STC that replaces the standard Garmin GMA1347D/1360 audio panels with the Becker Avionics Digital Voice Communications System (DVCS 6100). This system supports a configuration of two cockpit audio panels and up to four cabin workstation audio panels, significantly expanding the audio capabilities to eight transceivers, eight receivers, and six fixed inputs. Additionally, a remote Marker Beacon receiver with lights and dual reversionary switches are installed.
Importantly, the King Air Tactical Audio STC was developed in cooperation with Garmin, ensuring 100% software compatibility and seamless integration. There are no faults or red “X” failures on the G1000 when the GMAs are removed from the flight deck. All OEM warranties remain intact, preserving the integrity of the G1000 avionics suite while greatly enhancing its functionality.
Contact CE Avionics to Upgrade Your King Air with the Becker DVCS6100 Tactical Audio Solution Today!
CE Avionics’ FAA-approved King Air Tactical Audio STC upgrade provides a certified, scalable, digital audio solution that dramatically increases communication capabilities, meeting the demands of special mission operations. Adding the Becker DVCS 6100 to your King Air’s flight deck is a game changer for operators, where clear tactical communication is paramount and can mean the difference between mission success and failure.
