Astronics subsidiary Ballard Technology on October 10 unveiled its new webCS wireless communications aircraft server, which the company said shortens the path to adding data-capture technology to aircraft.

WebCS is an integrated aircraft interface device (AID)/server/router with built-in cellular and Wi-Fi interfaces that can transfer data off the aircraft. The box—which is 7 inches wide, 5.1 inches deep, and 2.75 inches high (178 x 130 x 70 mm), including an integrated antenna—can stream live data via an onboard connectivity system. The combination of functionality gives operators a cost-effective, flexible option for adding data-capture and communications functions to their aircraft, Astronics (Booth N7121) believes.

Using these capabilities, operators can use webCS to support many functions, including electronic flight bags, quick access recorders, collecting maintenance data and other third-party applications. WebCS also acts as a server with the ability to process data real-time.

"Never before has there been a device so small that combines all of these capabilities into one seamlessly integrated box," said Jon Neal, Ballard's vice president and general manager. "Up until now, AID/server solutions have been built as closed systems that require the hardware vendor to deploy new or updated software. With our secure open-architecture approach, we empower our customers to develop and control the software applications running on webCS."