dBD Communications
Apollo De-icing (Multi-User System)
Scalable Pad-Wide Communication for High-Intensity Winter Ops
Highlights
- Centralised Command: Connects a Pad Coordinator to multiple de-icing rigs simultaneously in a full-duplex "all-hear" loop where everyone can talk and listen at the same time.
- Dual-Range Versatility: Available in Standard Range (150m) or Long Range (250m) configurations to suit different pad layouts.
- Shift-Long Endurance: Internal battery supports 16–24 hours of active use, ensuring reliability during peak weather events.
- Seamless Integration: Optional Radio Interface capability links the local pad team directly to wider airport radio operations.
What’s Included?
- 1 x Apollo Wireless Base Unit: (Standard Part No: GA153-917-24; includes internal battery, intercoms, and up to 8 Wireless Transceivers (WTX’s)).
- Omni-Directional High-Gain Antennas: Included with the Long Range variant; features sucker-cup mounts for secure window placement.
- User Headsets/MMI: Scalable selection of OTH Blocked, Lighter, Bump Stop, or Cab Kits.
- 1 x 12V/24V Vehicle Power Lead: Enables unlimited machine-powered operation.
- 1 x External Radio Interface Lead (Optional): To connect the system to third-party radio networks.
- 1 x Heavy Duty Protective Case: For secure transport and rapid deployment.
Product Description
The Apollo De-icing System is engineered for the high-intensity environment of a modern De-icing Pad. By utilising a central portable hub, the system enables a coordinator to manage multiple de-icing teams simultaneously with crystal-clear, hands-free communication. This ensures that critical data, such as fluid types and "Holdover Times," are synchronized across the entire operation in real-time. Designed as a non-fixed asset, the system can be powered by the vehicle's own supply, removing battery dependency during extended winter shifts.
Technical Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Base Unit Model | The base unit model contains a Battery, Intercom, and 3 WTX’s |
| User Capacity | Typically accommodates 2 to 16 users per hub |
| Standard Range | 150m (Line of Sight, no external antennas) |
| Long Range | 250m (Line of Sight, with Omni High-Gain Antennas) |
| Interface Port | Radio Interface Capability (For 3rd Party Comms) |
| Power Options | Vehicle-powered or 16 - 24-hour internal battery |
| Operating System | Bluetooth 2.1 Class 1 |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +70°C |
| IP Rating | IP66 (Dust & Water Protected) |
Man-Machine Interface (MMI) Option Profiles (Headset Variants)
To ensure the safety and coordination of your team, we recommend assigning these specific interface variants based on the user's operational role:
1. OTH Blocked (Over-the-Head)
- Part Number: WH10LM-R-R01-PR-EG
- Applications: Sprayers and ground operatives working in high-noise engine zones.
- Key Feature: High-attenuation, Over-the-Head style providing maximum passive noise protection to shield operatives from intense ambient turbine noise.
- Mic Control: Available with integrated latching buttons for permanent live-mic or momentary PTT options.
2. Bump Stop
- Part Number: WH08LM-R01-PR-EG
- Applications: Vehicle drivers who need an open ear for surrounding communications.
- Key Feature: Designed specifically for situational awareness. This variant carries no hearing protection, ensuring environmental sounds and vehicle movements are clearly audible to the driver.
- Ergonomics: Engineered for long-term comfort when worn beneath or over head protection.
3. Athena Lighter (Behind-The-Head)
- Part Number: GA151-R2-FL
- Applications: High-mobility ground staff and supervisors.
- Key Feature: Dynamic Noise Reduction ($S/N$ ratio >70dB) ensures voice clarity while the open-ear design maintains situational awareness.
- Designed for comfort for long periods of operations
4. Compact Cab Kit
- Part Number: GA151-863-22
- Applications: Drivers operating from within closed cabs who prefer not to wear a headset.
- Key Feature: A hands-free intercom solution with a fist-mic and high-volume speaker, allowing the operator to focus entirely on maneuvering machinery.
For a detailed walkthrough of how these systems are deployed on the ramp, you may find the following demonstration useful:
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Product FAQs
What is the Apollo De-icing system used for?
The Apollo De-icing system is designed to coordinate communication across an entire aircraft de-icing pad. It connects a pad coordinator with multiple de-icing vehicle teams in a shared wireless communication network, allowing all users to hear and respond to instructions in real time.
How does the Apollo De-icing system support multiple de-icing teams?
The system uses a central wireless base unit that connects multiple user headsets into a single communication loop. This allows the pad coordinator, vehicle drivers and spray operatives to communicate simultaneously during large-scale de-icing operations.
How many users can connect to the Apollo De-icing system?
The Apollo De-icing system typically supports between 2 and 16 users per hub, allowing multiple de-icing rigs and supervisors to remain connected across the entire pad.
Why is a coordinated communication system important on a de-icing pad?
During high-intensity winter operations, several vehicles may be working on multiple aircraft simultaneously. A coordinated communication system ensures that instructions, fluid information and operational updates are shared instantly with all teams, helping maintain safe and efficient pad operations.
What wireless range does the Apollo De-icing system provide?
The system is available in two range configurations. The standard configuration provides up to 150 metres, while the long-range variant with high-gain antennas can extend communication up to 250 metres, depending on the pad layout.
Can the Apollo De-icing system operate throughout long winter shifts?
Yes. The system supports 16–24 hours of active operation using its internal battery. It can also be powered directly from a vehicle supply, allowing continuous operation during extended winter events.
Can the Apollo De-icing system integrate with airport radio networks?
Yes. An optional radio interface allows the Apollo system to connect to third-party radio networks, enabling the de-icing team to communicate with wider airport operations when required.
What headset options are available for different de-icing roles?
The Apollo system supports several headset variants designed for different operational roles, including high-attenuation headsets for sprayers working near engines, open-ear options for drivers who require situational awareness, and cab-mounted communication kits for enclosed vehicles.
Is the Apollo De-icing system suitable for extreme winter environments?
Yes. The system is designed for harsh airfield conditions and can operate in temperatures ranging from –40°C to +70°C, ensuring reliable communication during demanding winter operations.
How portable is the Apollo De-icing system?
The system is supplied in a heavy-duty protective case and can be deployed as a portable communication hub. This allows airport operators to move the system between de-icing pads or operational areas when required.