International Communications Group (ICG) will begin shipping its cordless cabin telephone system, ePhone, in December. The company and its customers will use the units in testing to acquire supplemental type certificates (STCs) for the new handset on various aircraft models. ICG also anticipates receiving parts manufacturing approval (PMA) for the ePhone, docking station, and base unit during the first quarter of 2012.
“Obtaining STCs for the ePhone with key airframe customers represents a major milestone in the program and the handset’s entry into service,” said Jeff Saucedo, ICG’s vice president of OEM Sales. “In addition, ICG’s ePhone represents a major transformation in aircraft communications technology. The system will meet the needs of both our business aviation and air transport customers who desire a feature-rich solution in a lightweight package. Having PMA on the system reduces the complexity that can develop during the installation process, thus benefiting both the installer and end user.”
The ICG ePhone provides customers with a handset that delivers the same screen quality that they have become accustomed to on handheld personal devices. Based on Digital Enhanced Cordless Telephone technology, the ePhone system provides all contemporary telecommunication features including intercom calling, conferencing, and call hold. It also incorporates a host of new features such as active cabin-noise reduction, Bluetooth compatibility, and advanced power control that extends battery life.
