Digital-to-analog converter

Maxwell Technologies, Inc.'s 7846RP is a 16-bit digital-to-analog converter microcircuit for space-flight applications. It features a total dose tolerance of greater than 100 krad (Si), depending on orbit, and includes both negative and positive reference inputs and an on-chip output amplifier, which gives the option of unipolar or bipolar output. The converter uses a segmented architecture.

SAE standard

SAE International has released its aerospace standard AS9100, Revision A. The quality system requirements in the document are complementary to the contractual and regulatory requirements for the aerospace industry. The standard contains about 80 unique requirements and 18 amplifications of the ISO 9000 requirements.

Positioning assemblies

UniSlide Assemblies from Velmex are screw-driven slides that employ an encoder to measure absolute travel distance and position. Three encoder resolutions are offered: 0.0005 in., 0.0001 in., and 0.000005 in. Rapid Advance slides use a lead screw clutch mechanism to save repositioning time; modular assemblies are easily assembled to make multi-coordinate systems.

Bearing reconditioning

Bii is offering a fast-track service that guarantees the reconditioning and return of any repairable CF6 #1 in just ten days. Reconditioned bearings save 60% over new OEM list prices with no sacrifice in reliability or cycle time. This can save about $16,000 per engine overhaul.

Crimping tool

The P.S.U. 16-22 automatic crimping tool from Atlantic Technologies can crimp most of the contacts in an aircraft or helicopter without having to change the die or adjust the selector for jaw height. It records all crimping parameters and the real-time crimping curve and holds essential information in its database.

Solder contacts

Raychem SolderTacts from Tyco Electronics are one-piece solder contacts for circular connectors. Requiring no preassembly, they offer a simple, fast, and reliable method of terminating coax cables, shielded wires, and twisted pairs. The contacts eliminate the need for separate pins, reduce cross talk, and improve shielding effectiveness and signal transmission.

Bolt tension measurement

StressTel's BoltMike III ultrasonically measures tension and clamp load of threaded fasteners. The instrument weighs 2.5 lb; has a large, bright display; runs up to 40 h on standard AA batteries; and has rapid calibration and setup. Typical applications include controlled tightening of critical bolted joints in engines and structures and verification of tension on bolt-clamping wheel assemblies.

Power controller

The Amphion solid-state power controller (SSPC) from Ametek Aerospace is a plug-in component that offers better load-protection features than a circuit breaker. The controller can be used directly in an application circuit or combined with other SSPC components into a power distribution system. It protects sensors, wiring, and 28-V dc data buses against shorts to ground, shorted sensors, and overloads.