dBD Communications and Management Consultancy Limited

Airside Headset Systems, ATC Communications Components and Subsystems

Company Profile

• Pushback Operations

  dBD Communications have developed a number of solutions to support this business activity. Whilst we specialise on wireless systems, we also have the ability to provide wired solutions when required.

  The Minerva system can be used for either single or two-man push back operations. The headset can be worn by the Tug Driver in a single-man operation where it is likely to best suit a latch microphone so that hands-free communication can be provided when necessary. In a two-man operation when communications is not necessary in the Tug, apart from hand signals, then a momentary mic (press to talk) on the headset man is probably a better choice of operation. If it is necessary for the Tug Driver to hear all activity between Marshal and Flight Deck, we have the ability to either wirelessly or via a wired link, connect the Tug Driver to the same conversations.

  Alternatives to the above are our Boudicia and Helios product line, which allow the Tug Driver to operate through a microphone and listen to communications through a speaker without the need for any headset.

  New to the portfolio, the Ajax system has been developed to operate in higher noise environments as the mouth shield protects even more the flight crew from hearing background noise. The specialised mouth piece comes on a quick release lanyard that will be placed around your neck and hang on your chest for quick and easy access to communicate. The Ajax headset will still provide the ability to perform full wing walks, inspections and engineering tasks whilst retaining freedom of movement and communications to the pilot.

  We are also able to connect via a splitter cable arrangement more than user for these operations so enabling an instructor to either have a listen only or complete capability up to 150 metres away from the operation.

  

• Maintenance Including De-Icing and Aircraft Manoeuvring

  We recognise there is a need to have effective wireless communications around an aircraft when manoeuvring the platform. By using a combination of our Minerva and Apollo assets, we could have up to 16 users communicating to each other at any one time on an open mic structure. It is more likely that 3 or 4 people would be used for the scenario.

  We have the ability, with our Apollo system to be completely aircraft independent and have the headset man, Tug Driver, Break Operator and Wing Walker all communicating together.

  Our Apollo and Athena systems can support the De-Icing rigs & Controller to have the ability to talk together at the same time without the need to PTT. When needed, the Pilot can also communicate via VHF embedded into the system. The Controller can talk back to the pilot with a PTT on their headset and the rest of the team will hear the radio traffic.

  

• Headset Testing

  The Endaxi system has been designed to support Ground Handling companies with the ability to reduce no fault founds (NFF’s) at the user’s facilities.

  dBD Communications recognises the importance of equipment readiness and this system will improve the availability of headsets used during Ground Handling operations. Easy to assemble and self-contained in a waterproof case, it gives the ability to use the equipment in many environments.

  To use the equipment, most headset types are supported and the audio equipment is placed on the head provided. A simple switch box is used to assess the serviceability of both the speakers and microphone in the headset assembly. We also have the ability to assess the functionality of the audio extension leads if required. This system will be able to test both wired and wireless solutions, with the same level of confidence.

  

• Communication Solutions

  dBD Communications are an RF and Microwave company and have the ability to provide cavity combiners, duplexers, hybrid combiners and other antenna related products to support Air Traffic Control Communications for transmitter and receiver sites.

  We also provide componentry in both radar and communication systems from cables, attenuators, amplifiers, isolators, circulators, couplers and power dividers.