The ICG NxtLink 220A Iridium Communications System is designed specifically to provide an aircraft flight crew with reliable communications facilities for both AOC and ATS messaging. The NxtLink 220A is a dual transceiver device which combines a single channel of global voice and 2400 BPS data service with a second “Short Burst Data” (SBD) channel in a single 2MCU LRU. This device is a comprehensive communications system that provides the Flight Crew with an exclusive global voice channel and a dedicated Datalink channel to support ACARS, FANs messaging and CPDLC. An additional voice/data transceiver is available for the cabin staff providing communications in case of medical emergencies.
The NxtLink 220A permits connections of conventional telephony devices through either standard 2-Wire “Tip and Ring” circuits or 4-Wire audio connections. Telecom features include intercom calling, call transfer, conferencing and follow-on dialing. The device connects to standard aircraft systems via 4-Wire audio for flight deck voice and ARINC 429 circuits for MCDU dialing or Datalink messaging exchanges. The device has a connection for an optional external SIM card reader making them a true LRU. This LRU can be used with various types of handsets from cordless to retractor reel that can be for cabin use.