FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
 

Deb Stockman
Aeroflex Incorporated
(316) 529-5448
deb.stockman@aeroflex.com

 

 

Aeroflex Announces New IFR 6000 Ramp Test Set
Provides test capabilities for five avionics systems in a single unit

Wichita, Kan. — September 27, 2004 — Aeroflex (Nasdaq: ARXX), today announced the IFR 6000, a new ramp test set based on the highly successful IFR 4000 navigation communications test set that brought true portability and ease of use to the avionics ramp test market one year ago. One main user screen for each functional mode of operation is all that is required for most tests. The new instrument replaces three instruments with one handheld test set that is small and lightweight but can be used for ramp or bench testing. It replaces the IFR ATC-600A, IFR ATC-601 and the IFR TCAS-201 and will provide test capabilities for future systems.

"The IFR 6000 continues the revolution of ramp testing started by the IFR 4000. The new product offers incredible portability, ease of use and low price by combining three units into one. This provides our customers with substantial savings in time and money," said Jeff Gillum, director of wireless products for Aeroflex.

IFR 6000 tests transponder modes A/C/S, DME, TCAS, ADS-B and TIS-B

The IFR 6000 tests transponder modes A, C and S; Distance Measuring Equipment (DME); Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance (TCAS); Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B); and Traffic Information Service-Broadcast (TIS-B). It performs transponder Modes A/C/S testing including Mode S level 1-4, FAR Part 43 appendix F (includes proposed Part 43 appendix F extension), European Enhanced Surveillance, ADS-B TX/RX and /TIS-B.

The IFR 6000 is designed to simulate the ground station or airborne environment needed to test Modes A, C and S. It will quickly and easily provide accurate measurement of transponder transmitting frequency/peak power and receiver sensitivity. Test results can be stored in memory and accessed for future analysis. One main user screen displays all data required for a complete automatic FAR Part 43 appendix F test. Test failure items are listed and the ‘MORE INFO’ feature may be used to provide a detailed easy to understand description of the failure. The test set automatically determines Mode S transponder levels and can automatically tailor some tests according to reported transponder capability. The predefined configuration files allow any class of transponder to be tested. The IFR 6000 will test any DME 1 MHz spaced X or Y channel. Measurements include interrogator transmitter frequency/peak power, Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF), P1/P2 width and pulse spacing. The IFR 6000 provides accurate range and velocity simulation, station ident, squitter control and % reply. The RF reply level may be adjusted to perform track sensitivity tests.

About Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance (TCAS) testing

Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance or TCAS is a system utilized by the aviation industry to prevent aircraft from colliding and provides proximity aircraft traffic information. The IFR 6000 simulates the airborne environment necessary to allow verification/certification of proper operation of an aircraft’s TCAS I and II installations. It provides the capability of monitoring the TCAS interrogations (displaying decoded information/communication data) and generating Air Traffic Control Radar Beacon System (ATCRABS) or Mode S replies that simulate threat aircraft for bearing accuracy, TCAS traffic and resolution advisories, power and frequency, whisper/shout steps and broadcast/surveillance interrogations. The unit provides 10 selectable/programmable scenarios, a programmable parameter for intruder simulation and the surveillance monitor displays Mode S or ATCRBS interrogations. It also provides a self-test function for major sub-assemblies. Weighing less than 10 lbs., the IFR 6000 is lightweight and sleek. User friendly menus provide the operator easy access to perform required tests of Mode A/C/S, DME, TCAS I and II, ADS-B and TIS-B.

Aeroflex — the industry leader in avionics testing for over 30 years

For over 30 years, Aeroflex has been the industry leader in avionics testing. Aeroflex avionics instruments are used to design, manufacture, test and maintain commercial, private and military airborne electronic systems.

Availability

The IFR 6000 ramp test set will be available at the beginning of 2005.

About Aeroflex

Aeroflex Incorporated is a global provider of high technology solutions to the aerospace, defense and broadband communications markets. The Company’s diverse technologies allow it to design, develop, manufacture and market a broad range of test, measurement and microelectronic products. The Company’s common stock trades on the Nasdaq National Market System under the symbol ARXX and is included in the S&P SmallCap 600 index. Additional information concerning Aeroflex Incorporated can be found on the Company’s website: www.aeroflex.com .

All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this press release regarding Aeroflex’s financial position, business outlook, business strategy and plans and objectives of its management for future operations are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend” and similar expressions, as they relate to Aeroflex or its management, identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on the current beliefs of Aeroflex’s management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to its management. Actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including but not limited to, competitive factors and pricing pressures, the divesture of the thin film interconnect manufacturing business, the integration of the business of each of MCE Technologies, Celerity Systems and the Racal Instruments Wireless Solutions Group with Aeroflex, changes in legal and regulatory requirements, technological change or difficulties, product development risks, commercialization difficulties and general economic conditions. Such statements reflect our current views with respect to the future and are subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to Aeroflex’s financial condition, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. Aeroflex does not undertake any obligation to update such forward-looking statements.