Technology has changed a lot with computers and mobile phones since I first started working as an aircraft mechanic in the late 1980s. Here are a few examples: Computers Back then computers cost a lot of money. They were huge clunky desktop units with small CRT monitors. If you wanted to get on the internet, you used dial-up. The beeps and tones of the modem connecting was a familiar sound to...

To help provide precision TIG welding performance on thin materials and limited-access joints, Weldcraft offers its WP-50 and WP-125 Micro-Tig torches. Both TIG torches feature lightweight, short torch bodies that allow pen-like control on even the most complex applications, including those in aircraft and aerospace industries, artistic metalworking and welding application using extremely thin...

Spectronics Corporation offers the Spectroline OPTIMAX 365 — a cordless, rechargeable, true UV LED flashlight ideal for identifying leaks in fuel, lubrication and hydraulic aviation systems. The OPTIMAX 365 features an ultra-high intensity UV LED, which makes leak detection dyes glow brightly. It is four times brighter than other high-intensity leak detection lamps and has an inspection range of...

Snap-on Industrial offers its automated Level 5 ATC tool control system that advances tool management by ensuring both tool access and security. The blending of a tool storage box design with keyless entry, plus a powerful PC-based database and innovative digital imaging technology, has created a premium asset management product. Snap-on Level 5 ATC starts with Snap-on Industrial’s HID proximity...

Concorde Battery offers the BC-5000 Capacity Tester (P/N 4163) - a portable, lightweight unit designed to provide the operator with an economical, easy and accurate means for capacity testing 12/24v aircraft batteries. • Fully automatic testing for 12v and 24v lead acid or Nickel Cadmium aircraft batteries • Powered by the battery being tested — no AC power required • Constant current load...

In the August 2010 edition of FAA Advisory Circular AC 43-16A, Aviation Maintenance Alerts, the following information was published regarding an area on the fuel tank skin that could be prone to chafing in Schweizer 269C helicopters: Schweizer: 269C; Chafed Fuel Tank; ATA 2810 A technician states, “During a 200-hour inspection, wear marks were found on the bottom of the fuel tank. (These chafe...

World-class aviation and aerospace training joins world-class research, design and manufacturing in Wichita, KS, with the opening of the National Center for Aviation Training (NCAT). The 230,000-square-foot facility on Wichita’s Jabara Airport offers cutting-edge technology in customized training for companies, and traditional technical training for students. NCAT is a partnership between Wichita...

Sikorsky is working with Lockheed Martin on a proposed military version of the S-92 for transportation of the president of the United States. Six years after entering service, the S-92 medium-lift helicopter fleet has logged more than 250,000 flight hours with 117 flying, 75 of which are operated by eight offshore oil and gas flight service providers. Oil and gas operations account for about 90...

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the seventh largest law enforcement agency in the U.S. and the nation’s largest sheriff’s department, has selected a suite of Cobham cockpit avionics, including synthetic vision and helicopter TAWS, for its 14 Eurocopter AS350 B2 AStars. Installation is to be performed by Hangar One at McClellan-Palomar Airport in Carlsbad, CA. The two-screen EFIS from...

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the seventh largest law enforcement agency in the U.S. and the nation’s largest sheriff’s department, has selected a suite of Cobham cockpit avionics, including synthetic vision and helicopter TAWS, for its 14 Eurocopter AS350 B2 AStars. Installation is to be performed by Hangar One at McClellan-Palomar Airport in Carlsbad, CA. The two-screen EFIS from...