Astronics Launches Ultra-Compact COTS Data Converter for Rugged Military Use

The Flight Ready Ballard NG1 Series Avionics I/O Converter Provides Easy Real-Time Avionics Data-to-Ethernet Conversion/Bridging

EAST AURORA, NY, June 20, 2024 – Astronics Corporation (Nasdaq: ATRO), a leading provider of advanced technologies for global aerospace, defense and other mission critical industries, launched the Ballard NG1 Series Avionics I/O Converter (NG1), a highly-flexible small form factor computing device for use in demanding aircraft environments.  The NG1 provides out-of-the-box simplicity for converting and streaming avionics data over an Ethernet backbone for distributed control or remote I/O applications, reducing costs and speeding deployment on C4ISR systems. 

The NG1 features a rugged, low-SWaP (Size, Weight, and Power) enclosure that meets military requirements for shock, vibration, temperature, humidity, and pressure.  It comes pre-validated with comprehensive MIL-STD-810/MIL-STD-704/DO-160 testing for rapid deployment.

"The NG1 is a groundbreaking embedded Commercial-off-the-Shelf (COTS) device with unbeatable performance and flexibility," said Jon Neal, President of Astronics AES.  "This problem-solving tool not only converts and streams avionics data to Ethernet with a simple setup, but it can also run powerful custom application software.  It features the industry's leading combination of small size, light weight, and rugged construction for use in tight aircraft and UAV environments.”

The NG1 is a flight-ready device that was designed to simplify the expansion and integration of avionics I/O with mission computing systems.  The NG1 features an ultra-compact form factor so it is easy to locate close to data sources and includes essential I/O such as MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, serial, CANBus, and discrete.  In its default mode, it reliably converts avionics protocol data to and from Ethernet in real time without the need for custom code.

In addition to converting and bridging avionics data, the NG1 is also an efficient 64-bit computing platform and fully capable of executing a high level of embedded control.  It can function as a stand-alone controller or be remotely controlled through a host computer.  The NG1 incorporates cybersecurity features to facilitate building a unique and effective security solution.  These include security features resident in the Linux OS, discrete inputs for write protection of base non-volatile memory, and a sanitize discrete input to wipe all storage that is not write-protected.

For more details on the Ballard NG1, visit Ballard Avionics I/O Computers or Astronics.com.

About Astronics Corporation
Astronics Corporation (Nasdaq: ATRO) serves the world’s aerospace, defense, and other mission-critical industries with proven innovative technology solutions.  Astronics works side-by-side with customers, integrating its array of power, connectivity, lighting, structures, interiors, and test technologies to solve complex challenges.  For over 50 years, Astronics has delivered creative, customer-focused solutions with exceptional responsiveness.  Today, global airframe manufacturers, airlines, military branches, completion centers, and Fortune 500 companies rely on the collaborative spirit and innovation of Astronics.  The Company’s strategy is to increase its value by developing technologies and capabilities that provide innovative solutions to its targeted markets.

For more information on Astronics and its solutions, visit Astronics.com. 

Released June 20, 2024