Rockwell Collins is bringing its new Stage cloud-base content service to market next month. Stage enables operators to preload entertainment and information on an onboard server.
The server will hold up to two terabytes of information, enabling up to 70 passengers to stream movies, store information or access information through their individual devices. The system works through the cabin’s Wi-Fi capabilities, and information can be downloaded through a USB port. Flight departments can customize the information they want to preload on the server.
The content and entertainment packages will be accessible in multiple languages and will eventually include regional entertainment features.
While the initial roll out will involve preloaded information, Rockwell Collins plans also to eventually provide the capability to access live events, said Olivier Durand, marketing manager for commercial systems in Europe, Middle East and Africa for Rockwell Collins.
The initial server is offered as a standalone unit that works on personal electronic devices such as tablets, but Rockwell Collins expects to also offer the capability to tie into existing Venue cabin management systems by the end of 2017.
Durand said the company already has a number of customers worldwide lined up to install the Stage server aboard their aircraft.
Rockwell Collins (Stand 421) is displaying Stage to the Middle East market for the first time during this week’s MEBAA convention. In addition, the company is highlighting its Venue system. Unveiled in 2007, Venue is now installed on roughly 900-1,000 aircraft, Durand noted. The majority of those installations have involved forward-fit applications, but Rockwell Collins is seeing growing interest in the retrofit market, he said.
Aircraft owners are operating their aircraft longer in general and are now seeking to upgrade with the next-generation systems rather than purchase new, he said. This is spurring increased interest in Rockwell Collins systems such as Venue.
Venue was designed for scalability and flexibility, Durand said, noting it can be fitted on a range of cabin sizes, and clients can customize the capabilities to their needs and usage plans. This has been part of the success of the cabin management system with packages for the various needs and budgets, he added.
Venue offers a host of capabilities, from interactive Airshow mapping; to connecting with gaming systems; to enabling passengers to control cabin features from their personal electronic devices.
