Recorder Locations (distributed memories)
Graybeard,
1) One of the least likely places to be damaged in most crashes is in the tip of VS. You can put one of tiny recorder there (actually the memory unit). I am not speaking of the currently available recorders. A new generation. Not a big R&D.
2) Can be light and cost effective. (only the memories to be redundant)
3) No problem
4) I would not say "precludes". Better to say, must take into account engines environment. I donīt see this as a big problem.
5) Redundant power (DC coming fro a/c and internal battery). An optimized design can be feed by Li ion easily for adequate time. No problem.
Ok, there are EMI/EMC considerations, costs, etc., etc. My point is, the current solutions should be improved.