VCR/Tower modernisation

[boon]

Anybody rececently modernised their VCR/TWR? We are looking to do so. Any advice ,help or internet addresses would be appreciated.

Thanks.

[Deancross12345]

Equally if anyone has recently / looking to modernise their tower, any old (but nice) equipment / desks would be of interest to me possibly

Thanks

[contact_tower]

Any system from Aerotech in Växjö, Sweden is top of the line.
Both the com, MET/AWOS, lighting and radar systems for twr use are easy to use, and for the most part run on off the shelf computer gear, just the displays are custom.

Have used the radar (I-ACS), awos and com system, liked them a lot.

Stockholm Arlanda TWR just prior to opening:
http://www.flightpix.com/tower/tower/atc001.jpg
http://www.flightpix.com/tower/tower/atc003.jpg
http://www.flightpix.com/tower/rt/ramp005.jpg

On the other hand, if your tech's comes dragging with something from Navia-Garex, kick them out quick! Some of their equipment is completely useless, especially the Nova radar systems. How they have managed to sell it to many customers abroad beats me. Sydney twr among others (We recently binned the Nova, and celebrated with non alcohol champagne. The com system is finally fixed, after endless updates.)

[bagpuss lives]

Very nice and very interesting pictures indeed ;)

[boon]

Thanks guys, great photos, how good is the HMI and the interface with other users.

[contact_tower]

HMI it great, anyone remotely skilled in Windows can operate all of their systems.
Both radar/awos (which doubles as wind/met info screen in controller position) have the possiblity of user specified settings, ex you logg inn with a password during shift change, and the system opens with your personal settings. (Color, radar label size composition, maps selected, what MET data you want to se etc)

I know that one of the main sellingpoints of the I-ACS (radar and flightplan/ATS meassage system) system is the open arcitechture, thus givning good compatibility with other systems.
The system has been connected to 3 different radar and AFTN systems in Sweden alone, and capability with other systems abroad have been tried according to the company.

The Awos system are allso successfully mated with NAIS, the norwegian aeronatuical info. network at Torp/ENTO

:ok:

[CUNIM]

Can I introduce a cautionary note? While these computer screens are all very nice, the controller's primary function is the work area outside. That is why they put all those windows in the Tower. Please don't rely too much on looking at these screens to sort out all the problems on the manoeuvring area. Like a VFR pilot, keeping your head out of the office is still the primary way of staying in control.

[The 5Q]

Boon,

You did'nt receive alot of "free" tower furniture this week ?

GrrrrR