OLIN AEROSPACE (OAC) has begun demonstrating an in-seat power system to airlines which will allow passengers to plug in their laptop computers during flight. Redmond, Washington-based OAC says that lap-top batteries "dying" is a major source of passenger complaints and that airlines surveyed ranked an in-seat power system as a high priority.
OAC says that it will be ready to begin installing its EmPower system by April. It takes 115V/400Hz aircraft power and converts it to 14V DC power at the seat. Initially, seats will be equipped with a car cigarette-lighter socket, enabling passengers to use adapters already produced by computer manufacturers for in-car charging.
OAC says that it is working with several computer manufacturers to develop the standard for an interface cable, which could be used with all next-generation laptops. Compaq Computer, meanwhile, has already endorsed the use of EmPower with its existing cigarette-lighter adapter.
Other features OAC is developing include a power-management system for aircraft where available power is limited. This would disable unused sockets, preventing additional customers using the system as power limits are reached. OAC is also developing an interface with the in-seat interactive in-flight entertainment system, which would allow airlines to charge for lap-top power, if required.
Source: Flight International
