The Challenges of Keeping Mobile Devices Charged In-Flight
Airplane passengers usually board their flights with at least a cell phone, and many take tablets, e-readers, and laptops with them into the cabin. Some airlines are even removing seatback displays altogether and encouraging passengers to access in-flight entertainment on their mobile devices. On today’s podcast, Tom Hemphill, director of engineering at Mid Continent Controls, reveals the challenges of keeping these electronics charged while cruising.
A decade ago, the company primarily catered to airplane controls, switch panels, and outlets – then came the standardization of the mobile phone, and the business shifted focus to smart devices.
“Everybody needs at least one charger at every single seat; most airplanes now have two or even three,” Hemphill said.
And it’s not just the cabin where access to power is needed. As a pilot himself, Hemphill revealed that crew members in the cockpit also need to be able to charge their devices. But the real difficulty for the company is the pace of technological evolution.
“Apple, Samsung, and Motorola all come out with new technology every 18 months, and a lot of times it’s a challenge to keep up.”
Electronics manufacturers, especially Apple, may have different charging specs that can make power solutions development a hassle. According to Hemphill, consumers are gravitating toward USB-C and wireless charging, but engineering for the latest technologies and having the solution fit within a small design isn’t always easy.
Then there’s the final hurdle to development – FAA certification. The agency has strict requirements that must be met before the technology can be approved for flights. Getting the certification can add a year to deploying the solution inside an aircraft.
“In the world of consumer electronics, that year means they’ve already come out with something new,” Hemphill said.
To reduce the deployment timeframe, he said the company maintains consistent interaction with the OEMs, helping Mid Continent Controls stay one step ahead in the ever-changing world of technology.
For the latest news, videos, and podcasts in the Transportation Industry, be sure to subscribe to our industry publication.
Follow us on social media for the latest updates in B2B!
Twitter – @TransportMKSL
Facebook – facebook.com/marketscale
LinkedIn – linkedin.com/company/marketscale
Latest
The Responsibilities That Interface Professionals Navigate in Healthcare
The healthcare industry grapples with an overload of information, patient safety concerns, and an increasingly digital landscape. This fact makes professionals who can bridge the gaps between various healthcare disciplines a precious commodity. In fact, according to the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS), a lot of healthcare organizations and workers believe that […]
When it Comes to Small Businesses and Cybersecurity, Doing Little Things Right Can Reduce Vulnerabilities
When addressing small businesses and cybersecurity, there is an issue: How to make these networks less vulnerable to attack when budget and resources aren’t always available. Small businesses often face unique cybersecurity challenges. According to a report by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), 88% of small business owners feel vulnerable to cyberattacks. These […]
What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Drought Stress
Drought Stress In this enlightening video, TreeNewal’s Wes Rivers and ArborJet’s Emmett Muennink discuss the complex relationship between trees, drought stress, and environmental conditions. Drawing from personal experiences and observations, the experts highlights the challenges faced in explaining the effects of drought stress on tree health to customers. Through a detailed explanation, the […]
