Smaller, Lighter Chart Reader, Notepad, And Organizer

SolidFX introduced the FX8 and FX8-3G, the newest additions to the FX Series of Aviation Information Managers on Tuesday. Using the SolidFX FXView application, the FX8 and FX8-3G Aviation Information Managers serves as a chart reader, notepad, cockpit organizer, electronic briefcase and library.

With an 8.1-inch diagonal display, instant-on performance, 24-hour battery life, and enhanced notepad functionality, the FX8 and FX8-3G each weighs less than 13 ounces.  The screen and stylus combo in each is more readable and convenient than paper and pencil. It enables pilots to zoom, pan and annotate charts, and write and store important notes such as ATIS, clearance, flight plan, and other critical data as well as store important documents for ready access.

With the IREX DR800S reader as its platform, the FX8 is aimed at corporate Part 91 and Part 135 charter operators and will be tested for high-altitude operation. Based on the DR800SG, the FX8-3G is ideal for general aviation pilots who want to take advantage of 3G connectivity. The wireless connectivity can be turned off during cockpit operations.

Because of their size -- less than 8 by 6 inches, and less than a half-inch thick -- the FX8 or FX8-3G can be easily held or mounted in virtually any aircraft.

FX8 Reader

The FX8 Series displays Jeppesen terminal charts, chart NOTAMs, and airport information. The screen size and aspect ratio allow an approach chart to appear in full on the screen for easy viewing. Using the stylus, pilots can easily zoom and pan the chart at will, or with a single tap instantly magnify the chart to show the familiar Jeppesen approach briefing strip, plan view, and profile view of the chart.  The width of the FX8 screen is about the same as a printed Jeppesen approach plate.

The FX8 Series includes a wide array of new features and user benefits. With its Instant-On feature, when users put the FX8 or FX8-3G in sleep mode they can immediately return to chart viewing with a flip of the switch. The FX8 battery delivers more than 24 hours of continuous use while the FX8-3G provides comparable but slightly reduced endurance depending on 3G usage. Jeppesen data updates are downloaded onto the FX8 and FX8-3G through the Jeppesen Services Update Manager.

SolidFX says the FX8 Series units greatly improve cockpit organization and eliminate the hassle of carrying and updating multiple heavy binders or bundles of computer printouts. They also deliver peace of mind by ensuring immediate access to charts needed for arrivals, departures, alternate airports or diversions.

With enhanced Notepad functionality, users can annotate charts – drawing a taxi route on the airport diagram for example – or enter data on one of the included notepad templates for ATIS and clearances, US and ICAO flight plan forms, narrow and wide lined stationery and others. Multiple pages of forms and notes can be stored until cleared by the user.

Special bundle pricing enables JeppView subscribers to extend their current chart coverage area to the FX8 or FX8-3G for an additional fee. For example, subscribers to the full 48-state CONUS coverage can have all of those terminal charts added to their FX8 or FX8-3G for $55 more a year.

FX8 Reader

The FX8 Series units can also be used for reading a wide range of documents including flight manuals, the FAR/AIM, e-books, newspapers and PDF files such as Jeppesen Nav Logs or other Trip Kit information. The FX8 Series units are fully ePub compatible.

The FX8 is backed by the SolidFX SolidService comprehensive one-year service and support program, including express shipment of  a replacement unit to anywhere in the world, FXView software updates, and phone and email support at no additional cost.

“The FX8 Series builds on the continuing success of the FX10 as the Jeppesen eChart Reader for pilots who value the ‘Jepp’ format and worldwide airport coverage” said Jeffrey McDonald, SolidFX Chief Technology Officer. “It’s small and light so it’s a great fit in virtually any cockpit. Customers love the excellent readability of the screen, the power of the stylus to zoom, pan, annotate charts, and write notes, the ability to eliminate cumbersome binder updates and just simply clean up the cockpit.  SolidFX’s focus on providing excellent customer service adds great value with the in-depth support pilots want and appreciate. And we’re continuing to add functionality with software upgrades.”

The FX8 and the FX8-3G are each priced at $1,195 and are available directly from SolidFX. The FX8-3G cannot be shipped to non-U.S. addresses. Customers must also purchase eChart Reader annual service from Jeppesen. Units are shipped ready-to-fly, pre-loaded with current Jeppesen eChart Reader worldwide data.

FMI: www.solidfx.com