Swiss Air-Rescue (Rega) has adopted an aircraft anti-collision device containing GPS technology developed by u-blox. Called 'Flarm' (flight alarm), this small-size aircraft anti-collision system was initially developed to reduce glider aircraft mid-air collisions.
Rega is the largest air rescue organisation in Switzerland and a corporate member of the Swiss Red Cross. It deploys over 10 helicopters from many bases within Switzerland to transport medical assistance to the scene of an accident. The helicopter bases are distributed in such a way that in good flying conditions the helicopters can reach any point in the country within 15 minutes. Rega also operates three air-ambulances out of Zurich International Airport, which are used to repatriate those who have been taken seriously ill or injured abroad.
The Flarm system couples a u-blox GPS receiver and a radio transceiver that can broadcast the position of any aircraft to other pilots who use the system. It then uses acoustic and optical alerts to warn pilots of any possible conflicts, or of fixed obstacles like cables or antennas - significantly reducing the risk of mid-air accidents.
Flarm was introduced in early 2004, and currently there are over 2500 Flarm devices in use including Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria, New Zealand and South Africa. The device has provided the light aviation industry with a compact, cost-efficient and low-power early warning anti-collision system. This is made possible by u-blox's Antaris GPS technology, which is simple to implement and offers space efficiency and immunity to radio interference.
From the editor's desk: AI – a double-edged sword Technews Publishing
News
As with any powerful tool, AI presents challenges, some of which, if not carefully managed, threaten to undo the potential that it can offer.
Read more...Global semiconductor sales increase
News
The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) has announced global semiconductor sales were $57,0 billion during the month of April 2025, an increase of 2,5% compared to the March 2025.
Read more...Avnet Abacus announced new president Avnet Abacus
News
Avnet Abacus has announced that Mario Merino will succeed Rudy Van Parijs as president of Avnet Abacus, effective 1 July 2025.
Read more...Dual-band GNSS antenna RF Design
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The Taoglas Accura GVLB258.A, is a passive, dual-band GNSS L1/L5, high-performance antenna for high precision GNSS accuracy and fast positioning.
Read more...Semiconductor sales increase 17% YoY
News
The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) recently announced global semiconductor sales were $54,9 billion during the month of February 2025, an increase of 17,1% compared to the February 2024 total.
Read more...Silicon Labs – Q1 results
News
Silicon Labs, a leading innovator in low-power wireless, recently reported financial results for the first quarter, which ended April 5, 2025.
Read more...Strengthening industry through strategic partnerships at KITE 2025 Specialised Exhibitions
News
The KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition is not just an exhibition, it is a powerhouse of industry collaboration where visitors and exhibitors gain access to authoritative insights, technical expertise, and high-impact networking opportunities.
Read more...Solar Youth Project calls on industry to step up
News
With the second cohort completed training and the first cohort returning for their final module, host companies are urgently needed to turn the training into a long-term opportunity.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version