Story ID: 
Aspen Receives STC for Backup Display
By: Matt Thurber
Caption: Aspen Evolution backup display replaces mechanical instruments used for backup for EFIS instrumentation.
Word Count: 240
The FAA has issued a supplemental type certificate (STC) for the Aspen Avionics Evolution backup display, which replaces mechanical backup instruments and vacuum systems that power these instruments in aircraft equipped with electronic flight instrument systems (EFIS).

Evolution is available in two versions: Basic and Advanced. The Basic retails for $5,995 and includes attitude, altitude and airspeed tapes; slaved directional gyro; turn-rate, slip/skid and vertical speed indicator; and GPS flight plan overlay. For $8,995, the Advanced version adds dual radio magnetic indicators, HSI, localizer and glideslope indicator and emergency GPS receiver. The display includes its own emergency power source, which operates the display for two hours continuously.

Buyers can also opt to add Aspen’s angle-of-attack indicator, ADS-B IN traffic and weather and synthetic vision, according to the company.

Piper Aircraft has been installing the Aspen Evolution backup in new-production Pipers for the past four years. Aircraft owners and operators can now purchase the backup display from any Aspen dealer. 

Earlier in April at the Sun ’n' Fun show, Aspen Avionics announced receipt of an STC for interfacing Aspen Evolution PFDs and MFDs with Garmin’s GDL 88 dual-band ADS-B transceiver. By the end of 2016, the new Garmin GTX 345 ADS-B transponder will also be able to interface with the Evolution units. Aspen Evolution owners can unlock the GDL 88 or GTX 345 interface functions for $795, and any Aspen dealer can install the new interface.