TUCSON, Ariz. — Guardian Avionics, which got its start in 2000 with the development of a Carbon Monoxide (CO) detector, recently shipped its 5000th unit.
Since it was initially introduced, the CO Guardian has gone through a number of refinements, according to company officials.
Most units currently in production now feature altitude alerts that sound alarms when unpressurized aircraft rise above 10,000 feet, 12,500 feet, and again at 14,000 feet. Any pressurized aircraft operating above 14,000 feet would receive at least three alarms if the cabin pressure begins to drop.
Currently available in FAA TSO Certified configurations, as well as non-certificated models for experimental aircraft, the CO monitors will provide aural as well as visual cues when carbon monoxide levels begin to rise above normal levels. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and lethal gas that is a by-product of petroleum exhaust. The presence of small amounts of CO can seriously affect pilot judgment, and in higher concentrations can cause death.
CO Guardian units take up very little panel space, can be installed in a few hours and typically require no more than a logbook entry for experimental or certificated aircraft. They are currently being installed in Cessna, Cirrus and Diamond aircraft, as well as Skycrane helicopters.
For more information: GuardianAvionics.com