LandWarNet 2011: Christie unveils touchscreen C2 solution

Christie Digital Systems has unveiled a solution to upgrade its high-definition C2 visual displays with touchscreen technology.

Speaking to Shephard at the LandWarNet conference in Tampa, national government sales manager Dan Smith said the technology had already been demonstrated in June but conceded that the company was not yet in a position to sell it.

The integration kit or 'i-kit' comprises a series of sensors which can be placed on Christie's LCD or MicroTile technology.

Once linked up to a computer, the screen is effectively turned into a smartphone. Individual MicroTile boxes utilise rear-projection, weigh 20lb and measure approximately 20inches diagonally across. They can be stacked together to produce a giant C2 display of any size.

However, Smith remained unsure as to the i-kit's potential for larger C2 installations and described how it could potentially be more suitable at lower, tactical levels: 'It could be used in the operational environment or in conference rooms,' he said. The company already supplies a number of systems to undisclosed US Army and Air Force bases.

Only yesterday, US Special Operations Command commander, Adm William McRaven described the importance of video teleconferencing in his day-to-day job and Smith such 'higher definition' technology could benefit such a use.

Meanwhile, the company revealed it is due to perform a 'visual system technology upgrade' at the Royal Navy's (RN's) Sea King helicopter Full Flight Simulation system at RN Air Station Culdrose.

The contract, worth an undisclosed sum, will 'ensure that the Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) and Airborne Surveillance and Control (ASaC) crews tasked with supporting operations in Afghanistan, have access to state-of-the-art and realistic vistas from the pilot’s cockpit'.

Upgrades include the use of Christie's Matrix StIM solution which comprises an LED-based projection system to support normal visual operations and the use of night vision goggles simultaneously.