The SP-401 is a state-of-the-art solar-powered medium intensity runway edge light designed specifically for displaced threshold applications on both civil and military airfields. Serving as a permanent lighting solution, the SP-401 is also ideal as a reliable backup for airports equipped with wired infrastructure. Engineered for performance in the most demanding environments, it is remotely controlled, fully solar-powered, and available in green/yellow bidirectional output, with an intensity of 720 cd (yellow) and 450 cd (green), verified by accredited laboratories. The LED optics are designed for a 100,000-hour lifespan, are user-replaceable, and optionally come equipped with infrared LEDs for NVG compatibility, enabling covert night operations.
The light is compliant with global aviation regulations, meeting standards set by ICAO, FAA, EASA, CASA, AFAC, TP312, CZ CAA, and NATO’s STANAG. Specific compliance includes ICAO Annex 14 Volume I, FAA AC 150/5345 series, and CE/ROHS directives, with third-party certification for photometric, chromaticity, frangibility, and environmental protection. It is tested to withstand jet blasts up to 240 kph, has a rugged construction with IP68 ingress protection, IK10 impact resistance, and operates across a wide temperature range from -40°C to +80°C with the Arctic Pack.
The SP-401 features a modular design with an externally mounted 25 W solar panel (polycrystalline or optional monocrystalline), optimized for 15+ years of performance. The panel is installed separately from the light body and angled at approximately 33 degrees for maximum solar exposure. It connects to the light through a dual-function power port, which can also be used for direct grid power or alternative charging sources such as drop-in ports or backup stations. The light draws power from two internally housed, user-replaceable batteries. Multiple battery chemistries are supported, including Lead Acid (standard), Li-ion, LiFePO4, and Cyclon (Arctic Pack), each offering varying lifespans (from 1,200 to 3,000 cycles) and operational autonomy, ranging up to 816 hours at 30% intensity.
Operational control and monitoring are enabled via a robust wireless mesh network using a license-free 868 MHz frequency band (alternatively 915 MHz or 2.4 GHz), offering over 10 km of range through relays. The system supports various operating modes, including steady, flashing, dusk-till-dawn, visible, infrared, and combined visible/IR. Lights can be activated using several methods: through the ALCMS (Airfield Lighting Control and Monitoring System), the UR-201 unit, or a handheld UR-101 controller. Each unit is equipped with a manual emergency ON/OFF button that, when engaged, can remotely activate other nearby lights within one second. LEDs also indicate battery level and charging status.
Designed for long-term field serviceability, the SP-401's dome is made of durable borosilicate glass, and its polycarbonate casing is resistant to corrosion. All critical components—such as the glass dome, LED optics, antenna, and batteries—are modular and replaceable on-site without special tools. A pressure-stabilizing valve ensures internal pressure regulation, maintaining environmental integrity. The light body does not exceed 360 mm in height and weighs under 15 kg, ensuring ease of installation and maintenance.
Physically, the SP-401 is built for durability and versatility. It can be mounted on various surfaces, including grass and concrete, using stainless steel hardware and frangible couplings for enhanced safety. It supports mounting systems that resist corrosion and withstand mechanical stress. The optics and LED assemblies are also replaceable, with complete kits available for rapid servicing in the field.
Functionally, the light supports a minimum of 99 brightness levels and can operate during daylight when needed. Its advanced electronics include temperature-compensated MPPT battery charging, low-voltage cut-off protection, and battery health monitoring. Firmware upgrades are supported to ensure ongoing compatibility and feature expansion. The unit’s batteries, each with a minimum capacity of 108 Wh, work in parallel to ensure continuous operation—even if one fails—delivering a total capacity of no less than 216 Wh. All battery types used are globally available, eliminating reliance on proprietary packs and simplifying logistics for airfield operators worldwide.
The system's wireless protocol adheres to mesh-network standards to ensure scalable and reliable communication across large airfields. Each light is capable of maintaining stable performance amid typical airport RF noise. The antenna is external, detachable, and replaceable to maximize signal range and facilitate repair.
Quality assurance is central to the SP-401’s design. All lights are manufactured in ISO 9001:2008 certified facilities. A minimum two-year warranty covers the entire system, excluding batteries, which carry a one-year guarantee. The light is delivered fully assembled and ready for deployment, requiring only solar panel installation and antenna threading. Designed for simplicity, activation is achieved through a single button, allowing the SP-401 to be integrated quickly into both permanent and temporary airfield lighting systems.
Overall, the SP-401 represents a high-performance, standards-compliant, and easily maintainable solar runway edge lighting system. With features tailored to mission-critical civil and defense operations, it ensures maximum airfield visibility, autonomy, safety, and operational readiness in any environment.
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