The S4GA Medium Intensity Portable Approach Light is a high-performance, ICAO-compliant airfield lighting solution engineered specifically for rapid deployment at temporary runways, remote airfields, backup airport lighting systems, and emergency landing zones. This elevated, battery-powered unit delivers white, unidirectional LED illumination and is designed to meet rigorous international aviation standards, including ICAO, EASA, FAA, CASA, AFAC, TP312, CZ CAA, and STANAG. Its robust design and advanced technology make it ideal for civil, military, and humanitarian aviation operations worldwide.
Built for mobile and temporary installations, the light features rapid deployment capability, long autonomous operation, and wireless mesh-network control. It offers a high light output of 1,800 candela with a maximum power consumption of just 3.9 watts. The LED system has a certified lifespan of 100,000 hours and is optionally equipped with infrared LEDs for NVG compatibility, making it suitable for covert or nighttime military operations. All optics are user-replaceable, allowing for minimal downtime and on-site servicing.
Power is supplied through an internal dual-battery system. Users can choose from several battery configurations depending on their operational needs. Standard lead-acid batteries deliver 180 hours of autonomy at 30% intensity with a 4–5-year lifespan, while lithium-ion (Li-ion) and lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) options extend operation time to 340 and 240 hours respectively, and last 6–7 years with up to 3,000 cycles. An Arctic-grade Cyclon lead-acid battery pack offers 100 hours of runtime in extreme temperatures and is designed to last up to 15 years. All battery configurations are user-replaceable, air-transportable, and globally available, requiring no special tools or skills to service.
Charging is equally versatile. Each unit can be charged using an OCT-401 charger, a drop-in trailer charger (both requiring 8 hours), or an optional solar panel for completely off-grid operations. Battery and charging status are visible via LED indicators on the unit, which also includes a manual ON/OFF switch and a carrying handle for quick field mobility.
Control and monitoring are achieved through a wireless mesh-type communication system, ensuring full coverage and responsiveness over 10 kilometers of relayed range. The system operates on non-licensed radio frequencies (868 MHz standard, with optional 915 MHz or 2.4 GHz variants) and is designed to remain reliable in high-interference airport environments. Lights can be activated and monitored via the UR-101 handheld controller, the UR-201 Control & Monitoring Unit, or an ALCMS interface. Emergency operation is ensured through a manual ON/OFF button on each unit, which can simultaneously trigger all nearby lights within radio range in under one second.
The unit’s casing is engineered for extreme environments. It features a dome made of borosilicate hardened glass and a Lexan polycarbonate body, both UV-resistant and certified to IP68 ingress protection and IK10 impact resistance. A waterproof pressure-stabilizing valve, transportation fuse, and detachable antenna enhance operational durability. The casing has an estimated 15-year lifespan and measures 244 mm x 185 mm x 297 mm, with a maximum height (excluding antenna) under 360 mm and total weight below 15 kg. All electronics, batteries, and optics are housed internally, and the LED dome and optical head are field-replaceable.
Mounting options include frangible couplings for asphalt or concrete surfaces and rubber pads for temporary or soft terrain. The mounting system supports both quick-release and permanent installations, making the light suitable for various operational contexts. The system is equipped with a dual charging port (optional) and a drop-in charging connector for modular and streamlined logistics.
In terms of optical performance, the light produces a certified average intensity of no less than 1,480 candela at its highest setting, meeting or exceeding ICAO Annex 14 standards. Independent testing and certification by Intertek, Bureau Veritas, STAC, TUV Rheinland, or the CAA validate its compliance. In addition, the light supports over 99 brightness levels and can operate in steady, flashing, dusk-to-dawn, visible, infrared, or dual visible/IR modes.
The electronics include advanced power management features like temperature-compensated Maximum Power Tracking, low-voltage cut-off protection, and embedded temperature sensors. Firmware can be upgraded over the air to maintain functionality with future system updates. The dual-battery system ensures redundancy, allowing operation to continue even if one battery fails. Minimum battery capacity per light is 216 Wh (2 x 108 Wh), and units are engineered to operate for no less than 170 continuous hours at minimum brightness.
Wireless communication utilizes a mesh protocol rather than point-to-multipoint, enabling more resilient and scalable deployments. The system is immune to typical airport radio interference and allows an unlimited number of lights within range to be simultaneously controlled. The antenna is detachable and external to maximize signal coverage and can be easily replaced if damaged.
S4GA’s portable approach light is manufactured in an ISO 9001:2008-certified facility, ensuring rigorous quality control and product consistency. The system—excluding batteries—is backed by a minimum two-year warranty, while batteries are guaranteed for one year. Upon delivery, each unit is fully assembled and ready for use; setup requires only attaching the antenna, pressing the activation button, and securing the light with the selected mounting solution or solar charging accessory.
Overall, the S4GA Medium Intensity Portable Approach Light delivers a highly reliable, compliant, and adaptable solution for temporary, mobile, or backup runway lighting needs—meeting the highest global standards for safety, efficiency, and field operability.
https://solutions4ga.com/product/sp-401-portable-approach-light/
