The SP-401 is a solar-powered, low-intensity aviation obstruction light (Type A) designed to deliver steady, omnidirectional red illumination. Engineered for use at both civil and military airports, this unit provides reliable performance under challenging environmental conditions. With a focus on durability, efficiency, and global compliance, the SP-401 is suitable for permanent installation or as a backup lighting solution for airfields with existing wired infrastructure. It adheres to aviation safety and lighting regulations set by authorities including ICAO, FAA, EASA, CASA, AFAC, TP312, CZ CAA, and STANAG standards used across NATO countries.
The SP-401’s core functionality includes a solar-powered energy system, a radio-controlled wireless interface, and individual light status monitoring, all integrated into a robust and self-sufficient unit. It operates as a solar ICAO Low-Intensity Light Type A, but can also serve as a solar LED obstacle light, unserviceable area marker, barricade warning light, or hazard light, offering operational flexibility across multiple applications.
In terms of optical performance, the SP-401 emits red light with a tested intensity of 37 candela, meeting ICAO requirements for Type A obstacle lights. Its LED light source has a rated lifespan of 100,000 hours, with optional infrared LEDs to support NVG (night vision goggle) compatibility. The optical components are user-replaceable, enhancing maintainability in the field.
Power is supplied through an externally mounted 25 W solar panel, with options for polycrystalline or monocrystalline configurations. The panel is designed for 15 years of service life and is connected via a built-in MPPT-Temp inverter supporting 12–36 V DC at 2 A. The panel is mounted separately from the light body, ideally at a 33-degree tilt, and includes adjustable hardware to ensure optimal solar exposure.
Battery options include Valve-Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA), Li-ion, LiFePO4, and Cyclon Arctic Pack, all housed internally in the unit and user-replaceable without special tools. These batteries offer operational autonomy ranging from 240 to 816 hours (at 30% intensity), depending on the model, and are rated for 1,200 to 3,000 cycles depending on chemistry. The dual-battery configuration ensures redundancy, allowing the unit to remain functional even if one battery fails.
The unit is wirelessly managed through a mesh network communication system, operating on license-free frequencies including 868 MHz (standard), with optional configurations at 915 MHz or 2.4 GHz. The wireless range exceeds 10 km (with relay), and control is achievable via UR-201 controller, UR-101 handheld device, or through integration with an Airfield Lighting Control and Monitoring System (ALCMS). The mesh architecture supports high scalability and ensures network resilience even under RF interference typical in airport environments.
The SP-401 is built with multiple layers of safety and redundancy, including an emergency ON/OFF switch, secondary power backup, and real-time monitoring. Its physical casing is engineered for durability, made from UV-stabilized Lexan polycarbonate with a borosilicate glass dome, marine-grade stainless steel mounting components, and aluminum frangible couplings tested by accredited labs. The unit achieves IP68 ingress protection, IK10 impact resistance, and 240 kph jet blast resistance, making it ideal for exposed airfield environments.
Designed for both temporary and permanent installations, the SP-401 supports deployment on various surfaces including grass and concrete. Its mounting system features frangible coupling and quick-release options, ensuring safety and fast setup. Additional hardware includes pressure stabilizing valves, charging ports (including drop-in options), battery level indicators, and carrying handles for transport.
Performance-wise, the light supports up to 99 brightness levels, operates during daylight if required, and includes an LED indicator for battery level and power source status. Switching the manual ON/OFF button on any individual unit will automatically activate all others within radio range in less than one second.
From an electronic standpoint, the SP-401 features temperature-compensated battery charging, low-voltage protection, firmware upgrade capabilities, and integrated battery temperature monitoring. Its power management system supports charging through solar panel, 24 VDC electrical grid, backup charging stations, and drop-in charging ports. Even in the event of a battery failure, the light will continue functioning when connected to the grid.
Physically, the unit’s dimensions are 557 mm x 450 mm x 358 mm, and its total weight is below 15 kg. The design emphasizes modularity and serviceability: the glass dome, LED optics, radio transceiver, and antenna are all detachable and replaceable, with parts standardized to support global availability and simplified logistics. All lighting models within the system (runway, taxiway, obstruction) use the same battery type and capacity for interchangeability.
The SP-401 meets or exceeds all relevant photometric, chromaticity, jet blast, and frangibility standards as defined by ICAO, FAA, and other global aviation authorities. It is also CE-compliant, conforming to RED Directive 2014/53/EU and ROHS Directive 2011/65/EU. Each unit is manufactured under ISO 9001:2008-certified processes and comes with a minimum two-year warranty on components (excluding batteries), with batteries warranted for one year.
Delivered fully assembled and installation-ready, the only user actions required are attaching the solar panel and antenna, activating the unit via its ON/OFF button, and securing it to the provided mounting hardware. The SP-401 represents a turn-key, high-compliance, solar-powered lighting solution for modern aviation environments seeking sustainability, safety, and operational flexibility.
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