AirKnight HD2 3G-SDI / HD-SDI Dual-Channel High-Definition Aviation Video Recorder
Looking for a military-grade video recorder? At Datatoys, we’ve been producing state-of-the-art recorders for over 15 years, and we’re excited to introduce the AirKnight HD2.
The AirKnight HD2 is a full 1080p60 3G-SDI / HD-SDI dual-channel aviation video recorder/DVR. It’s an essential component in any aviation video and data system. Designed for professional and experimental aircraft operations, it’s ideal for defense, ALEO, law enforcement, homeland security, search and rescue (SAR), intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), aerial firefighting, marine, offshore drilling, oil and gas exploration, tracked vehicle operation, flight testing, training, and more.
Key Features:
- Record one or two channels: 3G-SDI, HD-SDI, or HDMI inputs recorded directly to USB flash or SD solid-state media.
- Broadcast-quality video: With MPEG4 AVC and H.264 encoding, it supports simultaneous video encoding, streaming, and recording.
- GPS Data Recording & Overlay: Record geospatial data such as time, latitude/longitude, altitude, heading, and speed. Overlay GPS data on the video with custom text and graphics.
- Flexible storage: Record to USB, SD, SSD, or HDD for convenient, off-the-shelf media usage.
- Rugged design for harsh environments: Protection against shock, vibration, moisture, sand, and more, with MILSPEC and heavy-duty components available.
Request more information
Fill out the contact form below and we will reach out to you shortly.
Advanced Options:
- Dual Independent PSU: MILSPEC power supply units with protection against short circuits, reverse voltage, and lightning.
- Class 3 Assembly: Available with traceability and enhanced environmental protections.
Data Recording & Video Overlay:
- GPS data is recorded in KML and GPX formats, compatible with Google Earth or FlightSync software for video and data synchronization.
- Customizable data overlays: Choose between degrees, minutes, seconds for coordinates, or display speed in knots, miles per hour, or kilometers per hour.
- On-screen text overlays: Add up to three lines of custom text via the web interface or RS-232 input, with full control over font size, type, and color.
Audio Recording:
- Record headset audio with the included Aviation Headset Cable, compatible with most GA and helicopter headsets.
Live Viewing:
- Monitor video in real-time with input loop-through for live output from HD-SDI, HDMI, or composite inputs, perfect for pilots or hook operators who need to watch live feeds.
Compression & File Management:
- High-efficiency video compression: AVC/H.264 compression offers high-quality video with small file sizes that are easy to store, edit, and upload.
- MJPEG compression available: Ideal for production film applications requiring high-speed editing.
Control & Connectivity:
- Record Start/Stop Switch: Streamline post-flight editing by starting and stopping recordings with a simple switch.
- Network Interface: Access advanced settings, including video compression, file size management, motion detection, and live streaming, through the network user interface.
- Multiple Camera Inputs: Connect HD-SDI, HDMI, or NTSC/PAL cameras for flexible integration with gimbal systems.
Mounting & Installation:
- Multiple Mounting Options: Choose from bottom mounting, side mounting, or DZUS rail mounting.
- Military-grade connectors: Ensure a durable and weatherproof connection for all your cameras.
- Aviation-grade cabling: FAR 25 rated for maximum protection and performance.
Warranty & Support
Every AirKnight HD2 unit is backed by a two-year warranty. Datatoys takes pride in offering excellent customer support—call us at (414) 639-9085 for assistance!
Record Audio and Video
The AirKnight series offers single, dual, and quad-channel recording options to fit your specific needs:
- AirKnight-HD: Single-channel recording
- AirKnight-HD2: Dual-channel recording
- AirKnight-HD4S: Single-channel recording with quad switching
All versions support bottom, side, or DZUS rail mounting, and each comes with an optional GPS feature.
Multi-Channel Recording
Record one or two channels as separate video files to SD or USB media. The AirKnight-HD4S allows up to four cameras and lets you switch between them with the Director Video Switcher. Compatible with existing bullet or gimbal cameras using HD-SDI, HDMI, or composite inputs, or use our HD bullet cameras for easy integration.
Data Recording & Overlay
With the optional GPS, you can record and overlay geospatial data (such as time, latitude, longitude, altitude, heading, and speed) onto your video. Choose from various GPS options like the Garmin 18x 5Hz or 1Hz receiver, or connect your own standard GPS units through the RS-232 input.
GPS Data Recording
GPS data is recorded in KML and GPX formats, which can be viewed directly in Google Earth or through our FlightSync software. These files are also compatible with most third-party geospatial software.
Overlay GPS Data
In addition to a separate data file, you can overlay GPS data and other information directly on your video. Use the web interface to customize data placement and appearance, including font size, color, and positioning.
Available Data Points:
- Coordinates: Degrees, Minutes, Seconds / Degrees, Minutes / Degrees
- Speed: Knots (KT), MPH, KPH
- Altitude: Feet (F), Meters (M)
- Heading (Degrees)
- Custom text using the built-in character generator
Record to USB or SD Media
Record directly to USB or SD cards, with no need for specialized memory cards.
Record Headset Audio
Include headset audio in your recordings using the provided Aviation Headset Cable. It’s compatible with any GA headset on the market, and helicopter headset cables (U174) are available as well.
High-Quality, Small Files
Utilizing AVC/H.264 High Profile compression (the same as Blu-Ray), AirKnight recorders provide exceptional video quality while maintaining manageable file sizes. This balance ensures easy storage, editing, and playback on both PC and Mac.
- Data rates between 8 Mbps and 16 Mbps offer the best quality-to-file-size ratio.
- MJPEG compression is also available for high-speed editing applications, with data rates up to 50 Mbps.
Sync Time and Overlay
Sync system time to an NTP server and overlay time onto your video, ideal for flight testing applications.
Control
The external Record Start/Stop Switch simplifies post-flight editing. Mount the switch on the dash, and an LED indicator shows power and recording status. You can also control recording directly from the front of the unit. The AirKnight-HD2 can record each channel independently or simultaneously.
Network User Interface
Access advanced settings via the network user interface, including:
- CBR and VBR compression
- .H264 AVC and MJPEG compression
- Custom file sizes and video downscaling
- Live streaming, video motion detection, and text overlay
Connect
Easily connect HD-SDI, HDMI, or NTSC/PAL cameras to the AirKnight. It supports all standard resolutions up to 1080p60. BNC HD-SDI connectors simplify connections to your gimbal camera system. (Note: HDMI does not support protected content)
Datatoys HD Bullet Cameras
The HD Mini Bullet camera is waterproof, compact, and offers 1080p resolution. Mount one or more inside or outside the cockpit for high-quality video capture.
Aviation-Grade HD Cabling
Our FAR 25-rated aviation-grade cables ensure maximum protection and performance.
Military-Grade Connectors
Weatherproof and rugged, our connectors ensure reliable connections in harsh conditions.
Live Viewing
The input loop-through feature provides a live output from HD-SDI, HDMI, and composite inputs. Connect directly to your EFIS or monitor, or use our monitors for real-time viewing—perfect for pilots and hook operators.
Protection for Your AirKnight
Each AirKnight recorder comes with a two-year warranty. At Bad Wolf Technologies, we pride ourselves on our excellent customer support—just call us at (414) 639-9085!