News Release

Leach SPDU Series Provides Advanced Circuit Protection Using
Next-generation SSPC Technology

 BUENA PARK, Calif., July 17, 2006 — A microprocessor-controlled Secondary Power Distribution Unit (SPDU), featuring multi-channel, next-generation Solid-state Power Controllers, has been released by an Esterline Corporation component and equipment manufacturer Leach International.

Designed to distribute 28Vdc power to aircraft loads and provide protection for the wiring, Leach SPDUs can receive input power from multiple sources and control loads based on commands received through the data bus or by discrete signals. 

The SPDU Series features multiple programmable SSPCs (shown are 6 channels rated up to 10 Amps at 85°C and 22 channels rated up to  5 Amps at 85°C) with standard dual redundant power supplies and a standard dual redundant data bus. Control options include data bus, discrete signal or manual push buttons, and the extensive built-in testing (BIT) takes place at startup, runs continuously and also can be initiated when desired.

These lightweight units (approximately 6.75 lbs.) benefit from the many features of Leach SSPCs, which include low voltage drop and power dissapation, backup wire protection, and optional arc fault protection. Plus, by eliminating connectors, junction boxes, wires, circuit breakers and other components, Leach SSPCs dramatically reduce wire volume while improving accuracy, repeatability and arc fault protection.

Featuring a flexible architecture to meet a variety of requirements, Leach SPDUs can accommodate different power inputs and numbers/ratings of SSPCs. In addition, a variety of data bus types is available, including MIL-STD-1553B, ARINC 429, ARINC 485, RS-232 and CAN Bus.

The new SPDU Series will be featured at the Esterline exhibit, Hall 1, Stand B11, Farnborough Air Show, July 17-23.

Leach International Corporation, a leader since 1919 in high-reliability power switching components, is a subsidiary of Esterline Technologies and one of the largest manufacturers of electrical switching and control devices for the aerospace industry. For more information on Leach and the SPDU Series, visit www.leachintl.com.

About Leach International:
Leach International Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Esterline Technologies Corporation, is a world leader for the design and manufacture of high-reliability power switching and control components and equipment for aerospace, rail, and high-end industrial applications worldwide.  Leach specializes in combining its leading-edge components with unique design and manufacturing capabilities to provide custom AC/DC power distribution assemblies. Known for its design excellence and commitment to quality and reliability since 1919, Leach equipment and components are used on thousands of aerospace, military, rail, and high-end industrial applications worldwide in the most severe environments

About Esterline:
Esterline Corporation is a specialized manufacturing company serving principally aerospace/defense and medical markets. Esterline management views the company's businesses in three segments related to its set of core competencies: Avionics & Controls, Sensors & Systems, and Advanced Materials.

Operations within the Sensors & Systems segment including Leach, produce, power distribution equipment, high-precision temperature and pressure sensors, motion control components, and other related systems principally for aerospace and defense customers. The Avionics & Controls segment focuses on technology interface systems for commercial and military aircraft and similar devices for land- and sea-based military vehicles, secure communications systems, specialized medical equipment, and other high-end industrial applications. Advanced Materials focuses on process-related technologies, including high-performance elastomer products and high-temperature resistant components used for a wide range of military and commercial aerospace purposes and combustible ordnance and electronic warfare countermeasure products.