The Vintage Technology Association - Aerospace, Naval & Ordinance Components

Aerospace, Naval & Ordinance Components

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Giannini Controls Corp. 580T3-1 VGH Recorder

This mysterious device is a USAF flight data recorder. The military contract number AF33(657)-10464 originated at Wright-Patterson AFB in the early 1960s, and is one of the earliest flight data recorders known to exist. The computer and tape cartridge modules are sealed by a strip of copper around their perimeter.

The installation record on this recorder is blank, indicating that it was never actually installed in an aircraft.

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Giannini Controls Corp. MXK-385 Computer Recorder

The MXK-385 is a somewhat newer and improved version of the 580T3-1 VGH Recorder shown above. Key improvements include an integrated elapsed time indicator, reduced cartridge size, an improved cartridge retention system and a two-axis shock mount. Beyond its secondary improvements, this device appears to be nearly a drop-in replacement for the 580T3-1, with identical interfaces, mounting holes and overall footprint.

Unlike the 580T3-1, the MXK-385 appears to have an integral computer, rather than a detachable module. The secondary computer interface is also very different: instead of having three unlabeled DB-style connectors, the MKX-385 has a single covered test mode interface port exiting the monolithic chassis.

Like the 580T3-1, the MXK-385 was contracted by Wright-Patterson AFB in the 1960s, and appears to have never been installed in an aircraft.

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Honeywell GG440A18 'Golden Gnat' Rate Gyroscope

The Honeywell GG440 Golden Gnat rate gyroscope was a common feature of Cold War-era military guidance equipment. The GG440 and its direct descendants were used in the F-104, F-4, F-15 and F-16 aircraft, as well as numerous radar and missile systems.

It appears that Honeywell no longer produces these devices, and legacy support is provided by the military contractor US Dynamics.

FLIGHT International Magazine, March 14, 1963: MH-97G Autopilot for the F-104G (PDF)
US Dynamics Rate Gyroscopes: 475 Series Datasheet (PDF)

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