What Is an AAD?
AAD stands for Automatic Activation Device, a small but important backup safety system used in skydiving equipment. In simple terms, an AAD is designed to activate the reserve parachute if a jumper is still descending too fast at a low altitude and has not deployed the parachute in time.
Inside the container, the AAD works as a precise electronic unit that monitors altitude and descent rate using air pressure. If the device detects that the jumper has reached a pre-set activation altitude while still falling above the programmed speed, it will trigger the reserve opening sequence.
An AAD must be switched on before the jump so it can calibrate correctly at ground level. This allows the unit to measure altitude from the takeoff location and make accurate decisions during the skydive.
Mars M2 Multi AAD
Advanced technology, Better than magic
The m2 multi is an electronic automatic activation device, operating on the principle of pressure reading. The primary means of detecting the altitude and fall rate is a pressure sensor. The altitude is calculated based on the difference between the two atmospheric pressures. The pressure at current altitude and pressure on landing location “GROUND ZERO”.
The pressure on the landing location is measured and set after switching on the device during calibration. This pressure is automatically adjusted by a change in barometric pressure during the day without the need for user intervention. The m2 multi checks the ambient barometric pressure every 32 seconds and it determines whether the aircraft has taken off. If yes, it begins to monitor the skydiver’s altitude and fall rate. The pressure sensor measures the atmospheric pressure 8 x per second in free fall.
The information collected is evaluated by means of a microprocessor and ingenious software and it is converted to a real fall rate and altitude. Thanks to this, the m2 multi-device is capable of meeting the preset criteria of fall rate in combination with altitude above the landing location, cut the reserve parachute closing loop by means of the cutter and thus initiate the deployment sequence.
The device is activated only in the case the preset criteria are met; the criteria differ depending on the set profiles – STUDENT (Stu), INTERMEDIATE (Int), PROFESSIONAL (Pro), CANOPY PILOTING (Cpi) and TANDEM (Tan)
C-Mode Cypres 2
There is a reason that all modern AADs look like a CYPRES
The CYPRES wasn’t the first AAD ever created but with its visionary cutter system, superior engineering and electronics it revolutionized the way the skydiving sport viewed AADs forever.
With a proven maintenance program, strong commitment to quality, and continuous innovation, CYPRES has become one of the most trusted AAD systems in the skydiving industry.
CYPRES is known for its advanced technology and reliable safety features, designed to support skydivers when it matters most.
Unique cutter design — made for a clean and reliable cut of the closing loop.
Unique handling and feel — simple to operate and designed to reduce the chance of unwanted input.
Unique ground calibration — helps maintain accuracy by compensating for air pressure changes caused by weather.
Unique technical service — supported by a worldwide maintenance system, including comprehensive servicing and applicable updates. Recommended service is typically every 5 and 10 years.
To make installation easier, most modern sport skydiving containers are already prepared for the CYPRES setup. Please verify with your container manufacturer or rigger to ensure your system is CYPRES-ready.
Vigil 2+ Cuatro
HIDDEN TECHNOLOGY.
BUILT TO SAVE LIVES.
The goal and purpose of your Vigil, as with every aspect of skydiving equipment, is to help save lives. With this in mind, here is why the Vigil should become Your Guardian Angel.
Vigil 2+ Cuatro
– Four modes in one: Pro, Student, Tandem and Xtreme
– Vigil Cuatro is water-resistant
– No scheduled maintenance*
– 20-year service life
– Field replaceable cutter and controller
– Competitive purchase price and low total cost ownership
– Memory features include jump numbers, freefall time, number of saves, atmospheric pressure and temperature
– Black box function which retains the last 16 minutes of freefall