Overview

The RA5000 Passive Raptor tactical communication headset was designed specifically for use by infantry forces travelling within Light Armored Vehicles (LAVs), where communications connectivity while transitioning from ‘mounted’ to ‘dismounted’ is paramount.

The Talk-Through functionality, with embedded safety noise limiting protection, ensures localized situational awareness is achieved in environments where there is weapons discharge or explosive blasts.

Based on the successfully deployed RA5000 Raptor25 communication headset, the Passive Raptor retains many of the comfort and performance attributes. A multi-function switchbox provides connection to two simultaneous communication sources and volume control for the Talk-Through .

Key Features

• Passive Noise Reduction. NRR greater than 15dB(A)
• Racal Acoustics electronic ‘ Talk-Through ’ with volume control
• Napeband ‘around-the-neck’ or Headband ‘over-the-head’ attachments
• Environmentally qualified to military standards
• Reversible noise cancelling microphone & switchbox
• Compatible with a wide range of communication sources including portable radios and vehicle intercoms
• Auxiliary MP3 input
• Quick release connectors for rapid disconnect and vehicle exit.
• Automatic routing of communication signals to either side of the headset

Benefits

The RA5000 Passive Raptor tactical headset is the new addition to the Raptor family of military communication headsets. With a multifunction switch box it is possible to connect to two communication sources simultaneously. When connected to a single input the communication signal is routed to both ears, if a second input is connected, the communications from each source are split between both ears.

The provision of an auxiliary port permits the connection of an external device such as a music player or the audio from a PC or hand held PDA. If a stereo signal is available this is routed to both ears stereophonically. This ensures that the critical communication signals are always received even when listening to your favourite tune or pre-recorded briefing notes.

The headset uses the same Talk-Through circuitry as that employed with the Raptor25, the talk-through function allows the user to hear sounds as though they were not wearing the headset, yet still remain connected to the communication equipment. In an independent evaluation it was proved that this function provided better sound localization (that is determining which direction the sound is coming from) than a competitor product.

Racal’s Talk-Through circuit has built in protection to ensure that maximum noise limits are not exceeded, causing temporary and in worse cases, permanent hearing NIHL (Noise Induced Hearing Loss).

This safety feature uses a clamping technique which ensures that the communication signal can still be heard and understood even during unwanted and potentially damaging events such as small arms fire while Talk-Through is activated.

The RA5000 Passive Raptor provides volume control of the talk-though so that faint or weak external signals can be amplified to enhance the users own hearing, thereby maximising their localized situational awareness. The switchbox draws electrical power from either the radio or intercom source. When this power is not available an external power pod, which allows the connection of a single AA battery cell, is available. Connection of the switchbox to the communication system(s) is via interface cables.

The headset is connected to the multi-function switchbox via a ruggedised quick release connector proprietary to Racal Acoustics. The acoustic ear shells are similar to those used by the Raptor25 but the level of passive attenuation has been increased. The headset is proven to be compatible with the Advance Combat Helmet (ACH). The ear cushions employ a new type of gel / foam technology that mould to the shape of the users profile and even permits the wearing of ballistic protective eyewear without compromising the performance of the headset.