Why coiled cords on headsets?

[ltweintz]

Hi all. I'm new to the forum and I'm trying to figure out why they use coiled cords on headsets for helicopters?

 

I'm was a Blackhawk pilot in the Army and I have no general aviation experience what-so-ever. The only headset I have ever worn has been my Gentex helmet with CEPs or coiled cord DCs when in the back. Now that I'm out, I'm looking at getting into flying again. I have picked out the headset I want, but trying to figure out which cord to get.

 

So...is there anyone out there who knows why helicopter headsets usually have a coiled cord and why should I choose one way or the other?

[silver-eagle]

Hi all. I'm new to the forum and I'm trying to figure out why they use coiled cords on headsets for helicopters?

 

I'm was a Blackhawk pilot in the Army and I have no general aviation experience what-so-ever. The only headset I have ever worn has been my Gentex helmet with CEPs or coiled cord DCs when in the back. Now that I'm out, I'm looking at getting into flying again. I have picked out the headset I want, but trying to figure out which cord to get.

 

So...is there anyone out there who knows why helicopter headsets usually have a coiled cord and why should I choose one way or the other?

A 10' straight cord has 10' of wire all over the place. A 10' coiled cord retracts on itself thus taking up less room. I use my straight corded airplane headsets in the helicopter and have to wrap them around several times to cut down on the cord getting in the way. Same length coiled cord just plugs in and stays out of the way.

It's all about accommodation.

[avbug]

I don't like coiled cords. I use straight cords on my helmet and headset (with extensions, as needed), and clip them to my flight suit, the airplane, or where ever else needed. I've never had a problem in any kind of aircraft.

 

A coiled cord has more weight handing off the attach point, and I find it annoying when I turn my head.

[rotormandan]

I'm the exact oppisite. I feel cluttered with all that cord.

[Flying Pig]

I liked the coiled cord because often times I need to walk away from helicopter still needing to be plugged into the ICS so I like it to coil up as I walk back. Mine goes about 15'. Once Im in the seat there is a hook I can wrap it around to keep it out of the way.

[Retreating Brain Stall]

Can't stand the regular cords that sometimes find their way into the collective. The pig tail is much nicer for keeping the cord neat and tidy in the cockpit and allows also for stepping in and out while stayingin communication to your copilot/pilot.

[Spike]

I used coiled chords for years and found them to be cumbersome, frustrating and susceptible to unsightly looping if not handled correctly. When presented with an opportunity to change, I opted for the straight chord and now prefer it. While I too have an extension if the need arises, we installed ICS plug-in receptacles on the exterior of the airframe for positive comms with the PIC during crewmember ground movements.

Edited September 13, 2012 by Spike

[Flying Pig]

^ Its because you guys have an obscene amount of disposable income up there..... I can only hope for the table droppings....which I plan on coming and getting one day soon

[brettjeepski]

I have coiled and Love it lots better than straight

[ltweintz]

Thanks for the feedback and sharing your opinions. It sounds like it's more of a preference. I was just surprised at how coiled cords are associated as being a "helicopter" headset.

[t-time]

Why not make retractable cords. That would seem to me the best solution. pull as much as you need out for normal use and then if you need the extra length you pull it further.

 

edit: patent pending (lol)

[aeroscout]

I have a coiled primary helmet cord that is perfect for when I have to maneuver around in the cockpit. If I have to step out of the cockpit I can't stray far at all without either unplugging, or removing my helmet. My pigtail is one pin. Some comms are set up with a two pin, so in those cases my adapter gives a little more range, without getting in the way.

[Nearly Retired]

The reason for the coiled cords in helicopters is actually fairly logical: Headset plugs are usually mounted above the helicopter pilot. Or they're on the bulkhead right behind the seat in two-place ships (Bells and Hillers and the like - don't know about the R-22). The coiled cord helps keep it from drooping down and getting tangled up in the collective.

 

Airplanes typically have their headset jacks mounted forward of the pilot, usually at the bottom (or even under) the instrument panel. This means the cord has to drop down from the headset and go around your arms, and the yoke (or the engine controls). Straight cords do better here because it's easier to route them out of the way.

 

I have tried using my coiled cord headset (with an adapter, obviously) in airplanes and it does not work well. Conversely I do not like straight cord headsets in helicopters. YMMV.

[aeroscout]

The reason for the coiled cords in helicopters is actually fairly logical: Headset plugs are usually mounted above the helicopter pilot. Or they're on the bulkhead right behind the seat in two-place ships (Bells and Hillers and the like - don't know about the R-22). The coiled cord helps keep it from drooping down and getting tangled up in the collective.

 

Airplanes typically have their headset jacks mounted forward of the pilot, usually at the bottom (or even under) the instrument panel. This means the cord has to drop down from the headset and go around your arms, and the yoke (or the engine controls). Straight cords do better here because it's easier to route them out of the way.

 

I have tried using my coiled cord headset (with an adapter, obviously) in airplanes and it does not work well. Conversely I do not like straight cord headsets in helicopters. YMMV.

 

My mileage isn't varying. Good post.