Flight data recorder, or 'Black Box', red and black, by Penny and Giles Data Recorders Ltd., Christchurch, Dorset, England, 1987-1997

Flight data recorders were designed to record a number of flight parameters within a box that could withstand a wreck - its bright orange shade was intended to make the box easier to locate. Any data recorded can be interpreted in order to try and build a picture of the plane’s final movements in the event of an accident.

The founders of Penny & Giles Flight Data Recorders were responsible for a number of developments for these devices. In 1955 they developed the first magnetic Flight Data Recorder, in 1957 they invented the first aircraft accident recorder based on magnetic recording and in 1983 they were the first to combine Cockpit Voice Recording and flight data recording into one device. It is likely that this device is an example of this combined technology.