1) what's the cheapest portable AI solution out there, and 2)
what can I get that's still portable if price is no object. XM
weather?
Portable stormscope? Electronic approach plates? The kitchen sink?
(I
suppose a portable autopilot is too much to ask :-)

Thanks,
rg

A couple of thoughts:

1. If it's not on line when your primary attitude indicators/turn
coordinators fail in IMC, you'll probably die while digging through
your flight bag looking for it,
2. Control Vision makes AnyWhereMap moving map software for Pocket PC
PDA's and has an AI option available for it. This takes care of the
portable GPS, too. About $2200 complete with nice PDA.
http://www.anywheremap.com/detail.aspx?ID=111
3. Mid Contintent makes an electric AI that has onboard battery backup
good for an hour of use from the time aircraft power is lost. (about
$3900)
http://www.mcico.com/pdf/4300.pdf

David