On Saturday, November 30, 2019 at 11:47:35 PM UTC-6, 2G wrote:
On Tuesday, October 29, 2019 at 8:13:31 AM UTC-7, John DeRosa OHM Ω http://aviation.derosaweb.net wrote:
Updating files/firmware on my avionics should be easy. Then why is it so hard?

Heck, I am an electrical engineer. I have been around computers since high school (early 70's). I was in Information Technology for MANY years and still do this on a volunteer basis. I should be able to handle this!

I think that the answer is in several parts;

- There are multiple files for each device to upload/download; firmware, waypoint databases, FLARM databases, obstacle databases, SUA databases, IGC files, etc, etc.
- What is the URL to find these much needed files?
- Each device seems to need its own specifically formatted file - just look at the turnpoint database! Some instruments are mentioned there by name but others use a "generic" format of a file - but which one to use?
- There are multiple methods to upload/download. With a cable? Via a memory stick? Then where does the file go on the stick (root or a folder)? Does the install happen when the device is booted or when the device is already on? Does the install happen automatically or do you have to manually do something?
- While the avionics manufacturers create wonderful devices it is a fact of life that their manuals seem woefully inadequate for the task at hand and/or become obsolete from lack of updating.
- Is my recorder's re-calibration due so I don't miss getting credit for my epic flight?
- And critically, I only perform this task about once a year and I FORGET the magic steps of what to do!

HELP!

As my own panel evolved from "steam gauges" to a "glass cockpit" I kept my sanity by creating a spreadsheet of the how-tos, where-froms and the tricks-of-the-trade.

BOTTOM LINE: If you are interested in using my spreadsheet as a template for your own cockpit it can be found here = http://aviation.derosaweb.net/forms/

Comments welcome.

Best of Luck,
John OHM Ω

Yeah, it's a quagmire out there, for sure. I went to a full glass cockpit in my new ASH31Mi. I simplified the problem by sticking to three instrument manufacturers: LXNAV, Garmin and Trig. LXNAV provided the glide computer (LX9070), which has a good user's group. I will add their wi-fi adapter next year so I don't have to deal with SD cards. Garmin provided the PFD (primary flight display), which replaced all of the old steam gauges. Trig provided the radio and transponder, and solved the ADS-B out issue. I also had Schleicher install all of the instruments, and they did a GREAT job. This isn't an option for you, so it is either a DYI job or find an avionics shop. I also switched to LFP batteries with a total of 32 AHr of capacity. This is a MUST for a glass cockpit as my typical current draw is 1.9 A. BTW, I also have PowerFlarm, but I don't call that an instrument.

I have flown with this setup for an entire season and LOVE IT! About the only thing I might add is a dedicated Flarm display.

Tom

Any pictures, please?