Gageteers, we need a digital heading sensor

To compute real-time wind data we need Groundspeed, Ground Track (any GPS
gives these)True Airspeed (Some computers do this if they have OAT, Pressure
Altitude and IAS) and accurate heading data. Heading data it the tough nut
to crack.

So, how do we get Heading? One way might be to put a GPS antenna in each
wing and look at the carrier phase difference. If the computer saw a
constant track, it could assume the wings are level and determine a heading
value. This heading value might update an aerospace quality MEMS heading
gyro that would maintain a flow of heading data to the glide computer during
times when the wings were banked.



The LX 5000 has the facility for a digital compass - precisely for the
reason that you are looking for a solution for. I have not used a
digital compass with my unit so I have no idea if it works better than
the other estimation methods used by the unit without a compass
attached.

Clinton
LAK 12