Avionics News March 2014 - 22

A flight-control system can be as simple as a standalone wing leveler, or as complex as a full-feature flightmanagement system - and still need only a relatively
connectors and the connected components means the builder
simple wiring solution if it will operate without benefit
gets to take home a tested, proven package before routing the
of any navigation inputs, approach coupling or automatic
harness, mounting components and hoping everything works.
trim control. But if it needs input from a panel-mounted
Something as simple as applying relevant markings to
attitude indicator or glass-panel component (think ADHRs,
wire runs carries long-term implications not all builders may
ADAHARS), then the work becomes more involved for the
immediately understand. Properly
shop if the result is to be a package the
marked wires have proven their value
builder can install, plug together with
during years of use, providing easier,
the harness, and throw the switch.
more-efficient maintenance long after
Wire runs to connect autopilot
TH E M O R E CO M P L E X
any tape or paper identification tags
processors to servos, and wires to feed
T H E A I RCRA F T
disintegrate.
wingtip-mounted anti-collision and
A ND T H E M O R E
And the more complicated the
position lights, as well as any other
I NTR I CAT E T H E
package, the more time the builder
systems that may mount to or in the
PANE L CO M P O NE NT S ,
likely saves.
wing - such as a heated pitot tube, stallTime is money, and your shop's
warning switch or electrically powered
TH E M O R E L I K E LY A
expertise and equipment buy the
anti-ice equipment.
BU I L D E R W I L L
builder time savings in both building
Wiring between battery and
and troubleshooting the package. This
generating source and the switches and
also gives the builder the fallback of an
relays for powering up the electrical
expert when, as often happens, some
system, avionics and lights are all
element of the avionics or electrics fails
separate. And some, the builder may not
to work as needed.
realize, may require shielded coax rather
The smile at having all the components power up is the
than plain wire.
smile of someone happy they decided to seek help.
Depending on the system, planning for ADS-B Out
compliance would be smart, regardless of how quickly the
Physical dimensions, equipment inventory,
builder plans to use the airplane.
future ambitions
Without knowing what goes where and how it connects to
The savvy builder probably is already talking to an avionics
other components provides the starting point for the rest of
shop to learn how to start the process of using their help.
the project.
If a wiring harness is part of the mix - and frankly, that's
the most common help needed - the builder needs to supply
Shortcuts for modern times
the linear measurements between panel and components
Advances in electrical componentry and digital circuitry
using an appropriate routing of the conductors.
helped feed a relatively new option for installing and
This also means starting with a plan for the eventual full
connecting avionics with electrical-supply components and
inventory of electrical and electronic equipment planned for
the other items needed.
the airplane under construction. Even if the builder plans to
While no single solution can cover all the myriad options
progressively add components as money allows, the harness
builders covet, they do seem to cover more than simple needs
should reflect all the systems planned - not merely the initial
and far beyond the basics. And they can, for many more
ones.
straight-forward panel projects, make the job as plug-andThis should all happen far enough ahead so the builder
play as it comes.
can install all the harness (or harnesses) before progress on
Approach Fast Stack is one avenue for a pre-fab avionics
the airframe restricts access to the airframe, even if the boxes
and power hub and ready-to-install wiring harnesses to match
themselves aren't being installed yet.
its Pro Hub and Pro-X Hub products.
Avionics? GPS and nav/comm? Transponder? Audiocontrol box? Flight-control system? Position and antiContinued on page 24
collision lights?
HOMEBUILDING PANELS

Continued from page 21

S E E K E X P E RT
A S S I S TA NCE .

avionics news

march

2014

Avionics News March 2014

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Avionics News March 2014