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INTRODUCTION.
This Variometer is designed to satisfy a need for a product that
utilizes the most current technology to produce the best possible
performance at the lowest possible cost.
The Variometer has at its core a semiconductor pressure sensor
with a digital output which can resolve some 32 million separate
codes. This results in a Variometer which can measure only a few
inches of altitude change without a practical upper limit in altitude.
With such fine measurements possible, a fast sample rate results
in a Variometer which is responsive and accurate.
Digital signal processing allows the user to set the Variometer
response time in fine increments, and select from a range of display
and audio vario options.
An important side benefit is that the parts count is minimised
and so the cost and size of the final Variometer is reduced.
The Variometer accommodates and expands on all the most important
functions of a standard vario, i.e. vario audio, current lift/sink
rate, and includes the primary feature of the 20 second Variometer
average simultaneously displayed.
All in the same small package.
This Variometer is designed to give years of trouble free service.
(3 year warranty).
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OPERATION.
Simple controls of only two buttons which
control the Variometer audio volume, read the battery voltage,
and access to setup values if required. With the 20 second Variometer
average continuously displayed and a warning signal for the battery
voltage all on the screen, no other controls are required.
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AUDIO.
Considerable effort has gone into developing an audio vario
tone and pattern to convey to the pilot the maximum information
without being intrusive or annoying. The climb tone consists
of a series of beeps whose pitch, rate and volume increase with
lift rate, somewhat musical in effect.. The sink tone has a
(fixed) threshold at -2.5 knots and is distinct from the climb
tone in that only the pitch changes and the rate is constant.
The effect can be compared to a bell ring. The vario audio response
is non linear to give the greatest resolution at the lower climb
rates. At climb rates below about 2.5 knots, a change of 0.1
knot can readily be detected in the audio tone. This gives the
maximum amount of Variometer information to the pilot at times
when a Variometer is most important i.e., when trying to recover
in weak lift, or to extend a flight on winter days or during
wave flights. This maximizes the pilots achieved climb rate
without the need for visual reference to the Variometer for
confirmation of the current climb rate.
A concise audio is essential to maximize the lookout time for
the pilot.
- POWER SUPPLY.
When the variometer is switched on the input voltage is measured.
Depending on the result one of two modes are selected.
1. 12 volt supply: LO BATT signal illuminates at 10.5 volts
with full audio function.
2. 9 volt supply: LO BATT signal illuminates at 7.2 volts
and the audio is not available.
This mode allows operation from a 9V PP3 Alkaline type battery
and will supply at least 10 hours of operation.
The Variometer will operate at full specification down to a supply
of about 7 volts but continues to operate to nearly 5 volts in
either mode.
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INSTALLATION
Installation of the Variometer is simple with only a TE probe
connection required with the "T" piece and wiring cable supplied.
All wiring connections are made to the Variometer with telephone
type plugs.
A remote Variometer display is available and can be connected
via the external data port with the cable supplied.
The Variometer requires a standard 57mm. dia. panel cutout.
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HIGH VALUE -REASONABLE COST.