Testing our new Combo Altimeter / VSI
- James Wiebe
- Apr 5, 2024
- 1 min read
I wanted to create an Altimeter / VSI instrument which would work great and be inexpensive. What could I do to make it stand out? Here's a list of seven features:
Altimeter with classic needle representation, (like a steam gauge)
VSI with classic needle representation, (also like a steam gauge)
Digital values for both, in addition to the steam gauge look-a-likes
Settable Kollsman window, just like any altimeter
Adjustable calibration, as the sensor ages
Feet or Metric selection by user setup
Available for either 2 1/4 or 3 1/8 panels!
This was all achieved, with a price point of $129.95 (or less).
One behind-the-scenes test I had done on my nifty product was a trip in a calibrated altitude chamber. From 500 to 16,000 feet, the maximum error was 70 feet. Through recalibration (which was not done) the max error could have been +/- 35 feet across 16,000 feet. That's accurate (in fact, if I'm not mistaken, would meet the TSO for altimeters!
I cleaned up the numeric font representations (compared to prior Radiant Instrument products) and also came up with a nifty adapter ring for 3 1/8 panel cutouts.
This product is in stock at Aircraft Spruce, as of this writing.
Here's the purchase link:
We also have it for sale on our own website:
I appreciate your comments!
-- James