Trim on Dynon Autopilot vs. VP-X

[cdeerinck]

Both the Dynon Skyview Autopilot module and the VP-X have the capabilities to govern both the pitch and roll trim switches and servos.

Can anyone tell me if one is recommended over the other, and if so, why?

Currently, I was planning on using the VP-X capability, but only because I didn't know the Dynon AP module would do it.

[dynonsupport]

The difference is that if you use the trim in the Dynon AP module, we can auto trim the plane when the AP is on. If you use the VP-X, you'll need to manually trim the plane when using the autopilot.

Otherwise the features are very similar.

[cdeerinck]

Dynnon Support,

Does the Dynon AP module have any capability for trim position feedback or indication? I don't see any pin-outs for trim positions as the VP-X has.

[dynonsupport]

The module itself does not have that. It is handled by the engine monitor in our system.

No reason you can't use the VP-X for trim position and the AP control panel for trim control if you don't have our EMS. If you do have our EMS, we'd recommend the use of that as it's all battery backed up and more easily calibrated.

[cdeerinck]

Originally Posted by dynonsupport

The module itself does not have that. It is handled by the engine monitor in our system.

No reason you can't use the VP-X for trim position and the AP control panel for trim control if you don't have our EMS. If you do have our EMS, we'd recommend the use of that as it's all battery backed up and more easily calibrated.

I don't think I can use the EMS, as the Ray Allen trim motors require a +2.5v reference voltage for the potentiometers to work.

I checked with Vertical Power, and I think I got possible incorrect information (in his defense, he just returned from vacation, and was catching up on a lot). I was told the position would not work if the motors were not connected to the VP-X. I tested that today, and it appears to not be the case. It works fine and was easy to calibrate and is backed up too, so I will be going that route. I think I will be using the spare EMS GPIO pins for other items.

Could you possibly answer one question I have: Will I be able to configure widgets that use the VP-X values, as I can for the EMS values? I have all the surround avionics, but not the Skyview yet, so I haven't had the chance to start in with the main config.

[Raymo]

Originally Posted by cdeerinck

I don't think I can use the EMS, as the Ray Allen trim motors require a +2.5v reference voltage for the potentiometers to work.

Yes, you can feed the trim servos into the EMS and many do to monitor their position. Same for flaps but that requires a separate position sensor.

[RV-4]

I just read the above post and it got me thinking...

'' Ray Allen trim motors require a +2.5v reference voltage''

Exactly what do you mean by that??Do I have to install a resistance or something else in line when I install the servos??

I'm planning a standard Dynon AP module with a Ray Allen Servo with the applicable Relay Deck connected to an Infinity Stick Grip so that I can get the autotrim function with my Skyview...

Anything else I should know?? Electrical stuff is not my cup of tea...

Bruno

[RV7A Flyer]

Originally Posted by RV-4

I just read the above post and it got me thinking...

'' Ray Allen trim motors require a +2.5v reference voltage''

Exactly what do you mean by that??Do I have to install a resistance or something else in line when I install the servos??

I'm planning a standard Dynon AP module with a Ray Allen Servo with the applicable Relay Deck connected to an Infinity Stick Grip so that I can get the autotrim function with my Skyview...

Anything else I should know?? Electrical stuff is not my cup of tea...

Bruno

The SV installation manual has all of this info, section 7 (figure 79 of the latest revision).

I have RA trim servos for pitch and roll, as do most others I believe, connected per the install manual to get indications on the screen, and it's always worked flawlessly.

[Raymo]

Originally Posted by RV-4

I just read the above post and it got me thinking...

'' Ray Allen trim motors require a +2.5v reference voltage''

Exactly what do you mean by that??Do I have to install a resistance or something else in line when I install the servos??

I'm planning a standard Dynon AP module with a Ray Allen Servo with the applicable Relay Deck connected to an Infinity Stick Grip so that I can get the autotrim function with my Skyview...

Anything else I should know?? Electrical stuff is not my cup of tea...

Bruno

You won't need the relays for trim; it is handled within the AP panel. Just a relay for flaps with that setup (which is what I have).

[bret]

I did the full Dynon setup, there is a 5 V DC output for feeding these Ray Allen position sensors, I put one on the flaps and also fed the other two trim motors, works great.