A Visit to Grand Rapids Technologies
I was on business in Grand Rapids this past week and finished early on Friday. I made arrangements to visit GRT and talk with Carlos regarding what I would want in an EFIS and EIS for my RV7A. When I pulled up to their building, I was not sure this if I was at the right place. The building was used as an awning supplier still had signage with the awning company name on it. Walking up to the door, I found a sheet of paper taped to the door that said indeed, I was at the right place. I walked in and was promptly greeted by the receptionist. I apologize, I am bad with names and do not remember her name.
My first impression of the facility was not good. There are open ceilings throughout and fluorescent lights strategically placed screwed to the rafters. Carlos joined me shortly with a firm handshake and immediately offered me a tour of the facility. Not long into the tour, I realized my first impression of the facility was DEAD WRONG. Carlos took me through most of the facility and introduced me to any workers that passed by. There are at least four assembly stations where larger components are assembled and brought together to create the monitor and the electronics behind it. All assembly is done in this building except the etching of the printed circuit boards and the population of the surface mount technology components. The printed circuit boards are made and the surface mount components are installed by Michigan companies. These units are 100% American made.
After the tour, we headed for Carlos' office to talk about what I wanted to do for my EFIS and EIS. There is a computer on his desk with Microsoft Flight Simulator on it and a mockup of all the GRT Products. The flight sim is tied into all the displays and they are operable. He had me do some sim time to show me how everything works. I flew and he pushed buttons. He showed me all the options available between the Sport and the Horizon and even though I wanted to go with two of the small screens, Carlos said I would be better off with one screen with my build parameters.
Although I am still at least a year away from needing avionics and other wiring done, Carlos did not mind me taking up his afternoon. The best time to order the unit is when it is absolutely needed so that any updates will be included. BTW, all software updates are free.
So, I am sold on the GRT Sport with one large screen, the EIS and all the whistles and bells that will make for a great panel.
GRT is manufacturing a quality product, that I have no doubt. Although their facility is not "polished", it is professional in every aspect of the word and I have no reservations about flying safe and sound behind GRT Avionics.
Thanks Carlos for a great afternoon and I hope to talk to you soon with my order.
Dave Nellis