The things that make you go "hmmmm".....
Seems there may be a slight micommunication with Mr.Norris. He had the first "AB DAR" for function codes 47 and 48 (ELSA and SLSA). Perhaps he thinks he can get by with anything (I doubt that's what he actually thinks) , but if operated under FAR 91, the regs are pretty clear. I'm sure there was just a bit of misunderstanding in how he phrased what he said.
If you look closely you'll see the guy is using a rocky mountain RMI encoder for the ASI/VSI/ALT, etc.. as his primary flight instruments along with 2 GPSes. His main goal was to save weight (which I applaud), but in the process he's created a plane that is 100% reliant upon electricity of EVERY single instrument in his panel and will be fairly non-intuitive to fly from a primary flight instrument perspective unless you're the guy who is used to it.
Anyway, it takes all kinds and each person does what they like. Not my cup of tea, but then again that's the beauty of homebuilding!
My 2 cents as usual.
Cheers,
Stein