![]() |
|
![]() |
|
![]() |
Stratomaster Artificial Horizons & Advanced Compasses
Exciting - Highly Innovative - Industry Leading Performance
Great Value! 
Attitude & Heading Reference Systems (AHRS):
First released 2003, the remarkable Stratomaster AHRS systems are now in their second generation form.
In July 2004, we released the second generation SP-3 attitude and heading reference system inertial measurement unit (the sensor unit). As you will discover below, this is the heart of our AH and Compass systems. With this update came dramatically improved performance (from the already good performance of the 1st generation system).
A number of very substantial changes were made to the SP-3 unit including using; a three axis accelerometer (vs a 2 axis); a much more powerful processor chip; and applying an innovative new system of calibrating of each SP3 unit (which, by determining the characteristics of each unit's gyros, dramatically improved the performance of the system).
Also introduced at that time, was an alternative mode 'Mattitude' of attitude determination, utilising the the earth's magnetic field.
In November 2004, the choice of a new larger display was introduced (the 3.5" AV-2), together with new software which further substantially enhanced system performance in difficult operating conditions. New software for the existing smaller displays (AV-1's) was also released emulating the very nice uncluttered format introduced in their larger siblings (AV-2) and doubling the screen update rate (from 5 to 10/second) to equal that of the AV-2's. The alternative (via menu selection) 'Mattitude' AHRS mode was also further developed bringing it closer to the performance of the SP-3's gyro/accelerometer based system. In time, big things can be expected from further developments of this mode!
AH and Compass (AHRS-1 & AHRS-2):
Completely solid-state, our AHRS systems don't rely on traditional mechanical gyro systems. This means there are no operational limitations, with full 360 degrees operability in both pitch and bank.
These remarkable systems utilise new technology to provide an artificial horizon which never topples, doesn't have to be caged and experiences zero wear.
"Our AHRS (and ARS, see below) systems represent the future of aircraft horizon systems - at a price that is making everything else obsolete!"
And to top off the features of this outstanding instrument - the software can be upgraded using a standard airtalk/PC cable available from Stratomaster (additional cost). So any new innovations can be incorporated into your AH as they become available.
 Upgrading the software in the display unit is easy and can be done by the user. Download the software (no charge) from our site to your PC, connect the airtalk/PC cable to your PC and AH and follow some simple instructions - the upgrade software will do the rest !
Our AHRS packages are made up of 2 units, the SP-3HCsensor unit (photo below) and the AV-1 [2.25"] or AV-2 [3.5"] displays (photo lower left).
Additional displays can be added by using additional AV-1/AV-2 displays to provide for eg. separate turn & bank, separate attitude indicator, separate compass etc.
What Else Can You Do?
Well, how about one SP-3hc unit and six AV-2 (or AV-1) displays ? Yes, you can have two horizons, two turn & bank and two compasses all at the same time. Makes a dual cockpit layout interesting and very economical !
For more detailed information:
Download the manuals by clicking on the links below:
AHRS 3.5" display system - Manual av2ac3.pdf (file size 741KB) 
Attitude Reference Systems (ARS):
Artificial Horizon only systems (ARS-1 & ARS-2):
Completely solid-state, the ARS systems don't rely on traditional mechanical gyro systems. This means there are no operational limitations, full 360 degrees operability in both pitch and bank. The ARS-1 & 2 the AHRS 1 & 2 systems are identical to one another, excepting that ARS systems do not have the heading reference system (compass) component.
An ARS package is made up of 2 units, the SP-3H (see below) and either the AV-1 (2.25") or AV-2 (3.5") displays (see below), but, like the AHRS systems additional displays can be added. Those additional displays can be used for separate turn & bank and separate attitude indicators or for the replication of those functions in a dual cockpit layout (or in a tandem - the rear cockpit panel).
What's more, up to six (6!) displays can be driven by one SP-3H unit - very powerful and very economical !
Download the manuals for detailed information by clicking on the link below:
AHRS 3.5" display system - Manual av2ac3.pdf (file size 741KB)
Heading Reference (Compasses) Systems (HRS):
Stratomaster also offer an advanced electronic, digital compasses - with either 2.25" or 3.5" displays. A HRS -2 is shown below (in two of its 5 user selectable display modes) in low light conditions, with backlighting selected).
 The HRS -2 compass is based around magneto-resistive sensors from Honeywell and offer outstanding performance. Feature rich, it provides a course steering indicator, can display magnetic or true heading and provide easy to use deviation compensation.
The HRS -2 compass includes a remote sensor package (SP-2) with the display. This makes it possible to install the sensor in the best location in your aircraft and place the display (or displays) where you want, without consideration of the impact other instruments, radios or equipment may have on the operation of our compass.
And to top off the features of this superb digital compass - the software can be upgraded using a standard airtalk/PC cable available from Stratomaster (additional cost). So any new innovations can be incorporated into your compass as they become available.
Upgrading the software to the display unit is easy and can be done by the user. Download the software (no charge) from our site to your PC, connect the airtalk/PC cable to your PC and compass and follow some simple instructions - the upgrade software will do the rest!
So What are the Choices in Advanced Compass Systems?
1. Our 2 Axis Digital Electronic Compasses (HRS-1 & HRS-3):
These two axis digital compasses are based on on a two axis precision magnetometer The field sensors are located in a small external sensor package (SP-1) allowing the placement of the sensors in the best possible location while allowing complete flexibility to locate and orientate the display unit. A HRS -1 is shown below (in two of its 5 user selectable display modes) in low light conditions, with backlighting selected.
The HRS-1/HRS-3 systems contain no moving parts and produce no magnetic field of their own. Magnetic heading information is based on measurements of low level magnetic fields on two sensors, opposed 90 degrees to each other. The systems uses the latest available magneto resistive technology available as used in modern commercial aviation applications.
The HRS-1/HRS-3 systems use a sophisticated acquisition algorithm allowing the display of instantaneous heading information without any delay. Unlike a normal, mechanical compass, they do not suffer from under or over swing, settling time or friction.
It is reasonable to consider use of the HRS-1/HRS-3 as a replacements for expensive, gyro based directional indicators (DI) combined with ordinary magnetic compasses.
-
Outstanding, professional level performance of single digit accuracy and single degree resolution;
-
Five user selectable displays;
-
All displays are direction correct (i.e. you 'steer' in the direction of the desired heading to intercept that heading);
-
A 'From' heading indicator;
-
Course steering directions;
-
User selectable choice of magnetic or true heading;
-
Course steering indicator with left/right indicator of required heading change to intercept the course
-
Simple to use deviation compensation.
-
Software upgradable by user, utilising an optional cable and a free download of any later software from our web site.
During bank or pitch changes the heading may show errors, depending on your orientation to magnetic north (somewhat similar to a normal compass).
Digital readout plus graphic heading tape in selectable in four modes (see one mode - lower of the two images of the MAG-1) plus the choice of displaying as a graphic representation of a vertical compass card (see the upper of the two images of the MAG-1).
The HRS-1/HRS-3 systems are two axis magnetometer based compass which provide excellent, professional level performance at an affordable price.
Both packages are made up of 2 units; a SP-1 sensor unit (see below) and a  display unit. The HRS-1 system has a 2.25" AV-1 display; and the HRS-3 system has a 3.5" AV-2 display unit.
Download the manuals for detailed information by clicking on the link below:
HRS-1 Manual mag1.pdf (file size 303KB)
Manual for the HRS-4 'Advanced Compass' av2ac3.pdf (file size 741KB)
2. Our 3 Axis Digital Electronic Compasses (HRS-2 & HRS-4):
The HRS-2 (2.25' display) and HRS-4 (3.5" display) systems are a step up from the HRS-1/HRS-3 systems, offering three axis (versus two) magnetometer with accelerometer based tilt compensation.
They differ from the two axis HRS-1 and HRS-3 in featuring relaxed installation requirements and no errors due to bank or pitch alignment. Errors will still display during a turn due to the accelerometer not being able to vector gravity correctly.
Apart from their enhanced performance, the operation of the HRS-2 and HRS-4 is identical to that of HRS-1 and HRS-3.
Each compass package is made up of 2 units:
HRS-2: an SP-2 sensor unit (see below) and a AV-1 display; and
HRS-4: an SP-2 sensor unit (see below) and a AV-2 display..jpg)
Download the manuals for detailed information by clicking on the link below:
SP2-SP4 manual (303KB)
Note: This is the same manual as the HRS-1, as operation and installation is identical, although the HRS-2 features enhanced performance (tilt compensation) from the three axis magnetometer accelerometer.
3. Our Integrated Attitude & Heading Reference Systems (AHRS):
The ultimate heading reference system is achieved in our integrated AHRS systems (either AHRS-1[2.25"display] or AHRS-2 [3.5" display]) where tilt compensation information supplied by the artificial horizon is able to provide accurate heading even in turns and under severe acceleration.
SP Sensor Units (SP-1, SP-2,SP-3h,SP-3hc):
The heart of these remarkable attitude and heading reference systems are the SP sensor units. We have combined the most advanced and miniaturized components for magnetic field and inertial measurement in a compact format weighing in at less than 150 grams!
Encapsulating up to three gyros, up to a three axis accelerometer, a three axis magnetometer and a powerful micro processor, all in one small housing.
Each of the AHRS, ARS and HRS systems utilise one of four versions of SP sensor unit to provide the data for presentation in the AV-1 (2.25") or AV-2 (3.5") display units. So the difference between each system is determined by:
1. The version of the SP sensor unit used; and
2. The display size: AV-1 (2.25") or AV-2 (3.5").
The SP Sensor is available in the following versions:
SP-1 - 2 axis magnetic compass (HRS-1 [2.25"] and HRS-3 [3.5"]);
SP-2 - 3 axis magnetic compass with accelerometer based tilt compensation (HRS-2 [2.25"] and HRS-4 [3.5"]).
SP-3h - sensor for artificial horizon and turn & bank indicator (AHR-1 and AHR-2)
SP-3hc - sensor for artificial horizon, turn & bank indicator plus three axis compass with tilt compensation based on horizon (AHRS-1 [2.25"] and AHRS-2 [3.5"]).
Show me the price list !
AV-2 (3.5") Universal Display - Horizon and Compass systems:
The AV-2 is a general purpose display used for adding additional displays to the AHRS-2 and HRS-2 packages (see above).
Featuring a relatively large custom made, high resolution graphics display panel with built in backlighting its provide excellent daylight readability, even in direct sunlight.
With a display update 10times/second the AV-2 gives a lovely smooth and very fast presentation of attitude (and heading) information.
AV-1 (2.25") Universal Display - Horizon and Compass systems:
Like the AV-2, the AV-1 is a general purpose display used for adding additional displays to the HRS-1 and AHRS-1 packages (see above). This display now updates at 10 times/second, like it bigger sibling (the AV-2). This gives a much faster (was previously 5/seconds) and very smooth performance, particularly noticeable in fast manoeuvres and turbulent conditions.
The display format is now virtually identical to the AV-2 display. It does, like the AV-2, display turn and bank information simultaneously - a very nice, neat presentation.
The AV-1 can also be used in combination with the larger AV-2 displays (up to a total of six, with a single SP sensor unit.
The AV-1 displays shown (left) are showing two of the available compass display modes (in lower light conditions - hence the green tinge in the photograph).
Show me the price list !
Installation of your Display Units
Instructions on the installation of the SP-3 sensor units are detailed in the manuals. What follows is general advice on the fitting of your display units into your aircraft's panel.
Our 3.5" Maxi Singles (AV-2 in this case) instruments are designed to fit a standard 3.5" instrument cut out. The rear of the instrument has an octagonal shape, but, fits a standard 3.125" round hole. Note that, 79.375 mm (3.125”) is a standard cutout, but, due to manufacturing tolerances, 77.787 mm (3.16”) is a closer fit, if you are making a new cut out explicitly for your AV-2 display(s).
Our 2.25 Smart Singles (AV-1 in this case) have an octagonal shaped panel cut out which may may take more time than round holes (using hole cut out equipment). However, where a number of Smart Singles (2.25") are being fitted - the way to go is to fabricate a simple template and use a router fitted with an strait cut bit fitted with a ball bearing (to track the template). With a well made template and a little care, this method is both fast and effective with a result equal to that achieved with a laser cutting machine.
However, you choose to make the cut outs for your 2.25" AV-1's it is important that they be accurate (so as to neatly fit the the housing), as each instrument's front panel overhang (or overlap) is not large (approx. 2 mm). Over size, or out of shape cut outs may result in a 'gap' showing beside the instrument and/or leave little material for the mounting bolt holes.
A Maxi Single (3.5") instrument is shown left and below.
 After the cut out is made, your instrument is mounted into the panel from the front - by sliding the unit into the cut-out until the rear face of the instrument's hexagonal shaped front panel bears against the instrument panel. It is then aligned and secured with 2.5 mm to 3 mm (shank diameter) bolts or screws - like those which we can supply (see below).
The position of the holes for the screws which secure the instrument to the panel can be marked by carefully rotating a 3 mm drill in each of the four holes, removing the instrument, centre punching the positions and then drilling the holes. Whilst the holes are marked on the template, using the instrument to finally position and mark the holes (but, not to drill using the housing as an aligning tool) is strongly suggested.
The instrument can then be reinserted and secured to the panel with four machine screws - knurled Allen key headed black machine screws are very effective and attractive.
Depending on the panel material, (alloy or otherwise) and its thickness, the holes can be tapped (threaded) to suit the screws - which can be secured with Loctite. Where this method is unsuitable, the use of nylock nuts (anchored or otherwise) is an obvious alternative - noting that unanchored nuts would require accessing the rear of the panel to remove the instrument(s). Alternatively, metal anchor plates can be quickly and easily fabricated, tapped and fixed to the rear of the panel to retain the benefits of front removal and insertion, without the need to access the rear of the panel.
Placing (and removing) each instrument in position from the front of the panel is usually faster and more convenient than the more conventional rear insertion method.
Download a copy of the AV-2 dimension data (including cut out size) by clicking on the link below:
Maxi Single dimension data maxisize.pdf (File size 30KB)
Download a copy of the AV-1 dimension data (including cut out size) by clicking on the link below:
Smart Single dimension data singlesize.pdf (File size 30KB)
Allen Key Headed Bolts
We have these attractive black or stainless steel machine bolts to fix your Stratomaster instruments to the panel. These small Allen key socket,  round headed bolts have 2.5 mm x 12 or 20 mm shanks and nicely complement our Maxi (20 mm length) and Smart Singles (usually 12 mm length) instruments and come with matching Nylock nuts.
Please specify - if you would like to have these added to your instrument order (note: these are included with all but the HRS-1 system).
Please Note:
Operation of Stratomaster Instruments is the responsibility of the pilot in command of the aircraft. The pilot in command has to make himself/herself familiar with the operation and limitations of the Stratomaster instrument(s) before commencing ground or flight operations. Under no circumstances does the manufacturer condone usage of this instrument for IFR operations.
These instruments are designed for use in ultralight, microlight, experimental and homebuilt aircraft as well as any aircraft that permit use of such (non certified) instrumentation under general or special operating permits.
Stratomaster Singles Instruments have Not been submitted to CAA or FAA or any of its agencies (or any regulatory authority in any other country) for any form of certification. Operation and installation of these instruments is subject to the relevant rules and regulations of your country and flight authority.
If any of the above is not acceptable to the pilot in command he/she must refrain from operating the aircraft or remove any Stratomaster Instruments from the aircraft before commencing aircraft operations.
.
|
|
![]() |
.jpg)