MGL Fuel Flow Sender

Use of a fuel flow sender is highly recommended as it enables the use of the many features incorporated in Stratomaster systems which depend on fuel flow data. A fuel flow sender can be used with the Stratomaster Flight, Flight 2, Extreme, Ultra, Enigma, Voyager and Odyssey instrument systems. The MGL Avionics sender shown below has proven to be reliable and to work very well, when installed correctly.

We include a short installation guide with the sender which should ensure that you do not have any problems with its fitment. You can also download the fuel flow sender installation notes together with a detailed technical data sheet by clicking on the links below:

Floscan Fuel Flow Sender

An alternative to our standard MGL fuel flow sender is the USA made alloy bodied Floscan transducer range . This more expensive transducer uses standard AN fittings and is a popular choice for larger aircraft .

The Floscan model 201-A6 is the standard transducer stocked and has a flow range (gasoline) of 0.3 – 30 GPH (1.4 to 113.5 litres/hour).

Details of the floscan transducer can be viewed by clicking on the link to the manual below.

Floscan Manual

Fuel Pressure Sender (UMA)

These high quality fuel pressure sender from UMA (TSO'd and non TSO'd) with a stainless steel diaphragm are available in 0-7 PSI (Rotax/Jabiru); 0-35 PSI (most carbureted engines); and 0-100 PSI (injected engines).

These senders feature precision, solid state sensors and circuitry to give unequalled performance for money. They are compatible with avgas, jet fuel, engine oil and many other fluids.

TSO'd units for fuel and oil pressure are certified under TSO C47.

Details of the UMA fuel pressure sender can be viewed by clicking on the link to the manual below.

UMA fuel Pressure sender manual

Fuel Level Sender

Fuel level senders can be connected to the Stratomaster Flight, Extreme, Ultra, Enigma, Voyager and Odyssey instrument systems. The fuel flow sender kit shown below is a typical after-market type available from many auto spares shops (Repco, AutoPro and the like). MGL Avionics (the manufacturers of Stratomaster systems) have had very good results with the senders available from VDO and recommend these - Part Number 220 003 is generally suitable. However, you may wish to contact your local VDO representative for a selection suitable for your fuel tank shape and size.

Stratomaster instruments support any resistive type level sender, however, MGL Avionics does not recommend capacitive probes as readings vary depending on the fuel type used.

VDO 220 003, 004, 005, Installation Guide (pdf file)

Water Temperature Probe

The probe shown (below) is our standard water temperature probe. It uses a thread (8 x 1 metric fine pitch) suitable for Rotax water cooled engines such as the 582. It is an inexpensive automotive type. This probe can be used with Stratomaster Flight, Extreme, Ultra, Enigma, Voyager and Odyssey instrument systems.

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Precision Water/Oil Temperature Probe

For applications where accuracy is paramount, MGL Avionics also offer a precision water temperature probe. This probe (shown below) is recommended where exact water and/or oil temperature readings are required. It is based on a brass housing with a thread suitable for Rotax water/oil cooled engines. Whilst this probe is more expensive than a standard automotive probe, it has two advantages: First, it is isolated electrically from the engine, which is helpful in some installations; and second, it is much more accurate with a maximum installed error reading of less than 2 degrees over the full temperature range.

You can download the technical data sheet of the sensor used in the Precision Temperature Probe by clicking on the link below. Installation instructions for the probe can be downloaded by clicking on the second link below.

Clamp type Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) Probe

This probe is often used for after market fits and is available in two sizes to suit small and large diameter exhaust manifolds.

  • High grade stainless steel construction
  • Mineral fibre insulation for high temperature operation
  • Steel braided for toughness
  • Steel clamp with galvanised mechanism
  • Welded joint probe to clamp
  • 1m (3ft) length
  • K-type thermocouple

Probe diameter 5mm

Small clamp: probe length 16mm, diameter clamp 55-30mm

Large clamp: probe length 25mm, diameter clamp 65-40mm

This probe is based on a metric 8x1 fine pitch thread such as used on some Rotax engines. It can be used on manifolds that do not have provision for this thread by drilling a 5mm hole for the probe and welding a suitable 8x1 fine pitch nut to the manifold to retain the probe.

  • High grade stainless steel construction
  • Mineral fibre insulation for high temperature operation
  • Steel braided for toughness
  • 1m (3ft) length
  • K-type thermocouple

Consult engine manufacturer for correct positon. Typical positions are:

2-stroke engine: 100mm from exhaust flange
4-stroke engine: 75mm from exhaust flange

Cylinder Head Temperature Senders - under plug type

These "under the spark plug" CHT probes are popular choices for CHT temperature monitoring.

  • One piece water cut pure copper ring and probe seat
  • 1 meter (3ft) cable length
  • K-type thermocouple
  • Thermocouple braised to flange of ring, no joint, no risk of detaching due to wear and tear
  • Very fast response time due to one piece copper construction

CHT probes are available in sizes 10, 12, 14, 18 mm (inside diameter ring).
The 10mm probe is popular for use as general temperature monitoring probe and can easily be bolted down (gearbox temperature etc).

Please note: These are pure copper probes and will quickly coat with a thin layer of oxide when exposed to air. If desired, this can be removed easily with Hyrochloric acid (pool acid) but this does not affect the probes performance.

See senders fitted ? then click the link below:

CHT sender (Jabiru 2200A, No 2105)

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Cylinder Head Temperature Senders - bayonet type

This bayonet type sender (image to the left) is generally fitted to Lycoming and Continental engines in preference to the "under the spark plug" type CHT probe described above. Sender has a machined brass body with freely rotating stainless steel shaft, 20 cm teflon cable and has a K-Type thermocouple. Thread is a standard 3/8"-thread. Isolated probe configuration.

Note that the leads from the sender are quite short, so additional cable will be required to connect the senders to the RDAC engine module.

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Current Measuring shunt

This generously dimensioned current measuring shunt is rated at 50A at 50mV and has convenient mounting arrangements for a simple and quick installation.

This shunt is suitable for use with our EFIS I/O Extender module as well as for the Infinity BAT-1 battery monitor.

Please note: It is not recommended to route currents to your engines starter motor through the shunt.
Shunts may change in shape and form factor but are generally similar to the image on the left.

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LM335 Ambient Temperature Probe

This is the ambient temperature probe included as standard with any of the MGL Avionics instruments which support ambient temperature measurements.

The probe is available as a replacement and it is also a popular choice if you need to make your own coolant or oil temperature probes. In this case you can use the brass body of an existing probe that fits your engine requirements, open this probe and remove everything that is inside (so that you end up with an empty brass body with the correct dimensions and thread). Then insert our LM335 probe and ensure that the probe body contacts the brass body (to enure rapid transfer of the temperature). Then use a oil resistant epoxy to seal the probe inside the brass body.

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GT-1 Gear Tooth Speed Sensor

The GT-1 sensor is typically used to measure rotor speed rpm at the pre-rotation gear of auto-gyro aircraft and helicopter rotor rpm. However, it is equally at home in other applications where rpm can be obtained from gear tooth sensing (e.g. engine rpm).

The GT-1 sensor is used primarily with our Ultra, Enigma, Voyager, Odyssey and Ultra Horizon XL systems and our RV-1, RV-2 & RV-3 Singles instruments. However, it can also be used with any of our other instruments which display rpm (including the E-1, and Rotor-1).

You can download the technical data sheet on the GT-1 by clicking on the link below:

Tach Sender for Lycoming & Continental Engines

These Tachometer senders are designed to be fitted to either the Slick or Bendix Magnetos to provide a pulse for rpm sensing in MGL Advanced EFIS systems.

You can download the installation instructions to fit the tach sender by clicking on the link below:

Avionics/Instrument Panel Protection

High speed / High power transorb (33V)

We recommended that this device be used to protect any electronic devices connected to an aircraft's power supply. The device works by 'clamping' the voltage to a maximum of 33V. It can do this in a matter of a few billionth of a second and it can, for a short time, withstand a very large amount of power.

We recommend that a single device (transorb) is fitted to the incoming power to the aircraft's instrument panel, following a fuse or circuit breaker. This device can protect any instrument including intercoms and radios. Detailed information on how the Transorb can be incorporated into your aircraft wiring system can be downloaded by clicking on the link below (an A4 sheet with the same information is also shipped with each Transorb).

Download the Transorb placement information sheet by clicking on the link below:

COM Extender module

This module extends the number of RS232 serial ports for Enigma, Voyager and Odyssey EFIS systems to a total of six ports (two are available on the EFIS).

In addition, the COM Extender includes the servo interface section of the integral autopilot and it provides as part of this four PWM outputs that can be used with servos that accept this type of signal.

The COM Extender is simply connected to one of the USB host ports of the EFIS system using a standard USB printer cable (included or use your own), no further setup is required other than assigning functions to the varous ports from within your EFIS setup.

I/O Extender Module

This module connects to the airtalk link of an Enigma, Odyssey or Voyager EFIS system to allow you to extend the EFIS with comprehensive digital and anlog signal monitoring as well as driving automation and alarm annunciator panels. The I/O Extender is also used to allow remote control of certain EFIS functions via joystick mounted push buttons etc.

Downloads:

EnigmaIOEX.exe
This program is used to create and edit script files for use with the I/O Extender. Script files are used to specify functionality for inputs and outputs as required for your application.

IOEX.pdf
This is the user manual for the I/O Extender. The manual describes installation and use of the I/O Extender.

Auto Pilot Servo - Trio Gold Standard

The Trio Gold standard servo has been chosen by MGL Avionics as the standard servo offered with its Enigma, Voyager and Odyssey advanced EFIS systems. See the following description of the servo by Trio Avionics.

"The Gold Standard servo is unique in the industry. When Trio introduced the altitude hold systems, we did so only when we felt that we had designed a "safety-conscious" servo that we were comfortable connecting to an aircraft elevator system.  (It is used for both aileron and elevator systems).

The Gold Standard servo has inherent "intelligence" capability acquired by the two internal microprocessors that govern its operation. It has full authority to disconnect itself from the controls if it senses anything that deviates from normal operational conditions. It watches motor driver currents and temperatures (both servo and auto-trim) as well as short circuits. It monitors crank arm positions and will disconnect (and alert the pilot) in abnormal circumstances - i.e. extreme elevator/aileron positions. It obeys the "G" force limitations dictated by the A/H control electronics and it will disconnect itself if it detects a communications error. It has a slip clutch to allow pilot override in emergency situations. It fully disconnects the internal gears when not engaged and the pilot will not feel any "system drag".

In short, the Gold Standard servo borders on being paranoid about your safety.

  • All digital electronics for accuracy and reliability

    The servo communicates, via a high-speed bidirectional data bus, with the altitude hold control module.  This unique capability allows it to inform the control module (and the pilot, via the LCD switch screen) of any unusual activity within the servo. For instance, it can notify the pilot if the clutch is not properly adjusted.  If critical activity is reported, the control module will immediately remove all power from the servo, releasing the elevator and (if installed) automatic trim system.
  • Dual microprocessors monitor all functions for safety (an industry first!)

    The Servo Main Processor (SMP) controls all servo functions.   It also monitors communications from the motor and trim drivers, and it constantly listens to the "heartbeat" signal from all other processors in the system.  If it detects any anomalies it will provide an alarm and disconnect from the aircraft controls.

    A Supervisory Processor continuously monitors the Servo Main Processor to ensure it is executing its program as designed.  It looks for the “heartbeat” signal from the SMP each 10 milliseconds.  If for any reason the processor does not provide a “heartbeat” signal to the supervisory processor for a period of 65 milliseconds the supervisory processor will unilaterally cut power to the safety disconnect solenoid and the trim and servo motor drive circuits."

Download the Servo Installation and Set-up manual and Some further notes specific to the MGL Enigma/ Voyager/ Odyssey Advanced EFIS systems, by clicking on the links below:

Servo Harness with connectors

1 harness required per servo (schematic)

 

 

 

GPS Antenna

This active GPS antenna suitable for all MGL Avionics GPS related products. Note, that this antenna is included in with all MGL Avionics products that include a GPS receiver.

When ordering, please specify type of connector. An SMA type connector (shown in photograph) is used on all current GPS products (larger, screw-on connector), whilst an MMCX was used on older GPS products (small, push-on connector).

 

 

SP2 to SP$ connector

The SP2 to SP4 connector harness is a convenient way of connecting both these two sensor modules into the system, if both modules are being installed in the same location.

This will not be possible if the location for the SP4 is located is subject to electromatic fields which effect the performance of the SP2 (compass module). The SP2 modules is effected by elecromagnetic feilfds in the same way as a standard magnetic compass.

EMI Interference Suppressor

If you are experiencing any noise problems on your intercom/radio system or your avionics behaves differently when you press the PTT button, maybe you should consider the use of our EMI Interference Suppressor. This device is specifically designed to suppress unwanted or stray RF generated by a VHF air band radio.

This device (closed or clip-on) needs to be installed on every cable assembly to and from the avionics/intercom system, about +-5cm from the end of the cable assembly. Just one loop around the EMI interference suppressor is required.

Uses include:

(1) The prevention of RF feedback from the aircrafts VHF radio to the intercom system.

(2) The suppression of RF interference to and from avionics.

Click on the link below to download information that explains how the suppressor works and how to install it for best results:

Emergency Power Supply for Stratomaster Instruments

To guard against loss of power to your Stratomaster instrument system you may wish to make up a simple emergency power supply back up. This is particularly recommended for our EFIS systems.

Our Enigma/Voyager/Odyssey Advanced EFIS systems include provision for a power back-up battery, including a built in float charging circuit. This ensures that, when a back-up battery is installed, it will remain fully charged.

So, the fitment of a small external sealed lead acid cell battery will, in the event of the loss of main aircraft power, continue to ensure the operation of the EFIS system. Our standard Enigma/Voyager/Odyssey system packages include (pictured) a high quality 12 Volt 3.2 AH sealed lead acid cell battery (rated Air Transport to Special provision 'A67' 'IATA' & 'ICAO'). This will provide power for approximately 1.75 hours (Voyager/Odyssey) and 2.25 hours (Enigma).

View back-up battery specifications by clicking on the link below:

For all other Stratomaster instrument systems a battery back system can also be fitted. An information sheet with directions on how to do that can be downloaded below.

Download the Emergency Power Supply information sheet by clicking on the link below:

ALT-2 Altimeter - Serial to Parallel Converter (CNV-ALT2)

Our Smart Singles altimeter with an encoding output (the ALT-2) provides altitude data in serial format. However, some Mode C transponders (like the Microair T2000) require altitude information from the encoder in parallel format. In such cases, our CNV-ALT2 CNV-ALT2serial to parallel converter will be required between the ALT-2 and the transponder. This device converts the serial altitude information to Gillman code in a format compatible with mode-C transponders requiring the data in that format.

Download the manual for detailed information on the serial to parallel converter by clicking on the link below:

Large Panel Systems - Serial to Parallel Converter (CNV-AT MK II)

Using the CNV-AT MK II, encoded altitude information can also derived from our: Stratomaster Flight, Flight II, Stratomaster Extreme and Stratomaster Ultra models L, X, RL, H and Horizon XL.The CNV-AT MK II converter accepts the altitude and local pressure setting information from our Stratomaster systems and converts this information to Gillman code in a format compatible with mode-C transponders (like the Microair T2000).

Download the manual for detailed information on the airtalk link serial to parallel converter by clicking on the link below:

Airtalk PC cable

The Airtalk PC cable is included in the log download key package. Also available separately, it is used for the direct connection of a PC (for example laptop computer) to your Extreme or Ultra Horizon XL System.

You can use it to download flight log information, connect to a flight recording program or you can use it to upload new software into your system.

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USB to Airtalk Interface

USB to Airtalk interface. This small device converts a PC USB host port to USB. Can be used with Flightlog program, Ultra, Extreme and Flight instruments (not required for Enigma unless for special applications).

Can also be used for airtalk firmware update programs (note: only newer update programs can use USB).

The USB drivers for this interface are not included with the USB converter. They must be downloaded here and installed on your PC. Unpack the contents of the ZIP file into a folder on your PC, then execute the program "preinstaller.exe" that is included in the ZIP file. After this, connect the USB converter and follow the normal Windows USB device installation. Details of this in the installation document.

USB to Airtalk interface installation document  (PDF file)

USB to Airtalk drivers for PC (Windows 2000 and later only) (ZIP file)

Flight Log Download Key

This small device easily fits into your pocket. It is used to transfer your instruments flight log details to our Flight log program (free download below). It can store the full flight log up to 240 flights. All you have to do is, every now and then, connect the key to your instrument to update any new flights done since the last time the key was used and then transfer the information from the key to your Flight log program on your PC (Windows operating system required).

The Airtalk to PC interface cable is included. The Flight log software is not included - it needs to be downloaded below from our web site.

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Stratomaster Flight Log Program

This free download can be used with the Stratomaster Extreme and Ultra Horizon XL. The program can be 'connected' to the instrument using an Airtalk to PC cable (see above) or it can be used with the Log Download Key (see above).

The program maintains your flight log and you can print it, add comments to a flight and it includes a handy flight time calculator which can add the total times between two dates.

The program requires an available serial port on your PC.

Download the latest version of the Flight Log Program by clicking on the link below: