Aspen EFD Pro Questions

[N207LS]

I am considering installing an Apen in my Mooney.  I am looking for any feedback from current Aspen users and what you have it coupled with.  I spent about an hour playing at Sun and Fun and really got the bug.  I have a 530 WAAS with the Garmin GI-106A cdi/glideslope.  The Aspen EFD Pro would offer several toys, plus an electronic HSI.   There are some show discounts and what appear to be good deals if purchased before the end of the month.  Thanks in advance for the feedback. 

Aaron

[eaglebkh]

Aaron,

I got one installed about 3 months ago.  It is integrated with my S-tec 30 A/P, Garmin 300XL, and KX-155.  Unfortunately, I am still working out some issues with my Aspen (e.g. had to replace RSM, display, and now the heading indication is about 40 degrees off).  Other than these things, the unit is very nice.

The main reasons I chose to get an Aspen was:

1) Needed something to drive A/P (had no heading bug before)

2) Needed a CDI for the GPS (only had 1 for the KX-155 before)

3) Desired to have GPSS

4) Desired to have an electric AI to be redundant with my vacuum AI

Bonuses: HSI, ADHRS (TAS, wind speed/direction, "slaved" DG), duplication of round gauges, RMI's, altitude bug and alerter.

Mine was installed for MSRP (9.9k) since I was also getting the A/P and Garmin installed simultaneously.  The install is pretty intensive and may take a few weeks.  The RSM/antenna has to be at least 16" from any other antenna, so I have to relocate a comm antenna.

What panel layout do you have?  The standard LASAR panel will leave the Aspen display hanging sort of low over the yoke control rod.  I opted to have the panel holes cut at a higher location (~0.5" up).  You can see my photo gallery for pics.

[FlyDave]

Quote: eaglebkh

Unfortunately, I am still working out some issues with my Aspen (e.g. had to replace RSM, display, and now the heading indication is about 40 degrees off).

[alun]

i have one coupled with a waas 430 and have no issues with mine.   i really like the unit, and having just done the IR i am really pleased with it as it does a lot more than i would have known before.    i have a century iib autopilot and have been unable to get that working but its an autopilot issue rather than an aspen issue.  

it takes a little time to get used to but once you are familiar with it you will wander how you flew without it. all your scan info is all in one place.  fantastic!

i am hoping to get the mfd when it gets certified to go along side and had them wire it for the upgrade when they fitted this one so that it would be a quick job..  not sure when that will be as it only used to say Q2 2009 on the aspen website.

 

[eaglebkh]

Quote: FlyDave

Brandon,

Have you been able to work the bugs out of your Aspen yet?

Thanks,

[FlyDave]

Thanks for the update guys - I will definately get one of these installed when I get my Mooney!!

[FlyDave]

Thanks for the update guys - I will definately get one of these installed when I get my Mooney!!