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Dave Saylor
02-02-2011, 10:10 PM
When the A/P sees max airspeed, what does it do? Level off? Disconnect? Maintain vertical speed? It feels like it adjusts vertical speed to stay below the max airspeed.

I have my max set at the top of the green arc, which is where I want it for cruise. I worry about a big updraft in IMC that pushes the nose over, then exits the updraft (bump) at a high airspeed. But sometimes it would be nice to increase it a bit in smooth descents without going into the setup to adjust the max airspeed. Any suggestions?

Same question for min airspeed. What should I expect if I get too slow?

BTW, you guys deserve a pat on the back (TruTrak too, Lucas!). I never dreamed I'd be asking about stuff like this regarding my A/P. The system is incredibly versatile and capable.


I talk to Stec owners who just drool over what we can do. Thanks!

Trevor Conroy
02-03-2011, 11:25 AM
When the A/P sees max/min airspeed it will raise/lower the nose to hold that speed (until reaching the desired bug altitude and leveling off).
That updraft/downdraft issue is indeed a nuisance. We need to look at creating a "Maintain 0fpm" mode for the autopilot, and that would probably be the solution.

recapen
04-10-2011, 11:59 AM
One of those S-Tec 30 owners is working up a plan to go digital...replacing the 8-Pack stack with dual 4500's and AF-Pilot. Mostly due to the added functionality of the AF-Pilot but partially due to S-Tec's new customer service model since they were bought a couple of times. In order to get my unit repaired (blown soldered-in fuses due to voltage spike - which I fixed), I have had to send it to an avionics shop for them to re-ship to S-Tec...before, I was able to RMA direct.

Trevor Conroy
04-11-2011, 08:31 AM
That isn't the first time I've heard of issues with the parent company's new customer service model. Please let us know if you have any questions regarding the AF-Pilot, our EFIS screens, or the integration and wiring between them.