RV-7 IFR Panel Build Photos – 2015/16

11/14/15

 

 

 

On our home computer I set up X-Panel planing software and started designing the instrument and switch layout.

The Garmin G3X system was selected for several reasons:

  1. I had three Garmin instruments in my Globe Swift: a G400W navigator, a G695 moving map and a SL40 communications radio.  The Garmin menu system was familiar.
  2. At two airshows I had the opportunity to compare Garmin equipment with Dynon and Grand Rapids.  I thought Garmin had better  screen colors and pixilation.  Also at the time, Garmin had the only system with full IFR capability not requiring components from other vendors.
  3. There appeared to be little cost difference between vendors when pricing similar IFR systems.

11/15/15

Started ordering switches and other electronic components.  I have found the DigiKey online catalog the easiest to navigate when hunting for parts by function and feature, rather than part number.  I also started downloading and printing over 1100 pages of Garmin installation and operations manuals.

5 Replies to “RV-7 IFR Panel Build Photos – 2015/16”

  1. I have decided on Garmin for my 7 slider. I had my panel precut by Stein and bought the interconnect drawings. Did Stein do your harness? I was considering building my own harness, but like the thought of having them build one for me, though I’m using CB’ and not a VPX. For your switches, rheostates, wire, etc, did you go through digikey? I’m about to pull the trigger.

    1. Hi Joseph,
      Yes, Stein built most of my harness. I did all of the power wiring from the VPX plus the wiring for switches, lighting, etc. If you have the harness built for you, I suggest you know pretty closely where each LRU will be located so the harness wire lengths will be what you need.

      I used some electrical components from Digikey and some from Mouser.

      Good fortune with the build.

      Karl

  2. I am thinking of g3x for my rv7. Any tips / gotchas / info you can share ?

    I amay still designing on paper and getting a bill of quantities together before ordering.
    In the UK where I amust located the requirements are more onerous for ifr.

    1. Ian,
      I started to write you a list of all the decisions I had to make in selecting and assembling the panel, and it was unending. Only advice: plan, plan and do some more planning before cutting metal. As I have yet to put power to the panel, I don’t consider myself to be the best source of advice. Good luck.

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