The weather turned clear so I got a chance to try the APRS system I installed. Totally a passive installation, when the master is on it will start transmitting a GPS position every minute. No fees but does require a ham license (KB1RAX). The GPS/transmitter is a Byonics TinyTrak3 RTG unit. My flight tracks can be seen on most APRS web sites if you search for N531X. www.aprs.fi is a popular site.
Weather at KFMH 270/08 V10 Clr 8c/0c alt 30.11. Used 2.75 gallons for the 55 minute flight or about 3.0gph.
Also tried the VOR function on a new ICOM A24 radio. Picked up the local VOR radial using the "rubber duck" antenna, but not great reception. I'll need to consider an external antenna option of some sort. Considering I'm running 2 GPS position displays (Bendix AV8OR and AVARE on a tablet) in the cockpit, I doubt I'd ever need to navigate off the VOR's, but always nice to have another backup.
