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Rob's REBVAIR Project
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Date:  8-4-2018
Number of Hours:  4.00
Manual Reference:  
Brief Description:  Grand Rapids Technologies EFIS EX install

Earlier this summer I finally bit the bullet and purchased GRT's latest offering in the Sport model: the EX. While smaller in size (7" screen), it offered a number of benefits over the SX that tipped the balance away from the larger 8.4" form factor.

For one, I really liked the touch screen option. Our club's Skyhawk had an INOP frequency swap switch on the GNS430, which forced us to send it to Garmin for a minimum $1300 repair fee. Our other aircraft has a new GTN650 with capacitive touch screen. While I'm usually apprehensive about the indiscriminate application of smartphone/tablets features, the operation of the GTN650 had some benefits that I could really appreciate. For one, a touchscreen provides alternate ways of selecting functions, which saves wear and tear on specialized buttons. Altering flight plans and map functions are also a bit easier in the 650 than the older GNS4XX series. So the touchscreen EX seemed like a worthwhile investment.

Second, it just seemed to make sense to go with newer GRT EFIS technology. For example, the EX offered a configurable audio output that I felt was pretty useful, like for AOA, or AP disengagement, terrain warning, etc...Also,the EX has more serial ports, which now accepts all my interconnections AND the use of the GRT GPS that comes with the EFIS. Now I don't have to necessarily program and follow the GPS400 unit for local VFR outings. The newer EFIS also accepts the newer (more easily installed) digital magnetometer.

Finally, the smaller size of the EX meant that I can stabilize my hand on top of the panel and still use my thumb to reach everywhere on the touchscreen in turbulent conditions.

Swapping the wiring to the EX was only a matter of identifying the wires, popping them out of the 37-pin connector, and re-inserting into the two new 25-pin connectors. The smaller screen now also allows the addition of a simple AI (from UMA) below it, so my backup instrument cluster is now quite complete.
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GRT Sport EX installed

GRT Sport EX installed

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