Wow! This looks like such a fun and cheap way to get ADS-B!
Dumb question, if I already have an iPad with GPS receiver is there any reason to buy GPS module for stratux? Can EFBs get the ADS-B data from stratux and position data from internal GPS?
Also is there a practical reason to buy AHRS? I can't think of any scenario when I'd want it.
Practical? Well, it's a nice backup, but it needs to be paired to something to get attitude indicator.
Fore flight has an ADI for an add on price (dick move Foreflight)
You can use the onboard stratus artificial horizon through the 192.168.10.1 with a browser.
I use the Flight Box Utility with my iPad (free). It's kinda basic and is not perfect, but it's a cheap backup.
Note, flying with a Stratux AHARS is NOT completely accurate, it's just a nice tool for a complete electrical failure.
Note #2, It also only good if you're using the Stratux on its own power supply.
Don't know about the iPad, but Android EFBs shouldn't have any problem with it. I used my Garmin GLO and my Stratux together without issue. I never had the AHRS either, didn't want to spend the money.
This is the case I found and used (yeah, I had mine printed in red too. I liked the look), but it would be tight if you were trying to use a GPS module. Thingiverse link below so anyone can print their own.
Stratux Nano Dual SDR Case
I like the design but using most receivers, they SHOULD have a cooling fan.
Stratux hands down. It works well from sea level to FL450 even as slow as 5kts and up to M.84, as long as you don't have electrically heated windows blocking the signal.
I use mine on the dash with window heat on all the time with no ill effects.
Other general notes:
I've been using my Stratux for over 1000 hours over the past year or so and have learned a few things:
As stated above, AHARS is nice, but it's like having a parachute, not ideal, but useful on a REALLY bad day.
The standard receivers WILL get hot (I mean too hot to touch) Hot enough to cause errors and system failure. A fan over the receivers will promote long life and prevent failures.
Heatsinks on the CPU, Chipset, and controller are a really good idea. The Pi lowers the CPU speed at around 160f, temperature leads to a shorter component life.
The more expensive low power consumption receivers are encased in their own heatsinks. I haven't used them yet so I don't know if they're worth it.
If you're using a battery pack, keep in mind that not all battery packs can take the stress of powering a Stratux and its receivers AND remain stable while charging off aircraft power AAND dealing with the summer heat while on the dashboard. The pack I was using would do only 2 out of 3 reliably. So on the hot days I would only use the battery without recharging or just use aircraft power.
I added a power button so I can complete a one motion reset of the Stratux without having to mess with power cords. Occasionally the system needs a bounce. Also, occasionally Foreflight needs a restart too to get weather and traffic to appear. A hard reset of the iPad is rarely needed.
ADS-B is NOT a cover all solution for collision avoidance. I have TCAS onboard and some aircraft appear only on the TCAS, some only on the ADS-b on my Foreflight, and a few don't appear on either.
