Go Back  PPRuNe Forums > Non-Airline Forums > Private Flying
Reload this Page >

Who is using there Ipad for flying?

Wikiposts
Search
Private Flying LAA/BMAA/BGA/BPA The sheer pleasure of flight.

Who is using there Ipad for flying?

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 4th Sep 2011, 06:34
  #21 (permalink)  
Moderator
 
Join Date: Feb 2000
Location: UK
Posts: 14,221
Received 48 Likes on 24 Posts
Originally Posted by BackPacker
Doesn't the iPad include a few gyroscopes? Electronic ones, sure, not those with spinning masses, but still? I though it did, in addition to linear acceleratometers.

Edited: Apple themselves does claim so.

Apple - iPad 2 - View the technical specifications for iPad 2.
I'd be surprised, but easy to check.

Have a passenger (in your car) hold it against your car's dashboard. On a level but straight bit of road, accelerate - if it shows a pitch change, it's failed and is using accelerometers, not a gyro.

Now drive the car round a few sharpish bends, if it shows a bank angle, again it's taking its data from accelerometers, and has failed.

My Android phone failed both tests. I wouldn't have expected otherwise, but it was interesting to do.

G
Genghis the Engineer is offline  
Old 4th Sep 2011, 07:05
  #22 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: EuroGA.org
Posts: 13,787
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
There is no fundamental difference between what can be achieved with solid state gyros (one of many many examples) and ones with rotating masses.

The fact that the Iphone/Ipad apps are naff is a separate issue.

The difference appears to be self erection, or lack of. Both vacuum and electric horizons incorporate mechanisms which cause them to sense the direction of gravity and causes them to erect after startup.

Obviously this mechanism is weak and takes a long time (especially on electric ones, which is why they usually have a "cage" knob) otherwise the instrument would be useless as it would always point up according to the instantaneous "gravity" vector

It is possible to sense gravity "electronically" but I don't think that's how digital spirit levels work - this suggests they use a liquid filled container. OTOH my Pentax K5, and apparently the Iphone/Ipad, have small size solid state sensors. Not all that accurate on my K5 incidentally, which is a few degrees out I cannot see any way to sense gravity without having moving parts. But even if you have that info, the Iphone/Ipad apps don't appear to use it for any kind of slow self erection.

I am not a specialist in AHRS but I gather that avionics manufacturers deal with this issue in complex ways, by introducing airdata, or GPS. Aspen seems to use airdata and if they see a constant static pressure (altitude), a constant pitot (speed), and a constant heading, they assume you are straight and level Garmin seem to use GPS and derive level flight from constant GPS altitude, ground speed, and track. I've had discussions with some avionics manufacturers regarding making a replacement for the notorious KI-256 horizon (which is used as a pitch/roll source for loads of autopilots and presents a certification nightmare to any attempt to substitute it) and they all report that they could not get certification without introducing either airdata or GPS.
IO540 is offline  
Old 4th Sep 2011, 16:15
  #23 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: UK
Posts: 231
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I won't use mine - I don't like the idea for some reason.

cheers,
Jake.
Spit161 is offline  
Old 7th Sep 2011, 21:16
  #24 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Leeds, UK
Posts: 75
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Since passing my PPL, I started to used my iPad as a 'tool' in the cockpit - either for airfield diagrams from the NATS website, for using memory-map in conjunction with my 1:500K as well as when accompanying other pilots as another means of confirming where we are (our club aircraft have no GPS, so it'll all cross-cuts, NDB and VOR/DME which, when flying on your own in IMC can sometimes put the pilot workload up high.

I certainly don't use mine as a sole reference system, it's there to confirm what I already know. My plog is always both on the iPad (in the AirNav pro software) and printed in front of me. I've recently passed my ICM rating and since then, it's become more useful. I print my approach plates off and keep them in my bag, but I like being able to flip between the moving map and my JeppView app on there. One thing I have found with flying in IMC is it's all very well and good whilst things go to plan, but when one is told to 'turn NOW xxx degrees' to which you're then left there for 5 minutes or diverted left right and centre when in controlled airspace, pilot workload is high to then locate yourself, put yourself back on track. I like being able to glance down and confirm that I am where I believe I am, and then use my plotted line to confirm my VOR tracking or whatever else I am doing at the time.

I was using an iPad (1) wifi only version for about 2 months with the bluetooth receiver without any hassle at all. I did, however, when flying over Windermere in 7/8 IMC have the GPS lock up on me, and no matter how many times I tried it wouldn't reset. So it was down to VOR/DME to fly back - not a problem as I wasn't relying on it but it certainly made me realise it cannot be relied upon.

I've since bought an additional bluetooth dongle which both are kept fully charged and inside the pocket on the aircraft incase of said incident in the future. I'm now flying with an iPad 2 (wifi only again) which is a lot snappier than before, Ive not had a single application hang or crash on me yet when flying and life is good.

I don't know why people are complaining about the matte cover either - see below, this was today but in IMC and in bright sunlight. I've not had any bother yet with viewing the screen, and have been at about 2/3 brightness all day today.

Cheers
Lee



LeeP-PA28 is offline  
Old 7th Sep 2011, 21:21
  #25 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Leeds, UK
Posts: 75
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Is anyone using a yoke mount for theirs? I did have a kneeboard but scrapped it due to the weight / none breathable plastic! I've heard that RAM do one, but cannot find one anywhere yet...

EDIT: ignore, just ordered one!
LeeP-PA28 is offline  
Old 7th Sep 2011, 21:37
  #26 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Mar 2000
Location: UK
Posts: 5,197
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Spit161

I won't use mine - I don't like the idea for some reason.
As you don't yet have a PPL, that's a sensible decision.
Heliport is offline  
Old 8th Sep 2011, 05:49
  #27 (permalink)  
blagger
Guest
 
Posts: n/a
I've been using the circle to land app for AIP stuff, seems pretty good and has europe stuff for those that want it.
 
Old 8th Sep 2011, 06:37
  #28 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: France
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Just come into to the "i" age with an iPAD2 and am totally converted to the total concept. I could not care less about aspects of the tecnology, programming or software. It does what I want, and the user interface is fine.
I have the wifi version only. Not needed the 3G version, up to now and save a lot of money not having to pay the monthly fee (In France about 39 Euro per month and not including roaming charges for overseas.)
Given we use the iPAD for many things, remote access of email, web surf, access to BBC Iplayer etc, I also get for little extra cost a fantastic flight planning tool, GPS and moving map facility for use in my Cessna 172. The high wings give plenty of shade from the sun to use it practically. I bought a bluetooth GNS 5870, GPS receiver from Transair, using a Ģ20 money off voucher , Air Nav Pro for about 30 Euro. a full set of French charts for 25 Euro. Airfield charts downloaded free. Live meteo I cannot get but of course I can consult those TAFs I have saved in my route plan.
I do not do a lot of flying, maybe 100 hours a year, and all VFR, so for me this is a perfect way of proving that the line I have on my paper chart is being followed accurately, or not as the case may be. I have no negatives to report from either the iPad or the GNS 5870
ronturner is offline  
Old 8th Sep 2011, 07:46
  #29 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Sep 2003
Location: UK,Twighlight Zone
Posts: 0
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I have been using mine for ages. iPad 2 with 3G and therefore GPS.

I run AirNavPro for VFR work with the CAA charts in the UK and the various official charts you can buy from the app for European coverage. Shock horror, yes you have to buy stuff......

I use the Jepp FD application for Airwys stuff, Goodreader for AIP viewing and Memory Map for quick fix look ups.

I never have a problem with GPS coverage, always locks and works just fine. I rarely ever fly bubble canopy type aircraft so don't have readability problems, although I should imagine on a bright day in a fish bowl it will be difficult.

I have a double sucker mounting arm that ingot from eBay that sticks to the windscreen and allows me to put it in position where I can see and use it but not interfere in the cockpit. I use the same sucker to attach it to the window of my Defender when off roading and it has stuck like a limpet! So no worries about securing it!! Memory map with the Landranger charts comes into play again here, so a multi use app!

It is still an immature area but the potential is huge and it is good to see developers embracing it. Exciting times.
S-Works is offline  
Old 8th Sep 2011, 16:34
  #30 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: Hants
Posts: 42
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
BoseX, is the mount you mention this one?

DUAL SUCTION MOUNT CAR HOLDER MOUNT FOR APPLE IPAD 2 | eBay

I wanted to check it worked OK and did not suffer from wobbling around too much.

Cheers, CC.
rocco16 is offline  
Old 8th Sep 2011, 17:24
  #31 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Sep 2003
Location: UK,Twighlight Zone
Posts: 0
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Yep, thats the one, work just fine in the aircraft and even in the Defender off road which is 'severe' CAT!!
S-Works is offline  
Old 9th Sep 2011, 08:32
  #32 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: LSGG
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Caa VFR Charts

Bose X please

I run AirNavPro for VFR work with the CAA charts in the UK and the various official charts you can buy from the app for European coverage. Shock horror, yes you have to buy stuff......
How did you get digital CAA Charts on the Web, and how you get them into Airnav Pro Program?
Info and breaking in is highly appreciated
Thanks in advance.
Swissconsult is offline  
Old 9th Sep 2011, 09:45
  #33 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: London
Age: 55
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
reimomo is offline  
Old 9th Sep 2011, 10:34
  #34 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: FL410
Age: 22
Posts: 98
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Larger cockpit

I use mine all the time with the Jeppesen FD, as I fly IFR. No problems with any aspect, in fact..

Compared to the constant revisions of Jepp manuals, which is now a 15 minute one click exercise, it is a dream.. Battery life is great and in testing, we simply cannot use it enough to wear out the battery, even with two 7 hour legs. Of course, we can also plug it in, in our aircraft (and most have a "cigarette lighter" type receptacle" and an adapter can be bought for the USB cable.

With the new FD from Jepp, we also have Ll the en route charts in either low or high level. Fantastic. Never had a hang up of any sort. Did discover that after downloading the revision, I had to turn the iPad completely off, then on again, in order to get the charts.

I use OnTime, for quick answers to the question.."I need to be in Hong Kong Tuesday, for a meeting at 10 local time. When do we need to leave Kiev?" ....or "What is the flight time London to Accra?" I had it on my iPhone, which could be quickly accessed and made me se em like the oracle of wisdom!

I have an app for converting snow tams to real language and a icing programme for HOT. I have not used it, but one of the pilots has a GPS linked via Bluetooth.

My iPad has reduced my use of a computer by 90%, and is easy to carry everywhere. I have Navigon for Europe and North America and so where-ever I am, I can rent a car and find my way. It is also installed on 3 iPhones, and another iPad, so I think it is also a great buy. Better than most installed GPS, makes the iPad " free," compared to buying a dedicated GPS and updates are Free!

I recently fired it up for the taxi driver in Paris, as he couldn't find the right way to go. He was impressed!

Also iTranslate is an amazing app. Translates to many languages which allows me to write in English and they can read it in Russian, Arabic, French, or any other language. My Russian only flight attendant and I would carry on "conversation" over the table by writing (installed a Russian keyboard for her) and passing the iPad back and forth. I have a French, Danish, Russian and English keyboard and laugh at people that cannot find a use for the iPad as a writing instrument!

Happy flying!
mushroom69 is offline  
Old 9th Sep 2011, 16:17
  #35 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Sep 2003
Location: UK,Twighlight Zone
Posts: 0
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Caa VFR Charts
Bose X please

Quote:
I run AirNavPro for VFR work with the CAA charts in the UK and the various official charts you can buy from the app for European coverage. Shock horror, yes you have to buy stuff......
How did you get digital CAA Charts on the Web, and how you get them into Airnav Pro Program?
Info and breaking in is highly appreciated
Thanks in advance.
You can purchase the charts from within the app. Click on the settings and choose the map store. There are hundreds of free maps and terrain as well as the ability to buy the official maps. I bought the UK CAA and the French maps. Downloaded the free maps for other countries.
S-Works is offline  
Old 9th Sep 2011, 17:15
  #36 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: Northwest UK
Posts: 52
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
If jailbroken can you get the app's and UK CAA charts for free?
trex600 is offline  
Old 9th Sep 2011, 18:38
  #37 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Sep 2003
Location: UK,Twighlight Zone
Posts: 0
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Dunno. As the CAA charts are copyright acquiring them for free unless donated by the CAA would be a breach of copyright and therefore theft. The application is also a paid for application and as I can't see the authors giving that away for free to jailbroken iPad users then I guess you would be aiming to steal that as well....

What I can tell you is that you can purchase the charts in the app using your iTunes account with the greatest of ease. In the global scheme of things a pretty paltry sum. The application is not a .59p app but I think it is a pretty reasonable price. I know this is a funny concept, but a developer develops some software and sells it at a reasonable price, if it sells and makes the developer some money then they continue to develop it and the product gets better and better which seems to be the case with AirNavPro. Steal it and what is there incentive to keep developing it?

I know its an unfair old world, but hey I don't go to work for free either.....
S-Works is offline  
Old 9th Sep 2011, 18:50
  #38 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: UK
Posts: 148
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Well said Bose-X. If we rip off suppliers, we will get what we deserve.
CharlieDeltaUK is offline  
Old 9th Sep 2011, 19:39
  #39 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: EuroGA.org
Posts: 13,787
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Except that the Ipad version of Memory Map is a function-crippled piece of crap.

A lot of Ipad software is a function-crippled crap. It has to be crippled to a large degree to work with the finger interface, but MM is a particularly poor implementation.

The fact that the Ipad GPS API doesn't appear (I am told) to deliver satellite constellation data means the app is even worse than it might be when it comes to notifying loss of GPS fix, which consequently MM doesn't bother with at all.

And the Ipad GPS is not all that good, frequently losing a fix after it had one earlier.

But to answer the Q, there is no known (to me) source of QCT versions of 2011 CAA charts. I have come across a 2010 one for all of the UK in one piece, but 2011 charts exist only in Oziexplorer versions (scanned in, evidently) and OziEx does not (yet) exist for the Ipad.

There is a prog for the Ipad which reads Ozi (OZF2) files but it doesn't support most of the Ozi map calibration schemes, so is basically useless.

Jailbreaking the Ipad is of no help in this context. It makes it easy to copy across apps and more importantly makes it easy to drag/drop data files into the app workspaces which is otherwise inaccessible except officially via that virus called Itunes
IO540 is offline  
Old 9th Sep 2011, 19:39
  #40 (permalink)  
 
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: Northwest UK
Posts: 52
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
The reason i ask is the ebay ipad i'm looking at buying is advertised as 'can be jailbroken' and when i asked a friend what this means he said it means you can get the app's for free (which i found hard to believe but now i understand it's a form of theft) Being in the music industry i know first hand how this type of thing effects the game..
T6
trex600 is offline  


Contact Us - Archive - Advertising - Cookie Policy - Privacy Statement - Terms of Service

Copyright © 2024 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved. Use of this site indicates your consent to the Terms of Use.