What's New -- Products and Services

This month AVweb's survey of the latest products and services for pilots, mechanics and aircraft owners brings you amphib floats for Glasairs, tour of the Bahamas, training DVDs and more.

If you know of a new product or service other AVweb readers should hear about, please send us a note.

Micro Aerodynamics Vertical Fin Vortex Generator Kits For Cessna 180/182/185 Models

Micro Vortex Generator (VG) kits have been approved by the FAA for an upgrade to the Cessna 180, 182 (including A & B models) and 185 series. The STC improvement, obtained by Micro Aerodynamics, involves mounting 18 VGs on each side of the vertical fin of each of the models and is now a standard feature of kits that were initially designed for the wings and underside of the horizontal stabilizer. Retrofit, upgrade kits are available for those wishing to complete the older VG packages. The vertical fin supplemental kit costs $150.

The upgrade was undertaken in response to 180/182/185 pilots who wanted more rudder authority, especially when their aircraft was configured with floats. At slower speeds, higher angles of attack and in slips, the vertical array of VGs enhances rudder response.

The complete, upgraded Micro VG kit for the 180/182/185 models -- which includes wings, horizontal stabilizer and vertical stabilizer VG arrays -- sells for $1,450

For more information visit the Micro Aerodynamics Web site.

Air Journey Bahamas Treasure Hunt

The next Air Journey Treasure Hunt is preparing to depart for the Bahamas Nov. 12-18, from North Palm Beach County airport (KF45) in Florida.

Air Journey staff members take care of the planning details so you can explore the Out Islands of the Bahamas while you go on a 21st Century Treasure Hunt. They handle:

• U.S. Customs expediting
• Pre-filing of flight plans
• ATC expediting
• Full pre-flight briefing
• Color VFR chart of the Bahamas
• 2006 Bahamas and Caribbean Pilot's Guide
• Discounts on survival gear rental
• Treasure Hunting Pirate’s Costume Party
• Treasure Bucks discounts on meals and activities

As you go snorkeling, fishing, diving, sailing, or even shopping, select tour operators and merchants who are in on the "hunt" will slip you some "gold coins." You'll want to collect them for use in a friendly hand of poker during convivial cocktail sessions.

Prizes may include meal specials, hotel packages, or other perks. The week concludes with a pirate costume party and barbeque dinner.

For more information visit the Air Journey Web site.

IFR Knowledge and Flight Training in 14 days

Am I High Aviation is now offering an Accelerated Instrument Flight Training Program. This program is based on military-style training where each six- to eight-hour day is divided between flight time, simulator time, and ground time. In 14 days a private pilot can prepare for both the Instrument FAA Knowledge Test and the FAA Instrument Practical Test.

For more information visit the Am I High Aviation Web site.

Sporty's Flying the Garmin 396 DVD adds Garmin 496

Sporty’s has updated its popular Flying the Garmin GPSMAP 396 to include operation of Garmin’s latest handheld, the GPSMAP 496.

In Flying the Garmin 396/496, Richard Collins explains and demonstrates the capabilities of these two GPSs to help cut through the complicated manuals and provide a real-world perspective. With the addition of information on the 496, the DVD shows how the AOPA Airport Directory gives detailed information for over 5,300 U.S. airports. You’ll learn how to access the SafeTaxi data that provides detailed taxiway diagrams and position information for over 650 U.S. airports and see how the faster processor of the 496 gives near real-time updates for the panel page instruments.

Flying the Garmin 396/496 is available for $24.95 and may be ordered at Sporty's Web site.

Amphibious Floats for Glasair Sportsman 2+2

Montana Float Company has designed a new set of amphibious floats specifically for the Glasair Sportsman 2+2 aircraft. According to the manufacturer, a Sportsman outfitted with these new floats can have water runs as low as 10 seconds, depending on elevation, wind and take-off weight. Useful load is 705 pounds, max. level flight speed is 120 kts, and normal cruise remains around 112 kts.

For more information on the amphibious floats, visit the Montana Float Web site and for more information on the Sportsman 2+2 visit the Glasair Web site.

Cole Clarifier for Altimeters

The Cole Clarifier is an FAA-approved, coated lens designed to bond over the barometric pressure window (commonly referred to as the Kollsman Window) of TSO’d altimeters.

The bonding process is FAA approved and must be performed by the manufacturer's technicians in Bloomington, Ill.

You may purchase a modified altimeter from the manufacturer (either new or rebuilt), or you may send them your altimeter for modification. Or you can fly to the manufacturer at Central Illinois Regional Airport (KBMI) and they can install one on your altimeter without removal from the panel.

All installations are accompanied by the requisite FAA documentation. The base price for installing a Cole Clarifier is $199.99.

For more information visit the OneWink Web site.

Garmin G1000 Glass Cockpit Book

Learn about all Garmin G1000 features & differences in Max Trescott's G1000 Glass Cockpit Handbook.

Whether you fly a Beechcraft, Cessna, Columbia, Diamond, Mooney or Tiger, you'll learn which Garmin G1000 features apply to your particular aircraft. Or, if you're planning to buy a new VLJ like the Cessna Mustang or Diamond D-Jet, this book will help you prepare while you wait for delivery.

You'll learn about the PFD and MFD displays, audio panel, programming the GPS, electrical systems, using the autopilot and dealing with emergencies. A detailed discussion of instrument approaches, integrated with use of the autopilot, will help you become a pro. Advanced features, optional in some aircraft, such as TIS and TAS traffic monitoring systems, Stormscopes, and Terrain Awareness Warning Systems (TAWS) are discussed in detail. You'll also learn to use all of the data link weather features like NEXRAD radar, satellite images, freezing level, winds aloft, AIRMETs, SIGMETS, TFRs, and METARs available through XM Satellite weather.

For more information and to read the first 19 pages online, visit the publishers Web site or order the book from online resellers such as AVshop.

Sporty’s Air Facts Autopilots DVD Adds G1000

The Sporty’s Air Facts DVD on autopilots has been updated and expanded with a new segment featuring the Garmin G1000 integrated autopilot and flight director system. Featuring a Columbia 400, Autopilots details the capabilities of the G1000 including the flight level change/airspeed hold function and a demonstration of the new Garmin GCU 476 alphanumeric keypad.

This new G1000 segment augments the program’s information on the finer points of flying with the autopilot along with basic operating tips for smooth, safe operation. Autopilots is part of the Advanced Equipment DVD, which also includes the programs High Performance Single Engine; Multiengine; and Turbochargers & Flight Level Flying.

The Advanced Equipment DVD is available for $25.00 from Sporty's Web site.

Telex Stratus 30XT Headsets

Telex has come out with an ANR model that boasts a new power management system with a number of options.

The Telex Stratus 30XT headsets permit power connections with the aircraft panel, with alkaline batteries or rechargeable batteries. Those with rechargeable batteries will be able to connect the built-in recharging unit to a wall socket, an aircraft’s panel power or an automobile power outlet.

The 30XT also features a noise-canceling electret microphone that can be positioned for right or left side operations. Tension in the headband can be adjusted to avoid "clamping" and the thick headband foam pad distributes weight evenly. Padding around the ear cups is designed to conform to head shape and even sunglasses.

Telex Stratus 30TX Headsets cost $515 and can be ordered from headset dealers such as Aircraft Spruce & Specialty.

David Clark X11 ENC Headset

David Clark Company has introduced the X11 electronic noise-canceling (ENC) aviation headset.

The lightweight design features a low-profile, vented head pad; super-soft, fabric-faced, left/right contoured, gel-filled ear seals and a new, low-force, dual-hinge suspension assembly for comfort. Composite materials, including a super-lightweight headband of carbon fiber, provide strength and durability.

The X11 also features new dual-voice-coil ENC technology that reduces low-frequency sound and helps reduce pilot fatigue. Stereo earphones with dual volume controls are stereo/mono swtichable and the headset comes with an advanced noise-canceling microphone for clear, crisp communications.

The lightweight control unit, with auto-shutoff capability, is powered by two AA batteries (avg. 30 hours) monitored by a power indicator light. The control is also equipped with a cell phone, Aux. /music input with three accessory cords provided. As with all David Clark Company products, the X11 is backed by a five-year warranty.

For more information visit the David Clark Web site.

Precision Flight Controls C2 Cirrus II Flight Training Console

Precision Flight Controls (PFC) has introduced the C2 Cirrus II Professional Flight Console. Incorporating new technology that that boosts performance, durability and upgradeability, the C2 builds on PFC’s original Cirrus II console.

The C2 delivers multiple advanced features in a “Zero Maintenance,” ergonomic steel chassis ideal for a wide range of flight training and simulation environments. The console includes panel lights, backlit instrument controls, support for 12 interchangeable throttle quadrants and is available in three yoke styles. The C2 includes switches to emulate most single- and twin-engine, piston and turbine aircraft cockpit functions including alternate air, fuel tank selector, cowl flaps, pitot heat, prop sync, de-ice and anti-ice. A Hobbs meter and digital chronometer are built in. The console can support up to a 22-inch LCD display and the optional PFC digital avionics stack

When used with PFC avionics, PFC rudder pedals and approved software, the console is CAT II FAA Basic ATD approved and can be used to satisfy training requirements including 10 hours towards an instrument rating, 2.5 hours towards a Private Pilot certificate or for Instrument experience.

The C2 Cirrus II Professional Flight Console is priced at $3,995. It includes three- and six-lever throttle quadrants and all required drivers, cables and connectors and a power supply. The console is compatible with X-Plane and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 and X software. Optional accessories available for purchase separately are digital avionics, Cirrus rudder pedals and turboprop or jet throttle quadrants. An optional sidestick control will be available later this year.

For more information visit the Precision Flight Controls Web site.

AvShop Illuminaviator LED Flashlight

A new flashlight has been designed by AvShop for pilots who want a long-lasting, all-LED option.

The Illuminaviator LED maximizes total usage time by offering both white and red LED light sources. This dual-switch flashlight is designed with two separate on-off push buttons, giving its user a choice between a pre-flight, 10-white-LED mode and an efficient, in-flight, three-red-LED mode. Powered by three AAA batteries.

The efficient and durable LED bulbs will burn for dozens of hours on just one set of batteries. The three red LEDs in the Illuminaviator are rated at about five lumens while the 10 white LEDs are rated at about 30 lumens. AvShop says the lights will last for over 110,000 hrs of run time and are visible over a mile away.

The barrel of the Illuminaviator is high-grade aircraft aluminum, textured to improve grip even in slippery conditions. The included nylon holster has an external pocket for an additional set of batteries and a snap to secure the light. It can either be worn on your belt or attached to a bag. In addition to a set of AAA batteries, a nylon wrist lanyard is included on each light.

The Illuminaviator LED is available for $39.95 from the AvShop Web site.

Mobile Corrosion Control Service

McKnight Engineering has formed a Mobile Corrosion Control Service for the Southern United States.

McKnight Engineering uses ACF-50, a corrosion control compound made by Lear Chemical. The equipment delivers a penetrating fog of ACF-50 to all critical aircraft structures, and takes about two hours for a single-engine aircraft. ACF-50 has corrosion control properties to protect both the airframe and systems, and is reported to last two to three years.

By using a mobile system, McKnight Engineering brings the service to individual aircraft. Timing this treatment during an annual can save time and money.

For more information visit the McKnight Engineering Web site.