Rob Writes:

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The implication is that spending less than the highest amount possible gives an unsafe result. While Brent's main point is that an el cheapo EFIS won't be as robust as a unit that has passed a full MIL-SPEC environmental certification may be valid, his example is wrong. Why should I spend $25 for a fastener that has no additional strength or robustness than the Southco or Dzus fastener that worked for 25 years on my Cessna, and also which cost less than 1/10th of the Livelock?
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I apologize if I confused you. I should have used Dzus fasteners and Sheet Metal screws (still two orders of magnitude cheaper). My intended point was that on the ground, in the sales tent, the two fasteners perform the same apparent function to the untrained or inexperienced observer. If you are familiar and experienced with fasteners you could quickly eliminate Sheet Metal screws as a suitable cowling fastener for a myriad of reasons.

As a device becomes more complicated then it becomes easier for a salesman to claim "equivalency" because it is less likely his audience is technically savvy.

I removed my credentials before going into the BM tent so I would hear what they were telling the average schmuck (OK, so I was social climbing, I admit it.). They were telling some whoppers. Things I knew, first hand, to be lies. A detailed (and lengthy) rant on the topic would too easily be construed as pontification rather than illumination due to my affiliation with CFS. (yuck, on review that last sentence sounded like Jesse Jackson speak, much to my mortification).

If Rob is correct and I do advocate cost as THE measure of quality then the only system to use would be the Rockwell Collins Primus system (~$500K). BTW, Rockwell Collins is also a Regan Designs' client (we designed the Pilots Side Display for the 777) so you should assume I am  biased towards them as well. Also, the tests I alluded to were not MIL SPEC they are to RTCA/DO106-D specification. Some MILL SPECs would be potentially even more difficult to pass.

If you listen to one thing I say, listen to this. EFIS systems CANNOT be evaluated on the ground. You MUST fly behind one before making a purchase decision. Assume that everything all salesmen say is a lie. Make them prove it to you. $10K IS a lot of money. Best not to waste it on a large piece of dark glass.

Regards
Brent Regan