I have to agree with Bruce. I went through several iterations to arrive at my final decision. I had some excellent input from experienced owners on this list. The first was a full size (primary) EFIS and smaller backup, produced by the same manufacturer. What a great way to save money and panel space. However, after analysis, this left me exposed to the potential for dual failure if there was an error in the software. Well, that was easy enough to fix, use different manufacturers. After some additional input from highly experienced owners who had or were flying some full qualified equipment, I realized that in the event of a lightning strike, I would probably fry both units. I bit the bullet and purchased a set of mechanical backup instruments with dedicated battery backup. It was more expensive then I wanted, the panel was more cluttered, but it provided the piece of mind I wanted for my family. Do I plan on flying IFR, at times, do I plan on getting into storms with lightning, absolutely not, but some times we are not the masters of our own destiny.

Giff Marr

LIV-P/Mistral 70%

 

 

-----Original Message-----
From: Lancair Mailing List [mailto:lml@lancaironline.net] On Behalf Of John Hafen
Sent: Thursday, June 05, 2008 9:32 AM
To: lml@lancaironline.net
Subject: [LML] Re: Selecting an EFIS

Are any of you aware of an independent, stand-alone, self powered attitude back-up system?

I was looking at the Garmin 495.  Its panel page shows heading, bank angle, and vertical speed.  So I assume with a little concentration, that would allow a guy to approximate straight and level flight.  But there is no “attitude indicator.”

Is there something out there better than the 495?

John Hafen