Adaptive Interfaces
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The MCD100 Mode C monitor combines several important functions into a single instrument. This is a digital display of altitude based on the Mode C output of the plane’s blind encoder. This allows the pilot to see the altitude that is transmitted to ATC at all times. In addition, the instrument allows the pilot to input the local barometer setting thus providing the correction to actual altitude that takes place at the ATC facility. This feature will instantly let the pilot know if there is any problem with the blind encoder and how its reading compares with the plane’s altimeter reading. In addition, the pilot can use the instrument to provide an altitude alert so that if the plane varies from desired altitude by more than 200 feet, it will flash the displayed altitude or optionally sound an audible alarm to warn the pilot that the plane’s altitude has varied too far from the desired altitude. Knowing in advance when the controller asks you to 'say altitude' that your altimeter and blind encoder are providing the same information will give you much more peace-of-mind when you respond with your altitude. |
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Adaptive Interfaces -
ESM100 electrical system monitor |
ESM100 Electrical System Monitor
The ESM100 electrical system monitor provides accurate, simultaneous readings of the current draw and voltage of the electrical system. It has the ability to monitor two separate current readings, so that both the battery current and alternator current can be monitored simultaneously. Most ammeters monitor only a single current, which makes it possible to overlook an electrical system problem that may occur in the branch that isn’t being monitored. A good example is a failure of the alternator charging circuit which often goes unnoticed until the battery voltage drops to a point where problems start to get a pilot's attention. That is usually too late, especially if you have an electronic ignition.
You may feel that there's no need to monitor your electrical system if you have an all-in-one monitor. However many all-in-one monitors will shut off when the battery voltage drops below about 11.5 volts. If that happens and you have no backup for the electrical system monitor, you may unknowingly be losing your battery capacity, which could result in a forced landing. The ESM100 will continue to operate down to 8 volts and thus let you know why other electrical instruments are no longer working. Since it will alert you immediately to a charging problem, you'll save precious minutes to find an airport while operating from battery power alone.
Future Products
At Adaptive Interfaces we are working on a number of products for monitoring aircraft and engine parameters. Please visit us again for future product announcements. You may also send us an email at
info@adaptint.com to join our mailing list so that you can be updated as new product information becomes available. All email information will be kept confidential.