Register

WingBug ADAHRS: AoA, Data Recording

Now the standard cabin connection protocol, Wi-Fi provides a more stable connection than Bluetooth. Plus, Wi-Fi is more tolerant of electromagnetic interference (EMI)-and there's plenty of it generated by charging systems and magnetos. But wireless connectivity is another challenge. The WingBug pod creates concurrent point-to-point Wi-Fi connections to multiple tablets or smartphones at once. But consider when multiple Wi-Fi devices like ADS-B receivers, satellite hotspots and action cameras are fighting to connect to the pilot's tablet in a point-to-point peer connection. In a peer-to-peer connection, only a single device may be connected to a tablet or smartphone, requiring the user to manually select the device (in Wi-Fi settings). A portable Wi-Fi access point provides the fix, but the devices and applications must be able to support access-point connectivity. Not all do.

If you’ve dealt with a pitot static system failure you probably recognize the value of electronic air data computers. This tech is hardly new, of course, but portable wing-mounted pods with built-in air data sensors/computers are fairly new and a company called Straight & Level Technologies (SLT) has been selling the $950 WingBug.

The WingBug device packages ADAHRS, GPS and an ADS-B In receiver in a relatively compact chassis that easily mounts to a wing strut or nearly any surface of the aircraft with a variety of common mounting hardware. I flew with the system in a variety of aircraft and prepared this field report.

Phil Lightstone

Contributor Phil Lightstone is a Canadian-based writer and podcaster, and flies a Rockwell 114 Commander.