gps496, gns430 with older digiflight 200VS

[woodsideraff]

I am upgrading my panel, but see no reason to upgrade my older TruTrak, which is working fine. However, adding a second nav raises some questions.

On page 5 of the 200VS installation manual, it shows both the ARINC and RS232 outputs from the GNS430 connected to the Autopilot.

It would be nice to be able to drive the Autopilot from etiher the GNS430 or the GPS496.

If I am correct, when both ARINC and RS232 inputs are present, the Autopilot will ignore the RS232 and use the ARINC signals for steering. If this indeed is the case, I would connect the RS232 output from ny 496 and the ARINC lines from the 430. I would then install a DPST switch in series with the ARINC signals to disconnect them and have the Autopilot default to the 496.

My intention is not to be switching back and forth between navs, but to have the 496 option in case my 430 fails.

Three questions:

1. Why does the 200VS need both RS232 and ARINC signals?

2. Are my assumptions correct and will the scheme work?

3. Any problems with routing the ARINC signals through a switch?

Thanks and best regards,

Rafael

[TrutrakTech]

Hi Rafael,

The D200VS does not need ARINC, but a D200 VSG does. The ARINC provides the GPSS bank commands. RS232 provides the ground track for the DG, TRK selector mode, and GPS Nav mode.

Your assumptions are correct and a switch in the ARINC input to interrupt will work.

There are no problems with running ARINC signals through a switch, just be mindful of the wiring to not reverse ARINC A and ARINC B wires.

Thanks!

[PhantomPholly]

I keep telling TT that they need to advertise this as a "feature." Their autopilots only look at ONE input - ARINC if it is active; Serial if it is not. I think it is a great feature, providing a backup if your primary nav fails.