21 February 2008Mid-Continent Instruments delivers the next generation directional gyro
WICHITA, Kan. — In response to a growing need for lighter and more reliable aircraft instruments, Mid-Continent has developed the new 3300 series electric directional gyro. While most directional gyro designs are forty years old, Mid-Continent introduces the next generation to the market with advanced circuitry and improved design. Weighing just 1.8 lbs, the 3300 series is at least one pound lighter and 1¼-inch shorter than most electric directional gyros. A key feature of this electric directional gyro is the 10-32 multi-voltage capability, which enables one version to work in any aircraft. Increasing the margin of safety, the expanded input voltage range and minimal running current draw allows the DG to work longer as power become scarce on the way to a power system failure. An enhanced warning circuit monitors both input voltage and rotor speed. If either is insufficient, the red warning flag comes into view, immediately signaling the pilot of potential problems. The 3300-11 lighted version translates the DC lighting voltage input to a pulse width modified (PWM) signal used to power the long-life LEDs for its crisp, legible backlit display. The lighting is user-selectable for 5, 14 or 28VDC input and can be adjusted for the appropriate nighttime dimming level. The unique lighting scheme improves safety even further by turning off the dial illumination when the warning flag is in view. “Helicopter and fixed wing operators will benefit greatly from the reduced weight and the dispatch reliability of the 3300,” states Tom Genovese, sales manager at Mid-Continent Instruments. “The look and feel of this instrument in the cockpit put it right at home alongside today’s modern avionics.” The 3300 series DG features a machined, one-piece frame for improved vibration resistance, a reliable caging and card-setting mechanism, and reduced rotor-starting torque. It is designed specifically for use in high vibration applications such as helicopters. In many cases, the connector is pin-to-pin compatible with older legacy directional gyros, allowing for an easy retrofit. The stability of the rotor also reduces drift, allowing for a much longer period between card corrections. The 3300 series electric directional gyro is covered by Mid-Continent’s one-year limited warranty and is approved to FAA TSO C5e and RTCA/DO-160E. It is available for purchase through any FAA approved avionics shop. To locate an avionics dealer in your area, visit www.aea.net. Mid-Continent Instruments manufactures aircraft instruments for the general aviation industry. Services at the Wichita, Kansas facility also include developing and manufacturing new avionics products. Mid-Continent Instruments West in Van Nuys, California provides new instrument sales and is the top-rated instrument overhaul shop on the west coast. Together the locations employ more than 150 people and offer the largest general aviation instrument overhaul/exchange program in the world. Specialties include gyro, altimeter, HSI and autopilot system overhauls. Mid-Continent instruments are found in all new Cessna airplanes and in Raytheon’s Beech line of Bonanzas, Barons, King Airs and 1900 Airliners. Instruments are sold to other manufacturers such as GARMIN International, Honeywell, Cirrus, Lancair, Piper Aircraft Inc., Diamond and Robinson Helicopter Co.
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