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Futaba variometer/altitude sensor

Posted: 22 Aug 2020, 11:19
by flihijohn
I have just installed the SBS-02A variometer/altitude sensor to be used in conjunction with mt 18MZ Tx. I have the latest softwear version on my Tx and am a bit puzzled as to what settings to try for "range", "offset" and "deadband". Has anyone out there had practical experience with this sensor and could suggest suitable starting values for use in typical British thermal conditions (is there such a thing?). The weather has precluded flying for the moment, and suitable days are getting increasingly rare. I could start with the default values, but, if someone can save me a good many test flights I would be very grateful.
Many thanks.
John

Re: Futaba variometer/altitude sensor

Posted: 22 Aug 2020, 14:05
by simon_t
A while since I used one, but start with a range of 3-4m/s (lower if you want more sensitivity). Offset about -0.6m/s, a typical glider sink rate - this means it should indicate ‘rising air’ if the model is sinking less than that (adjust for your model sink rate). The deadband about 0.2m/s to get rid of noise (look at the reading when the model is static and see the range of values. This stops the vario bleeping up and down all the time.

Simon

Re: Futaba variometer/altitude sensor

Posted: 24 Aug 2020, 13:00
by flihijohn
Thanks,Simon.
I'll load your suggested settings and, with a bit of luck, I'll get out this afternoon and see how thing pan out.
John