Charging your iPad: what you need to know

5 Comments
/
Keeping your iPad battery charged is essential if you're using it as an electronic flight bag in the cockpit, but not every USB charger works with an iPad. Here's how to choose the right charger, and what to consider if you're shopping for a backup power solution.

iPad screen protectors – which one is best for pilots?

3 Comments
/
Screen glare is a persistent problem for pilots flying with the iPad, but an anti-reflective screen protector can cut down on this significantly. To help illustrate its effectiveness, we installed MyGoFlight's ArmorGlas on a new iPad 9.7" on a bright sunny day to see how it did next to a 2nd iPad without a screen protector.

New Robust Mount accessories expand mounting options

For the last six months, we've been flying with the Robust line of mounts in a variety of aircraft. As we mentioned in a previous product review, this collection of phone and tablet mounts offers excellent quality at surprisingly affordable prices. Until recently, the only options for a base were the standard yoke clamp and suction cup, but now there are three additional options.
GDL 50R PMA

Garmin adds PMA versions of remote-mount GDL receivers

Garmin's GDL series of weather receivers is a mainstay of the portable avionics market, offering an excellent mix of features and growing compatibility lists. Fortunately, Garmin now offers PMA versions of their remote mount models, called the GDL 50R/51R/52R, so they can be installed in certificated aircraft without breaking any rules.
Altus on bottle

Aithre Connect app adds oxygen tank monitoring

Earlier this year we reviewed a unique new carbon monoxide detector, the Aithre Shield, that used a free app to offer precise monitoring of the cockpit environment. Now the company has added oxygen system monitoring to the mix, with an updated app and a new accessory called Altus.
Flashlight and charger

All-in-one backup: combination flashlight and USB battery pack

Flying with backup is part of any smart pilot's pre-flight plan. For us, that usually means at least a flashlight and a battery pack, since both come in handy on almost every flight. A new device is worth considering, since it combines those essential tools into one convenient product.
BoxElder

How do I mount my tablet or phone in a helicopter?

2 Comments
/
Where to mount a tablet in a helicopter is a tricky question since the pilot typically has both hands on the controls at all times and there is no yoke to use for mounting as there is in an airplane. The high vibration environment can also pose some unique challenges. Here's our advice.

New RAM Perfect Fit Cradles released for iPad Pro 11″ and 12.9″ models

2 Comments
/
The iPad Pro 11″ and 12.9" models are hands down the best full-size iPads for pilots, and you can now secure them in the cockpit with RAM's EZ-Roll’r form-fitting cradles.

ADS-B vs. SiriusXM datalink weather – what’s the difference?

11 Comments
/
If you're considering a datalink weather receiver for your iPad (like a Sentry, Stratus, or GDL), one of the first decisions you'll face is the source of your weather data: ADS-B or SiriusXM? Here's a review of the similarities and differences, plus our advice for choosing the right solution.
Flight Gear Small Backup Battery

Sporty’s adds smaller Flight Gear Battery Pack

2 Comments
/
Last year at Oshkosh 2018, Sporty's introduced a handy battery pack that is specifically made for pilots. We loved it from the start and we've carried it on every flight. Now there's a new option with the same great features but in a more compact size and at a lower price. Here's a look at the specs.

ForeFlight introduces Sentry Mini ADS-B Receiver

11 Comments
/
Now there’s an affordable and easy-to-use option for flying with ADS-B weather and traffic. Sentry Mini, introduced this week at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, is an incredibly small, lightweight ADS-B receiver that’s specifically made for ForeFlight. It delivers subscription-free datalink weather, including radar, lightning, METARs, TAFs, and TFRs, plus dual band ADS-B traffic and WAAS GPS position. All these features are packed into a case that weighs less than two ounces and is smaller than a deck of cards.

How to mount your iPhone in the cockpit

1 Comment
/
The larger iPhone 7, 8, X and XS models are finding a home in many cockpits, as pilots come to appreciate larger screens on these new phones. Regardless of how you use your iPhone, it's smart to secure it in the cockpit. Here are a few options from RAM and MyGoFlight that offer convenient ways to keep them stable.