Simple altimeter

[eallenking]

Anyone know of a simple altimeter that would be relatively easy to put in my helicopter and give me a semi accurate altitude from the ground? When I say semi, being off 5 to 10 feet wouldn't be a big deal.

Thanks in advance,

Ethan

[miami6]

http://i6.ebayimg.com/01/i/03/61/30/1d_1_b.JPG

http://www.microtim.com/

http://www.microtim.com/index_files/image3291.jpg

http://www.microtim.com/index_files/image8501.jpg

Can be configured as a Vertical Accumulator (total vertical feet).

MicroTim







MT-NF-NS




$129 USD

[k2pilot]

i've got the z-log from hexpert systems and it is quite nice, you can connect your trigger switch to the z-log and it will mark the altitude of every photo.

[eallenking]

I guess I'm looking for something that will give me real time altitude of my heli. So I can maintain or try to maintain a similar altitude for my pictures. Doesn't need to be perfect but would be nice to know that when I'm at 250 or 300 or 350 feet, again, so I can maintain that altitude that I take the pics at.

Any suggestions?

[arrio]

Have you looked at eagletreesytems.com ? Thier Data logger and dashboard downlink/display unit may be usefull to you. Downlink and display a variety of parameters including altitude and virtical speed.
Here is areview of thier Dashboard system:
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=538633

[Ziggy2711]

Awesome post Arrio! I am really glad I came across this topic as I plan on adding this Wireless Dashboard system on my new AP/AV Raptor 50. It seems to be a good way to help protect your investment!

[askman]

either that or some form of VOD (video on display) with GPS. I have pair of VOD, and use it through the downlink. give you full information on the eyeset. works well. I use intuitive circuit VOD board.

[eallenking]

Thanks guys, this has really helped. Probably not going to invest in the eagle yet, but see it as a definite in the not too distant future.

Airspeed isn't all that important to me, what might be the least expensive way to get an realtime altitude reading from the ground? If we did do vod could we do it for less than the $370 or so that the seagull goes for. Not that that is a ridiculous price.

Ethan

[dreslism]

Look on Rcgroups for the blackbox.

It is an altimeter with video overlay and runs like $99.

Several over on runryder have used it. I think Brett of CopterViews has one and has had good results with it as far as I know.

[Ziggy2711]

By the way, if you are not flying with a canopy is it possible to use the Ealge system? I am recalling the section that states there can be no change in pressure due to propellers, etc or the system will not work correctly. Won't the prop wash negatively effect the system?

[eallenking]

Good question Ziggy, something I'll definitely need to look into if I go with the Eagle system.

Ethan

[arrio]

Providing wind free static presure should be pretty simple. Just route the static port line into a shielded area or perforated small enclosure are just a couple things that come to mind.

BTW, I just ordered one of thier systems. Mostly interested in the electric power data.

[AZ ChopperCam]

or I wonder if you can do what we do in fullsize aircraft and run two static ports "T"'ed off with one to the front and one to the rear? it helps to average out any spikes in pressure

[JohnW]

I have my eagle tree flight data recorder mounted in the nose of the canopy. Right now the alt. doesn't do me any good because I have rotor wash affecting it. I am planning to do what arrio mentioned about routing the pressure line to a perforated small box. I think once I do this it will be fine.

I have been pleased with this unit and have found it great for monitoring amp draw, rec volt. rpm ect. The dashboard can be configured to beep with a particular sequence when any criteria is met, such as 300', motor amps above a certain point or rec. battery dropping below a certain point. The only downside would be the price... they are now also selling them with GPS capabilities.

[Ziggy2711]

John,

Great info! However, I don't see the price as a downside. For me it seems like it's worth the investment due to it's ease of use and convenience features (it's real time data!!!!) :lol:

[JohnW]

Ziggy,

The price wasn't a downside to me, just that it's higher than some guys would want to pay for a simple altimeter. The realtime data plus being able to record and graph flight data has been very usefull to me.