Experimenter is a magazine created by EAA for people who build airplanes. We will report on amateur-built aircraft as well as ultralights and other light aircraft.
Issue link: http://experimenter.epubxp.com/i/118927
AeroLEDs Introduces the SunSpot 46 Landing/ Recognition Light AeroLEDs has developed a larger, more powerful light that can be used for landing, recognition, and taxi purposes. Though it only consumes 70 watts maximum in power, the SunSpot produces 4,000 lumens. The legacy lights it replaces, such as the GE4553 that draws 250 watts, develop 3,750 lumens when new. The larger SunSpots are available in two models, the 46 HX and 46 LX. Both lights have screw terminals that can be connected in either polarity for steady on light, and the HX has three additional wires that support a built-in pulse mode that can be set up for individual pulsing or synchronized with other lights for wigwag. The weight of the SunSpot 46—11 ounces—and dimensions—5.6 inches wide by 1.7 inches deep—are no greater than the legacy lights they replace. As with all AeroLEDs, SunSpots have a rated life of 50,000 hours and will withstand temperatures of -55°C to +70°C. Both versions of the SunSpot can operate on 14 VDC or 28 VDC systems. The SunSpot 46 LX sells for $650, and the 46 HX is priced at $750. At this time, they can be installed in experimental amateur-built aircraft, special-use aircraft, and light-sport aircraft. A PMA for certificated aircraft is expected this summer. For further information, visit www.AeroLEDs.com. Glasair Rolls Out 160th Aircraft in 'Two Weeks to Taxi' Program Since the program was started in 2006, Glasair's popular builder assist program has succeeded in bringing 160 Sportsman aircraft to completion. The first 34 kits were able to taxi in three weeks, after which the program was streamlined and renamed "Two Weeks to Taxi." The 160th aircraft to be completed in the program was built by Rick and Laura Walker of Laredo, Texas. The husband-and-wife team "thoroughly enjoyed the construction process and learned a tremendous amount about what goes into an aircraft and how it functions," according to Rick. He also admitted that they were both "astonished by how much they could accomplish in a day's time with help and direction provided by the Glasair team." The Walkers are active in ranching and plan to use their Sportsman for surveillance work and trips to cities around Texas. erplants. Designed for comfort and long-range cruising, the Sportsman is capable of a wide range of mission profiles. For more information, visit www.GlasairAviation.com. Glasair's Two Weeks to Taxi program has been thoroughly reviewed by the FAA and approved as meeting all of the requirements for an experimental amateur-built aircraft. The Sportsman is a four-place, high-wing, metal and composite aircraft that can be configured for taildragger or nosewheel, straight or amphibious floats, or skis. It can be built with a variety of pow- EAA Experimenter 9