1 probe for 2 different instruments?

[Martin Pohl(Guest)]

Hello folks!

I intend to install an EMS-10 in my ZodiacXL. Nevertheless I would like to add some conventional engine instruments to the panel. That would allow me to still fly the airplane even if the whole EMS-10 unit fails.

Is it possible to connect both EMS-10 and a conventional instrument to one and the same sensor (tachometer, oil pressure, cooling water temp)? I will install a Rotax 912ULS.

Martin

 

[dynonsupport]

With some instruments they can be doubled up, like the tachometer or MAP. Other sensors require us to pass current through them, which means that both instruments would be driving the sensor at the same time and this would cause both instruments to read wrong. The only way to make this work is to install a physical switch that switches the lead from the sensor between the EMS and the mechanical gauge. This also assumes that you can find mechanical gauges that use the same sensors as our EMS.

It's possible to back up the fuel gauges as well, but these are resistive, which means the mechanical gauge powers them, so if that gauge fails, the readings on the EMS will be wrong.

Your best best is probably to back up the tach and install a low oil pressure switch to a light. This will give you the two main readings you would need to get down safely.