On Sun, 18 Sep 2005 18:36:22 +0200, Thomas Borchert
wrote:

Robert,

So, I'm wondering if all this talk about a long transition
time is mostly for the generation that didn't grow up with computers.


After reading the articles and spending 30 minutes flying the Entegra
system on a clear VFR day, I tend to agree with your view.

Computers were my profession and I have my degree in the field. So,
starting from there.

I've never noted hardly any learning curve to "fly" an airplane VFR
with a glass panel. It seems natural to me.

OTOH it's not that simple over all.

You have to break the flying by the glass system down into the basic
flight instruments. The navigation instruments, and the MFD is it has
one. Of course there are other instruments as well, but this are the
main ones.

Unfortunately there is zip for standardization between most of the
instrument makers. Many of the GPS units are not intuitive for
inserting and removing way points. Some are awkward even when you are
used to them. By the same token, the integrated VORs may not be
nearly as simple as the old "dial it and go" receiver and head.

Prior to GPS many of the LORAN manufacturers had the same lack of
standardization. That lack of standardization makes moving from one
system to another more difficult than it needs to be.

When you are getting the snot beat out of you in turbulence while
trying to dial in an approach, or change way points and discover the
plane you are in uses a different sequence of keys than what you are
used to, it can get sticky in a hurry.

I learned in the old system, but I much prefer the new glass panels.
Unfortunately my budget says my first one is going to be in the G-III
if I ever get it done. I fitted the horizontal stab night before last
and spend the entire last evening block sanding the leading edge of
the stab straight. That sucker is built like a tank.

Roger Halstead (K8RI & ARRL life member)
(N833R, S# CD-2 Worlds oldest Debonair)
www.rogerhalstead.com