Monday 22 August 2016

BlueFlyVario_TTL_GPS_v11 component updates

This quick post describes a minor modification to the package contents with the BlueFlyVario_TTL_GPS_v11. The package now includes:
  • The BlueFlyVario_TTL_GPS_v11 main board programmed with the latest firmware.
  • A small piece of neoprene to protect the sensor.
  • 50mm of blue PVC heatshrink.
  • About 20cm of 4 core flat telephone cable.
There is also a slight change to the component layout on the most recent PCBs to allow for easier manufacture. The Rev 4 PCB layout has much more evenly spaced components, and is shown below with the components now included in the package.


Cable

The 4 core flat telephone cable included with the package is much more appropriate for soldering inside the Kobo. Strip the outer covering and use the wires individually. I used this type of cable on the Kobo Glo HD Install shown in this previous blog post. If you really want the 4x1P right angled header and 4x1P Dupont connector with wires please let me know when you order and I can include it in the package. 


Neoprene

The little piece of neoprene included with BlueFlyVario_TTL_GPS is really important. When placed properly it stops light from hitting the sensor, but allows air to permeate through so pressure changes filter through the two little holes on top of the MS5611 pressure sensor. 
  • I originally include the neoprene shown below. This has sticky tape on one side, and black squishy foam on the other. Unfortunately some pilots remove the sticky tape and put it on the sensor the wrong way; blocking the two little holes with the sticky glue and rendering the sensor pretty much useless. 
  • So, then I changed to different neoprene which does not have sticky tape on it so it does not matter which way it is placed on. Unfortunately it was a slightly different composition, and when that neoprene is squished on to the sensor really tight with the heatshrink it can restrict the airflow associated with pressure changes; to the extent that it affects the sensitivity of the vario to changing height. If you have this neoprene and it is not working for you please let me know and I can ship you some of the other stuff. 
  • Now I have changed back to supplying the original type of neoprene. The correct orientation is shown in the image below. The black squishy foam side should be the only thing which touches the sensor. Please put it on the right way!