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Main => Builders Discussions => Topic started by: jackpilot on January 11, 2012, 07:25:28 AM

Title: Backlighting dummy gauges
Post by: jackpilot on January 11, 2012, 07:25:28 AM
Most after market gauges costing some $280 each , I just saved close to $900.
On the OVH, Fuel temp, Cabin temp and Cabin climb are not vital to my flying .
First, I improved stock dummies by adding real pointers which gives them a more credible look.

I went with "grain of wheat " bulbs vs leds as they are fed straight 5V no polarity, consistent with the IBLs, and pump only 80mA . I bought some ABS plumbing caps for a few cents and here are the self explaining pics:
Title: Re: Backlighting dummy gauges
Post by: Trevor Hale on January 11, 2012, 07:42:59 AM
Nicely Done Jack!  Looks awesome.

Trev
Title: Re: Backlighting dummy gauges
Post by: Jetcos on January 11, 2012, 08:23:46 AM
As usual, done with "Class"!
Title: Re: Backlighting dummy gauges
Post by: Flying_Fox on January 11, 2012, 10:24:24 AM
Excellent solution Jack! I can picture you browsing the hardware stores in search of things you could use for the sim.  ;)
I do the same. For example,  one deck railing post from Home Depot would make very nice yoke column.  :idiot:
Title: Re: Backlighting dummy gauges
Post by: shaneb on January 11, 2012, 05:11:12 PM
Looks great Jack . . . yeah I can see Jack in a hardware store asking for directions to the sim building section with a smile on his face!     ;D
Title: Re: Backlighting dummy gauges
Post by: jackpilot on January 11, 2012, 05:42:30 PM
Canadian Tire- Home depot- even Walmart...but the best is those little obscure shops where you meet second or third generation owners who know what they talk about and are ready to cut or shape anything from anything because of the spark you create when you talk about what you are doing...there are many unfulfilled dreams around, and it is one of the best part of sharing our passion for flight. ;)
Title: Re: Backlighting dummy gauges
Post by: bnepethomas on January 12, 2012, 02:35:45 AM
Nice idea, brings the otherwise dead gauge to life.
Title: Re: Backlighting dummy gauges
Post by: XOrionFE on January 12, 2012, 04:12:50 PM
Sweeeeeet

Love it Jack