SkyDat GX2 Backlight Dims and Extinguishes below 8 Degrees

[Guest davidh10]

I've only noticed this since the onset of winter, where I've been flying at outside air temperatures ranging from 11 degrees down to -1 degrees and quite often in the 2 to 6 degree range.

 

As I fly quite often after work, I'm therefore often landing about last light and having no backlighting on the LCD display makes it just about impossible to read. As soon as it warms up again, it is back to normal.

 

It isn't an LCD contrast issue. ie. the issue is just the lack of backlighting.

 

I've dropped Airbourne an email to ask about it, but thought I'd check as to whether there's anyone else who has experienced it?

 

If so, what was the fix?

 

 

[eastmeg2]

Hi David,

 

I think you should email the manufacturer with your problem. Will PM you on how to find them.

 

Cheers,

 

Glen

 

 

[Mc Guyver]

Hi David,

 

It is possible to adjust the brightness level.

 

If I remember correctly I have the info at the airfield.

 

I had a major problem with the instruments failing and SkyDat accused me of being difficult and not wanting there product.

 

I will have a look tomorrow.

 

 

[Guest davidh10]

Hi David,It is possible to adjust the brightness level.

If I remember correctly I have the info at the airfield.

 

I had a major problem with the instruments failing and SkyDat accused me of being difficult and not wanting there product.

 

I will have a look tomorrow.

Thanks Mc Guyver;

 

I think you will find that what you are describing as "brightness" is in fact the LCD drive that adjusts the contrast of the LCD (actually the viewing angle). In my model that is DIP switch adjustable, per the manual.

 

That isn't the issue, as contrast is fine, just lack of backlighting when it gets cold. When it warms up again it is fine.

 

Thanks very much though for taking the time to think about it and post a response. :):)

 

 

[Guest davidh10]

Hi David,I think you should email the manufacturer with your problem. Will PM you on how to find them.

 

Cheers,

 

Glen

Thanks Glen;

 

I've received a very prompt response from the GX2 manufacturer. They think that the issue will be arcing inside the cold cathode fluorescent tube used to provide the back-lighting. Only solution is replacement of the tube, and the diagnosis is not 100% certain.

 

They acknowledge that CCFL lamps do dim a little with cold, but should not extinguish.

 

A little independent research indicates that CCFLs can be designed to operate down to -23 Celcius.

 

I'll post more info as it develops.