[simpits-tech] Driving a 28vdc fuel indicator

[dabigboy at cox.net]

Yep, I'm used to running into the 400hz thing, but this gauge is actually labeled for DC. I thought maybe it was some sort of air core or variation thereof, but that doesn't seem to be the case.

Matt

---- Joseph Fagner <crease-guard at sbcglobal.net> wrote: 
> Most of these things are 400Hz gauges since they are used in aircraft.  I 
> suspect you need 28v 400Hz.  Then you have to generate a signal and that has to 
> be calibrated along with feedback to know the needles position. Without the 
> schematic, you will need to pull everything apart and trace out the wires and 
> parts.  If you are going to do that, you're better off gutting it and going with 
> an aircore.  Or, you keep the motor and drive it with custom electronics.
> 
> Jay
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ________________________________
> From: "dabigboy at cox.net" <dabigboy at cox.net>
> To: Simulator Cockpit Builder's List <simpits-tech at simpits.org>
> Sent: Sun, April 7, 2013 7:54:42 PM
> Subject: [simpits-tech] Driving a 28vdc fuel indicator
> 
> I am having a rough time with something that was supposed to be simple. I picked 
> up a 28v fuel indicator made by Liquidometer a while back. I can't find any 
> documentation for it, but putting voltage to two of its 10 pins moves the 
> needle. In fact, I can pretty well control the needle using 12v PWM (or variable 
> voltage, basically) on an Arduino, with a PNP transistor, up to about half scale 
> needle deflection. Beyond that, the needle barely moves, even with DOUBLE the 
> voltage (30+ volts). I tried additionally putting voltage to other pins (there 
> are a number of pins that will move the needle in much the same manner), but 
> nothing pushes it over the magic halfway'ish point.
> 
> Any ideas? I have a gauge just like this:  http://www.ebay.com/itm/110894737604
> 
> I am about ready to gut it and stuff an air core motor in there, but I hate to 
> butcher the gauge.
> 
> Matt
> _______________________________________________
> Simpits-tech mailing list
> Simpits-tech at simpits.org
> http://www.simpits.org/mailman/listinfo/simpits-tech
> To unsubscribe, please see the instructions at the bottom of the above page.  
> Thanks!