Automatic Climate Control For Experimental Aircraft

Experimental aircraft systems provider Vertical Power, developer of the first solid-state electrical system for experimental aircraft, announced the launch of the VP-200 Climate Control System.

The VP-200 Climate Control System (CCS) gives the pilot the ability to "set and forget" the temperature in your cabin. It works in conjunction with Vertical Power’s solid-state electrical system, providing an integrated display for control, system monitoring, and alerting functions for everything electrical on the aircraft.

Designed in conjunction with Flightline AC of Bend, OR, the VP-200 Climate Control System uses the latest technology in both solid-state switching and air conditioning systems to provide pilots with an advanced climate control system.

"Many of our customers are building advanced aircraft like Lancairs and RV-10s and are also installing air conditioning systems," said Marc Ausman, President of Vertical Power. "The VP-200 Climate Control System is designed to bring an automotive-style climate control experience to single-engine experimental aircraft. The solid-state switching technology, which is based on products already deployed in the field, gives pilots a much better climate control experience than older analog systems and much more detail on system status."

Using the color display, the pilot simply sets the desired cabin temperature. The CCS controls the air conditioning fans and compressor as well as the servos which open and close the hot air valves. A small CCS Control Unit mounts in the back of the cabin and provides solid-state power control and circuit protection to the air conditioning fans and hot air servos.

"The VP-200 Climate Control System integrates tightly with our electric compressor to display real-time operating status as well as detailed fault notification," said John Strain, President of Flightline AC. "We’re very excited to be working with Vertical Power on the next-generation climate control system that replaces older analog controls."

The VP-200 system and the CCS are designed to work closely together, and many functions on the CCS are controlled in the same manner you control any other electrical device.

The VP-200 Climate Control System retails for $2,495 and will begin shipping in Q3 2008. Air conditioning components must be purchased separately from Flightline AC or other AC vendor. The VP-200 CCS is available directly from Vertical Power or a Vertical Power dealer.

FMI: www.verticalpower.com