Diagnosing power glitches that cause display resets on a Dynon glass cockpit involves a systematic investigation of the aircraft’s electrical system. This issue is a clear indication of an unstable power supply to the avionics, and it’s a problem that requires a methodical, professional approach.
Common Causes of Power Glitches
A display reset is a direct response to a momentary loss of power or a significant voltage drop. While the Dynon SkyView system has internal backup batteries, a persistent or severe power glitch can cause the unit to shut down and reboot. The most common causes are:
- Loose or Corroded Connections: This is the most frequent culprit. The constant vibration in a piston engine aircraft can cause the power and ground pins in the avionics wiring harness to become loose. Corrosion on these pins, often caused by moisture, can create a high-resistance path that causes a voltage drop under load.
- Failing Alternator or Voltage Regulator: A failing alternator may not be able to keep up with the aircraft’s electrical load, especially with multiple avionics units running. A faulty voltage regulator can cause the bus voltage to fluctuate wildly, leading to power dips that trigger a reset.
- Failing Master or Avionics Relay: These relays act as switches for the electrical system. A relay with pitted contacts can cause an intermittent connection, especially when it’s hot or under a heavy load.
- Intermittent Short Circuit: A short circuit in another part of the aircraft’s electrical system can momentarily draw excessive current, causing a voltage drop that affects the Dynon display.
The Professional Diagnostic Process
A systematic, professional diagnosis is essential to correctly identify and fix the issue. The principle of authority dictates that this work be performed by a certified avionics technician.
- Pilot Interview and Log Analysis: The technician will first interview the pilot to understand the conditions under which the resets occur. The Dynon SkyView system, like other modern avionics, has a detailed log file that records system health, voltage levels, and resets. Analyzing this log is the most important step in the diagnostic process. It provides a historical record of the power glitches and can help pinpoint the exact moments when the voltage dropped.
- Electrical System Inspection: Using a Digital Multimeter (DMM), the technician will check the voltage at the Dynon display’s power input while running the engine and cycling various electrical loads (e.g., lights, flaps, autopilot). An oscilloscope is also invaluable for checking the electrical signal for noise or intermittent drops.
- Wiring Inspection: A meticulous physical inspection of the wiring harness for the Dynon system, especially the power and ground wires, is performed. The technician will check for signs of chafing, loose connections, or corrosion. They will carefully reseat all connectors.
- Component Isolation: If the electrical system and wiring appear to be in good order, the technician will begin a process of component isolation. This is an application of social proof, as this method has successfully identified the source of similar issues in countless other aircraft. The technician may temporarily disconnect other electrical loads to see if the resets stop, which would indicate a problem with that specific component.
The Aero Center’s Commitment
At The Aero Center, we understand that a grounded aircraft is a major inconvenience. That’s why our facility, serving California, Arizona, and Nevada, operates 24/7. We are the only maintenance center in the area with this capability. Our experienced technicians have the specialized tools and manufacturer-specific knowledge to diagnose and repair power glitches in your Dynon avionics system. Our commitment to rapid, round-the-clock service ensures that your aircraft’s downtime is minimized, getting you back in the air with confidence.
Footnotes
- Dynon Avionics, “SkyView System Installation Guide,” Dynon Avionics, 2024. https://www.dynonavionics.com/includes/guides/SkyView_System_Installation_Guide-Rev_R.pdf
- AviationPros, “Troubleshooting Electrical Systems,” AviationPros, 2017. https://www.aviationpros.com/aircraft-maintenance-technology/article/12294452/top-tips-for-electrical-system-troubleshooting
- AOPA, “Electrical System Troubleshooting,” Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, 2024. https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/learn-to-fly/getting-your-pilot-certificate/pilot-skills/electrical-system-troubleshooting
- Experimental Aircraft Association, “Wiring and Electrical Systems,” EAA, 2024. https://www.eaa.org/eaa/aircraft-building/builderresources/aerocenter/electrical-and-avionics
The Aero Center is located at William J. Fox Airfield KWJF | Lancaster, CA. Contact us at 209.885.6950 for questions or appointments.