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Clean Power for Today’s Aircraft Electronics

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Summary of an article by Jeff Simon, originally published by AOPA

Modern general aviation aircraft are loaded with advanced avionics, LED lighting, portable device chargers, and other electronics that place far greater demands on the electrical system than older equipment ever did. Yet much of the GA fleet is still running legacy alternators and voltage regulators designed decades ago, often struggling to keep up with today’s needs.

One major factor is that electrical load calculations are typically based on average usage, not peak demand. For example, LED position lights may have a low average draw, but their instantaneous peak draw can be several times higher. Multiply that by all of your on-board electronics — from navigators and radios to chargers — and you can see how a marginal system can lead to flickering lights, ammeter spikes, or even avionics resets.

 


The Upgrade Path: Plane-Power Solutions from Hartzell Engine Tech

 

C14 100 Alternator 1 Plane Powerf

Plane-Power Alternators

  • Higher output at lower RPMs — better performance during idle and taxi

  • Clean power delivery — six-phase, hairpin stator design for smoother electrical output

  • FAA-approved replacements for many popular GA aircraft

 

 

 

 planepower voltage regulatorPlane-Power Solid-State Voltage Regulators

  • Fast load response to handle peak demands without voltage dips

  • Built-in over-voltage protection for avionics safety

  • Improved reliability over older electromechanical designs

 

 

 

 

These upgrades address both the quantity and quality of power available, ensuring your aircraft can handle the electrical demands of today’s technology without compromising reliability.


By modernizing your alternator and voltage regulator, you reduce the risk of in-flight electrical issues and help ensure your critical systems run at their best.

 

Read the full article on AOPA: Aircraft Maintenance: Clean Power for Advanced Electronics