<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<--->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
          <<  Lancair Builders' Mail List  >>
          <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<--->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>
Comments re: Jerry Grimmonpre's message describing how he plans to use
reed switches (in place of the standard micro-switch) to indicate when
his gear is in the "quiet landing" configuration.

Like a lot of things, sounds good but misses something crucial in the
application.

The micro-switches can be adjusted to actuate, mechanically, within a
few thousandths of the same point every time. Means you can really sense
the relatively small over-center travel of your links when they truly
are locked -- and you won't get a light if they aren't over center.

Unfortunately, the magnetic reed switches can't RELIABLY make that fine
a distinction.

A clear case of getting too fancy. The mechanical, cheap-o device, in
this particular application at least, is far superior to the (slightly)
higher tech one.

Besides, my switches, and attending wires don't move, they're all
attached to the "pork-chop" fitting (don't remember the P/N) with the
actuating roll-pin sticking out of the moveable upper link segment. Even
so, there's nothing wrong those wires flexing a bit, 's one of the
reasons wire is flexible. Put in a small service loop (1 - 2 inches) and
forget it until your next annual.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
LML homepage:   http://www.olsusa.com/Users/Mkaye/maillist.html