Using the 2860A Ground Power Unit Jonathan Sisk, Audio Authority CEO, demonstrates the Enhanced Flight 28-volt DC, 60-Amp Ground Power Unit (GPU) with the company's Piper Meridian. Covers connection procedures, appropriate uses, aircraft size compatibility, typical uses, experimenting with aircraft load configurations for external power, GPU limitations, and shutdown/disconnection procedures. Good information for GPU owners and those considering one.
Safe, Affordable, Ground Power for Piston & Light Turbine Aircraft
The 2860A GPU represents a dramatic departure in ground power design for aircraft owners, maintenance facilities, and aircraft manufacturers. Its lightweight, easily portable design utilizes the latest high-efficiency switching-mode power technology to provide massive amounts of stable, noise-free DC power from a standard 120-volt AC receptacle.
The Model 2860A provides 28-volt DC power for:
Pre-flight inspection and battery top-off
Cockpit procedures training and review
Avionics testing, programming, and database updates
Cabin heating and ventilation
Entertainment systems
Systems troubleshooting and maintenance
This new generation GPU is designed as a practical alternative to large, expensive start carts, battery chargers, and other power systems designed primarily for engine starts. It will safely power the most delicate airframe electronics with laboratory-grade DC without risk of costly damage to sophisticated avionics, instruments, and electrical equipment. Despite its small size, the 2860A GPU is designed to industrial reliability standards with forced air-cooling and a steel case.
For many years, Audio Authority has designed and manufactured high performance specialty DC power supplies, used primarily for mobile audio electronics demonstrations in retail stores.
Features
Output: 28 VDC, 60-amps continuous.
Stable, noise-free DC power, safe for today°òs advanced cockpit systems.
Digital output meters for both voltage and amperes, with overload warning.
Includes detachable output cable with AN2551 compatible connector.
Compact, lightweight design utilizes 6 highly efficient digital switching-mode power modules for greater reliability.
Built-in cable management with cord winder bumpers.
Specifications
Designed for horizontal or vertical operation
Input: 105-125 Volts AC, 50-60 Hz, up to 20 amperes
Dimensions: 7.25”H x 14.6” W x 13.75”D (18.1 cm x 27.6 cm x 34.9 cm)
One Year Limited Warranty
Note: See the Model 2860A manual for details on aircraft compatability, battery use and charging limitations, and start assist (piston engines only).
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER & OPERATING LIMITATIONS Audio Authority® authorizes this device for use ONLY by aviation professionals, such as licensed pilots and maintenance technicians, knowledgeable about their aircraft electrical system and batteries. Aircraft electrical systems vary widely. Many aircraft electrical systems have been altered in the field from the original OEM configuration and these changes are often poorly documented in the aircraft records. The operational concepts, recommendations, and instructions presented in this manual are necessarily general and make assumptions that do not apply to every aircraft, and may not be correct for your particular aircraft. Incorrect use of this device has the potential to damage the GPU and/or aircraft components. It is the operator’s responsibility to read completely and fully understand this manual, plus those sections of the Aircraft Flight Manual and Maintenance Manual that pertain to their aircraft’s electrical system design, to determine the appropriate use of this, or any, external power source. If you cannot do this, do not use this product. Instead, consult the airframe manufacturer or a technician familiar with your specific aircraft type and configuration before connecting the GPU to your aircraft.
Q: Can I use the 2860A to start an aircraft engine? A: The 2860A GPU is adequate for piston engine start ASSIST ONLY. Its capacity is inadequate for turbine engine start assist and should be used for airframe systems power only. Do not attempt turbine engine starts with the GPU connected to aircraft. See the User Manual for details.
Q: Why is Audio Authority selling the Enhanced Flight Group GPU? A: This product was originally sold by Enhanced Flight Group, LLC. Audio Authority was the original designer and manufacturer of the GPU for Enhanced Flight. It shares technology with Audio Authority power supplies used for demonstrating mobile audio electronics in retail stores. After Enhanced Flight ceased operations in 2009, demand was still strong for this product, so it is now available directly from Audio Authority and also from our distributors, Sporty's Pilot Shop and Aircraft Spruce.