Lamar Technologies introduced a new product called the MC10 Master Control Module, a complete, pre-assembled electrical load management system designed specifically for the homebuilder. The unit replaces all the individual master, starter and alternator circuits in one compact housing and provides terminal lugs for the battery, starter and alternator.

Other features include circuit breakers for three individual aircraft buses and an always-on feed for aircraft systems that require trickle current (such as clocks). Intended to mount on the firewall, the MC10 also features a traditional ground power receptacle on the side.

Because most light airplanes have similar electrical systems wiring, the MC10 greatly simplifies the task of wiring up the individual solenoids to each other and the charging system-it also replaces the usual outboard regulator while providing over, under and reverse voltage protection.

Connections to cockpit switches and gauges are through a single Molex-type connector, with a companion color-coded and labeled wire harness. The module weighs 6.5 pounds and has a much smaller footprint than the firewall real estate needed to wire and mount all of these electrical system components individually.

With a list price of $1016, its likely that you’ll find the product for less than $1000 via Lamars distributor network (Aircraft Spruces advertises it for $891). For those who dislike the task of wiring or are just looking to save some build time, the MC10 warrants your consideration.

For more information or a list of distributors, contact Lamar at 360/651-6666 or visit www.lamartech.com.

First Sportsman 2+2 Flies After Completing Builder Assist Program

David Codding of Santa Rosa, California, became the first builder to fly his own Sportsman 2+2 after completing much of the aircraft at Glasair Aviations Customer Assembly Center (CAC) in Arlington, Washington. Starting with a complete fastbuild kit, Codding spent a total of three weeks at the center working 8 hours a day, five days a week, with a crew of factory assistants. At the end of the three weeks, he ended up with an aircraft nearly ready to taxi.

Codding trucked the aircraft home where he completed the final tasks: installing the instrument panel, upholstering the seats, completing the hookup of his powerplant and painting the airframe. The FAA signed off on the project shortly afterward, and Codding made his first flight.

I think the reality is still sinking in, Codding said. It was inconceivable that anyone could build an aircraft like this in only four months, and yet I did it. Its really a tribute to the simplicity of the design, the way the factory was organized the construction and their incredible commitment to get it done.

Glasairs CAC program offers builders the chance to spend up to three weeks and the company’s facility working on factory jigs under the supervision of experience builders. The program is FAA approved and allows the builder to complete enough work to meet the 51% rule. For pricing or more information, contact the company at 360/435-8533 or visit www.glasairaviation.com.

New Comm and NavComm Handhelds from Icom

After gathering opinions from pilots at Oshkosh AirVenture and Sun n Fun over the past few years, Icom America has announced the availability of two new handhelds-the IC-A24, which features nav and comm channels, and the IC-A6, which features comm capability only.

These air band transceivers feature large backlit displays and keypads for easy use at altitude; the light stays on until you turn it off, a handy feature for flying at night. Both feature flip-flop channel recall buttons and 10-channel recall, which will reduce the need to write en route frequencies on your chart or worse…calling ATC for the frequency you just left.

The IC-A24 has VOR navigation functions including the ability to show the radial to or from a VOR station, and a CDI mode to display course deviation to or from a VOR. The duplex operation allows you to call a comm channel while using the VOR navigation function.

Both units have a larger battery than previous units for longer usage time, a side tone function to allow you to hear your own voice via an external aviation headset, and NOAA marine weather channels. Both are water-resistant (hopefully you wont need this feature while in your airplane).

The IC-A24 costs $419, and the IC-A6 sells for $319. For more information or a list of dealers, contact Icom at 425/454-8155 or visit www.icomamerica.com.