Here is my first try at an RV7 panel. I'm struggling with how much to sink into the panel, what type of flying I'll really be doing, the compromise between panel real estate and the functionality I think I want. I know this decision won't be final for a long time, but I'm doing a lot of thinking about it now. The technology is changing, too. I was thinking about these portable gps units (that I already own) as a good combination for vfr navigation. But, the cost and functionality of in-panel units are on the move. So, by the time I am ready to get serious about the final panel, there will probably be options that are much better than my current thinking -- which is pretty cloudy at the moment...

Another idea has 2 Dynons and conventional engine instruments. Note that there's no egt. This is about thinking diesel which probably won't happen. Egt is pretty useless with diesel. It's interesting, but unlikely. Just in case, this panel might be in the ballpark for me and my type of flying.

Another idea that comes back to something more conventional while keeping the idea of a diesel engine.  It also allows for all-electric IFR.  I'm leaning toward using the Dynon somehow, but as of 6/2004, I haven't actually seen one in flight, so I'm not ready to commit to it.

You might ask why I'd consider all this redundant stuff.  Well, I'm not pretending I'm anywhere near a final panel idea.  I figure you really do have to try on a lot of cloths and jewelry to find just the right combination.  Oops!  I forgot most the visitors here are guys!  You are probably only observers to that process, but there is probably somebody you can ask if don't quite get the picture :-)

Here, I decided to move a few things around for better organization and visibility.  I've also replaced the Garmin GPS with an EKP.  I just like the large screen and I haven't been enthralled with the Garmin I have been using.

After considerable thought, I have decided to ditch the steam gauges altogether.  I'll have dual electrical system that are physically separated, dual pitot systems and everything switchable between systems.

For the first time, I feel close to a solution.  Here I have switched out the G3 for the BMA Sports and added an angle of attack indicator.  This is an expensive panel, but it's what I want.   I'll give it a month or two to sink in and maybe this is where it stops...

Just when you're feeling close to a solution, look what happens!  You get a completely different idea.  Well, this may not be practical and I don't know enough about the Enigma (it is too new) to say I would even buy one, let alone 3!  But, it is interesting...

Of course, there is always another idea.  I'm purposeful in leaving out some of the much more expensive models of glass.  I'm willing to install more than needed, but I do have my limits.  These 2 BM Sports are about at that limit.

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