Icom A23 Navigation function

[Biggles]

I have an Icom A23, but haven't used it yet, just been browsing through the manual. I have a couple of questions for anyone that has experience with the naviagation function:

1) If I read the manual correctly there are two modes for the naviagation function. One is the to/from a VOR down a radial and you get a CDI for that radial. In the second mode it appears as though you can set your own heading and the unit calculates your CDI (course deviation indicator)from your inputted course. Have I read that correctly, and if I have how does that work, to do that the unit would atleast have to obtain the distance from the VOR, or track two VORs simultaniously. The A23 cannot display distance to/ from VOR only direction.

2) Secondly the manual says that the "Duplex" function (ability to be in naviagation mode, while also being able to monitor and transmit on a communiacations frequence) is only available on US versions. Does anyone that bought an A23 in SA have the "duplex" function on thier radio?

[Thunderboy]

Bush I also read a bit on it for mine and understood it as you said

I figured that it's only the bigger airports that have VOR so I probably won't be using it anyway if the GPS is working properly.
One feature that may be usefull is if you want to figure out where you are you can enter 2 VOR's which gives you a direction and where they bisect on the map it is where you are. Only thing is it would be very difficult doing that while flying a microlight

[RV4ker (RIP)]

I have the Vertex equivalent and reception is poor and you need to be almost over the VOR. I take it with me as backup and am using rubber aerie, but maybe with bigger it will be better. Have not tried for some time, but will give it a go on way back to JHB. Pass close enough to PSA & GAV to get reading. hink height also helps... Low level it easier to read the road signs

[Biggles]

Thunderboy

Haven't had a chance to look up local VORs, just like knowing how to use my equipment and it will be difficult using in a trike. But when you are temorarily unsure of your position (lost) everything helps. And I have zero trust in a GPS. I use have used them extensively for mineral exploration in the butt-hole of nowhere and they have an annoying habit of failing... usually when you are trying to get to camp in time for dinner and a beer

[ZULU1]

1) If I read the manual correctly there are two modes for the naviagation function. One is the to/from a VOR down a radial and you get a CDI for that radial. In the second mode it appears as though you can set your own heading and the unit calculates your CDI (course deviation indicator)from your inputted course. Have I read that correctly, and if I have how does that work, to do that the unit would atleast have to obtain the distance from the VOR, or track two VORs simultaniously. The A23 cannot display distance to/ from VOR only direction.

VOR was developed before a GPS was thought of..
You are correct and it is used with basic map reading as in a fixed wing VOR and you listen to the morse (to ascertain station). When over the target the needle would swing to from/to as set; see the book. If using two VOR beacons you would get a reading for each station, with needle variation could calculate your track (similar to triangle of velocities) then work out your distance to target by the cross line on the map as you draw the line (s) from present position the the VOR stations.

To obtain distance to or from a point you would need another instrument known as a DME,(Distance Measuring Equipment) this is often paired with VOR and the Localizer.. Also TACAN.

2) Secondly the manual says that the "Duplex" function (ability to be in naviagation mode, while also being able to monitor and transmit on a communiacations frequence) is only available on US versions. Does anyone that bought an A23 in SA have the "duplex" function on thier radio?[/quote]

No idea but I played with the Pilot 3 for the review in the mag...

I used to enjoy flying on the Glide slope when I flew out of Matsapha International...and sometimes the Localizer didnt even work..

eish ZU LU1