Hi All,
Despite my involvement in pre-release testing, the default to RADAR Screen came as something of a surprise to me and I’m still trying to get used to this new functionality. I’m guessing the ‘reason’ for this change is to encourage more use of the RADAR screen - which I have to say I personally almost never use - except in testing as I normally run SkyDemon - together with an Aircrew Traffic Display (mounted at eye level on the front strut of my plane). I have several concerns about this change, so haven’t yet made up my mind as to whether it’s a positive move or not.
You are correct, Neil, that Lee has added additional status info to the RADAR Screen, but my own preference - which I have always ‘taught’ new users - is to power up PilotAware immediately after engine start (to avoid brown-outs), then whilst waiting for the engine to warm up, connect to the PAW WiFi, then select 192.168.1.1 on their browser and check the Home Screen for ‘greens’ to indicate that all is well with PAW before opening their EFB and starting flight recording. To this end, especially for those of our users who are not particularly ‘computer savvy’, I always set up a set of 3 ‘shortcuts’ on their phone or tablet desktop pointing to 1). Settings, 2). 192.168.1.1 via their Browser, and 3). their EFB - in that order as a prompt. I have found this extremely reliable in helping more ‘forgetful’ users avoid the common faults (which even regular ‘non-techie’ users often exhibit) of forgetting to connect to the PAW WiFi, or trying to ‘go flying’ before their PAW has a GPS fix, etc.
Even with the ‘improved’ status reporting on the RADAR screen, it still gives less input on system status than the Home Screen, so for my money I’m not convinced this will be as effective. I also have some serious issues with the size and location of the new ‘Go to Page’ button - especially as I need to change screens regularly in flight in an open cockpit aircraft.
I had intended to discuss these issues with Lee prior to release, but unfortunately was caught unawares and didn’t get the chance.
Best Regards
Peter