Hi Guys,
Bob,
I would certainly recommend powering Aircrew from a separate source during updates, rather than from PilotAware - simply to avoid any possibility of any 'glitch' corrupting the update - as you experienced. I have had that happen before, and it can be a real PITA trying to recover the unit if it 'seizes up' during the update process.
For the benefit of anyone else reading this thread, I hadn't updated my Aircrew for a while so (even though it was already running a 1.09 Beta Tester), I just ran a full update (remote from the aircraft and powered with the cable which normally feeds my printer from my laptop as I couldn't find my 'spare' USB A to USB B) to confirm the process. The update was deliberately performed using my 'older' iPad Mini 3 (running iPadOS 12.5.5) and all worked as expected - except that I had forgotten that in order to connect the iPad to the Aircrew, you have to first download the update (by opening the Aircrew Updater App on your Tablet, Phone or PC) while connected to the internet), then scroll through the Aircrew / Config settings to 'Update' and Press the Button to select 'Update', which starts the process and importantly activates the Aircrew WiFi Hotspot, so it appears on the tablet/phone/PC WiFi List allowing you to connect the Pad to the Aircrew Device and start the installation process.
Dave / All,
You will presumably be aware that James had to cease production of Aircrew a while back during Covid, as he simply couldn't obtain the required chipsets due to the World shortages. He has spent considerable time and effort redesigning the board, so that an alternative chipset can be used and my most recent news was that new units should be available to order in July.
In the meantime, communication has been a bit 'sketchy' so I need to speak to James again and get an update on his latest developments!
In particular, I must have missed the G-meter Screen. Looks interesting - though not sure my Inspector (/CFI) would be keen on me 'exploring the limits' in my flexwing.
That said, Aircrew is still one of the most useful devices in my aircraft.
Best Regards
Peter