16 March 2024

Avionics: Added SiriusXM

In preparation for the flight out to view the eclipse next month, I added SiriusXM to the plane.  I found an inexpensive used SiriusXM SXWB1 Tour on eBay and installed it where F-01439 Seat Ramp Cover and F-01452 Aft Tunner Cover meet.  Here it is installed, powered with an external power supply for testing.  It covers up my light gun cheater card a bit.

I didn't want to cut anything in the plane or have a permanent install.  But I wanted it installed stoutly and be easily removable if I later decide I didn't want it anymore.  So, I made a removable mount out of scrap 0.09" T-2024 stock as shown below.  The center four holes constitute two pairs of holes for attaching the radio's dock in one of two different positions.  Those holes are countersunk on the backside (not shown) so the screws into the dock are flush.  The outer two holes attach where the two cover plates called above meet (with slightly longer screws to carry them through the additional 1/8" thickness).   Those screws are accessible when the radio is not placed in the dock.  I painted the mount to match the interior.

 

The radio has a Bluetooth transmitter, but the GMA-245 can only connect to one Bluetooth source and I prefer the intercom connected to my phone.  So I sourced a short cable to connect the radio to the "Music 2" input between the seats.  It is also powered by the USB socket located in the same space.

The antenna is velcro'd on the F-01405F Mid Fuse Brace.  Reception is solid.