An affordable glide computer? Two Open Source projects make it possible!

What is an OpenVario?

OpenVario is a glide computer for XCSoar. Both are Open Source projects developed by glider enthusiasts and engineers in their spare time.

SteFly offers ready to use 7″ and 5,7″ devices with perfectly sunlight readable displays. OpenVario can be used with the integrated electronical variometer or with an external variometer.

Main features

Linux operating system
XCSoar as navigation software
Latest generation pressure sensors
Sunlight readable displays
User input with rotary module or remote stick
File transfer via USB stick

You have the choice between two display sizes

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Interfaces

All you need and prepared for the future!

2 x serial port on RJ45 with IGC pinout
2 x serial port on D-Sub 15
2 x USB
1 x Micro SD (4GB included)
4 x GPIO
3,5mm female connector for temperature sensor
Audio out for variometer

SteFly remote stick

Ergonomic shape combined with leather and carbon fiber

The Remote Stick is a very ergonomical method for controlling the OpenVario glide computer in flight. With one joystick and three more buttons you can reach every setting quick and intuitive. For mooving the turnpoint in an assigned area task, we implemented a mouse feature.

Navigation joystick with center push button (arrow keys and return)
3 buttons (ESC, Menu, Function)
PTT button for radio
Vario – speed to fly switch (for the integrated vario or an external vario)
USB interface
Open Source Arduino code for updating and customisation
Available for 18,2 mm, 19.3 mm, 20.1 mm and 24.3 mm diameter (others on request)

SteFly Rotary Module

Great haptic feedback of two rotary encoders

With the SteFly Rotary Module it is also very easy to operate XCSoar. It includes the same functions as the Remote Stick, except the mouse feature (will be implemented soon). Especially for selecting and scrolling through waypoints, the rotary encoders are very comfortable. In future we will implement press and rotate functions for more intuitive volume and MC controle.

The Rotary Module fits for both display sizes and it is fixed with the two lower screws of the OpenVario device. For detailed dimensions, have a look at this drawing.

Both input devices can be combined, but you have only two USB ports on the OpenVario. If you would like to install an extended USB port in your panel for data transfer, you need a switch or an USB hub.

Frequently asked questions

Is a speaker included in the OpenVario kit?

No, there is no speaker included. The audio amplifier which is installed on the OpenVario adapterboard is designed for 4Ω to 8Ω speakers. You will get the max. output of 2,6W with a 4Ω speaker.

Is the OpenVario a certified IGC logger?

No. Due to the Open Source design, it is not possible to obtain an IGC certification. We recommend to use an IGC certified Flarm device or any other IGC logger.

Can I use other navigation software?

At the moment, the OpenVario project uses XCSoar as navigation software. With good Linux knowledge you could implement other software on the Cubieboard 2. Thats the beauty of Open Source. Older and commercial gliding software won´t run on the OpenVario, because they would need the outdated Windows CE operating system.

Does the OpenVario kit includes a touchscreen?

No, we don´t offer our OpenVario glide computers with touchscreen displays. There are two reasons:

Declined clearness of display: Resistive touchscreens are only 80% translucent and they add a second surface for reflections. So the optical performance in direct sunlight would decrease a lot.
Bad operability in turbulent air: OpenVario is designed to mount in the instrument panel and not like other mobile devices (Smartphone, PNA, PDA) on the canopy frame next to the pilot. Thereby we have a longer lever arm and in turbulent air it is noticeable more difficult to hit the right button on the touchscreen.