On-Board Flight Computers are used to record flight data and execute key events. The following events are recorded:

  • launch
  • booster burn-out
  • sustainer ignition (when applicable)
  • sustainer burn-out(when applicable)
  • coast
  • apogee
  • low altitude
I currently use the G-Wiz MC recording altimeters. The MC series not only monitors the flight, but records in-flight
information that can then be viewed on a PC/Windows platform. They also flash and beep out the peak barometric altitude
upon landing for instant readout. When used with proper pyrotechnic charges,  the altimeter can light clusters or perform
staging, deploy a drogue or main parachute at apogee, and optionally deploy a main parachute at 400 or 800 AGL.
Continuity and readiness checks are indicated on LEDS as well as an audio beeper. The MC series also include an arming
jack that is totally insensitive to vibration and comes with a standard RS232 interface. The MC utilizes a 50 G accelerometer.
Specifications:

  • Pyro output 1 - Jumper select between Launch detect (for clusters) and
    Burnout detect (for staging)
  • Pyro output 2 - Fires at Apogee detect. Apogee detection is always based on
    Accelerometer data, and is not subject to problems with Mach transition.
  • Pyro output 3 - Fires at a fixed low altitude, jumper selectable between 400' or
    800'. Also, may be configured to fire a given number of seconds after Apogee
    instead.
  • Status LED / Speaker shows and beeps readiness at launch, and maximum
    altitude upon landing. Readiness consists of Continuity checks, and both CPU
    and Pyro battery voltage levels.
  • Arming jack provided on board. Not vibration sensitive, and continuity checks
    work even when dis-armed.
  • Acceleration and Barometric data sampled and recorded 16 times per second
    along with all detected events.
  • Standard serial port connector.
  • Graphing software provided works on PC/Windows, Mac, Linux.
  • High performance RISC processor uses proprietary techniques to calculate
    altitude properly. It does not rely on linear simplifications, but follows
    atmospheric pressure to altitude models very closely.
  • High current FET driven pyro outputs are capable of delivering up to 8 amps
    for a full second, each. Outputs capable of delivering up to 50 amps are
    available on request.
  • Unit dimensions: 4.9" x 0.9"
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