Frequently Asked Questions

An electronic circuit breaker, or ECB, is a “smart” solid-state circuit breaker with the switching function built in. An ECB can be monitored at all times and give the user information that no other type of breaker or fuse can do.

Yes, we estimate the novice builder can save over a month of time from the planner to installation. An experienced builder can install an entire electrical system in one weekend.

When compared to the average cost of a traditional circuit breaker system, the VP-X will save the builder money on a total system install.

The VP-X Pro can be installed in a 14 or 28 volt system and has a dedicated 14 volt supply for trim motors. The VP-X Sport is 14 volt only.

When compared on a component level, the ECB is 59 times more reliable than a traditional breaker when measured in hours (1 million hours vs. 17,000 hours) and 66,667 times more reliable when measured in cycles (2 billion cycles vs. 30,000 cycles). The makes the system as a whole inherently more reliable because every component is a solid state version of the mechanical components we replace.

Astronics is a publicly traded aerospace company that owns many different aerospace related subsidiaries. Ballard Technology is one of those Astronics subsidiaries and has been in business for over 30 years. Ballard is known in the aerospace industry for high-quality products and industry-leading customer support. The VP-X has a very safe and secure home with continued support.

Lower current devices can be combined on to a single pin that will expand the number of devices that can be used in the VP-X.

The VP-X Pro can monitor a second battery, and both the Sport and the Pro can operate two alternators.

A two-step process is used in programming the VP-X. It starts with our online planner to create the .vpx file that will then be loaded on to the VP-X using our PC based program called the configurator. Once the .vpx file is loaded in to the configurator, the remaining setup items (flaps, trims, wig-wag, etc) are setup and saved to the VP-X.

The VP-X interfaces with all of the major EFIS manufacturers as well as a tablet using an iLevil. The screens provide a page for the VP-X to display all of your electrical system information and system health. Each device will be listed and when highlighted, a device can be turned off, turned on, and the circuit can be reset.

A VP-X can be used in the simplest of airplanes. There is no minimum requirement, other than an EFIS or tablet be installed to control and monitor your system.

The most complex experimental airplanes on the market are currently using the VP-X. The VP-X Pro is the standard electrical system for the RDD LX-7 and all new Lancair’s being sold. Any type of experimental or light sport airplane can use the VP-X.