KMC PUBLICATION NO. 1401-1
RCA 2600 SERIES
ELECTRIC DIGITAL HORIZON
INSTALLATION/OPERATION GUIDE
DIM
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RCA 2600-3
RCA 2600-2
P/N 102-0203-01-01
P/N 102-0203-01-02
P/N 102-0202-01-01
P/N 102-0202-01-02
KMC
KELLY MANUFACTURING COMPANY
KELLY MANUFACTURING COMPANY
(316) 265-6868
FAX (316) 265-6687
KELLYMFG.COM
555 SOUTH TOPEKA
WICHITA, KS 67202
Rev C
KMC
RCA 2600 Series Installation/Operation Guide
KELLY MANUFACTURING COMPANY
SECTION 1: INSTRUMENT DESCRIPTION
1.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
An attitude indicator, also known as a gyro horizon or artificial horizon, is an instrument used in an aircraft to inform the pilot of the
orientation of the airplane relative to the earth. It indicates pitch (fore and aft tilt) and bank (side to side tilt), and is a primary instru-
ment for flight in instrument meteorological conditions. Attitude indicators also have significant applications under visual flight rules.
The RCA 2600 Digital Electronic Attitude Indicator receives digital information from a series of accelerometers which is processed
to actuate a display that has two dimensions of freedom, simultaneously displaying pitch and bank. The display is colored to
indicate the horizon as the division between the two colored segments (blue for sky and brown for ground), and is intended to be
intuitive to use. The actual bank angle is calibrated around the circumference of the instrument dial. The pitch angle is indicated by
a series of calibration lines, each representing 5° or 10° of pitch. Unlike digital multifunction type displays, the RCA 2600 display is
not cluttered with additional information so that the pilot has instant attitude recognition.
Because the RCA 2600 has no mechanical gyroscope, it is much more stable than traditional horizons. The unit is designed to
work in 360 degrees of pitch and roll and, unlike a mechanical unit, the RCA 2600 can tolerate angles in pitch and roll that would
cause a gyroscopic unit to tumble.
On the attitude indicator you will see two yellow horizontal lines with a dot between them. The horizontal lines represent the wings
and the dot represents the nose of the aircraft. If the symbolic airplane dot is above the horizon line (more blue background) - the
aircraft is nose up. If the symbolic airplane dot is below the horizon line (more brown background) - the aircraft is nose down.
When the dot and wings are on the horizon line, you are in level flight. If the lines representing the wings roll to the left or the right,
the aircraft is probably starting a turn.
1.2 PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION
The RCA 2600 indicator is a direct reading instrument which provides a visual display of aircraft pitch and roll in reference to the
horizon. The instrument utilizes a series of accelerometers and complex mathematical formulas to determine pitch and roll. There
is no external inputs to the instrument. Refer to table 1.1 below for leading particulars. There are two basic models of the RCA
2600 Series; the RCA 2600-2 which is the 2” version and the RCA 2600-3 which is the 3” version.
OPERATING VOLTAGE.......................................................................................................................................... 9 to 32VDC
STARTING CURRENT............................................................................................................ 9VDC: 0.18 to 0.22 AMPs MAX
RUNNING CURRENT ......................................................................................(14VDC SYSTEM) ..................0.20 AMP MAX
(28VDC SYSTEM) ..................0.15 AMP MAX
CIRCUIT BREAKER SIZE............................................................................................................................................... 2 AMP
SETTLING ERROR........................................................................................................... 1º MAXIMUM IN ROLL AND PITCH
OPERATING TEMPERATURE RANGE.............................................................................................................-30º TO +50º C
MATING CONNECTOR ........................................................................................................MS3116E8-4S OR EQUIVALENT
WEIGHT ...........................................................................................................RCA2600-3 ........................................... 6.5 oz
RCA2600-2 ........................................... 4.5 oz
DIMENSIONS/PANEL CUTOUT....................................................................................................................... SEE FIGURE 1
EYE VIEWING ANGLE ENVELOPE....................................................................Horizontal Left and Right: 35° Left, 35° Right
Vertical Up and Down: 35° Up, 35° Down
Minimum distance from display surface: 6 inches
Maximum distance from display surface: 48 inches
FAA SPECIFICATION CONFORMANCE..........................................................TS0-C4c, TSO-C113, DO-160F and DO-178B
EASA SPECIFICATION CONFORMANCE................................................................................... ETSO-C4c and ETSOC-113
MEETS OR EXCEEDS ..........................................................................................................................AS8034A and AS396B
TABLE 1.1, LEADING PARTICULARS
KMC Publication No.1401-1
Rev C
Page 3 of 10
KMC
KELLY MANUFACTURING COMPANY
RCA 2600 Series Installation/Operation Guide
3.37
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Ø 0.170 THRU
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GROUND
9-32 VDC
SPARE
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3
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SPARE
PANEL CUTOUT
REAR MOUNTING
RCA2600-3
2.75
0.12
1.10
0.40
A
GROUND
9-32 VDC
SPARE
DIM
B
C
D
20
10
SPARE
2.40
10
20
30
D
C
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B
Ø 0.170 THRU
(4 PLACES)
0.928
(TYP)
DIM
NOTE
1.855
(TYP)
2
0
2.28
1
0
All dimensions in inches.
•
•
1
0
2
0
Mounting Hardware (both units)
3
0
6-32 screw - 0.5” plus panel thickness
Mating Connector (both units)
MS3116E8-4S or equivalent.
•
PANEL CUTOUT
REAR MOUNTING
RCA2600-2
Figure 1.1, General Dimensions
Page 4 of 10
KMC Publication No.1401-1
Rev C
KMC
RCA 2600 Series Installation/Operation Guide
KELLY MANUFACTURING COMPANY
1.3 DISPLAY FEATURES
See Figure 1.2 below for typical display features. RCA 2600-3 shown.
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ROLL POINTER
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3
ROLL DIAL
DIM
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PITCH DIAL
20
10
HORIZON LINE
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SYMBOLIC
AIRPLANE
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4
SLIP INDICATOR
Figure 1.2, Typical Display Features
1. ROLL POINTER
The Roll Pointer points to the degree of roll against the Roll Dial.
2. ROLL DIAL
The Roll Dial shows the degree of roll against the Roll Pointer.
3. HORIZON LINE
Indicates earth horizon relative to aircraft pitch and roll.
4. SLIP INDICATOR (Option available for the RCA2600-3 and RCA2600-2)
Also referred to as an Inclinometer, the Slip Indicator measures the relative strength of the force of gravity and the force of
inertia caused by a turn; thus indicating whether the aircraft is slipping or skidding.
5. SYMBOLIC AIRPLANE
Represents the orientation of the aircraft’s wings and nose in relation to the horizon. The dot represents the nose of the air-
craft and indicates Pitch. The wings indicate roll.
6. PITCH DIAL
Indicates the Pitch angle as determined by the Symbolic Airplane dot.
1.4 OPTIONS AND CONFIGURATIONS
For available options and configurations, refer to Table 1.2, below.
Panel Tilt Angle setting
Mating Connector
Slip Indicator
Set to customer requirements
MS3116E8-4S or equivalent
Optional add-on (order P/N 444-0010-01)
Standard Blue & Brown
Fixed
Color Scheme
Display pointer style
Power Flag
All models
Brightness Adjust
All models
Table 1.2, Options and Configurations
KMC Publication No.1401-1
Rev C
Page 5 of 10
KMC
KELLY MANUFACTURING COMPANY
RCA 2600 Series Installation/Operation Guide
SECTION 2, INSTALLATION
2.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
The conditions and test required for the TSO approval of this article are minimum performance standards. It is the responsibility of
those installing this article either on or within a specific type or class of aircraft to determine that the aircraft installation conditions
are within the TSO standards. TSO articles must have a separate approval for installation in an aircraft. The article may be installed
only if performed under 14CFR Part 43 or the applicable airworthiness requirements.
For certain classes of Part 23 aircraft level C of DO-178B certification may not be sufficient - check with your local regulatory
authority prior to installation.
2.2 HANDLING
Although the RCA 2600 Series instruments are totally electronic, improper handling can cause damage. Please observe the
following precautions while handling.
1. Do not drop, jar or shake instrument. Store instrument in shipping container until installation.
2. Instruments should be transported in the original shipping container when moved to and from aircraft. If container is not
available, carefully carry by hand in upright position.
3. Avoid touching the screen. This is the most vulnerable part of the instrument. Improper handling and cleaning can cause
permanent scratching of the screen surface (See Instrument Care on Page 8).
4. To prevent further damage, a malfunctioning instrument should be handled as carefully as a new instrument. Most mal-
functioning instruments can be repaired and returned to service. Contact Kelly Manufacturing Company for repair and
warranty information.
2.3 PRE-INSTALLATION INSPECTION
1. When the instrument is first received, inspect container for any shipping damage.
2. Carefully remove the instrument from shipping container and retain container for later storage or shipping.
3. Inspect the instrument for any signs of damage. Contact your Shipper to file any claim due to shipping damage.
4. Check labeling on the instrument to assure that the instrument panel tilt angle is correct for your aircraft.
2.4 INSTALLATION
Install the instrument on the aircraft by using the aircraft manufacturer’s recommendations and by the following steps:
1. The RCA 2600 Series Horizon uses standard panel cutouts. Refer to figure 1.1 “General Dimensions” for instrument
and cutout dimensions.
2. Instrument Pinout is: A = GND, B = PWR, C = SPARE, D = SPARE. Pinout information may also be found on the
back of the instrument. See table 1.1 “Leading Particulars” for additional electrical information.
3. Attach aircraft electrical connector to the instrument and insert into the instrument panel cutout.
4. Secure instrument with user supplied screws. Use 6-32 UNC-2b screws or equivalent. Screw length should not
exceed .5 inches plus bezel and panel thickness. Do not tighten.
5. With the aircraft on level surface, apply power to the instrument and allow it to warm up for 3 minutes.
6. Adjust roll position of the instrument by visually aligning the symbolic airplane with the horizon line as indicated
on the instrument and tighten screws.
-WARNING-
Do Not modify the instrument in any way. Any modifications will void the warranty and revoke the FAA
certifications. This includes, but is not limited to, actions such as enlarging the mounting holes.
Page 6 of 10
KMC Publication No.1401-1
Rev C
KMC
RCA 2600 Series Installation/Operation Guide
KELLY MANUFACTURING COMPANY
SECTION 3, OPERATION GUIDE
3.1 PRE-FLIGHT PROCEDURES
During pre-flight procedures, the instrument must be provided with adequate electrical power under normal vibration conditions
(engine running). A red “X” appears across the screen indicating that the instrument is booting up. When the X disappears, the
instrument is ready. The startup process should be completed within three minutes.
NOTE
On tail-dragger aircraft, the indicator will not show as level until after achieving level flight. No adjustment are
necessary when level flight is achieved.
3.2 IN-FLIGHT PROCEDURES
In flight, you do not need to cage the unit as you would a mechanical gyro. It will indicate accurately at all times. You may adjust the
screen brightness (DIM button) at any time (See figure 3.1 for dimming controls). Press and hold up or down button until you reach
desired brightness and release. Press both buttons simultaneously to reset to factory default setting.
DIMMER
DOWN
UP
DIMMER
DOWN UP
DIM
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DIM
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30
10
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RCA 2600-2
RCA 2600-3
Figure 3.1, Dimming Controls
3.3 FLIGHT LIMITATIONS
There are no flight limitations to the RCA 2600 Series horizon. The instrument will operate in a full 360 degrees of turn and may be
used in light aerobatic type maneuvers.
Extreme turns may cause the instrument display to temporarily disable itself. This is indicated by a red “X” across the screen and
an “Exceed Bank Angle” warning notice at the bottom of the screen. The instrument should automatically reset the display within
3 to 10 seconds. This situation is due to the speed the processor repaints the display. The attitude sensors are not affected so it is
not necessary to level the aircraft while the display resets. Unlike mechanical gyros, extreme maneuvers will not cause any harm to
the instrument.
3.4 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
In the rare event that your RCA 2600 does not reset itself, you will need to pull power to the unit and reset the circuit breaker. This
will restart the unit and you can continue on without damage to the unit. You do not need to be flying level while the unit resets.
In a low voltage situation, the RCA 2600 will show a “Low Voltage” warning notice at the bottom of the screen. This notice will
appear when the voltage goes below 11 volts. This notice will also indicated the amount of voltage the instrument is receiving. At
8.5 volts, a red “X” will appear across the screen indicating that the instrument reading is unreliable.
It is recommended that you install the Kelly Manufacturing ESP-1 (Emergency Standby Power) backup battery unit. This will
ensure that your instrument will have power in the event of Aircraft power failure. Contact your R.C. Allen/Kelly Mfg. distributor for
additional information about this product.
KMC Publication No.1401-1
Rev C
Page 7 of 10
KMC
KELLY MANUFACTURING COMPANY
RCA 2600 Series Installation/Operation Guide
SECTION 4, GENERAL INFORMATION
4.1 Instrument Care
The most easily damaged part of your instrument is the screen. Special care should be taken when cleaning the screen to prevent
scratches and other damage. Avoid touching the screen at all times.
To clean light spots and dust, use a soft, lint free cotton cloth slightly moistened with distilled water.
For harder to clean spots, use a 50/50 solution of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. Vinegar may also be used in a 50% solution
with water. You may also use cleaners approved for LCD TV’s and laptop computer screens.
Always apply the cleaner to the cloth and not the screen.
-CAUTION-
● Do Not use paper towels, facial tissue or napkins. These products are made from recycled paper and
may contain metals and wood chips that will scratch the screen.
● Do Not use acetone or cleaners containing ammonia.
By avoiding all screen contact and by using proper cleaning methods, the user will be rewarded with many years of service.
4.2 OPTIONAL SLIP INDICATOR
An optional Slip/Skid Indicator (inclinometer)is available for the RCA2600-3 and RCA2600-2. The inclinometer can be purchased
with the slip indicator at time of purchase or separately installed by the user (part number 444-0010-01). The addition of an incli-
nometer satisfies the requirements for FAA’s AC 91-75. The slip indicator may be attached before or after the instrument has been
installed in the aircraft.
INSTALLATION
1. Apply power to the instrument to assure that it reads level in pitch and roll.
2. Remove two screws on the face of the instrument.
3. Align Inclinometer with holes and replace screws. Do not tighten.
4. Adjust the Inclinometer until the bubble is centered and tighten screws just enough to secure Inclinometer. Do not
over tighten.
SLIP INDICATOR
SCREWS
DIM
Figure 4.1, Inclinometer Installation
Page 8 of 10
KMC Publication No.1401-1
Rev C
KMC
RCA 2600 Series Installation/Operation Guide
KELLY MANUFACTURING COMPANY
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should my Digital Horizon last?
There isn’t a good answer for this question. There are no moving parts in the RCA 2600 so there isn’t anything to wear out. The
RCA 2600 should give hundreds of hours of trouble free operation.
At what voltage level will my Digital Horizon become unreliable?
Unlike mechanical horizons, the RCA 2600 doesn’t have a rotor that is affected by voltage. The RCA 2600 will be reliable from 9 to
32VDC.
My instrument is showing a climb/dive, what can I do?
You can check your aircraft owner’s manual or contact the aircraft manufacturer to determine if your aircraft’s instrument panel
is tilted (pitched fore and aft). The tilt angle is any deviation from vertical of your instrument panel in level flight. Your instrument
needs to be calibrated to compensate for this angle.
My instrument is showing a turn in level flight, what can I do?
It is very important to have the instrument level (left and right) in your panel. If the instrument is not level, it will show a turn when
in level flight. To level the instrument place an “L” bubble level on the lip of the bezel at the bottom of the glass and adjust the
instrument until the bubble is centered.
How do I get my instrument repaired?
For any overhaul or repair questions you can contact Kelly Manufacturing Company. Our Service Center can repair or refurbish
any R.C. Allen instrument. The only thing really required is information. You can send us your instrument with a letter giving us your
name, return shipping address, phone number and a brief description of what is wrong with the instrument or download a form from
the Support page on our web site at: kellymfg.com/support.html.
Email us for more information: [email protected].
Or, Visit our Web Site: kellymfg.com
KMC Publication No.1401-1
Rev C
Page 9 of 10
KMC
KELLY MANUFACTURING COMPANY
RCA 2600 Series Installation/Operation Guide
APPENDIX A
DO-160F Environmental Qualification Form
NOMENCLATURE: ELECTRIC DIGITAL HORIZON
MODEL NUMBER: RCA2600-series
TSO NUMBER: C4c & C113
MANUFACTURERS SPECIFICATIONS: STP 1151 Rev. L (1/15/1996)
MANUFACTURER: Kelly Manufacturing Company
ADDRESS: 555 S. Topeka, Wichita, KS 67202
REVISION & CHANGE NUMBER OF DO-160: Rev. F dated 12/6/07
DATES TESTED: 9/08 – 5/11
CONDITIONS
SECTION
DESCRIPTION OF TESTS CONDUCTED
Temperature and Altitude
Low Temperature
High Temperature
Altitude
4.0
4.5.1
4.5.2 & 4.5.3
4.6.1
Equipment tested to Category D1
Temperature Variation
Humidity
5.0
6.0
Equipment tested to Category C
Equipment tested to Category A
Operational Shocks and Crash Safety
Vibration
Explosive Atmosphere
Waterproofness
Fluids Susceptibility
Sand and Dust
Fungus
Salt Fog Test
Magnetic Effect
Power Input
Voltage Spike
7.0
8.0
9.0
Equipment tested to Category B
Equipment tested to Category U2 curve F & F1
Equipment identified as category X, no test performed
Equipment identified as category X, no test performed
Equipment identified as category X, no test performed
Equipment identified as category X, no test performed
Equipment identified as category X, no test performed
Equipment identified as category X, no test performed
Equipment tested to Category Z
Equipment tested to Category BRX
Equipment tested to Category A
Equipment tested to Category Z
Equipment tested to Category ZC
10.0
11.0
12.0
13.0
14.0
15.0
16.0
17.0
18.0
19.0
Audio Frequency Susceptibility
Induced Signal Susceptibility
Radio Frequency Susceptibility
(Radiated and Conducted)
Emissions of Radio Frequency Energy
Equipment tested for Radiated Susceptibility to Category T
Equipment tested for Conducted Susceptibility to Category T
Equipment tested to Category M
20.0
21.0
Equipment tested to
Pin Injection Test: Waveform A, Level 3
Cable Bundle Test: Waveform C, Level 3
Multiple Burst: no test performed (X)
[A3C3X]
Lightning Induced Transient
Susceptibility
22.0
Lightning Direct Effects
Icing
Electrostatic Discharge
Fire, Flammability
23.0
24.0
25.0
26.0
Equipment identified as category X, no test performed
Equipment identified as category X, no test performed
Equipment tested to Category A
Equipment identified as category X, no test performed
REMARKS
.
In the power input test, equipment was tested to subparagraph 16.5.1.4 b, requirement for equipment with digital
circuits
Page 10 of 10
KMC Publication No.1401-1
Rev C
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