"Didn't you look outside?"

"Hell NO!! We had technology on our side!" said George with his most indignant walk returning to the office. This was after a few of the 1-26er's were debating how the "solar flairs" were disturbing the GPS signal.

They had not realized that they were backing up in the wave and that was the reason their Distance To was increasing even while they were pointed at it. Then when they turned around they got A LOT farther away and fast.

The technology has not changed enough from the original handheld Garmin's that we can replace looking outside.

However there are more NavBoxes and each new set of instruments has a larger list of options and details. All to attract you into determining that theirs is the best, because they can supply you with more information.

I have seen Oudie's completely covered in NavBoxes nearly eliminating the moving map feature. The worst part is it makes it nearly impossible to find the needed information quickly.

You must remember that the hawk that is thermalling or the small wisp of a cloud will always be better information then what is displayed inside the cockpit.

When setting up your Fight computer you need to ask yourself:

• Does this information help me fly faster?
• Is it just fun knowledge to have?
• What do I need to know to make the most efficient flight possible?

I make sure I keep myself looking outside. I hate to admit the first time I plugged my FLARM into the ClearNav, it was like starring at a fish-finder. (I thought my daughter got distracted by the TV, she had nothing on me.)

My ClearNav Setup

• I kept it very similar when flying with SeeYou mobile and Glide Navigator.
• Destination
• Distance
• Altitude Difference
• MC
• Track Error
• MSL Alt
• Total Time
• Pressure Alt (when flying FAI contests)I always have numbers with waypoints, especially important on MAT tasks.I also put my safety margin to 0. Then I require a positive number. If I set it at 1000 ft and I am 200 ft low,  I would probably keep going...while reading 200 ft low. I would rather it just read 800 ft over.An example of a distracting NavBox is Achieved Speed. Chances are someone is doing it faster and you are not across the finish line so it doesn't matter yet.

Banner Photo by Sebastian Kawa

Oudie 2 is a flight computer which aims to provide everything a glider pilot needs for navigation in one simple package. Connect it with on board 12V power supply and you are ready to fly.

Oudie 2 is shipped with all accessories and cables required including suction cup mounting for an easy install. Lifelong software updates are free ensuring your instrument is always up to date.

It is the obvious choice if you are looking for an affordable personal navigation device which will grow with you or wish to upgrade your cockpit with ease.

Oudie 2 comes pre–loaded with the proven Naviter software packages: SeeYou Mobile and ConnectMe, along with pre–installed worldwide vector maps, airspace and landing sites, plus the purchase price includes unlimited software upgrades for the lifetime of your device.

• With preloaded worldwide maps and airspace is easy to use and works right out of the box
• Color screen which remains easy to read even in bright sunlight
• Helps you find lift with the thermal assistant
• Portable and available to use in every aircraft you fly
• Instant situational awareness at a glance
• Has all features that help you win competitions
• Exceptional customer support

 Garret Willat holds a flight instructor rating with over 8000 hours in sailplanes. His parents have owned Sky Sailing Inc. since 1979. He started instructing the day after his 18th birthday. Since then, Garret has represented the US Junior team in 2003 and 2005. He graduated from Embry-Riddle with a bachelor's degree in Professional Aeronautics. Garret represented the US Open Class team in 2008 and 2010 and the Club Class team in 2014. Garret has won 3 US National Championships.