50-amp 28-volt GPU with 3-pin Oval Plug (M2850)

The M2850 Mini-GPU is a specialized switching-mode power supply designed to provide pilots and aviation maintenance professionals with a portable, affordable source of stable, high-current, noise-free DC power that replicates the in-flight electrical environment. Its rated output is 28-volts up to 50-amps (approximately 1500 watts). The GPU’s intended purpose is to energize an aircraft’s main electrical bus without using the ship’s battery or engine. It will safely provide continuous power for the most delicate electronics and airframe systems up to its full rated output.

• power avionics for flight planning, familiarization, and training
• update flight deck database and software
• troubleshooting and maintenance

• Color-coded, keyed SB-50 type output connection to prevent accidental voltage mismatch. RED designates 24/28 volt compatibility.

• Digital output meter shows voltage and amperage (load)

• Front panel status indicator LED

• Programmable auto-shutdown timer and dual USB power ports for mobile device charging

• QuietFilteredTM output for interference-free COM radio operation

• Auto protection/recovery from short circuit, reverse polarity, over voltage/load/temperature

Specs

Specifications

• Input Voltage: Universal 90-264 volts AC, 47-63 Hz
• Input Current: 17A @ 115 volts AC
• Input Protection: 20A circuit breaker, cycle ON/OFF to reset
• Output: 28.50 +/- 0.25 VDC, 50 amps max cont.
• Output Cable: 4 AWG, SB-50 to 3-pin oval AN2551 (NATO)
• Chassis Dimensions: 6.4” H x 5.32” W x 14.63” L
• Carry Weight w/cables: 17 lbs
• Carton Dimensions: 10” H x 10” W x 18” L
• Shipping Weight: 18.3 lbs

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER & OPERATING LIMITATIONS

Audio Authority® authorizes this device for use ONLY by aviation professionals, such as licensed pilots and maintenance technicians, knowledgeable about their aircraft electrical system and batteries. The operational concepts, recommendations, and instructions presented in our manuals are necessarily general and make assumptions that do not apply to every aircraft, and may not be correct for your particular aircraft. Incorrect use of this device has the potential to damage the GPU and/or aircraft components. It is the operator’s responsibility to read completely and fully understand the included manual, plus those sections of the Aircraft Flight Manual and Maintenance Manual that pertain to their aircraft’s electrical system design, to determine the appropriate use of this, or any, external power source. If you cannot do this, do not use this product. Instead, consult the airframe manufacturer or a technician familiar with your specific aircraft type and configuration before connecting the GPU to your aircraft.

Applications

The Model M2827 provides 28-volt DC power for:

• avionics demonstration and testing
• database and firmware updates 
• flight planning and cockpit procedures training 
• troubleshooting and maintenance  
• powered pre-flight inspections and battery top-off charging

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use the M2850 to start an aircraft engine?

A: No, the M2827 GPU is not adequate for piston or turbine engine starting and should be used for airframe systems power only. 

Q: How does the M2850 connect to my aircraft?

A: The Model M2850 Mini-GPU includes a 6’ output cable with a 3-pin oval AN2551 plug that connects the GPU to the aircraft. 

Q: Can I use the M2850 to charge my battery?

A: The Model M2850 Mini-GPU is not designed for long-term battery charging. It has no circuitry for monitoring the battery’s state of charge or determining the precise charging voltage for various battery conditions and ambient temperature. So, the general answer is no. However, for short periods of time (an hour or two), the GPU’s output can be used to “top-off” the charge of a battery that is NOT serverely discharged. This is particularly useful during a powered preflight, allowing the pilot to take his/her time to check every airframe system and lights for proper operation without depleting the starting battery. 

To optimize battery capacity and reliability, we highly recommend full-time, maintenance charging desulfation, and recovery. Our preference is the aviation-specific BatteryMINDer products by VDC Electronics. The BatteryMINDer is designed to remain connected for long periods of time, and will never overcharge or damage your battery.

Q: Does the GPU work outside North America?

A: Yes, the input voltage and frequency ranges are very wide and universal for worldwide operation: 85-264 VAC, 47-63 Hz. The AC cord supplied is a North American grounded 5-15P to C19, 12GA, which can be adapted, or replaced with an appropriate cord, sourced locally.

Q:  Is it okay to use White Lightning™ (Enhanced Flight™) GPUs with a lithium ion or nickel-cadmium battery in the aircraft?

A: White Lightning™ GPU products are designed to power the airframe electrical system for routine maintenance and pre-flight checks without starting the engine or depleting the ship's battery. A charged aircraft battery of any chemistry may be safely used. If the ship's battery is not fully charged, follow the battery Original Equipment Manufacturer’s (OEM) instructions to charge the battery prior to connecting any ground power unit. Note: It is the operator's responsibility to verify that the rated output voltage and current of the GPU does not exceed the maximum charging rate and voltage of the ship's battery. Connecting a discharged battery may cause the GPU to engage its internal protection (see Troubleshooting).

Literature

Manuals

M2850 Manual - 351.24 KiB Mini Ground Power Unit Manual. Revised Aug. 24, 2022