White Lightning SmartGPU
SKU:
Note: If your GPU is in-stock, it will ship within 48 hours. We do not offer same day shipping. Out-of-stock GPUs ship within two or three weeks.
Models with integrated Battery MINDer Battery Maintenance Chargers are coming soon but are not yet available. We anticipate these models being available before the end of March.
Smart, Safe, Convenient, Airframe Power
The White Lightning SmartGPU 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. Available in two models: a 3200W unit (114A @ 28 volts) and a 1500W unit (54A at 28 volts), both share a common chassis and feature set. 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. The SmartGPU mobile app allows the user to monitor the power draw from anywhere in the hangar, up to about 100 feet. With the Battery Maintenance Charging* option (BMC) the user may monitor and control charging from anywhere in the world via Wi-Fi.
- power avionics for flight planning, familiarization, and training
- update flight deck database and software
- troubleshooting and maintenance
- battery maintenance charging (on models equipped with the optional BatteryMINDer BMC)
Key Facts
- Provides up to 54A or 114A of 28V DC airframe power depending on model, to accommodate the needs of turboprop and business jet operators.
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi* enabled for remote monitoring and control.
- Graphical color display with large, highly readable digital volt/amp output.
- Universal, worldwide AC input compatible. (Note: included cables are for North American electrical service; appropriate cables must be purchased separately for other countries.)
- Rugged, heavy-gauge aircraft cable with AN2551 external power plug.
- USB ports for data downloads, firmware upgrades, and device charging.
- Programmable auto-shutdown timer to prevent inadvertent unattended GPU operation.
- Environmental temperature sensor – shows ambient air temperature inside an aircraft hangar.
* Wi-Fi functionality is associated with battery charging only. BatteryMINDer maintenance charger option is available integrated on purchase, or may be installed after purchase with a separate kit.
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Features
Ground Power
- Program and customize settings using your smartphone via Bluetooth.
- Use to preserve battery start capacity during pre-flight inspection, ensuring a cool start every time.
- Reliable, consistent power for avionics updates, flight planning, avionics training, and cabin ventilation.
- Use for aircraft maintenance and troubleshooting, while topping-off the battery.
GPU Details
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Color-coded, keyed output connection to prevent accidental voltage mismatch. RED designates 24/28 volt compatibility.
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Digital output meter shows voltage and amperage (load).
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Programmable auto-shutdown timer.
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Dual USB power ports for mobile device charging, and software updates.
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Auto protection and recovery from short circuit, reverse polarity, over voltage, overload and over-temperature.
Battery Maintenance
- The battery maintenance charger is available as an installed option or as a user-installed upgrade.
- With Wi-Fi connectivity, remotely monitor battery condition, charging stage, and hangar temperature in real time.
- Maintain optimum battery condition with continuous maintenance charging.
- Event logs (recording events such as power loss, charge modes, and battery tests) can be downloaded onto a USB drive.
Specs
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S28114 (114-amp model) Specifications
S28054 (54-amp model) Specifications
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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
White Lightning SmartGPU models provide 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 (with GPU)
- full time unattended battery care with BatteryMINDer technology (optional)
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the SmartGPU connect to my aircraft?
A: The SmartGPU includes a 8’ output cable with a 3-pin oval AN2551 plug that connects the GPU to the aircraft.
Q: Can I use the SmartGPU to charge my battery?
A: The built-in battery maintenance charger option (BMC) is available either integrated from the factory or as a separate easy-to-install kit (BMC24). Without this option, the SmartGPU 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 it is not recommended as a battery maintenance charger. 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 severely 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 with the integrated BatteryMINDer option. 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: 90-264 volts AC, 47-63 Hz. The AC cord supplied has a North American standard connector which can be adapted, or replaced with an appropriate cord, sourced locally.
Q: Can I use the SmartGPU to start an aircraft engine?
A: No, the SmartGPU is not adequate for piston or turbine engine starting and should be used for airframe systems power only.
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).
A: The screen on the GPU dims automatically after 15 minutes to preserve display longevity. Touching any of the keys restores brightness to the preset level. This key press is NOT accompanied by the usual audio acknowledgment.
Literature
Product Manual - 114-amp Model