Last update: June 2011 The Weight and Balance Spread Sheet Calculator available here is set
up with all the limiting values applicable to VH-IDT. It provides a fast and accurate method to swap fuel and
passenger/baggage loading to keep the aircraft loaded safely. There are 3 versions of the calculator available. For first time
users, it is suggested that you down load Wb4.xls and become familiar
with aircraft loading. This workbook also contains a spread sheet for
the 172N if operation in the Utility category is required. Utility
Category added
A third version known as Maxima.xls is available for advanced fuel,
load and flight planning. As its name suggests, it was developed to
help plan maximum range flights. Maxima.xls is more easily adapted to
suit other aircraft and is the only known 'aircraft adaptable' W&B
calculator that links fuel on board, fuel consumption and flight
planning. Any incorrect loading causing an out of limit situation is
flagged. Maxima.xls is available free of charge in the interests of GA safety
by contacting:
Maxima.xls is an advanced flight planning tool
and is recommended when it is required to fly the aircraft to its
maximum safe endurance. Ideally, the aircraft should possess a
calibrated fuel flow computer coupled to a GPS based device that
provides ground speed and distance to destination in NMEA
format on an RS232 port. VH IDT has a Garmin GPS compatible data lead
(The large 4 pin black plug) that interfaces most Garmin units with the
FS 450 fuel flow meter.
This series of actual
flight frames show the six FS 450 read-outs when connected to a 96C in
navigation mode. Note that without a GPS
connected and set up, only the first three read-outs on the top line
are displayed. The
Spreadsheets do not use macros - just formulas. To Down
Load Wb4.xls, Right
Click here and then select Save Link As
then specify a path to save the file. Once the file is
on your hard disk or even a floppy, you may run the
calculator without being connected to the
Internet. Note that when opening the calculator,
it will prompt you to open as Read Only. Answer Yes. When closing the
calculator, it will prompt you to Save Changes. Answer No, unless you
want to keep your data.
The Utility Workbook uses Circular References.
Read here if you need to turn this function on. You can down load Maxima.xls by substituting Maxima
for Wb4 in the down load link above. EMPTY WEIGHT UPDATED
JULY 2007