Improved Capabilities of the New General Aviation Digital Autopilots

Digital autopilots are the final link in the introduction of digital avionics equipment to the general aviation market. Although previous analog autopilot systems generally provide excellent performance, digital systems possess many advantages not possible in general aviation analog autopilot systems. Digital autopilots, now available from various manufacturers, benefit from less weight, less cost, fewer wires, enhanced diagnostic capabilities, and enhanced performance. This paper explores these advantages using the Collins APS-85 as an example of an advanced general aviation digital autopilot.