Optional: AOA Indexer LEDs¶
The AOA indexer is a NeoPixel LED strip that provides a visual AOA indication — colored lights that change based on your angle of attack. It supplements the audio tones with a visual reference.
When You'd Want One¶
- Training: Helps new OnSpeed users correlate tones with AOA during initial flights
- Passengers: Gives non-pilots a visual indication of flight state
- Backup: Visual indication if audio is muted or you're wearing noise-canceling headphones
- Glare shield mount: A row of colored LEDs at the top of the panel is easy to see in peripheral vision
Hardware¶
- NeoPixel LED strip or bar — WS2812B or compatible addressable RGB LEDs
- Data pin: Connected to the NeoPixel data input on the controller
- Power: 5V from the controller (for small strips; larger strips may need separate 5V supply)
- Ground: Shared ground with the controller
Wiring¶
- Connect the NeoPixel data in to the controller's NeoPixel output pin
- Connect 5V and GND from the controller to the LED strip
- For strips longer than a few LEDs, add a 300–500 ohm resistor on the data line near the first LED
- Keep the data wire short — long data lines can cause signal issues with NeoPixels
Mounting¶
Common mounting locations:
- Glare shield top edge — visible in peripheral vision during approach
- Panel edge — near the top of the instrument panel
- Glareshield underside — less visible but less distracting
Use the LED strip's adhesive backing or small screws/brackets to secure it.
Color Scheme¶
The indexer LEDs display colors corresponding to AOA regions:
| AOA Region | Color | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Fast | Green | Well above approach speed |
| Approaching | Yellow | Approaching on-speed band |
| On Speed | Blue/White | Target approach speed |
| Slow | Red | Below target, getting slow |
| Stall | Flashing Red | Stall warning |