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I've used a couple different brands of cellular switch to run my pre-heat over the years, both failed when the on circuit board relays stopped working, and no, they weren't overloaded.
I came across a different product, from FSTllc ( www.fstllc.com ) that looks a little more hardy.
It is available through Spruce: https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/pspages/uphoneit11-13671.php?clickkey=1958166
This is an all metal construction, 1700 watts capacity, and easy to see (even in daylight) power indicators for both outlets. Inside it has the typical cell switch board, but unique to this product, it uses stand free industrial relays. The on circuit board relays remain as a low current circuit driving the main relays. It comes supplied with a remote antenna, as well as the usual stubby. $385.
They also offer a slightly lower cost ($307), plastic construction & lower capacity unit without the off board relays, but I think the Pro is worth the extra few bucks.
I spoke several times with the proprietor, and like any good successful businessman he was quite reachable, informative and accommodating.
The unit is supplied with an AT&T pay as go card, which costs you $4/mo, or they can manage your card service for $80/yr, if you don't want to be bothered by the refills.
That pay as you go service, will not work in Canada, but a Canadian Fido GSM SIM, from any mall outlet or Fido store, works just fine. I use their $100/yr unlimited texting plan. (yes we get hosed for our telecom here). A Roger's SIM would work as well, but they don't have any plans that make economic sense.
So, I'm all fixed up! Been using the box for a bit now, and it works like a champ. FST does provide an app, but I prefer just using the raw texts back and forth.
If you have reliable internet in your hangar, just get one of the any number of the low cost internet switches, but if not, this may be just the unit to consider.
* Orest
I came across a different product, from FSTllc ( www.fstllc.com ) that looks a little more hardy.
It is available through Spruce: https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/pspages/uphoneit11-13671.php?clickkey=1958166
This is an all metal construction, 1700 watts capacity, and easy to see (even in daylight) power indicators for both outlets. Inside it has the typical cell switch board, but unique to this product, it uses stand free industrial relays. The on circuit board relays remain as a low current circuit driving the main relays. It comes supplied with a remote antenna, as well as the usual stubby. $385.
They also offer a slightly lower cost ($307), plastic construction & lower capacity unit without the off board relays, but I think the Pro is worth the extra few bucks.
I spoke several times with the proprietor, and like any good successful businessman he was quite reachable, informative and accommodating.
The unit is supplied with an AT&T pay as go card, which costs you $4/mo, or they can manage your card service for $80/yr, if you don't want to be bothered by the refills.
That pay as you go service, will not work in Canada, but a Canadian Fido GSM SIM, from any mall outlet or Fido store, works just fine. I use their $100/yr unlimited texting plan. (yes we get hosed for our telecom here). A Roger's SIM would work as well, but they don't have any plans that make economic sense.
So, I'm all fixed up! Been using the box for a bit now, and it works like a champ. FST does provide an app, but I prefer just using the raw texts back and forth.
If you have reliable internet in your hangar, just get one of the any number of the low cost internet switches, but if not, this may be just the unit to consider.
* Orest
