Common Questions

Q. How does a Sage Variometer differ from other mechanical variometers?
A. The Sage Variometer uses a taut band and brass bellows to achieve a very high level of sensitivity.

Q. Why is the dial and needle set so far behind the glass?
A. The dial and needle must be set in the middle of the taut band for best performance.

Q. Why is the Sage Variometer preferred over other variometers by pilots around the world?
A. Because the Sage uses a taut band and bellows there is no mechanical friction to overcome therefore the variometer responds to the smallest lift

Q. Why would I want a fast variometer?
A. Any time delay in the instrument must be made up by the pilot with mental calculations as to the position of the strongest lift ideally we would have a variometer with no time lag .

Q. This variometer sounds very delicate is it damaged easily?
A. The Sage Variometer is rugged in most ways the most common damage is due to over pressure(ie. Blowing into the variometer or total energy line).

Q. Does the set back of the dial make it hard to view the variometer?
A. Not really most people mount the variometer at the top of the instrument panel in their line of sight. In this position you don’t notice the setback.

Q. What are the small numbers on the inside of the dial on the CV-CVA models?
A. The small numbers are for the 10 to 20 knot range, as the main needle sweeps up to 10 knots the other half of the needle is exposed and indicates on the small numbers on the inner dial.