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The app “calca-Plus” is the logical extension of “calca-Elec.” By evaluating a voltage sensor, optionally also a current sensor, exciting new possibilities arise:
- Any battery charge level (also at the beginning of the flight)
- Simpler setup through learning mode
- Increased safety, even with incorrect configuration
- Calculated battery temperature (currently only indicated)
- Automatic suggestion for correction
In the above screenshot, the main window is on the left, and the optional information window is on the right. In the top line of the main window, the remaining capacity in percentage, as well as the calculated consumed mAh, are displayed. On the second line, the calculated average cell voltage is shown, and to the right of it, the position of the throttle is indicated in percentage. At the bottom, there are details about the battery, including C-rate. Within parentheses, there’s a suggestion for possible correction. On the far right, the calculated battery temperature is displayed (currently somewhat imprecise!).
In the optional information window on the right, the chosen limits are presented, and in the right column, a few details are provided. “rawV” represents the measured average cell voltage, “calcV” indicates the voltage corresponding to the current state of charge, and “cRate” denotes the calculated c-rate of the drive system with the chosen battery.
The displayed cell voltage (here 4.15 volts) is a calculated value. The value provided by a voltage sensor is corrected, for instance, to account for drops due to high current draw. This is possible thanks to the underlying calca-Elec. It’s also considered that the battery recovers somewhat after a while. The displayed voltage should correspond to the value one would measure on a battery a few hours after use.
Installation
The basic installation is the same for all calca apps and is described here. Those who want to learn more about calca-Elec, the foundation of calca-Plus, can access a comprehensive description at calca-Elec.
As a voltage sensor, I like to use the small PBS-V60 from Powerbox Systems. It’s lightweight and can be installed in virtually all aircraft.