fxc's

[Scoop 0]

OK sorry to resurrect old thread but don't want to be told to 'use the search function'

My question is...

If the issue with FXCs is that they are not accurate enough for sport skydiving and need to have canopy above your head at sensible altitude, what is the problem with just ensuring you have a canopy above your head at a sensible altitude. Think I read accurate to 500 feet. If was set at say 1500 feet, would there be a problem if was deploying at say 3500 feet or even 3000? My thoughts are that I only need AAD until B licence and then it can go in bin. Appreciate that if I go abroad I will need one, but I'd probably look at renting as opposed to buying as the times I travel abroad will be limited.

[phoenixlpr 0]

Hi,

You'd rather forget FXC for sport gear. FXC is not as accurate as modern electronic AADs and its really hard to maintain: it has to be tested in a pressure chamber annually and after every activation too.

[riggerrob 643]

Used FXC 12000 AADs can be bought for $200 or $300, about the same price as a ten-year old Cypres.
Riggers are rapidly forgetting how to maintain FXCs - if they even had test chambers to begin with.
Hee!
Hee!
The other issue is compatiblity. Most containers built during the last ten years have Cypres pockets sewn into them at the factory, while FXC retrofits are complex installations rarely seen outside of student rigs.
The bottom line is that you are better off with a ten year old Cypres.

[teason 0]

Another consideration is the amount of pack volume the thing takes up. It's a real pain to move bulk around if you have a square reserve.

You also have to make sure it is in date. The 12000j needs factory servicing every 2 years. It's printed on the unit. A two year runs about $125+.

I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet.

[mjosparky 4]

  Quote

The 12000j needs factory servicing every 2 years. It's printed on the unit. A two year runs about $125+.

Attached is look at what a pain in the ass an FXC can be.

My idea of a fair fight is clubbing baby seals

[riggerrob 643]

Try stowing all the lines in half the width of the line stow pocket.
That helps distribute bulk.
The other method is to follow the NARO manual by packing 4 cells in one side of the freebag and 3 cells in the same side as the FXC.

[teason 0]

Cheers Rob, I have one coming in soon!

I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet.