tedbear - 3/23/2008 07:10

It is my understanding that the 500 power situation will not change. It is a function of the design layout rather than just a firmware situation. I doubt if the button pushing force will change either. Possibly these changes will occur as "old" stock gets used up.

My personal 500 is hardwired in and is powered via a rocker switch. Turning ON the rocker switch feeds power to both the 500 and also the Autopilot so they can be left OFF if not needed.

We have also used the other idea mentioned of cutting the lighter plug off and replacing it with a two pole weatherpak pair. This allows maximum flexiblilty in that the lighter plug can be reattached for temporary use if desired. By unplugging the lighter stub and replacing it with a two pole mate the unit can be more directly attached to other vehicles.