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Prerequisites
- SkyView display with SV-BAT-320 installed and connected via SV-HARNESS-D37
- Access to aircraft electrical system and master switch
- Aircraft battery charger, or external power option (for ground charging, if required)
- SkyView software v15.0 or later (recommended for optimal charging algorithm)
Understanding SV-BAT-320 Charging Requirements
Automatic Charging Voltage Threshold
The SV-BAT-320 requires a minimum input voltage of 12.25V at the SkyView display to initiate and maintain charging. This threshold ensures the backup battery only charges when adequate power is available:
- Above 12.25V: Battery charges normally (typical during engine operation with alternator/generator running)
- Below 12.25V: Battery does not charge (prevents excessive aircraft battery discharge when engine is not running)
- Full charge voltage: Battery is fully charged when it reaches 12.25V
- Charging time: Up to 4 hours to fully charge a completely discharged battery
Automatic In-Flight Charging
During normal flight operations, the SV-BAT-320 charges automatically when the engine is running and the alternator or generator is active. The SkyView display manages charging automatically with no pilot intervention required. Typical input voltage during engine operation is approximately 14V (12V systems) or 28V (24V systems).
Monitoring Battery Charging Status
Method 1: Display Hardware Information (Recommended for Monitoring Input Voltage)
SETUP MENU > LOCAL DISPLAY SETUP > DISPLAY HARDWARE INFORMATION
This page displays:
- VOLTAGE: Current input voltage directly to the SkyView display input (must be >12.25V for charging)
- BATTERY STATUS: Current battery voltage (e.g., 11.84V)
- CHARGE STATUS: Current charging state (CHARGING, DISCHARGING, CHARGED, STANDBY, MISSING/FAULT)
Figure 1: Display Hardware Information - Not Charging Example
Note: When VOLTAGE shows below 12.25V, CHARGE STATUS will display STANDBY instead of CHARGING when external power is still present.
Method 2: Battery Backup (SV-BAT-320) Status (Recommended for Test History and Detailed Status)
SETUP MENU > LOCAL DISPLAY SETUP > BATTERY BACKUP (SV-BAT-320) STATUS
This page provides comprehensive battery status including:
- BATTERY CONNECTED (BATTERY DETECTED): YES / NO (automatically set when battery is installed)
- LAST BATTERY SHUTDOWN: NORMAL / ABNORMAL / WEAK BATTERY
- DATE OF LAST TEST: UNTESTED / MM-DD-YYYY
- TEST RESULT: PASS / FAIL status with details
- BATTERY STATUS: Current voltage
- CHARGE STATUS: CHARGING | DISCHARGING | CHARGED | STANDBY | FAULT/MISSING
⚠️ LAST BATTERY SHUTDOWN STATUS MEANINGS:
- NORMAL: Last shutdown occurred properly
- ABNORMAL: Last shutdown did not happen normally (investigate cause)
- WEAK BATTERY: SkyView detected low battery voltage during last shutdown. Battery may be discharged or require replacement. If this occurs repeatedly, SkyView will annunciate a warning.
Battery Status Icons
Battery status is indicated by icons displayed immediately to the left of the clock in the center of the top bar. Each display in a multi-display system has its own individual battery status icon.
No Icon Displayed
Indicates normal battery status with all of the following conditions met:
- Battery is connected and has completed initial testing
- Annual test is not yet due
- Last three automatic battery self-checks were normal (performed during 30-second power-down countdown)
Figure 2: Battery Status Icons
Needs Test Icon (Yellow Battery Icon with White Exclamation Point)
SkyView has determined the battery requires manual testing because:
- It has been one year since last battery test (annual test due), OR
- The 30-second automatic battery self-check failed to complete properly at least 3 consecutive times
Fault/Test Failed Icon (Grey Battery with Red X)
A battery fault has been detected due to one of the following:
- Battery is no longer connected
- Battery test has failed (see Test Result Failure Codes below)
Charging the SV-BAT-320 on the Ground
When Ground Charging is Required
Ground charging may be necessary in the following situations:
- Initial installation of new SV-BAT-320
- After battery has been in storage for extended periods
- Battery has entered protection mode due to very low state of charge
- After conducting battery tests
- Aircraft will not be flown for extended periods
- During aircraft construction before first flight
Ground Charging Requirements
To charge an SV-BAT-320 on the ground, the following conditions must be met:
-
Aircraft Battery Charger Capacity (12V systems):
- Minimum 5 amps (5A) per SkyView display being charged
- +10A total if charging two or more displays with SV-BAT-320s simultaneously
-
Aircraft Battery Charger Capacity (24V systems):
- Minimum 2.5 amps per SkyView display being charged
- +5A total if charging two or more displays simultaneously
-
Voltage Under Load:
- Battery charger must maintain at least 13V to the aircraft electrical system under full load (5A draw)
- This ensures the SkyView display receives at least 12.25V after voltage drops in the electrical system
-
SkyView Display Status:
- Display must be powered ON and fully booted up
- SkyView software actively monitors and controls charging
- Battery will NOT charge if display is powered off
-
Charging Duration:
- May require up to 4 hours to fully charge a completely discharged battery
- Monitor CHARGE STATUS in Display Hardware Information to track progress
Ground Charging Procedure
- Connect aircraft battery charger to aircraft battery (ensure charger meets capacity and voltage requirements above)
- Or connect aircraft to external power source if available
- Turn aircraft master switch ON
- Power up SkyView display and allow it to fully boot
-
Verify charging is occurring:
SETUP MENU > LOCAL DISPLAY SETUP > DISPLAY HARDWARE INFORMATION Verify: VOLTAGE shows greater than 12.25V Verify: CHARGE STATUS shows CHARGING (not STANDBY)
- Leave system powered on for up to 4 hours or until CHARGE STATUS shows CHARGED
- Monitor BATTERY STATUS voltage - fully charged when voltage reaches 12.25V
Battery Testing Requirements and Procedures
When Battery Testing is Required
- Initial Test: Required after first installation of SV-BAT-320
- Annual Test: Required every 12 months from date of last successful test
- After Repeated Self-Check Failures: When automatic 30-second self-checks fail 3 consecutive times
- BATTERY TEST NEEDED Alert: When SkyView displays the alert message or battery icon
Figure 3: Battery Test Needed Alert Message
Note: This alert appears both on startup and in the Alerts section (Button 8)
Pre-Test Requirements
Battery Test Procedure (Initial and Annual)
This procedure applies to both initial testing after installation and annual testing. If your system has multiple SkyView displays with SV-BAT-320 batteries, perform this test individually on each display.
- Ensure Battery is Fully Charged: Reference the charging procedures above and verify CHARGE STATUS shows CHARGED before proceeding
-
Power Up Display Being Tested:
- Apply aircraft power via master switch
- If multiple displays share a single power switch/breaker, power down other displays by pressing and holding Button 1 (HOLD TO POWER DOWN) on displays NOT being tested
-
Remove Power to Display Being Tested:
- Turn OFF aircraft master switch, or
- If other displays need to remain powered, pull the circuit breaker on the displayed needing test
- The 30-second power-down countdown will begin
-
Initiate Battery Test:
- During the 30-second countdown, press the
TEST BATbutton above Button 8 (far right) - The BATTERY TEST screen will appear
- During the 30-second countdown, press the
Figure 4: TEST BAT Button Location
Note: TEST BAT button only appears during the 30-second power-down countdown after removing power
Figure 5: Battery Test in Progress
-
Monitor Test Progress:
- The BATTERY TEST screen displays elapsed time and battery voltage
- Test must run for minimum of 45 minutes to pass
- Do not interfere with the display during testing
- Test can be aborted by pressing
PWR OFFbutton if necessary
-
Test Completion:
- Display will automatically power off when test completes (pass or fail)
- Total test duration is typically 60+ minutes for healthy battery
-
Verify Test Results:
Power up the display SETUP MENU > LOCAL DISPLAY SETUP > BATTERY BACKUP (SV-BAT-320) STATUS Review: TEST RESULT field Verify: TEST RESULT shows "PASS BATT LIFE 45 MIN" Note: DATE OF LAST TEST will be updated to current date
-
Recharge Battery After Test:
- Battery test fully discharges the SV-BAT-320
- Recharge immediately after test completion
- Charge by flying approximately 4 hours with engine running, OR
- Use ground charging procedure described above
- Repeat for Additional Displays: If you have multiple displays with SV-BAT-320 batteries, repeat entire procedure for each display individually (You can test each display simultaneously)
Understanding Test Results
Passing Test Results
- PASS BATT LIFE 45 MIN: Battery successfully powered the display for more than 45 minutes and is functioning properly
- DATE OF LAST TEST updates to current date
- Battery test needed icon/alert will be cleared
- Next annual test due in 12 months
Failing Test Results
| Test Result | Meaning | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| FAIL: VOLTAGE DROP TOO HIGH | Battery voltage dropped excessively during test, indicating internal resistance or cell degradation | Battery likely needs replacement. Contact Dynon Technical Support. |
| FAIL: LASTED xx MINS | Battery depleted before reaching 45-minute minimum (where xx is actual time lasted) | Battery not fully charged before test, or battery capacity insufficient. Contact Dynon Technical Support. |
Out-of-Warranty Test Failures
If an SV-BAT-320 fails testing and is no longer under warranty:
- Purchase a new SV-BAT-320 from Dynon or authorized dealer
- SV-BAT-320 batteries cannot be repaired or rebuilt
- Dispose of failed battery responsibly (see Disposal Guidelines below)
Automatic Battery Self-Checks
SkyView performs automatic 30-second battery self-checks every time master power is removed on the ground (after flight) during the normal power-down countdown. These self-checks:
- Verify battery connection and basic functionality
- Do not fully discharge the battery (unlike manual tests)
- Occur automatically with no pilot action required
- Results are stored and monitored by SkyView
If automatic self-checks fail 3 consecutive times, SkyView will display the battery test needed icon and require a manual battery test to be performed.
Troubleshooting Battery and Testing Issues
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| TEST BAT button greyed out | Airspeed reading is present on system, display believes its in motion | This is a common issue if the ZERO PRESSURE IAS/AOA CALIBRATION needs to be run to reset the zero airspeed calibration. |
| TEST BAT button is pressed and screen goes blank with small [x] | Reversion mode bug with multiple displays | Battery test never actually begins. Display continues to run and drain power until battery is depleted. Follow steps outlined in section below. |
| CHARGE STATUS shows DISCHARGING during flight with engine running | Aircraft alternator/generator not producing adequate voltage, or excessive voltage drop in wiring | Check Display Hardware Information VOLTAGE field. Must show 12.25V for charging. Verify alternator/generator operation. Check for voltage drops in power wiring to display. |
| CHARGE STATUS shows FAULT/MISSING | Battery not connected, poor connection, or battery in deep protection mode | Verify SV-BAT-320 connector is fully seated on SV-HARNESS-D37. Check connector pins for damage. Update to software v15.0+ if battery may be in protection mode. |
| Battery test fails immediately after starting | Battery was not fully charged before test initiation | Fully charge battery (CHARGE STATUS = CHARGED, BATTERY STATUS ≈12.25V) before attempting test again. |
| LAST BATTERY SHUTDOWN shows WEAK BATTERY repeatedly | Battery not maintaining adequate charge, or nearing end of life | Verify battery is charging properly during flight (12.25V input). Perform manual battery test. If test passes but issue repeats, battery may need replacement. |
| LAST BATTERY SHUTDOWN shows ABNORMAL | Display did not shut down normally (power interrupted, crash, etc.) | Investigate cause of abnormal shutdown. Verify battery charges properly. Perform battery test if concerned about battery health. |
| Ground charging not working with battery charger connected | Battery charger undersized, or not maintaining 13V under 5A load | Verify charger meets minimum capacity (5A for 12V system). Measure actual voltage at SkyView display connector under load - must be 12.25V. Upgrade charger if necessary. |
| Battery appears completely dead (FAULT/MISSING status) after long storage | Battery in deep protection mode due to very low state of charge | Update to software v15.0 or later (includes improved charging algorithm for protection mode). Follow ground charging procedure with adequate battery charger (13V, 5A minimum). |
Battery Test Unavailable - TEST BAT Button Greyed Out
Occasionally, the battery test cannot be initiated because the TEST BAT button appears greyed out during what would normally be the 30-second power-down countdown. User may even be presented with AIRCRAFT POWER LOST message. This occurs when the ADAHRS module is still detecting airspeed, even though the PFD airspeed indicator shows dashed lines (no registered airspeed).
Cause
The ADAHRS module retains residual pressure readings that prevent the battery test from starting. This is a protective measure to prevent battery testing while the aircraft may still be in motion.
Resolution Procedure
-
Access ADAHRS Calibration Menu:
SETUP MENU > HARDWARE CALIBRATION > ADAHRS CALIBRATION > ZERO PRESSURE IAS /AOA CALIBRATION
- Follow On-Screen Instructions: The right column of the menu displays the conditions that must be met for calibration
-
Acquire Zero Pressure Reading: Once the displayed conditions are satisfied, press the
ACQUIREbutton -
Save Calibration: After acquisition completes, press the
SAVEbutton -
Exit Calibration Menu: Press
BACK, then pressEXITto return to the main screen -
Retry Battery Test: Power down the system and attempt the battery test procedure again - the
TEST BATbutton should now be active
Battery Test Blank Screen Issue (Reversion Mode Bug)
In systems with multiple displays, a known reversion mode bug can cause the battery test screen to flash and then display only a blank screen with a small X. This is a critical issue because the battery test is NOT actually running, but the display remains powered on and will drain the battery below safe operating voltage.
Immediate Action Required
-
Power Down Immediately: Press the
PWR OFFbutton or restore aircraft power and perform normal shutdown to prevent complete battery discharge - Power System Back On: Turn aircraft master switch back on to boot system into normal operation
Permanent Resolution Procedure
-
Disable Reversion Mode:
SETUP MENU > SYSTEM SETUP > SCREEN LAYOUT SETUP > REVERSION MODE ENABLED Set to: NO
- Fully Charge Battery: Follow the charging procedures described earlier in this guide to ensure battery is fully charged (CHARGE STATUS = CHARGED, BATTERY STATUS ≈12.25V)
- Perform Battery Test: Follow the standard battery test procedure described in the "Battery Test Procedure" section above. The test should now proceed normally without the blank screen issue
- Complete Testing on All Displays: If you have multiple displays with SV-BAT-320 batteries, complete the battery test on each display individually before re-enabling reversion mode
-
Re-enable Reversion Mode (After All Tests Complete):
SETUP MENU > SYSTEM SETUP > SCREEN LAYOUT SETUP > REVERSION MODE ENABLED Set to: YES
Important Safety and Operational Notes
- NEVER attempt external charging of SV-BAT-320 - can cause battery explosion
- SkyView displays are ONLY compatible with Dynon SV-BAT-320 batteries
- Do NOT connect lead-acid batteries or any other battery type to SV-BAT-320 connector
- Charging algorithm and voltages are optimized specifically for SV-BAT-320 lithium-ion chemistry
- Connecting unauthorized batteries may cause damage not covered by warranty
- Do NOT cut off factory connector - warranty will be void
- SkyView display must be powered ON for charging to occur (software monitors charging process)
- Each display in multi-display systems has independent battery status and testing requirements
- SV-BAT-320 does NOT provide backup power to: autopilot servos, heated pitot/AOA probes, SV-ADSB-470/472, SV-COM-760/T25/T8/425, SV-XPNDR-261/262/263, trim servos, or any non-Dynon devices
- A fully charged SV-BAT-320 can power most SkyView systems for at least 60 minutes
- Battery status and test requirements are display-specific in multi-display installations
- Annual testing is required to maintain optimal battery health and performance
- Battery test needed alerts will appear one year after last successful test
Physical Installation Considerations
Mounting Location Guidelines
- Install within 24" of associated SkyView display (cable length limitation)
- Do NOT extend the 24" cable included on SV-HARNESS-D37
- Avoid locations subject to severe vibration
- Avoid extended temperature extremes (SV-BAT-320 has narrower temperature range than other modules)
- Avoid areas with extreme humidity
- Ensure adequate room for electrical connections
Mounting Hardware Notes
- Mounting hardware not included with SV-BAT-320
- Mounting tabs accept #8 fasteners
- Button head AN hardware recommended (limited tool clearance)
- DO NOT OVER-TORQUE - plastic enclosure may crack
- Apply sufficient torque to prevent self-loosening, but not excessive stress on tabs
- Ferrous fasteners acceptable in this location
- Do NOT rivet battery to aircraft (prevents future removal)
SV-BAT-320 Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Lithium-Ion |
| Nominal Voltage | 12V |
| Full Charge Voltage | 12.25V |
| Minimum Input for Charging | 12.25V at display |
| Charging Current | Up to 5A (12V system) |
| Full Charge Time | Up to 4 hours (fully discharged) |
| Backup Power Duration | Minimum 60 minutes (typical system) |
| Cable Length | 24" (do not extend) |
| Mounting | #8 fasteners in mounting tabs |
| Test Interval | Annual (12 months from last test) |
Battery Disposal Guidelines
Quick Reference: Charging and Testing Checklist
Pre-Flight Battery Check
- Verify no battery fault icons displayed on startup
- Check that battery test is not overdue (no test needed icon)
- If battery test needed alert appears, schedule testing before next flight
Post-Installation Initial Test
- Fully charge battery (verify CHARGE STATUS = CHARGED)
- Initiate TEST BAT during power-down countdown
- Allow test to run to completion (minimum 45 minutes)
- Verify PASS result in Battery Backup Status page
- Recharge battery after test completion
Annual Testing
- Respond to BATTERY TEST NEEDED alert within reasonable timeframe
- Follow same procedure as initial test
- Document test date and results
- Recharge battery after test completion
- Schedule next annual test for 12 months from test date
Ground Charging Setup
- Connect battery charger (minimum 13V, 5A for 12V systems)
- Turn aircraft master ON
- Power up SkyView display
- Verify VOLTAGE 12.25V and CHARGE STATUS = CHARGING
- Leave powered for up to 4 hours until fully charged
Reference Documents
- SkyView System Installation Guide - Section 9: SV-BAT-320 Backup Battery Installation
- SkyView System Installation Guide - Appendix A: Maintenance and Troubleshooting (Annual Battery Test)
- SkyView System Installation Guide - Appendix C: Wiring and Electrical Connections (for custom harness builders)
- Dynon Warranty Information - dynon.com/warranty