theVariometer 3.1

This tool emulates a variometer on your iPhone—an essential utility for paraglider pilots. With the release of version 3.0, the app now supports iOS 9 and takes advantage of the pressure sensor available in iPhone 6(s) and 6(s) Plus models.

As a result, your iPhone can serve as a complete substitute for a traditional variometer. When paired with an external sensor such as ASI FlyNet2, FlyTec SenseBox, or XC-TRacer, the app enhances its functionality by delivering even more accurate climb and sink rates.

Key features include the ability to measure:

• Climb/decline rate
• Absolute altitude
• Height over ground
• Relative height
• Speed over ground
• Course

Measurements can be displayed in either meters or feet/knot units. The app signals current climb or sink rates through distinct beep sounds, mimicking the traditional variometer experience.

The integrated map view allows users to monitor their flights in real-time, ensuring they maintain their orientation even in low visibility scenarios, such as flying through clouds. Users can easily reset the 'Alt 3' function to zero by tapping it—generally performed after the initial adjustment period or at any time during the flight.

Additional functionalities of the app include:

• Recording flights
• Viewing recorded flights in the integrated map view
• Sending recorded flights via email as KML or GPX files to friends

It is important to note that if you're using the internal pressure sensor of the iPhone, there may be a slight delay in response compared to dedicated devices like Bräuninger or Flytec Variometers, as internal sensors do not provide data as frequently as external ones.

The app requires a reliable GPS signal; without it—or without an internal or external pressure sensor—performance may be suboptimal. Ensure you have good GPS reception while using the app, as it is not designed for operation in buildings or areas with poor signal coverage. However, this issue is typically negligible when flying outdoors under clear skies.

While it is possible to use the app with only GPS functionality, it comes with inherent limitations, including the necessity for open-air usage, a strong GPS signal, and altitude changes greater than 5 meters with a minimum rate of 1-2 m/s.

Please be aware that prolonged use of GPS while running in the background can significantly reduce battery life. The app continues to utilize GPS location services even when operating in the background during flight recording.