Manual Number 9019161
Revision A, September 9, 2020
16
SECTION 4
OPERATION
IMPORTANT:
READ THIS ENTIRE SECTION PRIOR TO OPERATING THE UNIT IN FLIGHT!
The MD23 FLEX
Custom Function Display is a unique new type of avionics equipment with a Patent
Pending software concept. It utilizes a highly capable and certified hardware and software platform
that can be customized to receive, output, and display a wide array of information. Because FLEX
can become almost anything, this section is designed to explain the functional capabilities, standard
operation, and configurable defaults. Operational details of specific custom applications are
provided separately as a User Guide that serves as a compliment to this manual.
GENERAL FUNCTION
4.1.1 CUSTOM INSTRUMENT DEFINITION (CID)
The Custom Instrument Definition, or CID, is a data file that describes the definition of the
inputs, outputs, and graphical display for a specific application. The CID utilizes the certified
functions of the MD23 and provides settings and variables to parameterize them to meet the
requirements as requested.
The CID is provided as a single file that can be loaded onto the MD23 through the USB
Type A data port on the rear of the unit. Each unique CID file is assigned an identification
number and revision – typically in the format of 1###X, where # is a three-digit number and
X is the revision, starting with “A”. The currently loaded CID version can be found on the
startup screen during Pre-Flight Mode and in the Options Menu on the Info screen during
Flight Mode.
Contact Mid-Continent Instruments and Avionics to inquire about the purchase and creation
of a C
I
D file to meet your specific application requirements.
4.1.2 SYSTEM NAVIGATION
All standard MD23 units have the same basic system structure. The system navigation map
in the figure below demonstrates the basic functions and relationships between the various
modes and menus. The user interface on how to maneuver between modes and menus is
described in Section 4.2. The details associated with each mode and menu can be found
further in Section 4.3, 4.4, and 4.5. (Figure 4.1)
4.1.3 USB FUNCTION
The MD23 CFD includes a USB Type-A Programming Port connector on the rear of the unit
that is used for loading unit software and CID files. This feature makes it easy and
convenient to perform updates with any standard USB flash drive. The Programming Port is
only accessible when not in flight and shall only be used by authorized personnel in
accordance with the instructions found within this manual.
