Overhead Panel
Build log for the 737 MAX overhead panel: electrical, hydraulics, pressurisation, and lighting systems.
10 min read Updated 2026-03
Overview
The overhead panel (OHP) houses the aircraft systems switches — electrical bus management, hydraulics, pressurisation, fuel, anti-ice, and cabin lighting. It's the most switch-dense part of the build.
Status
Wiring phase — all panels are cut and mounted, currently running harnesses.
Sections
The OHP is split into forward and aft sections:
Forward OHP
- Electrical & DC
- Hydraulics
- Fuel
- Anti-Ice / Window Heat
Aft OHP
- Cabin pressurisation
- Lighting (interior + dome)
- Emergency equipment
Construction
Each panel row is laser cut from 3mm black acrylic. Legends are engraved and backlit with 3mm warm white LEDs behind a white diffuser layer.
A dedicated Arduino Mega handles each major section to keep wiring runs short.