Garmin Buzz at AOPA Summit

It's day one of the AOPA Summit and our booth is packed with people wanting to see the aera.  Although the aera is our big show announcement, we definitely don't want to overlook two other announcements that were made this morning. First, if you're planning to install new avionics to your aircraft between now and Christmas, you should check out our Soar into Savings rebate program. You can get up to $7000 in rebates on equipment like the G600, GNS 430W/530W, GWX 68, GDL 69/69A, and more. We understand the economy is tight right now, and this rebate will help you stretch your dollars a little further.

Second, we announced a new online eLearning training program where you can access online training for the GPSMAP® 396, 496, 695/696, G1000® for VFR flight conditions, and G1000 for IFR flight conditions.  The training is very interactive and will walk you through each product step-by-step. You'll be a pro on the product before you know it. The online eLearning program may also be used with flight schools who are training multiple students.

One last thing, I've run into numerous people who have asked if the G3000 is on display at AOPA Summit. The short answer is no. We decided not to bring it to this show, but don't worry, it will definitely be at future aviation shows and there will be plenty of time for pilots to demo it between now and when it's flying in aircraft.

Victor's Vectors: See the aera at AOPA Summit

Tomorrow is the opening day of AOPA Summit and we've heard from numerous customers who plan to attend the show so that they can see our new touchscreen portable GPS, the aera. If you're one of the many that will be at AOPA Summit, make sure you visit us at booth #1213. Since announcing the aera, many of our customers have asked how the new product line compares to our traditional GPSMAP aviation handheld series. If you're familiar with the GPSMAP series, it may be helpful to know that the aera 500 has similar features to the GPSMAP 296, the aera 510 has similar features to the GPSMAP 396, the aera 550 has similar features to the GPSMAP 495, and the aera 560 has similar features to the GPSMAP 496. For a direct side-by-side comparison of the aera product line, click on the jump to see a chart and a short video.

Garmin's aviation portables enter a new era with the aera

Are you going to AOPA Summit later this week? If so, you'll want to plan to visit the Garmin booth early during the show so that you'll be among the first to see the new aera series. The aera is our newest aviation handheld series that is all touchscreen and multi-mode so it can transition between aviation to automotive mode with one touch. It comes in four different flavors -- 500, 510, 550, 560 -- and has the type of features you'd expect in a Garmin portable like XM WX, terrain, obstacles, SafeTaxi, AOPA Directory database, and more. On the higher-end models, you also get one-year of free aviation database updates. In addition to the aviation features, all aeras have the same capabilities of a high-end Garmin nuvi automotive navigator. Now you can literally go from your airplane to your car with one-touch of the screen. Watch the video to learn more.

Victor's Vectors: Big savings on avionics

Listen up if you're a bargain hunter! We've just launched a " Soar into Savings” program where customers can earn up to $7,000 in rebates on a variety of panel mount avionics. The rebates apply to customers selecting a combination of the G600, GNS 500W series, GNS 400W series, GTS traffic series, GWX weather radar series or the GDL 69 or 69A. The rebates expire December 31, 2009, and rebate submissions must be postmarked by January 31, 2010.

 

NBAA Day 2: G1000 retrofit for the CitationJet

The general rule of thumb for those attending NBAA is that people visit the exhibit hall on day one and static display on day two to see the aircraft. Since I didn't want to buck the trend, I visited our static display today and saw the newest G1000 retrofit platform, the Cessna CitationJet. We're expecting to receive Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) on this G1000 program in 2010, and once we do it will pave the way for CitationJet operators to install the G1000. These customers will then be flying with the best of the G1000 -- from fully integrated autopilot to synthetic vision technology (SVT) to SafeTaxi.

This is our third G1000 retrofit program. The first two were for the King Air C90 and King Air 200 series, and customers have been very pleased with the advantages of flying with Garmin glass. After all, many of these customers are going from steam gauges to glass and that's an amazing leap forward in technology, not to mention safety of flight and enhanced situational awareness. Check out this online demo to learn more.

G3000 Wows NBAA Convention

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention is in full swing and attendees are buzzing about new product announcements. Yesterday we announced the G3000, and today, HondaJet and PiperJet announced that they've selected the G3000 for their cockpits. The G3000 is Garmin's first touchscreen-controlled, all-glass avionics suite for Part 23 turbine aircraft. It replaces mechanical knobs and switches with infrared touchscreens that serve as the primary way to access the system. NBAA attendees have been able to get a first hand look at the new avionics suite, but since we know not everyone can attend the show, here's a glimpse of what the G3000 looks like and what the media is saying. 

Go flying with new G3000 and G1000 retrofit for CitationJet

Today is a huge day for Garmin's aviation team because we announced the G3000 and the G1000 retrofit for the Cessna CitationJet at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention in Orlando, Florida. The G3000 is Garmin's first touchscreen controlled flightdeck for Part 23 turbine aircraft. The hallmark of the system is that it's simple to use. It incorporates icons similar to what you would find on a desktop computer, and it has common sense functions like "back" and "home" that lets pilots quickly retrace their steps. Since we've delivered several million consumer-based touchscreen products, we were able to leverage that knowledge while designing the G3000. One of the unique aspects of having touchscreen in an airplane is that there is bound to be turbulence. Therefore, the G3000 has a patent pending, infrared touchscreen technology, audio and visual feedback, and unique icon animation to help pilots know exactly how the system is responding to their input.

The G1000 retrofit for the Cessna CitationJet will be available exclusively through Cessna's company owned Citation Service Centers. The STC is expected in the second quarter of 2010, and it will let CitationJet owners (model 525, serial number 0001-0359) fly with advantages of the G1000.

Victor's Vectors: Looking for Traffic

During my last flight, I was talking to ATC and was advised of traffic in my vicinity.  It was a bit hazy and the sun was low to the horizon, which is not the ideal situation for looking for other aircraft, but I thought with ATC’s help I should be able to spot it.  However, I could not locate the traffic even after several updates from ATC and several attempts to locate it on my part.  It came within a couple of miles of my position without me ever getting a positive identification of its location.   I hate to say it, but this was not the first time that an aircraft got by me without me seeing it.  It really made me wonder how many aircraft are out there flying along that I never see, especially when I am not under ATC flight following!  After the flight, I remembered that Garmin has announced some new traffic systems that would have answered that question and would have helped my search immensely.  The GTS series of traffic systems are active traffic sensors with ADS-B compatibility.  These innovative systems provide accurate, dynamic traffic surveillance.  For more information you can watch the video interview on Avweb or check out the videos and information on Garmin’s website.  With Garmin’s GTS series it takes the guess work out of traffic.

Victor's Vectors: Falling temperatures bring falling prices for holiday shopping

The leaves are falling, the days are getting shorter, and before we all know it the holidays will be upon us. Garmin is embracing this reality and announcing some price reductions and rebates just in time for the holiday shopping season. The popular Americas version of the GPSMAP 496 is decreasing from a street price of $2,395 to the new price of $1,999 and the GPSMAP 495 is lowering from $1,595 to $1,299.

Also in time for those holiday shoppers, Garmin is announcing a $300 rebate for our popular GPSMAP 695 / 696 portable products. This mail in rebate is for purchases made between October 7, 2009 and December 31, 2009. To help you learn the ins and outs of your new 695 / 696 Garmin has also reduced the price of the eLearning program to $74.95 until the end of the year.

The holidays are coming and with Garmin’s holiday savings maybe this year I’ll get that shopping completed early!

File a flight plan from your phone with Pilot My-Cast

Filing a flight plan sometimes gets overlooked, but it's one of the best things you can do as a pilot. Not only does it help ensure that you've thoroughly planned your flight before taking off, it's also great insurance since flight service will start looking for you if you don't reach your destination within 30 minutes after your expected arrival. With Pilot My-Cast by Garmin, we've made filing a flight plan as easy as sending a text message. And since you're already checking the weather and doing your route planning on Pilot My-Cast, you might as well take the next step and file from there too. Watch and see how easy it is to file.        

Victor's Vectors: AOPA Airport Directory now on G1000

We recently made a slight change on flyGarmin that has generated quite a bit of interest.  Customers with a G1000 noticed a new database had been added to the list of possible downloads.  This database has been around since the release of the GPSMAP 496, but has now made a jump to the panel mounted systems.  This database is none other than the AOPA Airport Directory, and it contains useful information such as control tower hours, noise abatement procedures, pattern altitudes, runway type and length, and fixed base operator (FBO) information.  The database also includes general information for nearby restaurants, car rentals, lodging, and much more. 

The next question I normally hear from customers at this point is, “Will it work on my G1000?”  The answer is yes, IF you have GDU software 10.0 or higher.  To find out if that includes your G1000, you can check your GDU software by going to the System Status page in the MFD’s AUX page group.  Cursor down the list of LRU information till you see MFD1, then look to the right to read the software version.  If your G1000 doesn’t have 10.0 yet, your aircraft manufacturer will know when this software will be integrated into your airframe.

Pilot My-Cast turns phones into aviation weather briefers

Picture this -- it's a beautiful day and you can hear your airplane calling your name. Unfortunately, you're stuck in a meeting at the office. While sitting there, you start toying with the idea of taking a long lunch so you can eat at your favorite airport restaurant, but before you do, you want to check the weather. Thanks to Pilot My-Cast by Garmin, you can get a full aviation weather briefing directly from your phone. This means you can check the weather while you're in the boardroom or in your car (while at a stop light, of course!). Watch this quick overview video of Pilot My-Cast by Garmin, and visit the Garmin Learning Center to learn more about Pilot My-Cast.

Victor's Vectors: ADS-B expands to the Gulf

The Transportation Secretary, Ray LaHood, stated in a news conference on Monday that ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance - Broadcast) will be up and running in the Gulf of Mexico in December of this year.  This is a huge step in the right direction for the NextGen air transportation system which calls for a move from the now ground-based system to a satellite-based one.  The full US employment of ADS-B is currently scheduled to be in place by the end of 2013.  There is no need to wait till then because Garmin has you covered with the equipment to upgrade your aircraft now. Garmin will help you take advantage of this new technology with the GDL 90.  This remote unit is the first certified ADS-B datalink transceiver which offers more extensive and tactical surveillance data for traffic and the ability to receive continuous detailed weather information, as well as Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) data and TIS-B traffic / conflict information.  The stage is set for an air transportation system that provides safety improvements, fuel conservation, and delay reductions and Garmin is there in the front row.

Victor's Vectors: G3X now shipping

I got a call yesterday from a pilot building a RV-7 and he was excited because he had heard that Garmin was making a glass panel based on the GPSMAP 696 for the experimental market. He was even more excited to hear that not only has Garmin been accepting orders, but as of Monday, Garmin is now shipping the Garmin G3X system through a list of approved experimental dealers. This system designed specifically for the experimental and light sport panels can be configured with a single display or can be set up for use with up to three displays depending on your budget. With the multiple displays, the MFD will even go into reversionary mode in the case of a PFD failure; it displays engine instrumentation and comes with Garmin’s GSU 73 sensor unit to provide full primary flight information. If this sounds similiar to a G-1000 or G-600 then you are on the right track! Garmin has borrowed a little from both and mixed it with the GPSMAP 696 to come up with an experimental aircraft builders’ dream. For more information check out the G3X mini-site.

Victor's Vectors: Avoid the Weather with your 396/496/696

The fall is approaching and with the changing seasons the Midwest is starting to see more than its fair share of severe weather.  If you have ever flown a flight threw or around severe weather, then you know the value of weather in the cockpit for in-flight decision making.  This time of year I don’t make a cross-country flight without a GPSMAP 396, 496, or 696 on the yoke.  If you haven’t had the opportunity to see for yourself what a value these portables can be visit your local Garmin Aviation Dealer to see if there is a demo unit that you can see first hand.  While you’re there, you’ll see how easy it is to use.

For example, did you can turn the 396/496's weather on or off from the map page by holding the Menu/WX button down for two seconds. This feature is handy when you need to clear the weather off quickly to look at airspace information on the map page. If you're looking for similar tips for the 696, check out the Garmin training center and look for eLearning, or watch the video below. 

Victor's Vectors: flyGarmin.com adds flight planning and weather forecasts

The week of Oshkosh saw a lot of announcements for new products and features, but one Garmin announcement seems to have gotten lost in the excitement.  Like a caterpillar spreading its wings, flyGarmin.com continues to transform and it now includes another reason for pilots to visit the website.  A flight planning feature has been added to flyGarmin.com so that aircraft profiles can be used to generate FAA flight plans, display weather over the intended flight, calculate estimated time enroute, and fuel burn.  Also with this new tab you can show NEXRAD, METARs, TAFs, PIREPs, winds aloft, and area forecasts. And official DUAT(S) briefings are coming soon.  All of this information and utility is at your figure tips, and it's free!  FlyGarmin.com also links up very nicely with Pilot My-Cast and allows a pilot to plan and save a route on the computer then check it and file it while on the road from a compatible cell phone.  The flyGarmin.com website is continuing to progress and go through a metamorphosis to change into the ultimate website for pilots.  Check back frequently or you may miss something beautiful.

Victor's Vectors: Garmin G500 vs. Garmin G600

The G600 has gone through quite an upgrade recently with the addition of Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT) and the GAD 43 announced at Oshkosh.  Many Garmin customers thought SVT was coming and were happy to see it this year, and the GAD 43 was an unexpected surprise that shocked just about everyone.  The surprises continued with the announcement of the newly certified G500 retro fit glass cockpit.  The addition of the G500 has generated a little confusion about the differences between the G600 and G500.  To help clear up that confusion, we've upgraded the G600 mini-site to include the G500 and have added a compare section that will let you look at the features of these two products side by side. This helpful comparison chart will help you make a clear decision about which product to get with your next upgrade.

Watch and learn:Aviation tips and tricks videos online

Our online Learning Center is going airborne. We've had Learning Center videos for the fitness and marine markets, and we've just added tutorials for a few aviation products -- GPSMAP 696, Pilot My-Cast by Garmin and flyGarmin.com. These videos are short snippets, and are designed to walk you through a specific aspect of each product. Are you trying to set up your flyGarmin.com account so that you can download databases to a handheld? Check out the Getting Started video. Wanting to learn how to file a flight plan through Pilot My-Cast by Garmin? Watch the Filing a Flight Plan video. There is plenty to learn and the videos we've posted are the tip of the iceberg. Check back soon because we'll be adding more videos regularly.

Victor's Vectors: Aviation photo contest winners!

It’s sad to see that Oshkosh is over for another year.  The excitement of the air shows, static displays, and product announcements have made me wish we could do it all over again.  Well, there is always next year and it was definitely fun while it lasted.  I want to thank all the blog readers that submitted pictures for this year’s aviation photo contest.  The judges had long and at times heated discussions about the entries; however, one picture seems to embody the spirit of Oshkosh more than the others.  I want to congratulate Ryan Springer for this picture of a hovercraft at the Oshkosh sea base.  I also want to congratulate Gary Libby and Andy Hillery who fought fiercely for 2nd and 3rd place respectively.  If you visited Oshkosh and have an interesting story to share, please let me know by posting a comment. Maybe then we can continue to relive Oshkosh for a little longer.  

Ryan, Gary and Andy, we'll send you the promised Garmin gear this week!

How do you get to Oshkosh? With a Garmin.

We've been talking about our Oshkosh announcements all week, but when it comes down to it, we know that one of the main reasons people attend air shows is to see the unique planes and watch pilots perform incredible aerobatic maneuvers. From the giant Airbus A380 to the Virgin Galactic WhiteKnightTwo, there were amazing things to see around every corner. Here are pictures of a few of the planes that caught our attention. And just in case you're curious, just about every one of these pilots used a Garmin portable or panel mount GPS to fly to the show.

And this is your last reminder to send us your favorite aviation-related photo for a chance to win some cool Garmin gear. See all the details here.
 

 

G3X has countless possibilities for LSA and Kitbuilders

Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) owners and Kitbuilders were almost speechless at Oshkosh when they saw the G3X and all of its capabilities. The G3X has all the features they've always wanted in a true glass cockpit, and since it has a building-block design they can grow the system as their aircraft needs change.

The easy-to-install G3X suite is built around Garmin’s GDU 370/375 series panel-mount multifunction display (MFD) unit with built-in GPS and big 7-inch high-definition WVGA screen. When interfaced with a remote GSU 73 sensor unit, the G3X can also provide full primary flight display (PFD) attitude/directional guidance, along with electronic engine gauges and other system enhancements.

To learn more, check out this amazing G3X mini-site that walks through its features and capabilities.

See the newly certified G500 at Oshkosh

We received great news from the FAA today. The G500 is now certified! The FAA’s AML STC approval allows the G500 to be installed in nearly 600 different makes and models of normal and utility category Part 23 Class I and Class II aircraft, which are defined as single and twin-engine piston and turbine engine aircraft under 6,000 pounds.  You can see the G500 this week by visiting our booth in Hangar D at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.

And, if you decide to add the SVT option to the G500, you'll be flying with our synthetic vision that gives a 3D depiction of terrain, obstacles and traffic on the PFD so that the avionics panel replicates what pilots would see outside the cockpit on a clear day. Watch this video to see the increased situational awareness the G500 with SVT brings to the cockpit. 

Win a plane with Garmin's G500 at Oshkosh

I don't think I've ever been to a trade show that didn't have some type of raffle where you drop your name in a hat and hope you win something cool. The unique thing about Oshkosh is they give away an airplane. Now that's what I consider a cool raffle prize!  EAA unveiled its 2010 Sweepstakes plane at Oshkosh, and Garmin avionics are the centerpiece of the panel. The sweepstakes airplane, an Aviat Husky A-1C, will travel the US from now until July of 2010 in order to promote aviation education programs. It will then be raffled off to one lucky winner. Garmin donated a G500 with SVT, a GNS 430W, and transponder, so whoever wins this airplane will have the latest and greatest avionics at their fingertips. 

Don't forget. We're still on the look-out for some great aviation photos and want to see your best aviation-related picture from Oshkosh or from a recent flying adventure. Your best picture may help you win some cool Garmin gear. See all the details here.

Pilot My-Cast aviation WX and flight filing app for iPhone, BlackBerry and more

One of the extremely popular areas in the Garmin Oshkosh booth is the Pilot My-Cast by Garmin area. Pilots who have used this cell phone app know that it's one of the most convenient, intuitive and affordable aviation apps around. In a nutshell, Pilot My-Cast by Garmin gives you a complete aviation weather briefing, lets you look at airport diagrams and the AOPA directory, and file a flight plan directly from your phone. You can check this information anytime, anywhere -- while sitting in a board room or while walking around the world's largest air show. And by the time you reach your airplane, you will have made an educated go/no-go decision and have filed a flight plan. Pilot My-Cast's information comes directly from the National Weather Service, Environment Canada and FAA, so you can be confident that your decision is based upon the most up-to-date and accurate information available.

During Oshkosh, numerous people stop by the booth for a demonstration. After they see its benefits and realize it's extremely easy to use, they often download the app on the spot because they want to be able to use it to check the weather before flying home from Oshkosh. 

To hear more about Pilot My-Cast by Garmin, you can listen to this AvWeb podcast or watch this AOPA Pilot video from Oshkosh.

The iPhone version of the Pilot My-Cast by Garmin app will be available this Fall. If you'd like to be notified when it's available, email marketing@digitalcyclone.com.

Garmin navigates Oshkosh traffic with GTS traffic series

Traffic; Eleven o’clock; High; Less than one mile. This is the type of warning that Garmin's new traffic systems will provide, and it's exactly what pilots need when they're flying through busy airspace. Our new traffic systems --  GTS 800, GTS 820 and GTS 850 -- are unique for many reasons, but one of the most distinctive features is CLEAR CAS, a patent-pending technology that provides real-time information that is totally independent of radar-based air traffic control.

There are three distinct system configurations for the GTS series, and each model creates a 360-degree zone of detection around the aircraft so that pilots can see and identify targets in their airspace that may pose a collision hazard. The GTS 800 TAS is a lower-cost system offering 40 watts of transmit power and a range of up to 12 nautical miles. The GTS 820 TAS delivers 250 watts of transmit power and up to 40 nautical miles of interrogation range. The GTS 850 TCAS I features the same 250 watt performance as the GTS 820, and also meets the FAA’s TCAS I certification criteria. The GTS 820 and GTS 850 are installed in conjunction with a Garmin Mode S transponder

Another great feature of the GTS systems are the price. Starting at $9,995, the GTS series are affordable and within the reach of most general aviation pilots and their budgets.

To learn more, check out this video.

Garmin SVT and GAD 43 Now Standard on the G600

Yesterday we told you a little about the G600's little brother, the G500. Today, we're moving back up the food chain to the G600 and its new features. The G600 has been on the market for over one-year and it has quickly become a favorite with pilots. However, everyone that bought a G600 kept asking us when we'd certify synthetic vision on it. You asked for it, so we did. Garmin's SVT now comes standard on the G600, and it's an optional upgrade to the G500. If you already own a G600 and are disappointed you didn't get SVT at the time of your purchase, don't worry, we have you covered. Between now and December 31, 2009, existing G600 customers can upgrade to SVT at no charge from Garmin (dealer installation costs may apply). 

Another great new standard feature for the G600 is the GAD 43, an autopilot interface designed specifically for the G600 and G500.  The GAD 43 allows the AHRS to provide attitude information to the autopilot in place of a gyro-mechanical ADI or VG. The G600 provides course deviation, vertical deviation, heading bug, course pointer and ARINC 429 GPS roll steering information to the autopilot. In addition, if the autopilot does not support ARINC 429 roll steering, the G600 can act like a roll steering converter via the heading input. The GAD 43 can emulate the many existing gyro interfaces and uses far more reliable AHRS data to provide the required attitude, heading, yaw input and baro correction information to the autopilot. Once you boil this aviation-speak down, it means that your autopilot will operate more precisely and most owners will be able to replace the costly ADI with a more affordable attitude indicator as the required backup instrumentation. Just like with SVT, if you're an existing G600 owner, you have the exclusive option of purchasing the GAD 43 for $1,495 between now and December 31.

One last G600 tidbit in case you  missed it -- Piper Aircraft selected the G600 for the Seminole, Seneca, Warrior and Archer. Read about it here.

To learn more about the G600 or SVT. Check out our mini site or watch this video.

Garmin's G500 takes Oshkosh by storm

The G500 is our newest PFD/MFD combination and it has Oshkosh buzzing. Everyone is amazed at its capability and its low price of only $15,995. If you haven't heard about the G500 yet, you need to stop by the Garmin booth (Hangar D) or at a minimum visit the G500 mini site to learn more. The G500 is a PFD/MFD combination that lets you replace your aircraft's steam gauges with all glass. It's designed specifically for Part 23 Class I and II aircraft (single and twins under 6,000 lbs).

The MFD provides pilots with a clear, concise picture of where they are relative to terrain and airspace, as well as weather and traffic with optional equipment. And of course, it includes some of our latest and greatest technology like SafeTaxi's detailed diagrams of over 900 airports so you can navigate unfamiliar taxiways with ease. Garmin FliteCharts is also available and it allows you to quickly find and view all NACO DP's, STARs, approach charts, and airport diagrams on the MFD.

Plus, the really cool part is that the G500 has the capability to have a scaled version of Garmin's SVT or GAD 43. SVT shows a 3D depiction of terrain, obstacles and traffic on the PFD so that the avionics panel replicates what pilots would see outside the cockpit on a clear day. The GAD 43 is something we'll talk about in future posts, but it's an autopilot interface adapter that lets you have the same ultra-reliable digital AHRS data driving the G500 display to serve as your autopilot’s primary attitude reference. This typically eliminates the need to retain a gyro-mechanical ADI as your autopilot reference for the G500 glass cockpit.

Oshkosh - Free firmware updates and seminars at Garmin's booth

First time Oshkosh attendees aren't always aware of everything that we do at the Garmin booth (Hangar D). At most trade show booths, you can see new products, get live demonstrations of current and new products from product experts, and ask questions about how to perform specific tasks on a product you already own. However, the Garmin booth offers a few other things that go beyond a normal trade show booth.

First, we offer free software updates to your Garmin aviation handheld. Bring your portable product to us and we'll update its firmware on the spot. This process only takes a few minutes. If you're not at Oshkosh, you can go to flyGarmin.com and get the exact same free firmware update we're offering here.

Second, we do about eight free seminars a day. They cover a wide range of topics and there's sure to be one that will interest you. Some of the topics this year are the G500, G600, GPSMAP 696, and an overview of all of our new show announcements. You don't need to register for the seminars, but the schedule and topics vary each day, so stop by the Garmin tent and check out the schedule.

And while you're walking around the show, don't forget to have your camera handy so you can send us your best aviation photo. Your best picture may help you win some cool Garmin gear. See all the details here.

Garmin's Oshkosh News - G500, G3X, G600 with SVT, GTS traffic system and more!

  We decided to kick off the opening day of  EAA AirVenture Oshkosh with more than half-a-dozen new product announcements – everything from cell phone based products to new products for experimental and certified aircraft to industry leading traffic systems.  Here’s a quick overview, and we’ll have lots of posts throughout the week to explain each of these in more detail. 

    * GTS 800 series traffic systems: The GTS 800, GTS 820 and GTS 850 are fully TSO certified TAS and TCAS I systems. The GTS series combines active and passive surveillance data to pinpoint specific traffic threats. They use Garmin CLEAR CAS technology and correlates ADS-B and radar targets for most accurate picture of the sky.

    * G500: The G500 is a new PFD/MFD for Part 23 Class I and II aircraft. It is similar to the G600 but it is only for Class I and II (not III). It is $15,995. SVT and GAD 43 (keep reading to discover what the GAD 43 is!) are options for the G500.

    * “Enhanced” G600 with SVT and GAD 43: SVT and GAD 43 autopilot interface are now standard equipment on G600. The new G600 will continue to be priced at $29,995.  Current G600 customers will receive a SVT upgrade, and a greatly reduced price on the GAD 43. The G600 is a PFD/MFD for Part 23 Class I, II and III aircraft

    * GAD 43: The GAD 43 is a new adapter unit that offers enhanced autopilot interface capabilities for the G500 and G600 flight display systems, allowing attitude and heading reference system (AHRS) to provide attitude information to selected autopilots in place of a costly-to-maintain attitude direction indicator (ADI) or remote vertical gyro (VG). The GAD 43 lets aircraft owners remove the existing ADI or attitude gyro, such as the familiar KI-256, and replace it on the panel with a smaller and more affordable attitude indicator as the backup instrumentation.

    * G3X: The G3X is a new non-TSO’d glass cockpit for retrofit installation in LSA and experimental/kitbuilt. It features customizable EFIS with 1-3 all-glass displays, magnetometer, ADAHRS, engine monitoring and temp probe. It has a starting price of $9,995.

    * Pilot My-Cast by Garmin iPhone app: Pilot My-Cast by Garmin’s aviation weather and flight filing will be available this Fall on the iPhone. In addition, Pilot My-Cast by Garmin has expanded its content for BlackBerry and Windows Mobile to include airport diagrams, STARs, SIDs, etc.The new BlackBerry and Windows Mobile info is available now, and is expected to be added to the iPhone in the future.

    * 100,000th GNS delivery: Garmin is celebrating the delivery of over 100,000 GNS 400/500 series products. Approximately half of all U.S. single and twin-engine piston and turbine aircraft have a GNS 400/500 series product installed.

 

Garmin Oshkosh News - The calm before the crowds

It’s the opening day of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh! For the aviation community, this air show is like a combination of Christmas, Thanksgiving, the first day of summer and opening day for your favorite major league team. Oshkosh is the world's largest air show and with it comes lots of new product announcements, great show specials and discounts, memorable show food from the land of Wisconsin (think cheese curds), seminars from experts, and that's just the tip of the iceberg. Plus, the absolute best part of the Oshkosh is that pilots get to spend time with other pilots. Whether they're camping under the wing of their plane or staying at a local hotel, hangar talk abounds.

The show hasn't opened yet, so it's still calm. But, we have lots of announcements this year, so check back to our site at 9 AM CT for our news. Also, don't forget about sending us your best aviation picture to win some Garmin gear. Pictures have already started coming in, so get yours in soon!

Victor's Vectors: Send Us Your Best Aviation Photo!

I’m not sure if it is the unusually crisp July air or the fact that EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is next week, but there is defiantly electricity in the air here at Garmin.  Excitement always builds right before the biggest air show of the year, Oshkosh.  In fact, in honor of this celebration of aviation, we decided to put together a little competition for all you dedicated blog readers.  Grab your camera and use your eagle eye to snap some shots at Oshkosh. If you can't make it to the show, take a picture of your favorite aviation-related topic.  Then, send in your favorite picture to us at garminblogs@garmin.com for a chance at some cool Garmin swag and to have your picture featured on Garmin’s blog.  Pictures of anything aviation-related are fair game for this contest.  You don’t have to be at the air show to win, but Oshkosh related or Garmin aviation related pictures get extra points with our blog judges. The top three pictures submitted will get a prize, but only the winner will get their picture up on the website.  The competition is on.

Good luck to all the participates and maybe you’ll see me at the show.  I’ll be the one with the camera!

Pictures need to be submitted by August 3, 2009.

Victor's Vectors: FliteLevel warranty extends your peace of mind

In the July edition of The Aviation Consumer, there is a good article about extended warranties.  The author gives a convincing argument for what normally he considers “a hard sell.” One of the programs featured in the article is Garmin’s FliteLevel warranty program for the G1000.  After reading the article you should also check out Garmin’s online FliteLevel brochure and press release.  For more information and to enroll, contact your local Garmin aviation dealer or OEM service center.  

Victor's Vectors: SVT now available for Cessnas in the field

“Fezzik, are there rocks ahead?” “If there are, we all be dead.”  This line from the 1987 movie The Princess Bride comes to mind just about every time I see a picture of an earlier version G1000 compared to a G1000 with Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT).  Why?  Because what was hidden from view is now seen in bright crisp contrast.  The reason for my nostalgia is that towards the end of June, Cessna released a Service Bulletin announcing the availability for SVT upgrades on 172’s, 182’s, and 206’s in the field.  This much anticipated upgrade can now be completed by a Cessna Service Center near you.  The G1000 and SVT transform the cockpit. SVT accurately displays synthetic terrain, flight hazards, flight path marker and highway-in-the-sky on the PFD so that you'll have excellent airborne situational awareness even when flying in conditions of reduced visibility or darkness.

Victor's Vectors: flyGarmin.com takes center stage

For those of you who are dedicated blog readers, when I mention flyGarmin you know exactly what I’m talking about and have probably been using this website for updates since last November.  But for those of you who either haven’t heard or have resisted the change, flyGarmin has now taken center stage.  Now when clicking on the aviation databases link on the aviation part of Garmin.com instead of being directed to the old update website you are now directed to flyGarmin.com.  For those of you visiting this site for the first time, then it’s time to rejoice.  flyGarmin.com is much more user friendly and helps you manage your aviation database updates and subscriptions.  As a reminder, here are a few links to some Blog’s written about flyGarmin that will help you in setting up your account, navigating the website, purchasing your updates, and downloading to your GPS.  The old website had its time in the spotlight but it has graciously stepped aside to let flyGarmin shine.

Victor's Vectors: Migrating to Duluth

Today is the first day of the Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association (COPA) Migration Fly-In, and Garmin representatives are already in Duluth so they can meet current and future Perspective owners and provide helpful tips and tricks about the Perspective avionics suite. The Cirrus Perspective is an all-glass Garmin cockpit that is tailored for Cirrus aircraft. With this cutting edge avoinics panel, all information — from aircraft attitude and air data to engine instrumentation, real-time weather data link, traffic and terrain — is integrated and digitally depicted on the 12-inch PFD and MFD. Thanks to these large displays, pilots can see the big picture, which ultimately helps simplify operation, enhance situational awareness and increase flight safety.  The Perspective also includes a unique “LEVEL (LVL) MODE” button, a new safety feature that may be used in times of high workload when the pilot needs a few extra moments to flip through charts or read back a clearance. When engaged, it brings the aircraft to straight and level flight. The Perspective is chock-full of features and we've barely scratched the surface in this blog post. If you're in Duluth this weekend, stop by and say hi and learn more about other Perspective features like SVT, GFC 700 autopilot, dual AHRS, SafeTaxi, FliteCharts and more.

Great Gifts for Flying Fathers

If you are anything like me, you were looking at the calendar and thinking about how many activities you could cram into the weekend only to be surprised to see that it’s Father’s Day.  Why is it that father’s are the hardest people to shop for?  If your dad is a pilot then there is no need for that spotted tie this year.  Garmin has several aviation portable GPS products to fit your budget and any flying father would be happy to unwrap one.  If a new Garmin portable is out of your price range this year, you could also give him a single or annual subscription update for the portable or panel-mount system he already owns.

If you don’t have time to get to you local aviation dealer, don’t worry.  You can do your comparison shopping on Garmin’s website and purchase it from any of our online dealers.

Victor's Vectors: Chasing storms with a 696

With the recent storms rumbling through the Midwest making national attention for the tornados and hail, I’m really getting a good idea of the advanced weather and safety capabilities of the GPSMAP 696.  The large display and XM weather give an enhanced view of severe weather with not only NEXRAD but also lightning, storm tracking, and SIGMETs.  Even when I’m here sitting in the safety of the office it is awesome to see the intensity of nature’s fury.  This also makes me appreciate the enhanced NRST features of the 696 with its split screen moving map and nearest airport list.  Just in case the view of the weather out the windshield necessitates an in-flight change in the flight plan.

 

Victor's Vectors: When to update your aviation databases

Another database cycle has started and several questions have come up regarding when the new cycles are available for download.  The answer is that most of the databases Garmin provides are available seven days prior to the effective date of the new cycle.  The one exception is FliteCharts, an electronic version of the National Aeronautical Chart Office (NACO) U.S. Terminal Procedures Publication that lets you quickly find and view all NACO Departure Procedures (DP), Standard Terminal Arrival Routes (STARs), approach charts and airport diagrams. We receive the NACO data directly from NACO and since we receive it a little later than the other database data, FliteCharts is available two days prior to the new cycle’s effective date.  If you have any questions about what date a specific database is available, there is a chart for each database on the “Database” tab of your flyGarmin.com account.  Just click on the link “View aviation database cycles." 

Another thing to keep in mind is that the FliteCharts and NavData both come out every 28 days while the Obstacle and SafeTaxi are available every 56 days.  The AOPA database is updated four times a year on the 15th day of the quarter and the Terrain database is updated about once a year.  With all of these databases, dates and release periods its good to have flyGarmin.com as your fingertips to help you manage it all.

Victor's Vectors: One step closer to Aviation's NextGen

The House of Representatives recently passed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009.  This is a large step in the right direction for the funding of the FAA and the Next Generation Air Traffic Control System (NextGen).  Garmin has been following this closely along with the rest of the aviation community, and we've been on the leading edge of NextGen since the beginning of Capstone project in Alaska.  If you’re not familiar with the Capstone project it is centered on the service called ADS-B, which is short for Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast. ADS-B is an enabling technology for “free flight” — a FAA vision aimed at improving the safe flow of commercial and non-commercial aircraft within the U.S. air-traffic environment. ADS-B provides real time traffic and weather directly to the cockpit of any aircraft equipped with a receiver like Garmin’s GDL 90, aviation's first certified datalink transceiver. The GDL 90 interfaces with the GMX 200, and when the two systems are working together pilots can "see" aircraft traffic with much more precision than with existing ground-based radar system.

It's a car. It's a plane. It's both.

We regularly receive testimonials from customers on how they use their Garmin products. All testimonials are interesting and fun for us to read, but every now and again one will appear that almost seems fictional because of how incredible it is. That's the case with this testimonial that we received from Terrafugia -- a new company that has made a flying car called the Transition. If you're wondering how this pertains to Garmin, it's because they're using our aviation products to help guide the plane while it's in the air and the car while it's on the ground. Their Garmin units of choice are the SL30 VHF nav/com, GTX 327 transponder, and GPSMAP 496. The GPSMAP 496 is the ultimate crossover product for them -- just like the Transition -- because it provides all the aviation-specific info for flying and comes preloaded with City Navigator street maps for navigating on the ground. If you're wondering how a vehicle can be both a car and plane, check out these videos. This is one you almost need to see to believe.

Victor's Vectors: Tabbing Through flyGarmin.com

I’ve received some good feedback for posting information about database updates.  So, this week’s blog is an explanation of the tabs at the top of your flyGarmin.com account.  The first tab is “Home.”  This is the first page you see when signing in and provides plenty of useful information and links for reference.  The second tab is “Databases.”  This page shows all the databases or subscriptions you have purchased and is a quick, easy way to download a database subscription. There is also a link to a page that shows all the database cycles and the dates the databases will become available.  The next tab is “Portables.” This page shows you all the portable GPS units on your account, and gives you the ability to check the portable to see what databases are installed and what databases are available for your specific product. This is also the page you would add a new portable device to your account.  The last tab is “Aircraft.” The aircraft page lists all of your aircraft and panel mounted devices.  Like the Portables tab, you can easily view the databases that are installed in your airplane.  You can also add a new aircraft or panel mounted device from the Aircraft page.  Hopefully, this brief overview will help you get the most out of your free flyGarmin account.

Victor's Vectors: Keeping your databases current

I asked Garmin’s aviation product support specialists what some of the most common calls are about, and they said it’s from customers needing assistance with their aviation databases.  That is very understandable considering that most of our newer GPS units have up to six separate databases.  Understanding your aviation databases and updating database information can be confusing, especially when you are initially setting up your flyGarmin.com account.  We posted a blog in February called flyGarmin 101 that included a video that walked through the initial processes.  Since this video has been popular, I decided to mention it again now that flying season is upon us.  I also plan to have a couple more posts about databases and database updates that I hope will help clear up some of the confusion. But for now, watch the video and then visit flyGarmin.com to set up your free account.

There's a jet in the parking lot

It's not every day that you drive into work and see a jet in your parking space, but that's exactly what happened today. The Cirrus team visited Garmin today and they brought a mock-up of their new jet, the Vision SF50. It was raining cats and dogs when the mock-up rolled off the truck, but that didn't stop people from taking lots of pictures before walking in the building. I guess a few raindrops never hurt anyone and it's not often that you see an airplane in front of your office! 

In addition to bringing the SF50 to Garmin's headquarters, Cirrus's executive team was on hand to talk about the new aircraft. Garmin was announced as the avionics supplier for the Vision earlier this year, and the current flying test aircraft, V1, uses the Perspective by Garmin™ avionics system, which is the same avionics that is currently available on Cirrus's SR‐series of piston aircraft. Cirrus Aircraft and Garmin have been partners in every Cirrus Aircraft model delivered to date. Garmin GNS 430's were standard equipment on the first SR20's produced and remained standard on all SR20 and SR22 models until the introduction of Cirrus Perspective by Garmin in mid‐2008.

A special thanks to Cirrus for making this an extremely memorable Friday!

Victor's Vectors: How to Update Aviation Databases

It’s that time of the month again and we have been swamped with calls from customers needing assistance updating the databases for their GPS units.  FlyGarmin.com has been getting a large amount of praise, but some customers have had some issues setting up their new account.  One common issue is the installation of the Garmin Communicator Plugin on your computer, which is required for automatic downloads from flyGarmin and is one of the advanced features that makes flyGarmin so user friendly.  One problem I’ve been hearing on a regular basis is that the plugin is not being detected properly on the test page.  This can often be caused because of the settings of the browser that you are using.  When on the test page, look out for an information bar at the top of the page that requires your input to run an Active X control that the plugin utilizes.  After clicking on the “Run ActiveX Control”, the test page will refresh and you should see it verify that the plugin is installed and up to date.  Also on the test page, it’s important to have your GPS or data card connected to the computer to verify that the test page is communicating with it as well.  With the Communicator Plugin installed and communicating properly, flyGarmin becomes a useful tool that is easy to use during that time of the month. Click here for a  step-by-step video on updating your databases.

Helicopters Get WAAS Avionics

Yeah! We achieved another aviation first today. We're the first to receive the FAA's AML-STC to install GPS/WAAS avionics on helicopters. Those who aren't pilots may not realize the significance of this statement, but those that fly helicopters are rejoicing because they'll now be able to operate in and out of areas that would otherwise be unavailable because of marginal weather. This AML-STC (approved model list supplemental type certificate) is for the GNS 400W/500W series and it covers approximately 50 of the most popular helicopters like the Bell 206, Enstrom 280FX, Agusta A109, Eurocopter EC135, MD Helicopters 600-N-Notar, Robinson R22 and R44, and many more. In addition, it includes certification for custom steep LPV approaches for up to six degrees, which means law enforcement and medical teams will be able to land their helicopters in areas with urban rooftops, such as hospitals.

Victor's Vectors: flyGarmin.com makes database updates easy

FlyGarmin.com keeps getting better!  Recently, we added a couple of new features to flyGarmin.com that customers have been asking for.  One of the new features is a Beta version of batch updates.  That means that customers with multiple database subscriptions can now download all databases with one shot, instead of download each database separately.  Being able to download multiple databases at the same time saves time and is much more convenient.  If you haven’t already, visit www.fly.garmin.com and discover an easy way to update your Garmin aviation databases.

Sun 'n Fun: $5,000 Rebate on G600!

Are you thinking about upgrading your panel from out-dated steam gauges to all-glass? Now is the time because we announced the deal of a lifetime at Sun 'n Fun. If you purchase a G600 between now and June 30, you'll receive a $5,000 rebate. Plus, if you plan to add more Garmin equipment to your cockpit, you have an opportunity to participate in an ongoing Garmin program where you can save an additional $4,000, for a total savings of $9,000!  We've never offered a deal this big, so don't hesitate and let it pass you by.

Sun 'n Fun: Aviation weather, flight file and AOPA Directory on your phone

Got weather? If not and if you're a pilot, you know it's a must have. Trying to make go/no-go decisions is impossible without a reliable weather source, and Pilot My-Cast by Garmin is the reliable weather source you need to make those decisions from your cell phone. Pilot My-Cast by Garmin is an aviation weather application that works on just about any phone -- BlackBerry, Windows Mobile, etc -- and it shows up-to-date aviation weather radar, METARs, TAFs, winds aloft, PIREPs, SIGMETs, AIRMETs, and so much more. Here at Sun 'n Fun we've announced that weather information is now available for Canada, as well as the U.S. You can trust that the info from Pilot My-Cast is the most up-to-date because the data comes directly from the National Weather Service for the U.S., Environment Canada for Canada, and the FAA.

The latest addition to Pilot My-Cast is the AOPA Airport Directory, the most comprehensive source of airport information. It includes information for over 5,300 public-use airports and more than 7,000 FBOs, such as pilot services, ground transportation, lodging, restaurants, and local attractions. 

In addition to checking the weather, you can file a flight plan directly from your phone by entering the data into a form on your phone and sending it to DUATs -- it's almost like texting them your flight plan and it can save you a tremendous amount of time.

Pilot My-Cast by Garmin is only $9.95/month. Click here to learn how to try it on your phone, or come visit the Pilot My-Cast area at Sun 'n Fun (Hangar D, in the Garmin booth) and we'll give you a hands-on demonstration.

 

Sun 'n Fun: Learning your Garmin

We mentioned it briefly yesterday, but one of our announcements for Sun 'n Fun is a new eLearning Program where you can receive computer-based training for the most popular Garmin aviation products. Our first eLearning Program is for the GPSMAP 696/695 and it's available now on CD. We also expect to add training for other products to our eLearning library, so that you'll soon be able to access training for the GPSMAP 296/396/496, G1000, GNS 430W/530W, G600 and more.

One of the best parts of the eLearning Program is that it's self-paced so you can learn about your Garmin whenever is convenient for you. Plus, you can learn about the entire product in one sitting, or you can do training by a specific topic. The training has multiple steps to help you learn about your GPS and practice your new skills. First, you'll watch a simulated multi-media demonstration of a task, such as creating a flight plan. Then, a scenario-based guided simulation system will help you practice the task by following step-by-step, on-screen prompts. Lastly, you can practice what you learned without prompts from the computer.  The eLearning Program is a great way to make the most of your Garmin GPS.

Another great opportunity for those at Sun 'n Fun is to participate in one of the free seminars at the Garmin booth (Hangar D). Our Sun 'n Fun seminars cover a variety of topics -- from the 695/696 to G600 to G1000 -- so stop by and learn some new tips and tricks for your Garmin.

Sun 'n Fun: Come visit us!

Today's the first day for fun in the sun, a.k.a. the Sun 'n Fun trade show in Lakeland, Florida. This is trade show has been equated to opening day for the aviation industry, so there's lots of excitement in the air. The Garmin booth is huge this year, which is good because we have lots of products to demonstrate. Those attending the show should stop by our booth (Hangar D) to get a one-on-one demonstration of the G600, G1000, GNS 430W/530W, GPSMAP 696, Pilot My-Cast by Garmin, and more. Here's a quick recap of Garmin's announcements for the show and a more in-depth look will be coming soon. I also hope you enjoy these behind the scenes pictures of the Garmin booth -- they were taken before the show opened so you're definitely getting a sneak peek.

    * Garmin is offering a limited time, $5,000 “Spring Special” retrofit rebate on the G600 all-glass avionics system. This $5,000 rebate may also be combined with the Garmin incentive program where customers can earn up to an additional $4,000 in rebates off of a G600 package when they purchase selected Garmin aviation panel products.  The “$5,000 Spring Special – G600 Retrofit Rebate” is a limited time rebate for customer purchases starting April 21, 2009, and extends until June 30, 2009.
    * AOPA’s Airport Directory and Canadian weather data are now available on your cell phone with Pilot My-Cast by Garmin. This content is in addition to the U.S. weather and flight filing data already available on Pilot My-Cast. Pilot My-Cast is compatible with many popular phone models, such as BlackBerry and Windows Mobile devices, and is available from all major wireless carriers in the U.S. including AT&T, Sprint, Verizon and Alltel.
    * Garmin has unveiled a new eLearning computer-based training program that walks customers through their Garmin products step-by-step. The eLearning Program is available on CD. The 696/695 will be the first training CD available, and customers can purchase it from Garmin dealers at Sun ‘n Fun.