New (March 1, 2016) Garmin aera 660 Portable GPS

[g3xpert]

Steve,

Would you be able to answer the questions in my post e.g.

"Is there a document anywhere which lists the various file formats which can be stored on the SD card and which the 660 auto detects and does specific things with?"

I can't find them on the internet.

Many thanks.

Peter

Hello Peter,

There is no document other than the Pilot Guide.

Thanks,
Steve

[peterh337]

In that case I wonder where I read about the ability to display checklists etc.

[rjtjrt]

Hello,

We are constantly working to source new map and chart data from various sources around the world,.........


Steve

Steve.
Reassuring to know you are working on this.
Recently Australia's Airservices have released their maps/charts online free.

Does this allow Garmin to look into providing charts/maps for Australian users?

Thanks.
John

[g3xpert]

Steve.
Reassuring to know you are working on this.
Recently Australia's Airservices have released their maps/charts online free.

Does this allow Garmin to look into providing charts/maps for Australian users?

Thanks.
John

Hello John,

We certainly haven't forgotten Australia!

It is great that Australia is providing their charts free online, but if you read the fine print you will see that commercial entities are not allowed to use this data.

The requirements for a company like Garmin to use this data is quite involved, but we hope to eventually get through this process and receive approval to do so.

Thanks,
Steve

[jeffsvan]

I know I asked this question much earlier without any response.

When I look at weather(winds) on the Aera 660 the wind barbs are VERY tiny.
Is there any way to enlarge them?
Even when I zoom in on the screen their size does not change.
Also, sometimes they are partially covered by other graphics on the screen.

thanks.

[Jetguy]

I know I asked this question much earlier without any response.

When I look at weather(winds) on the Aera 660 the wind barbs are VERY tiny.
Is there any way to enlarge them?
Even when I zoom in on the screen their size does not change.
Also, sometimes they are partially covered by other graphics on the screen.

thanks.

Add me to this request to.;)

[jeffsvan]

Perhaps Steve our Garmin G3X Support can Post some comment on this Wind-barb issue?

[Shawn25854]

Me three Steve. :D

And here's a request for the Aera 660 update/improvement list.

Would it be possible to have the "dedicated page icons" that are located vertically on the right side of the screen in landscape mode or horizontally along the bottom of the screen in portrait to autohide? Say after 5 seconds or a user defined time?

Then with a simple touch of the "title bar" at the top of the page (or anywhere on the screen) it would reappear.

This would INCREASE the map size by about 1/2". Seems like a simple task but I'm not programmer.

Just something to add to the Aera 660 "improvement list".

It's an awesome device already and I love it.

[g3xpert]

I know I asked this question much earlier without any response.

When I look at weather(winds) on the Aera 660 the wind barbs are VERY tiny.
Is there any way to enlarge them?
Even when I zoom in on the screen their size does not change.
Also, sometimes they are partially covered by other graphics on the screen.

thanks.

Hello Jeff,

There is not a way to adjust the size of wind barbs, but we will consider implementing improvements to improve readability.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dP9zmd-NjHEfUANKPI7hXGpSdharCOZxny9XtRyYYC1OHxHBcEdUHgUat YHIymJWBfnHjitDN-9G0cp72zo580ednXNtXkNUICv6nLPu1Bb4u9fHUok60tR4Kjla F3ipCuKXmbnP7B09FwkuY-Deh02b-zaYx7MTgx9nqMYmNABftrVNdNwG3AZJKNyV4ur3fIvLhZQRsrt Xik3fxHjq6QrajlHg17t8Gn2XliIH89OFoVBSeBpKUqMwE8RWQ a1cojKTn-D4O96n95AMrqCJaEvDnXgNxXq81tHjiDdDOfVkahvSUT_WI22q A8mMBSrlosSP7g6ph5jv2NXtELwCxS64-t8IP8ezeBNkNkgUHsfMKXFk9YUVV1EwV7HMzHbXcScTk-6nnDDsfGruMudnHqRLy1EfiTWO1K1PTJKTl08An5XRC0uvQsPn b5xjsU39SDNU3sANZyMPYNFdAOT2z9c0WcokPXWZwrD8ccewZW 8BS2d_uEmpzwXjGx8MCuUjdG_CDFzyJE5Mxo1Zy6eY0CmU0Icg k-3ODF0BfEaE02Bw_Psy5oOwQa-zUkNOCSGqHvvv0ZaDiOrsTA-F-MJCaU7w4ephT3YYSMRS3A3JSMN6iU9RxIUo=w548-h885-no

Thanks,
Steve

[jeffsvan]

Those wind barbs are numerous and larger than what I am seeing.

My Aera 660 is mounted horizontally, and I am only seeing wind barbs at stations that are reporting weather.
(less than a dozen wind barbs in Michigan)

I use the unit in my aircraft exclusively, and have GDL393D as an input.

I must not have something selected properly in my menu's?

Any ideas?

[g3xpert]

Those wind barbs are numerous and larger than what I am seeing.

My Aera 660 is mounted horizontally, and I am only seeing wind barbs at stations that are reporting weather.
(less than a dozen wind barbs in Michigan)

I use the unit in my aircraft exclusively, and have GDL393D as an input.

I must not have something selected properly in my menu's?

Any ideas?

Hello Jeff,

This is SXM weather from a GDL 52R. You are comparing this to FIS-B, which has very sparse reporting points of winds aloft.

The wind barbs are drawn the same way for either weather source, but there are just a lot fewer of them provided by FIS-B weather. As indicated above, we will consider implementing improvements to improve readability.

Thanks,
Steve

[jeffsvan]

OK that's sounds like a decent explanation.

So for those of us with just FIS-B, can you make our barbs larger and more readable? They appear about 1/2 the size of the SXM barbs, and are sometimes partially covered by other graphics.

[Jetguy]

Me three Steve. :D

And here's a request for the Aera 660 update/improvement list.

Would it be possible to have the "dedicated page icons" that are located vertically on the right side of the screen in landscape mode or horizontally along the bottom of the screen in portrait to autohide? Say after 5 seconds or a user defined time?

Then with a simple touch of the "title bar" at the top of the page (or anywhere on the screen) it would reappear.

This would INCREASE the map size by about 1/2". Seems like a simple task but I'm not programmer.

Just something to add to the Aera 660 "improvement list".

It's an awesome device already and I love it.

At me to this request to. This would be very cool. :D

[geneticist]

Where can I land my hands on a GDL 52 portable?
And how much integration will it have with the 660. If the connext works as well with the 52 as it does with the ipad/pilot, it's going to be a great little non-ifr set-up.

m

[g3xpert]

Where can I land my hands on a GDL 52 portable?
And how much integration will it have with the 660. If the connext works as well with the 52 as it does with the ipad/pilot, it's going to be a great little non-ifr set-up.

m

Hello Michael,

The GDL 51/51R/52R are shipping now, but the GDL 52 doesn't ship until later this year.

Please see this thread for more information.
http://www.vansairforce.com/community/showthread.php?t=151535

Thanks,
Steve

[geneticist]

Thanks Steve...

Another question...

I fly around the Canadian US Border and I've noticed I can't keep both the Canadian and US VFR charts loaded in the unit at the same time, am I missing a setting or something..

M

[g3xpert]

Thanks Steve...

Another question...

I fly around the Canadian US Border and I've noticed I can't keep both the Canadian and US VFR charts loaded in the unit at the same time, am I missing a setting or something..

M

Hello Michael,

The Aera 660 holds one set of IFR/VFR Charts at a time, and since the U.S. and Canadian charts are separate sets, you must load one or the other.

The Navigation Data, Obstacles, FliteCharts, and SafeTaxi databases in your North America Database Bundle cover both the U.S. and Canada, so you are covered with those databases regardless of which country you are flying in.

Thanks,
Steve

[geneticist]

This fantastic support. Thank you!

[Snowflake]

I fly around the Canadian US Border and I've noticed I can't keep both the Canadian and US VFR charts loaded in the unit at the same time, am I missing a setting or something..
Here in Victoria, BC, we are significantly south of the 49th, and most of my flights end up going through US airspace. So while I elected to keep the Canadian data, it would be a great improvement if we could have both.

Given the population is the most dense in Canada close to the US borders, I would expect that a significant portion of Canadian pilots would frequently want to reference the US data.

[geneticist]

Here in Victoria, BC, we are significantly south of the 49th, and most of my flights end up going through US airspace. So while I elected to keep the Canadian data, it would be a great improvement if we could have both.

Given the population is the most dense in Canada close to the US borders, I would expect that a significant portion of Canadian pilots would frequently want to reference the US data.

it would be great, if somehow, both could be loaded. Great trips from Vancouver go straight down the coast of USA.

[geneticist]

Hi Steve,
a few things:

1. Arrgh. Ive been updating the database using the flygarmin beta for mac, but the IFR/VFR database keeps getting corrupt. Im going to try it on a PC machine. I've tried a number of times.

2. I had a cockpit "incident" over the weekend and my radios are fried. So, now is my chance to be smart and get ready for ADS B in a simple way. Im in canada so it will be a slow process. But here are my thoughts as I replace the radio:

a) GTR 225 (i read it can talk to the 660 and populate stand by frequencies, how do I get it to talk to the 660?)

b) I'm going to add a GDL 52 for ADS-B and SiriusXM weather-in. We can get the XM weather in Canada using a US account.

c) Before 2020 there may be other options open, but I could perhaps buy a GDL 82 for GPS/ADS-B out.

Would this set-up all talk to the 660? Or is throwing in a GTX 335/345 transponder the only real option i have.

Michael

[g3xpert]

Hi Steve,
a few things:
Michael

Hello Michael,

1. Arrgh. Ive been updating the database using the flygarmin beta for mac, but the IFR/VFR database keeps getting corrupt. Im going to try it on a PC machine. I've tried a number of times.

Have you tried using WiFi to download databases and software? I haven't used anything but WiFi for the last year and never have any problems.

2. I had a cockpit "incident" over the weekend and my radios are fried. So, now is my chance to be smart and get ready for ADS B in a simple way. Im in canada so it will be a slow process. But here are my thoughts as I replace the radio:

a) GTR 225 (i read it can talk to the 660 and populate stand by frequencies, how do I get it to talk to the 660?)

b) I'm going to add a GDL 52 for ADS-B and SiriusXM weather-in. We can get the XM weather in Canada using a US account.

c) Before 2020 there may be other options open, but I could perhaps buy a GDL 82 for GPS/ADS-B out.

Would this set-up all talk to the 660? Or is throwing in a GTX 335/345 transponder the only real option i have.

Yes, the GTR 225 will receive frequencies from the Aera 660. Look on page 145 of the Rev. B Aera 660 Pilot Guide (http://static.garmin.com/pumac/190-02017-20_B.pdf) for information on wiring and configuring the output to provide this data to several models of VHF radios.

If you are equipping an EAB aircraft, we also recommend you consider the GTR 200 (http://www.vansairforce.com/community/showthread.php?t=102306) COM radio which integrates nicely with the Aera 660.

The GDL 52/52R is an excellent choice for ADS-B traffic/weather and SXM weather/music. If you want ADS-B traffic and SXM weather/music, this is the best option for the Aera 660.

Thanks,
Steve

[geneticist]

Hello Michael,



Have you tried using WiFi to download databases and software? I haven't used anything but WiFi for the last year and never have any problems.



Yes, the GTR 225 will receive frequencies from the Aera 660. Look on page 145 of the Rev. B Aera 660 Pilot Guide (http://static.garmin.com/pumac/190-02017-20_B.pdf) for information on wiring and configuring the output to provide this data to several models of VHF radios.

If you are equipping an EAB aircraft, we also recommend you consider the GTR 200 (http://www.vansairforce.com/community/showthread.php?t=102306) COM radio which integrates nicely with the Aera 660.

The GDL 52/52R is an excellent choice for ADS-B traffic/weather and SXM weather/music. If you want ADS-B traffic and SXM weather/music, this is the best option for the Aera 660.

Thanks,
Steve

Hi Steve,
I have a lowly 172M in Canada, not EAB, so I think i have to have the 225 installed and certified or something by an AME (in Canada that's certified (Aircraft Maintenance Engineer) or authorized by Garmin shop or along those lines.

I guess to be compliant in 2020, I can simply pop in the GDL 82.

Question, why is the GDL 52 Portable not available in Canada until December, but I can order in through the US (just saying). And the GDL 52R is available currently. I might order the portable to a border town. Also, i know of someone that is having issues with the GDL51 in Canada with the XM weather. And I saw this post, here: http://www.vansairforce.com/community/showthread.php?t=152769, so, i'll be sure to sign up with a US account.

Any other suggestions, i'm open.

The direct download worked only after I had connected the unit to the computer to update it, for some reason. I am up to date for another 3 weeks!

Thanks again, Steve, fantastic support here!

m

[Shawn25854]

Hi Steve,
a few things:

a) GTR 225 (i read it can talk to the 660 and populate stand by frequencies, how do I get it to talk to the 660?)

Michael

Hi Michael,

As Steve pointed out the GTR200 (if you can use it) and the Aera 660 pair nicely with each other. That's what I have in my plane and I LOVE it. It makes things a lot easier with them talking to each other.

The 225 you mention has a built in database and that is yet another device you'll have to update, Arrgh for you MAC users. :D The GTR-200 utilizes the database in the Aera 660 so I only have to update the 660 via wifi and it shares that data with the GTR-200. Easy Peasy.

The wiring is very easy with the manual. I installed the GTR-200 in just a few hours by myself and that included all new intercom cables for my headsets. The built in intercom in the GTR-200 is also AWESOME. I was able to pull my PM3000 out.

As for ADS-B, I'm using the GDL-39 3D for traffic and weather IN (dont need XM) and will be adding the GDL-82 later this year when it's available for ADS-B OUT to comply with our 2020 mandate. My home airport is inside the Tampa Mode C veil so I have no choice. Plus seeing "all the traffic" is better than using the GDL-39 by itself.

Shawn

[Jermechanic]

Hello Michael,

The Aera 660 holds one set of IFR/VFR Charts at a time, and since the U.S. and Canadian charts are separate sets, you must load one or the other.

The Navigation Data, Obstacles, FliteCharts, and SafeTaxi databases in your North America Database Bundle cover both the U.S. and Canada, so you are covered with those databases regardless of which country you are flying in.

Thanks,
Steve

I tried out my new Garmin 660 and had a couple disappointments comparing with my trusty Garmin 496. As others have said with the 660 you have to choose between Canada or the US. I live in Victoria BC so that is a real inconvienence! At my home airport we are constantly transiting US airspace so this isn't great! With my 496, for years I had all the info US and Canada together in one download. In recent years 496 users have to choose between continental US or Canada including the Northern 2 or 3 US States (Washington and Oregon on the west coast). Why wouldn't Garmin do this with the 660? I would expect that Garmin would put enough memory in the 660 to again include US and Canada in one download; or at a minimum have the Northern most US states included with Canada as my 496 does.

Lastly while taxing I noticed that there is no Safetaxi while in Canada. I have Safetaxi selected and the US airports Safetaxi details appear but nothing at CYYJ or CYVR... again something that works on my 496. Did I misunderstand Steve that that feature should work everywhere, all the time, not only when Canada Charts are selected?

It would be great if Garmin could rectify these issues with a software update. As others have said this current set up isn't great for a lot of users who live on the Canada/US border. The 660 could be an even nicer, more useful GPS if Garmin updated the software

Jeremy

[g3xpert]

While taxing I noticed that there is no Safetaxi while in Canada. I have Safetaxi selected and the US airports Safetaxi details appear but nothing at CYYJ or CYVR... again something that works on my 496. Did I misunderstand Steve that that feature should work everywhere, all the time, not only when Canada Charts are selected?
Jeremy

Hello Jeremy,

It sounds like your unit doesn't have a SafeTaxi database that includes Canadian airports. Are you perhaps just using the databases loaded into the Aera 660 at the factory and drawing a conclusion that Canadian SafeTaxi is not supported based on that?

You can view loaded databases by selecting Tools, Database Information.

Using an Aera 660 with the Americas SafeTaxi database installed, we verified that SafeTaxi diagrams are indeed provided for the two airports you list above.

As explained in this posting (http://www.vansairforce.com/community/showpost.php?p=1058437&postcount=2), the North American Database Bundle includes the Americas SafeTaxi database which includes SafeTaxi diagrams for supported airports in the U.S., Canada, and Brazil.

Please contact us by email or phone shown below if you have any questions.

Thanks,
Steve

[Snowflake]

Jeremy, I can confirm that Safetaxi works in Canada, and specifically at CYYJ. Note that if you are on the "Charts" mode it will not automatically switch to the Safetaxi chart on touchdown... You have to switch to the "Maps" mode to see it. If it's really not there, chances are your specific bundle hasn't included it for some reason.

Steve, maybe another feature request for the Charts mode could be to include the Safetaxi info as an overlay, or to turn it on when landed or speed below a certain threshold?

[geneticist]

ive been using the 660 for a bit now.
1. I use it in conjunction with an ipad, because sometimes i have to make changes to my flight plan on the go and i haven't figured out if the screen is able to do it on the fly, so to speak.
2. The screen on the 660 is way brighter and useful and readable than the ipad
3. Safe taxi is cool, it works in the Vancouver area.
4. Im sure future updates will have cool stuff in it too.

But, I guess my question is what is the best way to change an active flight plan on the fly?

m

[Snowflake]

But, I guess my question is what is the best way to change an active flight plan on the fly?
You can edit the active flight plan, or you can go to the flight plan list, create a new flight plan (or copy the current one to a new one), edit that, and then activate it. Even if you're part-way along the updated flight plan, the GPS will figure it out and it won't tell you to go back to the beginning and start over...

[geneticist]

You can edit the active flight plan, or you can go to the flight plan list, create a new flight plan (or copy the current one to a new one), edit that, and then activate it. Even if you're part-way along the updated flight plan, the GPS will figure it out and it won't tell you to go back to the beginning and start over...

I don't think there is a way to point and drag. I fly in the mountains pretty much exclusively, and to be able to quickly change a flight plan by drag and drop would be preferred to looking at electrical wires or other VFR waypoints (if they exist where we're flying). I have been doing it on the ipad then shooting it to the 660. As I said, the 660 has a great screen that is crystal clear and bright in all conditions.

[g3xpert]

Good morning,

Just a heads up that Aera 660 V3.10 software may be installed today over WiFi or Webupdater (http://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=10040).

The primary reason for the update is for our users in Australia, Asia, and Western Alaska. There is a new satellite that was turned on with visibility in that part of the world which requires us to update the GPS receiver firmware in the Aera 660, so you will see a pop-up that GPS firmware is being updated after installing this software. The affected operation area is shown in this Service Alert (https://www.garmin.com/en-US/aviationalerts/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/1761A.pdf).

An interesting new feature, for admittedly a small, but vocal group of users, is the new Time Over Target (TOT) data field. If you are flying lead for a group that is scheduled to make a stadium or other fly-over appearance at an assigned time, you may enable display of the TOT field and adjust your speed to keep the TOT time equal to your assigned time. The TOT field works off the active waypoint, so you can either do a Direct-To your target location, or put that location in a flight plan so it becomes active after takeoff. Unlike the ETA field, the TOT field has seconds resolution to make your timing more accurate.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5iU5dStqwZ19Y__0PMdLLHV6abru32RdE36aHoNztuZBo4WJlb ySLadr7-SLOF7uNdIkjLT5fOaJuymEE14zdvjBALI4Qy5Zrh7UHWd9lRSX 1EGKH8wQk-1lVpvxFZI0ofpPOhJzYxz9FGNpdQzxPjwitbTrM4ql6lRlebiG 06GybZtX48YvXjqAdtsSR_V7S_6qs6jUo3Dih39ye3WNQj2O7r JPUzr9W1L2JW7HXzC2Vv2Bmie70I1CTxkxjVk2cqg6485dzmzQ cK9d2rrZ75S2vVDVxm_WNT7prWrSQyWAuvz4ZXxFN2O3mxFAM8 FC-UQGD1r-lYsqhS-OvtRX4MNYtQ4HwtWH0bZX8IBcjnx6ZrJpwzfiuj-P9wQ2QSrnSpbZWD0euQClGb0eBarVqLCAfl0cKkOhIstRTs192 bBBxmterOlXc-bl9VEJhyD0580N1IwFtHmdaMi04-tDw41tyEMsj3egl938oThGhCkbHRvDW_bdlKM2HlK0tZ-XGtBeVf9iZu4X4CLHRLrDz5HkzjP9T81KiEBafXExZ6yji-FcFwLl2K9_AaTJSXgLnqqyfzVMBQUkpXRMPJn6No9IRitJZ0g_ 6pNvyxc7vw=w467-h754-no

Changes made from version 3.00 to 3.10:

Add Time Over Target (TOT) data field
Add ability to the airport review page to pre-select chart for the active approach
Add ability for graphical flight plan editing when navigation is not active
Add message to indicate when SD card format is incompatible
Change map symbol for visual reporting points
General improvements to system operation
Includes update to GDL 5X software version 2.07
Includes update to GPS software version 3.10
Includes GDL 39 software version 4.80


Thanks,
Steve

[noelf]

The Bandit Flight Team thanks you for the "TOT" feature.

[Yobo]

Can you add the TOT feature to the G3X non-touch? That is a great new feature!!!!!

[tangocharlie123]

How would you go about connecting the bare wire panel mount audio to a 3.5mm audio jack.
I know somewhere I have read that there is impedance issues.
I do not have an audio panel but want to feed straight into my Bose headset.
Thanks in Advance

[gFlyer]

Steve,

Concerning to 3D vision is it possible to use the bug indicator and send a NMEA output steer command to a connected autopilot?

Would be a great feature to set a course from 3D vision page.

Best regards and thanks
gFlyer

[olyolson]

I think I was one of those motor mouthed ?vocal users? that kept bugging Steve about a TOT window. Thanks for that- a really nice feature.

For Peter in Australia- I have the audio line from the 660 wired into my Garmin GTR 200. The GTR 200 comm has a built in intercom so I get all the audio capabilities of the 660 in my headset. Probably doesn?t answer your question directly but I think if you & Steve discuss it there might be a way to go direct to the headset.

Yobo- are you jealous yet?

[berthoud]

The gpsmap496 allows in Route Setup to establish parameters for Waypont Transition. This allows a coupled autopilot to smoothly transition to the next leg, starting at a user-defined distance before a waypont.

I was unable to find this desirable feature in the aera660. Does it exist? If not, is it coming?

Claude

[geneticist]

Good morning,

Just a heads up that Aera 660 V3.10 software may be installed today over WiFi or Webupdater (http://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=10040).

The primary reason for the update is for our users in Australia, Asia, and Western Alaska. There is a new satellite that was turned on with visibility in that part of the world which requires us to update the GPS receiver firmware in the Aera 660, so you will see a pop-up that GPS firmware is being updated after installing this software.

An interesting new feature, for admittedly a small, but vocal group of users, is the new Time Over Target (TOT) data field. If you are flying lead for a group that is scheduled to make a stadium or other fly-over appearance at an assigned time, you may enable display of the TOT field and adjust your speed to keep the TOT time equal to your assigned time. The TOT field works off the active waypoint, so you can either do a Direct-To your target location, or put that location in a flight plan so it becomes active after takeoff. Unlike the ETA field, the TOT field has seconds resolution to make your timing more accurate.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5iU5dStqwZ19Y__0PMdLLHV6abru32RdE36aHoNztuZBo4WJlb ySLadr7-SLOF7uNdIkjLT5fOaJuymEE14zdvjBALI4Qy5Zrh7UHWd9lRSX 1EGKH8wQk-1lVpvxFZI0ofpPOhJzYxz9FGNpdQzxPjwitbTrM4ql6lRlebiG 06GybZtX48YvXjqAdtsSR_V7S_6qs6jUo3Dih39ye3WNQj2O7r JPUzr9W1L2JW7HXzC2Vv2Bmie70I1CTxkxjVk2cqg6485dzmzQ cK9d2rrZ75S2vVDVxm_WNT7prWrSQyWAuvz4ZXxFN2O3mxFAM8 FC-UQGD1r-lYsqhS-OvtRX4MNYtQ4HwtWH0bZX8IBcjnx6ZrJpwzfiuj-P9wQ2QSrnSpbZWD0euQClGb0eBarVqLCAfl0cKkOhIstRTs192 bBBxmterOlXc-bl9VEJhyD0580N1IwFtHmdaMi04-tDw41tyEMsj3egl938oThGhCkbHRvDW_bdlKM2HlK0tZ-XGtBeVf9iZu4X4CLHRLrDz5HkzjP9T81KiEBafXExZ6yji-FcFwLl2K9_AaTJSXgLnqqyfzVMBQUkpXRMPJn6No9IRitJZ0g_ 6pNvyxc7vw=w467-h754-no

Changes made from version 3.00 to 3.10:

Add Time Over Target (TOT) data field
Add ability to the airport review page to pre-select chart for the active approach
Add ability for graphical flight plan editing when navigation is not active
Add message to indicate when SD card format is incompatible
Change map symbol for visual reporting points
General improvements to system operation
Includes update to GDL 5X software version 2.07
Includes update to GPS software version 3.10
Includes GDL 39 software version 4.80


Thanks,
Steve

The 660 keeps getting better with each software release. The graphical Flight Plan editing is great. THANK YOU.

Can i connect my D2 BRAVO to the 660?

[rjtjrt]

The 660 keeps getting better with each software release. The graphical Flight Plan editing is great. THANK YOU.

Can i connect my D2 BRAVO to the 660?

What is "graphical Flight Plan editing"? How does it work?

[geneticist]

What is "graphical Flight Plan editing"? How does it work?

graphically edit a flight plan (while not in navigation mode). For example, weather forces you to circumnavigate, you can go to "graphically edit flight plan".
mk

[gFlyer]

Does anyone know if the bug indicator in the 3D vision page can be used to send a steer command through the NMEA output to a connected autopilot?

Thanks for the help.

Regards
gFlyer

[Chkaharyer99]

Received this email from Garmin. Love this type of customer service.

Please see the below link to view and/or download the document for information on Service Alert 1761 GPS Position Accuracy

Service Alert 1761: GPS Position Accuracy
NOVEMBER 9, 2017
PRODUCTS AFFECTED:
Garmin aera 660 products with main software 3.09 and earlier and D2 Bravo with GPS software versions 3.09 (and earlier) are affected.
To check D2 Bravo GPS software version go to the About page (Settings->System->About) and scroll down to display the GPS software.
To check aera 660 main software version:
1. From the Main Menu, touch Tools > Downloads.
2. Touch Menu > Software Downloads.
ISSUE:
In some situations, a GPS position error of up to 20km may occur.
PILOT ACTION:
If a GPS position error is observed in flight, power off the device and power on again. Once on the ground connect the device to a wifi signal and download the latest unit software. For instructions on loading the latest software refer to the Garmin aera 660 Pilot?s Guide (190-02017-20) and/or the D2 Owner?s manual (190-01674-00). Both manuals can be found on www.garmin.com.
RESOLUTION:
This issue has been fixed in D2 Bravo GPS software version 3.10 and aera 660 GPS software version 3.10.
NOTE
Garmin aera 660 GPS software version 3.10 is contained in aera 660 main software version 3.10.
Service Alert 1761A

If you have any questions, please contact your Garmin Dealer.

[Snowflake]

Received this email from Garmin. Love this type of customer service.
What's really great is that Steve (g3xpert) told us about the 3.10 update on the 20th of October... Many of us have been running it for a couple of weeks already. :)

[uk_RV9A]

Received this email from Garmin. Love this type of customer service.
[
ISSUE:
In some situations, a GPS position error of up to 20km may occur.


That's kind of scary.... Do we know what situations, and is it definitely just the D2B and Aera 660 affected?

[Chkaharyer99]

What's really great is that Steve (g3xpert) told us about the 3.10 update on the 20th of October... Many of us have been running it for a couple of weeks already. :)

"Steve" from Garmin, another example of great customer service. I unfortunately missed Steve's post and didn't update until today. I like getting the emails. Glad Garmin has this service.



That's kind of scary.... Do we know what situations, and is it definitely just the D2B and Aera 660 affected?

Apparently I flew around for a couple weeks on the old software. I never once experienced the phenomenon described in the bulletin. I use a GNS 430 W for GPS Nav and the 660 as a backup.

[g3xpert]

Apparently I flew around for a couple weeks on the old software. I never once experienced the phenomenon described in the bulletin. I use a GNS 430 W for GPS Nav and the 660 as a backup.

Hello Charlie,

As mentioned in my posting, unless you flew around in Australia, Asia, or Western Alaska where this new satellite is visible, you could not be affected.

It has never been important for anyone operating in North America, South America, Africa, or Europe to receive this new GPS software, but of course we distributed it to everyone with the V3.10 update just in case.

Thanks,
Steve

[agirard7a]

Hi Steve. I have a 660. For some reason Atis does not show in the available list of frequencys for many airports that I know have an existing Atis frequency. I use the touch feature to load into my comm radio. Is there something I need to adjust or change? Thanks.

[g3xpert]

Hi Steve. I have a 660. For some reason Atis does not show in the available list of frequencys for many airports that I know have an existing Atis frequency. I use the touch feature to load into my comm radio. Is there something I need to adjust or change? Thanks.

Hello Al,

It could be just a limitation of the available frequency data that is incorporated into the navigation database, but if you could contact us by phone or email shown below and provide some specifics about which software and database you are using and which airports are perhaps missing these frequencies, we are happy to investigate.

Thanks,
Steve

[Jermechanic]

I have a Garmin 660 and a GDL39 ADSB receiver. If I want to add XM weather can I use and add a GDL51 at the same time as the GDL 39? The GDL52 includes both of the antennas in one but WOW its double the price of the GPS!

[g3xpert]

I have a Garmin 660 and a GDL39 ADSB receiver. If I want to add XM weather can I use and add a GDL51 at the same time as the GDL 39? The GDL52 includes both of the antennas in one but WOW its double the price of the GPS!

Hello Jeremy,

Yes, you may connect both a GDL 39 and GDL 51 to the Aera 660 using both serial ports (preferred) or one serial port and a Bluetooth connection.

Just a thought. You might also consider selling you GDL 39 and obtaining a GDL 52 or GDL 52R so you can have traffic, 2 kinds of weather, attitude data, and music control on one serial port.

Thanks,
Steve

[tangocharlie123]

Hi Steve
Without giving too many secrets away is the Garmin Tempe going to connect with the 660 in any future updates.
This would be great for us small guys for E6B calcs.

Thanks
Peter

[g3xpert]

Hi Steve
Without giving too many secrets away is the Garmin Tempe going to connect with the 660 in any future updates.
This would be great for us small guys for E6B calcs.

Thanks
Peter

Hello Peter,

That is an interesting idea, but probably not.

As you likely know, the Tempe (https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/p/pn/010-11092-30#devices) wireless temperature sensor does work with Garmin D2 Bravo and D2 Charlie (https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/p/591945) aviation watches.

Thanks,
Steve

[tdhanson]

Hi Garmin,

I see you have a Garmin TPMS system for motorcycles that works with Garmin zūmo? navigator. It seems to be some tire sensors and then a device which communicates with them to display among other things, the tire pressure.

Can such sensors be used on airplanes and communicate to the Aera 660 and/or G3X systems? If not, seems a logical 'alert' type system that could be an enhancement request.

[Snowflake]

If we're looking at feature requests, maybe the ability to read ADS-B traffic from a Stratux would be possible. The 660 already has the capability to receive and display ADS-B traffic, and it already has the ability to connect to a WiFi hotspot. If we could just get it to watch the traffic port on the Stratux WiFi we could have an economical traffic display.

[g3xpert]

Hi Garmin,

I see you have a Garmin TPMS system for motorcycles that works with Garmin zūmo? navigator. It seems to be some tire sensors and then a device which communicates with them to display among other things, the tire pressure.

Can such sensors be used on airplanes and communicate to the Aera 660 and/or G3X systems? If not, seems a logical 'alert' type system that could be an enhancement request.

Hello Tracy,

We took a look at that years ago, and tried some TPMS sensors on one of our aircraft.

They stick out a bit and we ultimately decided that the risk of wheel pant interference on some aircraft possibly leading to inflight loss of air and subsequent landing with a flat tire didn't have the proper risk/reward balance to pursue this.

Another case of "just because something is possible doesn't necessarily mean you should do it".

Thanks,
Steve

[pa38112]

Hi Steve,
You have probably already answered this on the previous 50 pages, but it is hard to tab through them all looking for a specific answer!

Question 1:
I have my area 660 wired into CH 2 on my GTX345 and have the 660 set to "GTX TIS-A In NEMEA & VHF Out"

On the GTX I have the RS-232 CH2 Input set to XPDR FHT 1 on the input and output

The 660 says "Not receiving data" I assume I need to reconfigure the settings?

Question 2: Can the 660 be a second GPS source for the GTX345, and if so, what should the Integrity be set to?


Question 3: On the GTX345 when I do the AHRS calibration it says "OFFST RNG" under Time Left, and never changes.

Question 4: I do not get a pressure altitude reading on the GTX345. I assume there is an error with the encoder wiring. I am using a Ameri-King AK-350. I did not connect the strob wire. Should I ?

Thank you !

[g3xpert]

Hi Steve,
You have probably already answered this on the previous 50 pages, but it is hard to tab through them all looking for a specific answer!

Question 1:
I have my area 660 wired into CH 2 on my GTX345 and have the 660 set to "GTX TIS-A In NEMEA & VHF Out"

On the GTX I have the RS-232 CH2 Input set to XPDR FHT 1 on the input and output

The 660 says "Not receiving data" I assume I need to reconfigure the settings?

Question 2: Can the 660 be a second GPS source for the GTX345, and if so, what should the Integrity be set to?


Question 3: On the GTX345 when I do the AHRS calibration it says "OFFST RNG" under Time Left, and never changes.

Question 4: I do not get a pressure altitude reading on the GTX345. I assume there is an error with the encoder wiring. I am using a Ameri-King AK-350. I did not connect the strob wire. Should I ?

Thank you !

Hello,

Page 153 of the Aera 660 Manual (https://support.garmin.com/support/manuals/manuals.htm?partNo=010-01518-00&language=en&country=US) explains how to connect an Aera 660 to a GTX 345 transponder and how to configure it. The GTX serial port should be set to "CONNEXT FMT 1" and the Aera 660 serial port should be set to "Connext 57600 Baud".

Presently the Aera 660 cannot be a GPS position source for the GTX 345.

For your AHRS calibration, I would re-check the Internal AHRS Orientation settings. For most installations, connectors are FORWARD, vent is pointing to LEFT WING, and the yaw is 0 degs.

In reviewing the altitude encoder wiring for the GTX 345, I don't see any mention of needing to connect a "strob" wire or any place to do so. Is the Altitude Source 1 set to "GILLHAM"?

Thanks,
Steve

[Low Pass]

Question for you Steve,

After many months of being thrilled with the 660, I experienced a significant issue yesterday. Was ending a flight and being south of the field in a nice position to test my button pushing and autopilot response, I set up for an "ILS" on the 660. Tower cleared me for a long, straight in. All was working well. Autopilot tracked, HSI on 660 worked, but the visual depiction (in 3D Vision) of the runway disappeared somewhere around 3, 4 miles out. Just disappeared into the synthetic terrain view. I am on the latest software. Sorry if I missed previous conversation on this issue. But this shook my confidence in this device. It's always been rock solid before. What's up?

[pa38112]

Steve,
My 6A sits nose high on the ground. Because it is tricycle gear it is hard to level on the ground. I have read conflicting information about the need to level the plane when calibrating the GTX345 AHRS. Right now the Area 660 is displaying a nose down attitude in level flight. I do not see anywhere in the Area 660 manual information on how to Cage or calibrate this display to re-set it to level. Fore flight does have that function.
Is there a way to reset the attitude indicator, or do I need to level the plane and calibrate the GTX 345?

Thanks!

[g3xpert]

Steve,
My 6A sits nose high on the ground. Because it is tricycle gear it is hard to level on the ground. I have read conflicting information about the need to level the plane when calibrating the GTX345 AHRS. Right now the Area 660 is displaying a nose down attitude in level flight. I do not see anywhere in the Area 660 manual information on how to Cage or calibrate this display to re-set it to level. Fore flight does have that function.
Is there a way to reset the attitude indicator, or do I need to level the plane and calibrate the GTX 345?

Thanks!

Hello,

If you are using a GDL 39 3D or GDL 51/51R/52/52R, you can issue a cage command on the 3D Vision page and reset the pitch angle in flight, but you can't do that with a GTX 345.

You will need to calibrate the GTX 345 attitude sensors with the aircraft at cruise pitch attitude with wings level.

Thanks,
Steve

[Snowflake]

My 6A sits nose high on the ground. Because it is tricycle gear it is hard to level on the ground.

FWIW, I have weighed a number of nosegear model RV's, and have found the easiest way to level one is to lower the nosewheel, not to raise the mains. Run the front tire off the edge of the taxiway next to your hangar, and if necessary scrape some gravel away under the nosewheel until you can level the canopy rails.

[pa38112]

With Garmin Pilot on my i-Phone I can change the colors of airport flight categories to match what I am use to seeing (green for VFR and red for IFR). I can not find that option on the Area 660, but have to believe it is there if the app has it. Doe anyone know how to do this?

[swixtt]

I'm new to the Aera 660 and i'm curious if i can overlay my over 250 waypoints i've uploaded over the VNC? i can see them on the Topo view at a certain zoom level (which would be good if i could see them further out) but nothing shows on the VNC? i've created a route and activated it and now i can see it on the VNC but i don't use the 250 waypoints for routing. i just need to seem the waypoints and my relative position to them.

[patterson]

I bought a G660 for use as a portable, but have decided to install it in my F4 as a backup EFIS and a dedicated traffic screen. I also bought the GDL39 3D. Now I'm wondering. 1.) does the Dynon GPS interface with the 660?
2.) do I need to upgrade the antenna to get XM Weather and XM Radio?
3.) Is my GDL 39 still useful or do I need a 52 of 52r or something else?
4.) with ADSB, do I even need XM Weather?

[g3xpert]

I'm new to the Aera 660 and i'm curious if i can overlay my over 250 waypoints i've uploaded over the VNC? i can see them on the Topo view at a certain zoom level (which would be good if i could see them further out) but nothing shows on the VNC? i've created a route and activated it and now i can see it on the VNC but i don't use the 250 waypoints for routing. i just need to seem the waypoints and my relative position to them.

Hello swixtt,

User defined waypoints are shown full time on the Map page and only when included in the active flight plan on the Enroute Charts and Terrain pages.

If you want the user waypoints to not be decluttered as soon when you range out on the Map page, you may go to the Map Setup, Point page and set the User Waypoint declutter range as high as you like (up to 800 nm).

Thanks,
Steve

[g3xpert]

I bought a G660 for use as a portable, but have decided to install it in my F4 as a backup EFIS and a dedicated traffic screen. I also bought the GDL39 3D. Now I'm wondering. 1.) does the Dynon GPS interface with the 660?
2.) do I need to upgrade the antenna to get XM Weather and XM Radio?
3.) Is my GDL 39 still useful or do I need a 52 of 52r or something else?
4.) with ADSB, do I even need XM Weather?

Hello Ron,
1. Not sure which Dynon unit you have, but it isn't uncommon for these units to accept NMEA data from an Aera 660.
2. If you wish to receive SXM weather/music (as well as ADS-B traffic/weather and attitude), you will need a GDL 52 or 52R.
3. The GDL 39 3D can be used for ADS-B traffic/weather and attitude if you don't need/want SXM weather/music.
4. It is a personal choice whether you are happy with free ADS-B weather, or prefer SXM weather/music (which isn't free).

Thanks,
Steve

[swixtt]

That is great Steve, thanks for that. i'll try that declutter setup. any particular reason waypoints don't show on the VNC unless activated?

[swixtt]

OK, i figured that out... the numbers greater than 2nm were hidden down below. kinda obscure when looking for it and if you can scroll down. i'll keep a look out for that sneaky ability!

This is going to be huge. by the way, i stuffed Topo Canada into it and is stellar in map view!

[eaglen92ce]

Question for G3Expert

The Area 660 manual lists the GXM 40/42 antennas as compatible SiriusXM devices on page 138. Can you confirm this information? I have not seen any other reference to the GXM 40 antenna working with the 660.

Thanks!
Bill

[g3xpert]

Question for G3Expert

The Area 660 manual lists the GXM 40/42 antennas as compatible SiriusXM devices on page 138. Can you confirm this information? I have not seen any other reference to the GXM 40 antenna working with the 660.

Thanks!
Bill

Hello Bill,

Sorry, too much copy/paste from the Aera 796 manual. The Aera 660 can use GDL 51/51R and GDL 52/52R SXM music/weather receivers.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rrMqaWfQ_89Wt00YgKQ8hlenN4Kz1_OU9GwayR-emoV4dyPE0RzTzYRaJAs-n0M-lmF68S377164HNbXPAEuV2Rg8-Ptb4YtjAr4jq15B6eReBp-Om-099VLt6MNemac15KqxSSnUgtYh9mv0jYtIFOZoG0rS1SgNSfI2 jjlmzZv8fS9w-WScl2mJSn931Oj45ZZOy34VIkdLIu4vRPC464R7bcoP-OUdgfp0DIthh_dyDnJWYNRFpnx8vfQrDWqk6UWop4JoYRMn9GO _sYSOoYZ8NFTKZ4n_Fl7Njr-xYJ2b57XGK3CkMvNa3b9zrl9uIe6MJJjxZtFyv1L2C-C1FG5PrrHxNO8GHy65ht626e72eiixLT96VCWrjy52QxMQjA_3 ar03LiLa-yzzzKxIz3dlMZmc_LVJEc2OB7n1SkGh5-rgAn-p7qJjEPcIlNnQUvh2hhJ6zVpHch7juf7aXcGLZSL0Y1VI2Nmd2 P4RUZ1QZL5oeZ0SWAaBN67Ugqi8FJZ2nEDG0Oyof2vza5c2HO0 hNTCzeYyAWPRBL3gdM6XqKwB_bej8NSBD5xCmtI04yqdpyqj7V V7nNmcbAS-Cdefkg5zuirButwSVPA=w596-h754-no

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xS4x7ypymw3uWW8E7w32BJ9nZbOjCiw2NvLbOHers-Sm7CcyJNTMjIYr7JL5VkRmYFTt4l5OfFaongo6fYlsI3CzH3T2 w7mshqc-oNx5yYME1v9JalI94mO-ZdqOYMIe3kVncXiPDDxP51GCI9ivaQMyvL6MmRFGyCWuejpNhQ 3wDuyZUM8Dcq4ksROzmFkZ6utCsYwMccokRBfp1HlE2Kt9UeoR 1laX8YVzE6Bc2iCMQ-9D4Hp8DaTnybPFMZ5AKxy8NAdn1AmJE2mGSt69sv5IjCSt6j0V qXCb9Bq3YSBz8CkwMYOrEgmwPiur2iXZsOBOx3ki_G-Iec5mZY5dtOx_C95aItukn1fncvnBDoiZHqjN8uztBwPywf7bv y5sY-i8GzlDIywe1Th1S_Jci0hJYKTk_Ksq8I1c0GS9ds-laxMCm-vYCOQoqtcQjvTjV4yIIiFBkyPt2dkKQbEv5zcSr4iIOPYmNfH7 npUynV3X5ymcf-FR8M7b20xLBl06oGg9OgENp7-O73r9g0OaSgHmxrBe4QogPmHROfJJCAqt-pEY82uDv3fOrS4eeP7Sa9DUiUFjjT9JOtKRNJOeHW5LlEpYdQK FWnGbRzE=w529-h754-no

Thanks,
Steve

[rjtjrt]

Can I use Garmin Topo maps on an Aera 660?
If so will the aviation database (airports, navaids, etc) show overlaid over the topo map?
The Garmin Topo product no is:

PART NUMBER: 010-C1049-00

[gFlyer]

Steve,

I have a Electronic International FP5L fuel flow device installed in my aircraft. Now I want to linkup the area660 with the FP5L. The manual says the following:

10. (FP-5L Only) Connect the RS-232/422 Input Lines:
Connecting the FP-5L Input Lines to a compatible GPS unit allows the FP-5L to display Fuel to Destination, Fuel Reserve, Nautical Miles per Gallon and Statute Miles per Gallon information. The FP-5L has three GPS Receive Formats: 1. "In1" for all panel mount GPS units (9600 baud); 2. "In2" for Northstar (1200 baud); 3. "In3" for hand held GPS units (NEMA at 4800 baud). The protocol is 1 start bit, 8 data bits and 1 stop bit and the RS-232 update time of the GPS unit should be 1 to 2 seconds. The GPS unit may require some setup. You may want to contact a knowledgeable instrument shop or the GPS factory to help with the hookup and setup of the GPS unit. See the "Power-Up Programmable Settings" section in the FP-5(L) Operating Instructions to configure the FP-5L RS-232 input.

My area660 output configuration is setup to: Aviation In NMEA & VHF Out
to support SL40 protocol and a wing levler.

Do you think this configuration works with the FP5L as well?

Thanks for your help!

Best regards
gFlyer

[g3xpert]

Steve,

I have a Electronic International FP5L fuel flow device installed in my aircraft. Now I want to linkup the area660 with the FP5L. The manual says the following:

10. (FP-5L Only) Connect the RS-232/422 Input Lines:
Connecting the FP-5L Input Lines to a compatible GPS unit allows the FP-5L to display Fuel to Destination, Fuel Reserve, Nautical Miles per Gallon and Statute Miles per Gallon information. The FP-5L has three GPS Receive Formats: 1. "In1" for all panel mount GPS units (9600 baud); 2. "In2" for Northstar (1200 baud); 3. "In3" for hand held GPS units (NEMA at 4800 baud). The protocol is 1 start bit, 8 data bits and 1 stop bit and the RS-232 update time of the GPS unit should be 1 to 2 seconds. The GPS unit may require some setup. You may want to contact a knowledgeable instrument shop or the GPS factory to help with the hookup and setup of the GPS unit. See the "Power-Up Programmable Settings" section in the FP-5(L) Operating Instructions to configure the FP-5L RS-232 input.

My area660 output configuration is setup to: Aviation In NMEA & VHF Out
to support SL40 protocol and a wing levler.

Do you think this configuration works with the FP5L as well?

Thanks for your help!

Best regards
gFlyer

Hello gFlyer,

When you select an RS-232 protocol on the Aera 660, the bottom of that page explains the protocol, and the explanation for the Aviation In/NMEA & VHF Out explains that this protocol uses 9600 baud.

If your fuel flow gadget only supports NMEA at 4800 baud, then you can't use the protocol you have selected.

You have 2 serial ports, and there is a NMEA 4800 selection if your second serial port isn't already doing something more important.

Steve

[g3xpert]

Can I use Garmin Topo maps on an Aera 660?
If so will the aviation database (airports, navaids, etc) show overlaid over the topo map?
The Garmin Topo product no is:

PART NUMBER: 010-C1049-00

Hello rjtjrt,

We loaded this topo database on an Aera 660, and it seems to work. And yes, the navigation waypoints are drawn on top.

We hope you like a lot of clutter on your map!

Thanks,
Steve

[rjtjrt]

Thanks Steve.

[Snowflake]

@G3Expert(Steve),

Aero News Net is running a story today that the Connext interface is being rolled out for the benefit of FltPlan.com and FltPlanGo users... Allowing connectivity to Garmin devices to transfer ADS-B info, etc.

Will that connectivity extend to connecting a FltPLanGo tablet to the Aera 660?
Will the Aera 660 receive and display ADS-B data from a FltPlanGo tablet that's getting ADS-B info from a third-party device connected to the tablet? Stratux/Stratus, etc.

[g3xpert]

@G3Expert(Steve),

Aero News Net is running a story today that the Connext interface is being rolled out for the benefit of FltPlan.com and FltPlanGo users... Allowing connectivity to Garmin devices to transfer ADS-B info, etc.

Will that connectivity extend to connecting a FltPLanGo tablet to the Aera 660?
Will the Aera 660 receive and display ADS-B data from a FltPlanGo tablet that's getting ADS-B info from a third-party device connected to the tablet? Stratux/Stratus, etc.

Hello Rob,

Good question. Not sure whether or not it will connect to the Aera 660. If I find out more, I will update.

One additional FltPlan Go note. If you look at the Compatible Devices (https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/p/618688#additional) tab for the GDL 50/51/52, you will note that FltPlan Go supports receiving ADS-B traffic/weather, GPS, and attitude data from the GDL 50/52.

Thanks,
Steve

[rjtjrt]

In Australia there is currently an trial SBAS signal being transmitted across the entire country.
Yes, we are just now getting into the 20th century here!!
Our penny pinching gov has avoided the cost of SBAS till now.
Apparently “it started in JUN 17 and will run until JUN 19. However it has been deemed not to be used for operational purposes and so the safety of life message has been set to '0'. This means that all certified hardware is ignoring the signal. The safety of life message needs to be set to '1' for you to receive the signal. All 'un-certified' hardware (ie smartphones, satnav, hand held units) can read and use the signal.”

My question is will a Garmin Aera 660 pick up and use an SBAS correction if the Safety of life message has been set to ‘0’?

Also, on a completely separate issue, does turning off wifi and/or Bluetooth on the 660 make the battery last longer before needing to be recharged, when used for navigation?

[g3xpert]

In Australia there is currently an trial SBAS signal being transmitted across the entire country.
Yes, we are just now getting into the 20th century here!!
Our penny pinching gov has avoided the cost of SBAS till now.
Apparently ?it started in JUN 17 and will run until JUN 19. However it has been deemed not to be used for operational purposes and so the safety of life message has been set to '0'. This means that all certified hardware is ignoring the signal. The safety of life message needs to be set to '1' for you to receive the signal. All 'un-certified' hardware (ie smartphones, satnav, hand held units) can read and use the signal.?

My question is will a Garmin Aera 660 pick up and use an SBAS correction if the Safety of life message has been set to ?0??

Also, on a completely separate issue, does turning off wifi and/or Bluetooth on the 660 make the battery last longer before needing to be recharged, when used for navigation?

Hello RJTJRT,

Good question. We will look into it.

What are you seeing on the Aera 660 GPS status page? Are you getting a 3D Differential fix?

Yes, turning off the wireless interfaces saves battery power.

Thanks,
Steve

[rjtjrt]

Steve

When I go to the GPS Info screen.
In GPS page it says “3D GPS Location”. Accuracy says “10ft”
In GLONASS page it says “3D GPS Location”. Accuracy says “10ft”

John

[g3xpert]

Hello RJTJRT,

The Australian testing (http://www.ga.gov.au/scientific-topics/positioning-navigation/positioning-for-the-future/satellite-based-augmentation-system) is using an SBAS satellite number that was retired in 2007, so our GPS receivers are not attempting to use that SBAS satellite.

If it was permanent, we would most certainly add support for this satellite, but that number is only temporarily reserved from May 1, 2017 through January 31, 2019.

Nonetheless, it is great to see that this capability is coming to Australia and New Zealand!

Thanks,
Steve

[rjtjrt]

Thanks Steve.

[gFlyer]

It seams someone forget the discussions about the area 660 are going forward here (http://www.vansairforce.com/community/showthread.php?t=159867) http://www.vansairforce.com/community/showthread.php?t=159867 :)

[Brockster]

Hi Steve,
If you refer to the screen shot picture in Garmin pilots guide, 1.4 Accessing system functionality, page 15, Map options there is a traffic button and the animate weather button. For some reason my unit does not show the traffic button and the animate weather button is there but it isn't active. My buddies 660 is as pictured in guide. How do I get this option to show? Currently have firmware version 3.30. I am trying to turn on traffic.
Thanks,

[g3xpert]

Hi Steve,
If you refer to the screen shot picture in Garmin pilots guide, 1.4 Accessing system functionality, page 15, Map options there is a traffic button and the animate weather button. For some reason my unit does not show the traffic button and the animate weather button is there but it isn't active. My buddies 660 is as pictured in guide. How do I get this option to show? Currently have firmware version 3.30. I am trying to turn on traffic.
Thanks,

Hello Paul,

The animate weather and traffic buttons are only available if you have a traffic and weather receiver like the GDL 39/39R/50/50R/52/52R or GTX 345/345R/45R.

Do you have one of these traffic and weather receivers?

Thanks,
Steve

[Brockster]

Hi Steve,
That is a fast response and great service on this beautiful Saturday afternoon. To answer your question, no I do not. I had a brand new GTX327and limited funds so I went with a Freeflight Ranger Lite In &Out system for my ADS-B. It has WiFi and sends traffic to my Ipad. My hope was I could send the WiFi signal also to my Garmin 660 as well to show traffic if needed. Is this possible? Love the GPS!
Thanks again,

[g3xpert]

Hi Steve,
That is a fast response and great service on this beautiful Saturday afternoon. To answer your question, no I do not. I had a brand new GTX327and limited funds so I went with a Freeflight Ranger Lite In &Out system for my ADS-B. It has WiFi and sends traffic to my Ipad. My hope was I could send the WiFi signal also to my Garmin 660 as well to show traffic if needed. Is this possible? Love the GPS!
Thanks again,

Hello Paul,

You are welcome!

Sorry, no support for a FF Ranger.

Save your pennies. The world's best dual frequency ADS-B traffic and weather receivers with attitude sensors are only $799.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qIwq-Aj4VVkHn_YTd0PAP1AzEgR53ryzZZbX1oCAF9faFPy-yuznQXKlXKLRiG4T_9lUO-iYa7bdI1QKRe1NGKMuqA5Hdd7H8T1sZ0Xjyy5WWn1HuyE6WbmI tndrS4juJsOf3F0NfmN48zm74NQMjRWnhVSQBLOkrHuUI2hFrD zsguE136VY2trzRopusLqNcf0xIs84-Nkj35OKlRaVIPpdyCfcgGuGJ0OtpZs5Z9d02kZkdqPuWeE0CdF otKHuSYapBall403cGdnnVjh4j2foc8nrNalcYfcrHUz5rbXOJ Ovu_8DOYkGFOwTL_OBJFqfLEKnNtsOSEXS0iMFmwJJujzIj_oI Ua9ccErT4Z9_gaSImqiNZFmKf5g9NXdcZe_R7GVnGLYeCcqkfV YzitJGhD4GA_2UhJ-JSY5M4G3k-zMH02JjuWXKoT01g-os75EnoYHEKr5dX5Mput6XNrJYVuWJYQPRB1UfWiXKf5apvH0N-glJFskoVlq-J8HjnXfRz7tqnssD8GZNVlZUaajXBO7IXwh1xRchCX-ezCrTVAJzcZXIJAENyU-pfl7y1RCFio9f7-oGvOWzT1JCbaDKQy6_7RPpCHQBmZQQ=w509

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gBLw0T3ZYcPVhuzsZtM1I80nK_IMvhzO6Zezjh7kAqSelnIoeT iU5kzi9B4pgDyRt9_38Hi4Zfdnw-nHKP-r88kJGfV7davk3b-544s5MG8Arz1dJPEUh7V8ALe-EFXL_tdFxcHW4-qoD0h5qPiN1tRK8zVZ5XEuPcrW8Qoj5SjOZCwG82-S0YHPyKeDs382wtMNMMRwaRNSbMe-pLkudBcHMLInPT7cUFZRVSmKY3sHbC-VFL9E7TNUqevlzuj6tvJZOOMm69D0qCO49wYjWolQXnCt50ebw CRQ1Vw5DBUn1hqXA-MN8dIhHRQIXaizkv0Uvb02ntShvHrazdECoEF3U1tN9ItVFEsh oibk9TiBIcR4p0lJrxUC-4eE-6A3aZhDu_Kfv2n600-KWdRVnYwtECpgiu44YahcCW5T_XBQyAFJvdm6iva7kg9qyDB6H 28csAKzoxcfiqtyyo8qCFFZPf2VriBeNyM8GdxooPZ-RKPHS2xlFoniUrrwwlNPuWtRc-xPOok6nUMWxZjUHMETtRWH4x5awpJFL9etrjWgGU-1qWXETvIQfqNiXxXTB3sW_uFHtF1-5GAMwNihJ85xV-eDT6700xyqzVg=w509-h299-no

Thanks,
Steve

[g3xpert]

Steve,

Are Garmin and ForeFlight planning to allow the GDL 50 to work with ForeFlight (like the GDL 39 series did)? If so, approximately when?

Thanks,

Hello Carl,

Many would like for Foreflight to add support for the GDL 5X series of ADS-B and SXM traffic/weather receivers, but at this point there is no indication of when or if this will happen.

Thanks,
Steve

[Mgeiss]

I already have an Aera 660 with Antenna GMA 25 MCX which works well, but i need to shorten the Antennacable to 3 feet (Glaresheeld) or to expand it if i mount the Antenna on the Back of the Fuselage. Is it a problem to shorten the Cable and if i want to expand it 6 feet, which typ of cable is the best.

Markus

[Rich8862]

Disappointing information, but thanks for the response.

As of 9/30/2018, ForeFlight works well with the Garmin GDL 50. Just like it did with the GDL 39. :)

[tangocharlie123]

Hi Guys is there anything new for the 660 on the horizon.
We haven't had an update or any new features for a while.

Cheers

[Snowflake]

Hi Guys is there anything new for the 660 on the horizon.
We haven't had an update or any new features for a while.
I'm hoping for an uprgade to make it work with the Stratux, taking ADS-B traffic and weather, and AHRS data. A man can dream...

[Chris Cooper]

If I connect a 660 to a stand-alone G5, what advantages do I get? Apologies if I’m being a numpty.

[g3xpert]

If I connect a 660 to a stand-alone G5, what advantages do I get? Apologies if I?m being a numpty.

Hello Chris,

The G5 can display lateral and vertical (VNAV) guidance provided by the Aera 660.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ra8f4GWnupbEEAR1NGQ3x7wtTAWGJWolNuUHkgtW2HfUtleNr3 QKVrYDYu_DUvCKHUW75T3A6WjiieuTqBXzykc4LGOwHKPoEOjA W16C3xS2Ae9V4Yp-oas9GkZcMiVk8_ThaM_nMSmVXpH405_X5Q89SYIT8iVmmn_fM6 _0WOkwn7cl3FN0Oxoon32FQuijig-IXdeGlpVRfbkzzWJEWq_MaZbM97JdJIhp4erhTjgFoJvom2QYB kaHau_AmVz9bpNevcm3CKoqQbAIcXFpyIOgmyoQ-Bph0Jnwt1QFgg_KlOK0gPXl7a_qt3KwBfwW0SnH-O9v0GGLM0b5KVl7Lw7_5x8k6aSvY7wmiC4-sUk6we1uPdrgUPUXuwrpUNDNjlbAWRUvTiACYE3RVW80DBSokY UlY2F_GWOLnhTFqW9V9oNjc05btUyIazSkVE3KxrOAcXx6wGUS TK9P9YJ2ENMKAbGEoIlErcsVJJ3mcmN6LdCQpMfdhwKmickxWD x2x9QIhnOF7gFMlJ9DpIFD8Fnmd_VMNiymJ-WwwNr8OZ8rhYtpr5Tf4H9krf6zktPfea0vdwNQ3spGk6DhjH6j XNzUvQKt1LUlqxawN5elxkmBfJW5Nal2uJGu_ywbYYJ5vBcMg1 oDWuTK25I5A7EZOlSS=w374-h399-no

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/crLmnqAL3auiz47uSngVVcvDelG3R7d8vCDTCakUIHyZthAhF8 7a6UTR52cgvkIuBlcm0P5G_xgXANVmwz6WsvZXpv2Xx3bmPamp FeqG_DpJky8MtJRNSZsnSzIYpkfS7BXvzv0kWiuJv0GRBwoYj1 HC7luaXZE2OGLT7frgqc-iHbPiGeBF0UfuEvnEAMLd4SAVcMku2og0su3yjVw6mNHGfLgel MyVUr36SmPIzIwACf75BowIH2QlXkO1rQ0yGyNsG4PvQ61Qdgx 2pwEa2GEH86yzTOJwm9DY9jIq8hX-BFu-zbd3YyHuamL8mieNuIh05Nnn9eEh0cv_6Wg063BQ9MhgCCtOPX AR9FfZ6zh6IGiET4E5Wp84oj1js47I0oLkfIsCe4-mYXM59DkpoHdMbMEhoJhGnLRxuTmFVrhMiSnnl9i0GTslDuZww 0X93kkX-xyUuzLBgvxbozJgepNfHuTLzg27u3zmBR2_sPIl4zN4Zl7b9Ka bcbg9P8vEZCB7cF0jiNGEkVrbVmwfWeYyewt2y6pTjwnX1X0GS VjdMmm1_NtPjgDQZgvMLNAViNu8mMrwUyBSuS7VYL-9vr7t8J4Tj1ST3HMOSapZdD8B9zeerYChuI8OBE0Q2MmKS8LRm V98Mo8PmQtIPTRyU3jM=w374-h399-no

Thanks,
Steve

[Chris Cooper]

Thanks Steve, do I need anything else? Does the 660 need to go through an interface or is it a direct connection? I’m looking at a retro-fit for an RV3A.

[g3xpert]

Thanks Steve, do I need anything else? Does the 660 need to go through an interface or is it a direct connection? I?m looking at a retro-fit for an RV3A.

Hello Chris,

Nothing special needed. Just connect the G5 and Aera 660 RS-232 interfaces together like shown on page 7-5 of the Rev. 4 G5 installation manual (http://static.garmin.com/pumac/190-02072-01_04.pdf).

If you ever decide you want to expand this system to the next level, add a couple of servos and a GMC 507 autopilot control panel, and you have everything you need for flight planning, navigation, and autopilot. The GMU 11 magnetometer is optional.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/t9_Ptv8y9zzUEICsLDVE7RNVPZcz35CD1Ug_Z_RFUi9jsmYtwx SZJ2JNHI_XoxjHUDaq0kX6cvK3eKgmOkTvRrTyVKI9mlBUPhOT h8ZLDUZ8UvAfX5Kxp1GfSF5K8HzJIjdZEGJo9NCMNeW6GYXkHf dqiII1Kcz0D2uxQFId_kwU3_XuOSAsWFLphOHIh8BvUDqPa1bS Dq9jIRZQRSZtZ1jWDYHMuCpaPLiNf0jbG-LaozwIViWeCRqPUDllcowhpjOVqsW5GAjyVVqiwXz48Qh2fqi_ tQLNToeQOUWLPIdiXUpWlVTbRCM9UGreba3qv6LFMPGheDHVRC GWwgmjp8VE5tEU0gOtbVPrLxL18bguoFy8iJmUHIsK0axyWb_I 8y6O-6QHFXCCHSjm71Fwar6qJG_J__t1QFZkjgDPT_K7kIJh9ZLD7H3 9Y1fdl-EoNwEXkk1xfI9u42IDvhiSuQZxqXCYOdU82VZVyMaixG6xcq2n A0ayOHHHqC4qAnQofG6H94im0MSeLOjEe7m5naCrjEeE_8vNKP Wp3dQPAihU53nwy5YJfSjMgjkYJdF9brbnSZKyuYwy6rLjzTwF yf0TMG-e_zATiUPrXn-AkBmkesNUyd_lp45FFiZkpHAmWHsWDNoQddQLjarg-5jwwxIN=w563-h869-no

Please contact us directly by phone or email shown below if you have additional installation questions.

Thanks,
Steve

[nippaero]

After my last update my 660 says that the Airport Data is Corrupt. Any ideas where I should look. I tried to re-download and install the database.

[g3xpert]

After my last update my 660 says that the Airport Data is Corrupt. Any ideas where I should look. I tried to re-download and install the database.

Hello nippaero,

Rather than try to play 20 questions over the internet, it is always better to contact us directly. G3Xpert@garmin.com

Once we have a few more facts, we are confident will be able to get you fixed up.

Thanks,
Steve

[RogerH]

I purchased an RV-4 with a Garmin Aera 660 handheld. The other day I purchased updates to the data and have been trying for about 24+ hours to download the new data and it's dribbling in at a snails pace.

Using the same WiFi connection it took about five minutes total including booting up to update my iPad with the same recent monthly updates on Foreflight.

What's the problem with Garmin, using either the WiFi connection and or the FlyGarmin desktop application?

If this is Garmin's idea of customer service, Foreflight/Boeing are going to leave them in the dust!
:mad:

[Rikochet]

Bought the Aera 660 and GDL52 from Spruce at SnF. Brought it home and connected it to the WiFi at the house with no issues and updated the firmware to 3.50. Connected to the GDL52 with no issues.

No internet weather!!! I rebooted, reconnected, connected to phone and still no luck.

Called tech support and its a known issue with NO timeframe for a software fix.

One of the main reasons I wanted this unit over my Aera 560 was the internet weather.

Please Garmin provide a fix ASAP!!! Thanks

[Rikochet]

I have an AERA 660 sitting on my desk connected to my home Wi-Fi, and I am seeing "internet weather", i.e., METARS, Forecast, Radar. I do seem to be missing Winds Aloft (which I do get in-flight via a GDL 50 ADS-B IN receiver). What is the "known issue" Garmin tech support specifically acknowledged?

Thx.

Supposedly reported on some units that internet weather does not work. Probably the reason why no rush on a software fix.

There was no attempt to troubleshoot my unit just its a known issue and wait for a fix. Doesnt feel good to be out a lot of money on something that should work as advertised.

[g3xpert]

Bought the Aera 660 and GDL52 from Spruce at SnF. Brought it home and connected it to the WiFi at the house with no issues and updated the firmware to 3.50. Connected to the GDL52 with no issues.

No internet weather!!! I rebooted, reconnected, connected to phone and still no luck.

Called tech support and its a known issue with NO timeframe for a software fix.

One of the main reasons I wanted this unit over my Aera 560 was the internet weather.

Please Garmin provide a fix ASAP!!! Thanks
Hello Brian,

We apologize that you are having this issue. We want to assure you that our engineering team takes this seriously and is attempting to find a solution.

So far, we have been unable to reproduce this issue, which makes it difficult to find a solution, but we are continuing to try.

Thanks,
Steve

[RogerH]

In fairness to the folks at Garmin, after talking with their tech support I discovered the problem with slow downloads was due to an error on my part, not theirs. With the correct settings I completed the data updates with no complications.

Just wanted to set the record straight. Thx

[49clipper]

sorry if I missed it somewhere in this long post, but will the 660 or the 795/6 drive an AP? I was thinking buying two 660 and showing map on one and with the GDL 39d using the other for the attitude (like the G-5) but larger picture.
what am I missing here?

[g3xpert]

sorry if I missed it somewhere in this long post, but will the 660 or the 795/6 drive an AP? I was thinking buying two 660 and showing map on one and with the GDL 39d using the other for the attitude (like the G-5) but larger picture.
what am I missing here?

Hello 49clipper,

Yes, the Aera 660/760/795/796 support an NMEA RS-232 output that will drive a G5 based autopilot or several 3rd party autopilots.

With a G5 based autopilot, you can even couple vertically to the Aera output and fly a coupled VNAV descent from cruise altitude to pattern altitude. In this example, the Aera 660 is configured to provide autopilot guidance to descend from cruise altitude to 1800 ft MSL at 3 nm before RIPON on the way into Oshkosh.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/ACtC-3edF8B2bv9MNrYjpAyOwt710FZWH9f49sntPqW3s5ODa-Knruf2z_u7DzYq0KYo7KJG_vIPOlCtylaOnP841a9DQqBOdK-xmRSjwNd8f2uyVwXvljRawLe9FWXeGj_bYA8C8FU-UbFtNdRSpfdFLik4=w480

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/ACtC-3fCqZp6y3z58-qFoRN1TFOBXl0C2Ar8oGTREPHfv16Q2T3EUdqd4TygeVMRo3D0 UMbMPnmNqO_RDN-AdA751rFnAA6fx7kTk8phvecUMDr3JeEGA7RRnXJHd6HIJk1fD Ot7S8GD__TW6jQjm_uaPYoS=w480

Thanks,
Steve

[49clipper]

Thanks for the info, Steve, I am warming up to this 660. I cannot find some of the prices on your website for things like the gmu111. What is a typical list price of the setup you just described with the G-5? Is the AHARS built into the G-5?
Jim

[g3xpert]

Thanks for the info, Steve, I am warming up to this 660. I cannot find some of the prices on your website for things like the gmu111. What is a typical list price of the setup you just described with the G-5? Is the AHARS built into the G-5?
Jim

Hello Jim,

Yes, the ADAHRS and all the flight director (autopilot) smarts are built into the G5. Here are some links with prices.

G5 (non-certified) (https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/p/514383)

GMU 11 Magnetometer (https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/p/574236)

GMC 507 Autopilot Control Panel (https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/p/600047)

The GSA 28 servos (https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/p/113734) are commonly priced at $750 each.

Please feel free to email us directly if you need more details.

Thanks,
Steve

[Bluebeard]

I have a question about the Track Log in the Aera 660.

The "Active Log" contains full details of the aircraft position, speed, altitude at whatever interval you set (mine is set to 1 second intervals to measure takeoff/land distance).

But if you save the Active Track all the time data is lost and with it the fine detail of the flight, that I am looking for. I'm importing the data to Mapsource.

Is there a workaround for this?

[tangocharlie123]

Hello Chris,

Nothing special needed. Just connect the G5 and Aera 660 RS-232 interfaces together like shown on page 7-5 of the Rev. 4 G5 installation manual (http://static.garmin.com/pumac/190-02072-01_04.pdf).

If you ever decide you want to expand this system to the next level, add a couple of servos and a GMC 507 autopilot control panel, and you have everything you need for flight planning, navigation, and autopilot. The GMU 11 magnetometer is optional.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/t9_Ptv8y9zzUEICsLDVE7RNVPZcz35CD1Ug_Z_RFUi9jsmYtwx SZJ2JNHI_XoxjHUDaq0kX6cvK3eKgmOkTvRrTyVKI9mlBUPhOT h8ZLDUZ8UvAfX5Kxp1GfSF5K8HzJIjdZEGJo9NCMNeW6GYXkHf dqiII1Kcz0D2uxQFId_kwU3_XuOSAsWFLphOHIh8BvUDqPa1bS Dq9jIRZQRSZtZ1jWDYHMuCpaPLiNf0jbG-LaozwIViWeCRqPUDllcowhpjOVqsW5GAjyVVqiwXz48Qh2fqi_ tQLNToeQOUWLPIdiXUpWlVTbRCM9UGreba3qv6LFMPGheDHVRC GWwgmjp8VE5tEU0gOtbVPrLxL18bguoFy8iJmUHIsK0axyWb_I 8y6O-6QHFXCCHSjm71Fwar6qJG_J__t1QFZkjgDPT_K7kIJh9ZLD7H3 9Y1fdl-EoNwEXkk1xfI9u42IDvhiSuQZxqXCYOdU82VZVyMaixG6xcq2n A0ayOHHHqC4qAnQofG6H94im0MSeLOjEe7m5naCrjEeE_8vNKP Wp3dQPAihU53nwy5YJfSjMgjkYJdF9brbnSZKyuYwy6rLjzTwF yf0TMG-e_zATiUPrXn-AkBmkesNUyd_lp45FFiZkpHAmWHsWDNoQddQLjarg-5jwwxIN=w563-h869-no

Please contact us directly by phone or email shown below if you have additional installation questions.

Thanks,
Steve

Hi Steve will the GMU 11 allow for synthetic vision on the 660 as I am about to get a G5.
Thanks

[g3xpert]

I have a question about the Track Log in the Aera 660.

The "Active Log" contains full details of the aircraft position, speed, altitude at whatever interval you set (mine is set to 1 second intervals to measure takeoff/land distance).

But if you save the Active Track all the time data is lost and with it the fine detail of the flight, that I am looking for. I'm importing the data to Mapsource.

Is there a workaround for this?
Hello Bluebeard,

Sorry, but we don't know of a work around for this.

We have other products like G5 and G3X that perform the 1 Hz logging to SD card that would do what you wish, but not currently the Aera 660.

Thanks,
Steve

[g3xpert]

Hi Steve will the GMU 11 allow for synthetic vision on the 660 as I am about to get a G5.
Thanks
Hello TC,

The Aera 660 needs attitude information, not heading, to show pitch/roll and slip/skid information on the 3D Vision page.

The G5 doesn't output this information, but the GDL 50/50R/52/52R does along with ADS-B traffic/weather if you want to add one of these to the installation.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0WAtoUDvxoVmRGBiovlru1i34IR8M54MQjf6Apssap6lPsQXzh ul5wZN_C2VXIU4DvAwvDMxwTBXdHJtmdmg5fnh8RLpT548D3T1 d7ha9BYNdsm8JU5xYMv0otn9xG2j8OGR4DqKmYn_EZJ0gbhV8K EHHcpyVa7ojNMr7N4X8HukLXShXj3NL533-MmwIljJCrjePA2DqEQGteMdZFq8BbIl-gLNnz-pJLHwpg7i8eCD10QpK-NINiKJgAbhp2wTPy2X6tLot6ggGL7Jda8kGEMzD9Pk7GoDZ6A5 HYPcUdiGH2Dzq06QJxSdxTA_WDKUfbl_pPDIzmkU8ntMzCKRjy kriWuQQ8wcN-9fU_z9J5ZKq3ZzUuZMBUmuuzP9fav6Wb4MRl96pQDgWiL2oXaW T7V01MWSH5JbGhxrDRF9IJe5vqj0hJUmh21Ukc9n--bezhN9zL_W-_7YcE1YjKSigc6UbGk1ph43mnpBGCToZCz_a5IDK70BpkHh1Y3 D1R8bZHoAHtsrRD7KYzjdSrYuCyLxlenz7mUM3dUgV10Q-MeyYayb6LhXF4eXlN6x_c4vz4Og9E58YgJNZLOSmOJzxhYYyZ7 1F3VTywqZTme_22T_bqMRaNWXMWqlLz5oCc2YdroXJwiUgcJuQ 1xbWxJS1bJ4vxIlh98=w640

[g3xpert]

Hello Brian,

We apologize that you are having this issue. We want to assure you that our engineering team takes this seriously and is attempting to find a solution.

So far, we have been unable to reproduce this issue, which makes it difficult to find a solution, but we are continuing to try.

Thanks,
Steve
Hello,

We have been able to reproduce the issue with Internet Weather not working on some Aera 660 units and have a solution.

Affected customers will not need to change software or otherwise take any additional action. The Internet Weather feature will automatically be restored once a weather server modification is in place. We expect this to occur early next week.

Thanks,
Steve

[Rikochet]

Hello,

We have been able to reproduce the issue with Internet Weather not working on some Aera 660 units and have a solution.

Affected customers will not need to change software or otherwise take any additional action. The Internet Weather feature will automatically be restored once a weather server modification is in place. We expect this to occur early next week.

Thanks,
Steve


This is awesome news! Thanks so much! Another reason to be planning a full Garmin panel for my RV-7!

[Rikochet]

Hello,

We have been able to reproduce the issue with Internet Weather not working on some Aera 660 units and have a solution.

Affected customers will not need to change software or otherwise take any additional action. The Internet Weather feature will automatically be restored once a weather server modification is in place. We expect this to occur early next week.

Thanks,
Steve




I can confirm INTERNET WEATHER is working as of this morning!!!


Thanks g3xpert and Garmin!

[Rikochet]

Another question for g3xpert.

I am about to install my Aera 660 and GDL 52 into my panel.
I have the Air Gizmo and bare wire cable for 660 and GDL52. I want to hardwire the 660>GDL52. Both bluetooth/wifi connections will be used for 2 iPads.

Looking at the interconnect drawings I can see Aera 660 - RS-232 TX/RX 1 Blue/Yellow to GDL 52 TX/RX White/Green. Red/Black from both devices to plane power bus.

Question #1
Both the 660 and GDL52 have Audio out wires. I want to connect to my Flightcom 403mc intercom as I currently have my Aera 560 for XM audio/alerts which works great.
Will connecting just the 660 Audio Left(brown) to my intercom and Audio common to ground provide XM music/Alerts? or do I need to come from the 3.5mm jack from the GDL52?

Question #2
Can you confirm connection to my JPI 830 is 660 - RS-232 TX 2(orange) to JPI 830 data in? Would you know the settings on the interface setup page?

Thanks

[g3xpert]

Another question for g3xpert.

I am about to install my Aera 660 and GDL 52 into my panel.
I have the Air Gizmo and bare wire cable for 660 and GDL52. I want to hardwire the 660>GDL52. Both bluetooth/wifi connections will be used for 2 iPads.

Looking at the interconnect drawings I can see Aera 660 - RS-232 TX/RX 1 Blue/Yellow to GDL 52 TX/RX White/Green. Red/Black from both devices to plane power bus.

Question #1
Both the 660 and GDL52 have Audio out wires. I want to connect to my Flightcom 403mc intercom as I currently have my Aera 560 for XM audio/alerts which works great.
Will connecting just the 660 Audio Left(brown) to my intercom and Audio common to ground provide XM music/Alerts? or do I need to come from the 3.5mm jack from the GDL52?

Question #2
Can you confirm connection to my JPI 830 is 660 - RS-232 TX 2(orange) to JPI 830 data in? Would you know the settings on the interface setup page?

Thanks
Hello Rikochet,

The music comes from the GDL 52 and terrain/obstacle/traffic alerts come from the Aera 660.

The JPI 830 manual shows a GPS interface, but I couldn't find any format specified. I am sure it needs NMEA, but not sure if it uses 4800 or 9600 baud. The Aera 660 can supply either. There is no reason to connect the Tx on the JPI to the receive on the Aera 660.

Thanks,
Steve

[Rikochet]

Hello Rikochet,

The music comes from the GDL 52 and terrain/obstacle/traffic alerts come from the Aera 660.

The JPI 830 manual shows a GPS interface, but I couldn't find any format specified. I am sure it needs NMEA, but not sure if it uses 4800 or 9600 baud. The Aera 660 can supply either. There is no reason to connect the Tx on the JPI to the receive on the Aera 660.

Thanks,
Steve

Do the GDL52 bare wire harness I have have audio out like left/right common? or do I have to use the 3.5mm jack and make a new cable?

Also please check your PM.

[g3xpert]

Do the GDL52 bare wire harness I have have audio out like left/right common? or do I have to use the 3.5mm jack and make a new cable?

Also please check your PM.
Hello Rikochet,

It is always best to email us at G3Xpert@garmin.com for these kinds of support questions.

Thanks,
Steve

[tangocharlie123]

Hello TC,

The Aera 660 needs attitude information, not heading, to show pitch/roll and slip/skid information on the 3D Vision page.

The G5 doesn't output this information, but the GDL 50/50R/52/52R does along with ADS-B traffic/weather if you want to add one of these to the installation.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0WAtoUDvxoVmRGBiovlru1i34IR8M54MQjf6Apssap6lPsQXzh ul5wZN_C2VXIU4DvAwvDMxwTBXdHJtmdmg5fnh8RLpT548D3T1 d7ha9BYNdsm8JU5xYMv0otn9xG2j8OGR4DqKmYn_EZJ0gbhV8K EHHcpyVa7ojNMr7N4X8HukLXShXj3NL533-MmwIljJCrjePA2DqEQGteMdZFq8BbIl-gLNnz-pJLHwpg7i8eCD10QpK-NINiKJgAbhp2wTPy2X6tLot6ggGL7Jda8kGEMzD9Pk7GoDZ6A5 HYPcUdiGH2Dzq06QJxSdxTA_WDKUfbl_pPDIzmkU8ntMzCKRjy kriWuQQ8wcN-9fU_z9J5ZKq3ZzUuZMBUmuuzP9fav6Wb4MRl96pQDgWiL2oXaW T7V01MWSH5JbGhxrDRF9IJe5vqj0hJUmh21Ukc9n--bezhN9zL_W-_7YcE1YjKSigc6UbGk1ph43mnpBGCToZCz_a5IDK70BpkHh1Y3 D1R8bZHoAHtsrRD7KYzjdSrYuCyLxlenz7mUM3dUgV10Q-MeyYayb6LhXF4eXlN6x_c4vz4Og9E58YgJNZLOSmOJzxhYYyZ7 1F3VTywqZTme_22T_bqMRaNWXMWqlLz5oCc2YdroXJwiUgcJuQ 1xbWxJS1bJ4vxIlh98=w640

Thanks for the reply.
Is there a chance Garmin Could incorporate Attitude out on the G5 for us paupers, Here in Australia small aircraft are not required for ADSB unless we are doing a new install of our transponder.
Situational awareness is good but I only fly Class G.
Thanks

[bigbillyboy]

G3 expert:
Perhaps I missed it in this huge long thread, and I didn't see it specifically in the G5 or Aera 660 interconnect drawings, but I am running a very simple single G5 PFD with a panel mount Aera 660. From what I gather, only the blue wire on the Aera 660 (Serial 1 TX) needs to be connected to the G5 serial 1 input. Is there no benefit to connecting the yellow wire (Serial 1 RX) so the G5 can transmit back to the 660?

Love the Aera. Cant wait to get the G5 installed and connected to it.

[g3xpert]

G3 expert:
Perhaps I missed it in this huge long thread, and I didn't see it specifically in the G5 or Aera 660 interconnect drawings, but I am running a very simple single G5 PFD with a panel mount Aera 660. From what I gather, only the blue wire on the Aera 660 (Serial 1 TX) needs to be connected to the G5 serial 1 input. Is there no benefit to connecting the yellow wire (Serial 1 RX) so the G5 can transmit back to the 660?

Love the Aera. Cant wait to get the G5 installed and connected to it.
Hello bigbillyboy,

Glad to hear you like your Aera 660 and G5.

No, there is currently nothing that the G5 transmits that the Aera 660 can use, so connecting the navigation data output from the Aera 660 to the G5 is all that is necessary.

Oh, and welcome to VAF!

Thanks,
Steve

[RV8JD]

Software version 3.60 is now available for the Aera 660 (as of October 14, 2019). From the Garmin website:

Changes made from version 3.50 to 3.60:

Add Infrared Satellite Imagery via Internet weather
Improve Connext FIS-B processing
Improve download processing
Improve FlyGarmin download string handling
Improve Magnetic Variation Handling
Correct Airport Directory Effectivity Date
General improvements to system operation
Includes GDL 39 software version 4.81
Includes GDL 5X software version 2.12
Includes GPS software version 3.30

[uk_figs]

G3Expert:
With the 796 being discontinued will software updates similar to the 660 update mentioned above continue where relevant (database changes/updates, ADSB feature updates etc.) for a while.

Is there a document that compares the complete 796 and 660 feature set?

Tks
Figs

[g3xpert]

G3Expert:
With the 796 being discontinued will software updates similar to the 660 update mentioned above continue where relevant (database changes/updates, ADSB feature updates etc.) for a while.

Is there a document that compares the complete 796 and 660 feature set?

Tks
Figs
Hello Figs,

Yes, we continue to support the Aera 795/796 with updates when necessary. We released new V5.60 software (https://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=5349) in March and released a new Pilot Guide (https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?partNumber=010-00967-11&tab=manuals) last week.

I don't think there is a feature comparison document. The Aera 660 has a faster processor, more memory, and more wireless capabilities like WiFi, so it is able to support more features (like internet weather and internet software and database downloads), but there is a great deal of overlap and shared core capabilities between the two models.

Thanks,
Steve

[Snowflake]

The Aera 660 has a faster processor, more memory, and more wireless capabilities like WiFi, so it is able to support more features (like internet weather and internet software and database downloads)...
Steve,

With all that extra capability, wlll the Aera 660 ever be upgraded to allow connecting to a Stratux over WiFi for ADS-B in? Or will Garmin publish the protocol necessary for a third party to set up a Stratux to work with an Aera 660?

[swixtt]

hello, my Aera 660 software update appeared on my device last week... i deferred to another day ... can't find that update now. i've used Webupdater, nothing. like in the past and previous updates, i've searched in the 'software downloads' in the Aera... nothing available.
i'm on ver3.5 now.

[g3xpert]

hello, my Aera 660 software update appeared on my device last week... i deferred to another day ... can't find that update now. i've used Webupdater, nothing. like in the past and previous updates, i've searched in the 'software downloads' in the Aera... nothing available.
i'm on ver3.5 now.
Hello swixtt,

Some customers were experiencing problems downloading non-Garmin Nav and Chart data when using V3.60, so we removed V3.60 from the web.

We are testing V3.70 now, and will make it available soon if no issues are found.

Thanks,
Steve

[swixtt]

Great, thanks for the update on the update. will stay tuned for the new release.
on a side note, is there anyway to increase 'tracking log line, breadcrumb' size on the Map or perhaps have 'tracking log line' or custom way-points appear on the Enroute Charts?

[eld]

Hello Steve,

I have a bad recent point on this tab and I can't delete.
Do you know how to clear all point on Recent Tab ?

Thanks
Eric

[g3xpert]

Hello,

Aera 660 V3.70 (https://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=10041) software was released this morning.

Changes made from version 3.60 to 3.70:

Increase access to the symbol keyboard (e.g. for waypoint searches)
Fix Flight Log storage
Fix Navigation Database issues
General improvements to system operation
Includes GDL 39 software version 4.81
Includes GDL 5X software version 2.12
Includes GPS software version 3.30


Thanks,
Steve

[swixtt]

Installing mine now.

[gFlyer]

Hi Steve,

is there a possibility to use the area 660 in combination of a G5 to steer with a GAD29 a Century IIB Autopilot? While the area 660 should be able to control the flight route?

Thanks,

Kind regards
gFlyer

[g3xpert]

Hi Steve,

is there a possibility to use the area 660 in combination of a G5 to steer with a GAD29 a Century IIB Autopilot? While the area 660 should be able to control the flight route?

Thanks,

Kind regards
gFlyer
Hello gFlyer,

While the Aera 660 can act as the navigator for a G5 based autopilot, it does not provide the A429 GPSS data needed to drive the analog outputs on the GAD 29B to provide this steering signal to old analog autopilots like the Century.

The minimum Garmin navigator for an installation like you describe would be a GPS 175 (or any of the GNS/GTN WAAS navigators).

Thanks,
Steve

[Flybipe]

I finally got around to installing this new version of the software today. Once installed it now won't boot up and shuts down after the startup / spinning garmin logo screen. Is there a recovery mode or do I have to now send this somewhere?

[g3xpert]

I finally got around to installing this new version of the software today. Once installed it now won't boot up and shuts down after the startup / spinning garmin logo screen. Is there a recovery mode or do I have to now send this somewhere?
Hello Flybipe,

It would be best to contact us directly for assistance of this type. If you haven't tried updating from a USB connection (https://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=10041), you should try that first.

Thanks,
Steve

[mark960]

Hi Steve,

My SL30 serial data is currently connected to my Dynon D100 for nav info on the HSI screen. I would like to connect the Aera 660 serial out to the SL30 for frequency changes.

Can I connect the Aera 660 serial out to the SL30 serial in AND the SL30 data out to the Dynon, simultaneously??

I doesn't look like the SL30 needs any data from the Dynon D100


Thanks
Mark Klepper

[g3xpert]

Hi Steve,

My SL30 serial data is currently connected to my Dynon D100 for nav info on the HSI screen. I would like to connect the Aera 660 serial out to the SL30 for frequency changes.

Can I connect the Aera 660 serial out to the SL30 serial in AND the SL30 data out to the Dynon, simultaneously??

I doesn't look like the SL30 needs any data from the Dynon D100


Thanks
Mark Klepper
Hello Mark,

If the SL 30 RS-232 input on pin 4 is not used in your installation, you should be able to connect this to the Aera 660.

Thanks,
Steve

[rjtjrt]

I wonder how they came up with the name “Aera”?

[Pave Tim]

Area spelled backwards? Area navigation....RNAV...just spitballing.

I wonder how they came up with the name ?Aera??

[theduff]

Hey Steve,
I use my 660 in a panel dock in my RV-4 and since I added an external antenna it has been a great performer with 3 years of flawless service. Recently my AERA 660 started having problems locking into satellites and losing them mid-flight. I unplugged the GA 25 external antenna and there was no difference in performance so I figured the antenna had failed. Ordered a new antenna but no difference but while plugging in the new antenna I noticed the 660 mcx jack was loose in the unit ! It rattles around pretty good. What are my options at this point ? 1. Open the unit and attempt to secure the jack. 2. Send the unit to Garmin for service. 3. Buy a replacement unit as the cost of Garmin service would exceed the value of a 3 year old 660. Really appreciate any guidance you might offer.
David Duffer
PS Merry Christmas !

[g3xpert]

Hey Steve,
I use my 660 in a panel dock in my RV-4 and since I added an external antenna it has been a great performer with 3 years of flawless service. Recently my AERA 660 started having problems locking into satellites and losing them mid-flight. I unplugged the GA 25 external antenna and there was no difference in performance so I figured the antenna had failed. Ordered a new antenna but no difference but while plugging in the new antenna I noticed the 660 mcx jack was loose in the unit ! It rattles around pretty good. What are my options at this point ? 1. Open the unit and attempt to secure the jack. 2. Send the unit to Garmin for service. 3. Buy a replacement unit as the cost of Garmin service would exceed the value of a 3 year old 660. Really appreciate any guidance you might offer.
David Duffer
PS Merry Christmas !
Hello David,

It would be best to contact us directly to discuss the repair of your Aera 660.

Happy Holidays,
Steve

[jliltd]

I have 3 aera 660's in docks. Two in a Husky (front and rear) and one in an RV-8 rear seat. I often swap one into a dock in my RV-3B. External GPS antennas are used in the RV-3B and front position in the Husky. I purchase the aera 660s when the model was first released.

In the Husky I often forget to detach the MCA antenna connector before I pop it out of the dock and that results in the aera yanking and pulling on the connector dramatically. In fact the connector on the lead has one of the gold colored ground brush contacts busted off. But it still seems to work fine. I find the units to be very sturdy.

So my point here is that I move my aera 660s around a lot as a fumbling idiot and have found the unit and external antenna connector to be very robust without any issues. Based on my experience if you to have a loose and rattling antenna port on the unit, especially in a more static install, it might point to a defect or the lead somehow twisting the port loose over time.

I think the aera 660 is the finest portable GPS navigator currently sold. Especially when paired with a GDL 5X external ADS-B and/or SXM "in" device. I would love it if a larger version were made to replace the discontinued aera 796.

[Plummit]

I would love it if a larger version were made to replace the discontinued aera 796.

+ one on that! I'm really surprised that Garmin hasn't released a larger version to replace the 796. There is definitely a need.

-Marc

[Jimbot]

Quote:
Originally Posted by jliltd View Post
I would love it if a larger version were made to replace the discontinued aera 796.
+ one on that! I'm really surprised that Garmin hasn't released a larger version to replace the 796. There is definitely a need.

-Marc

Ditto - a 796-size version of the 660 would be awesome!:)

[Snowflake]

+ one on that! I'm really surprised that Garmin hasn't released a larger version to replace the 796. There is definitely a need.

I'm not sure many people could justify buying what is effectively another tablet. Most of us already have an iPad, Android tablet, or some such. Put Garmin Pilot on it and you'll have effectively the same thing as a "larger 660".

[jliltd]

Don't think for a minute Garmin isn't working on it. They always have something in the works. But they NEVER divulge such information until it is ready for prime time. You won't see it coming, it will just be one of those happy announcements out of the blue. Or not. That's how they are. 😉

[patterson]

I'm wondering if the garmin 660 interfaces with the MGL N16 Nav radio razor head? Will it show its display on the 660 or dynon touch?
Thanks
Ron

[gFlyer]

Hi,

I saw the new area 760 coming out a couple of days ago. Looking very similar. Is the software compatible with the area 660 or a complete new release?

Regards
gFlyer