New 4XXW/5XXW software update available
 

http://www8.garmin.com/aviation/notices/ASDN1225.pdf

I can only speculate, since I have seen no reports of the changes in this firmware version, that this is the major revision required to make the 4XXW/5XXW compliant with the 2020 ADS-B out precision position source requirements....

Steve or Matt, can you confirm and possibly fill us in on what has changed?

If this is that update, maybe it is the first of a wave of firmware upgrades that will get the GPS's and the xponders up to snuff for 2020?

This one makes it compatible w/ GDL-88:

http://static.garmincdn.com/pumac/19...B_web_view.pdf

I don't have a GDL-88, but would still like more info such as...what else, if anything was "fixed" with this release, and more importantly, where does one obtain it and how is it uploaded to the unit?

All I got was an email saying that was a forthcoming Service Bulletin (SSB 1225).

Any info is appreciated...

Usually you have to go to a Garmin dealer, who loads new software in using the data slots on the front.

I see the SB says this update is optional for fixed wing aircraft and is not covered by warrantee for fixed wing. E.g., expect to pay.

GNS 4XXW/5XXW Service Bulletin 1225
 

Brian,

Yes, this software upgrade for the Garmin GNS 4XXW/5XXW products does indeed add the required changes for these unit to become ADS-B compliant position outputs per 91.227 and AC 20-165.

Please contact your Garmin dealer should you wish to have service bulletin 1225 installed.

Thanks,
Steve

This is great news Steve!

Thanks!

Like many people here, that will SteinAir. Stein, what say you? :)

Tell me I'm not going to have to remove the unit, ship it back, etc., and that this is something I can do myself...please? :)

Steve,

Typically this work needs to be done by a Garmin dealer since it takes some software we don't have access to.

Seems to vary greatly on what avionics shops charge for updating firmware. Some do it for free and others charge out the wazoo!

Service Bulletin 1225
 

I checked into the possibility that experimental customers might send in their units for the software upgrade (which includes both system software and GPS software).

This service bulletin requires a post installation checkout of the upgraded unit with the installed antenna and other interfaced devices, so we are not able to offer a mail-in upgrade in this case.

Please contact your Garmin dealer to arrange for this upgrade.

Thanks,
Steve

I was going to surmise exactly what Garmin just said...that after main updates like this, we do a checkout on them so it's not something easily done "in-situ" like database updates. We've done a lot before, and I'm sure we'll do a lot again. We can usually turn them around in a day or less (or you can drive/fly in and we'll do it right away).

Cheers,
Stein