GPS options

deej · #1 12-04-2012, 09:47 AM

Is Garmin the only company that currently makes WAAS precision approach GPS units? If not, what other options are there?

Is Garmin the only company currently making non-precision approach GPS units? If not, what other options are there?

I am considering equipping my VFR airplane for IFR, and am trying to evaluate the options available. Garmin makes nice units, but they are also very expensive.

Thanks,

-Dj

jeffsvan · #2 12-10-2012, 06:11 AM

I looked at the King KLN-94 before I got a Garmin 430W and now my GTN 650.

its not a bad GPS. and it is color. you can connect its output to a larger screen for bigger better maps.

Other than that, all I was able to find were antiquated units.

Brantel · #3 12-10-2012, 06:29 AM

WAAS Precision Approach Certified GPS's are expensive no way around it. Occasional deals can be found however for used units that are in great shape with many years left on em. Be aware of the many scams on Ebay and similar. Crooks take advantage of the aviation community on a regular basis. If the deal is too good to be true, most likely it is!

B Cunningham · #4 12-10-2012, 07:27 AM

i see the Apollo/UPS now Garmin GNS-480s selling for a bit less than the 430s. Its a more capable unit but I am leery of longer term support. Looks like the price entry point is still at least $6K.

RV6_flyer · #5 12-10-2012, 09:49 AM

I also am looking to see if there is any compitition for Garmin in the WAAS / GPS units for our aircraft. Avidyne is the only other manufacturer that I have found that comes close. There units are Plug In Replacements for many of the Garmin units.

I am only looking at NEW units. I do not want to get an older unit that may not have parts available in the near future.

L.Adamson · #6 12-10-2012, 10:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RV6_flyer

not want to get an older unit that may not have parts available in the near future.

Not to mention that "graphics (resolution & the look of lego blocks for terrain & weather)" on older units look horrible compared to today's models.

deej · #7 12-10-2012, 01:48 PM

The only other unit I have found is one that GRT is supposed to be releasing in early 2013. I think it only works with their EFIS system, though, and is not standalone. I think the cost will be $4400, and it is a WAAS unit certified for precision approaches.

It is the best priced option for a WAAS precision GPS available, IF you already have a compatible GRT EFIS installed.

-Dj

Walt · #8 12-10-2012, 02:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by deej

The only other unit I have found is one that GRT is supposed to be releasing in early 2013. I think it only works with their EFIS system, though, and is not standalone. I think the cost will be $4400, and it is a WAAS unit certified for precision approaches.

It is the best priced option for a WAAS precision GPS available, IF you already have a compatible GRT EFIS installed.

-Dj

Could they be teaming up with Freeflight again to incorporate their GPS? Link to ADS-B support from FF.

BobTurner · #9 12-10-2012, 02:36 PM

I have GRT equipment and am totally pleased with it. But, GRT is a small company and this is a major undertaking. Early 2013 might mean December, or later.

B Cunningham · #10 12-10-2012, 04:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by deej

The only other unit I have found is one that GRT is supposed to be releasing in early 2013. I think it only works with their EFIS system, though, and is not standalone. I think the cost will be $4400, and it is a WAAS unit certified for precision approaches.

Where did you hear this? Can you provide a reference to this information?