Updated Pirep on the AERA 510
I have been using my AERA for about 65 hours now and thought it would be good to give an update.
First, let me say that I haven't spent enough time yet to utilize all the features. But I have used most and am using it more and more.
First what I don't like,
I am still finding it difficult to read in direct sunlight. My SkyView has no issues at all, but the 510 really becomes difficult to see in direct light. I have it hard mounted so I can't move it around, which I am sure would help significantly. I do have the back light brightness set to "10". I'd have to give it a failing review of 5 out of 10 for direct sunlight readability
. Low light and overcast it gets a 10 out of 10. I may eventually work on my installation to improve things. However, I have it flat mounted to my panel (not in a dock) and it looks pretty good. The yoke mount that it came with really sticks away from the panel and I am not a big fan of that.
For those that like the NRST function on the other Garmin or portable units, the 510 leaves a bit to be desired. You have to navigate to the main menu, then nearest menu, then you can get to the list of nearest airports, navaids, etc. Probably one or two additional steps at least. I'd give it a 8 out of 10 for that.
The only other issue is that the touch screen does take a little bit of dexterity to get right. It's not hard to use by any means, but you do have to take your time to input info. I can't type or text very well either so this is probably more a personal problem. I'd give it a 7 out of 10
Now the good stuff. I have not had any troubles with it booting up, error messages or anything unusual. Seems to be a solid unit. 10 out of 10 for quality and function. Also, no problems with using the built in antenna.
I like the info that it displays. I can set the map to be clutter or just show what I want to see. The "refresh" rate is fine, I think it's smooth and has a sufficient processor. 10 out of 10 for that
The main map page is able to display all the basic GPS stuff, plus 4 selectable parameters. This I really like. You can select from about 10 or 15 things you want on your main page. I currently have displayed, LOCAL ALTIMETER, GROUND WINDS, ETE, NEXT WPT. Viewing the other parameters is pretty simple but does require two taps. Gets a 9 out of 10 for display info.
Some of the other pages are weight and balance, E6b, aircraft profile, user wpts, numbers, log book (great) etc. All 10 out of 10 for sure.
The terrain function is adequate, I don't have the audio hooked up to my intercom, but the volume is on 10 and I can hear the voice in my panel talking to me (or it could be the voice in my head, she hasn't answered my questions so it must be the Garmin). Since I have SV and SkyView, terrain is not a function that I use much.
I really like that my SkyView can display the RMI (pointer) and HSI, DIST, ETE, and VNAV from the unit. VNAV is great and no more math on planning my descents, just follow the glideslope along my predetermined rate of descent. 10 out of 10.
Now for XM. Wow, I does anyone live without that! This is the first time I have flow with on board weather except for a couple of multi's I have flow with basic radar, which leaves a LOT to be desired.
XM is amazing and I have the basic $35/month plan. It takes a couple minutes for it connect, but then its there all the time. I can get AWOS, ASOS, TFR's, RADAR, etc, etc. Since its designed for XM all the menus have weather functions and its just perfect. 10 out of 10.
Approaches are great. I have only flown 2 with it and its all you would expect for a GPS approach. I can't give it a fair review but I suspect it's a 10 for 10.
Overall, I'd give the unit a solid 8 out of 10. It's not perfect. The backlight issue is a tough one to ignore. My installation may be the culprit, but it's also my review. Your opinion will vary. I'd buy another.
Let me say that I am familiar with tech stuff. I owned one of the first PDA's ever by Apple (Newton). Been online since before the W.W.W. (AOL 1.5, $2.95/mn) I also, own a AnywhereMap IPAQ (outdated but loved it, probably could put it back into use. WAY ahead of it's time), Lowrance 600C, and just about every other doodad you would want (no IPAD yet, but thinking about it). Anyway, all this is my opinion and gave this as review by request of another VAF member, but the opinions expressed are not endorsed by VAF, Garmin, or any paid or unpaid advertiser.