Experimental Avionics
Hi Bruce,
Great question and expect a lot of opinions. I have AFS EFIS, some steam gauges for backup, Garmin 625 gps because they are a monopoly, and a couple of other Garmin products.
That being said, I would suggest that you log into each of the experimental avionics support websites and read their forum. Pay particular attention to the issues the owners are having or have had. Notice how long it takes to resolve the issue. Notice the norm of when something doesn't work, the support staff typically advice of a software upgrade. Notice how a lot of times the upgrade is due to a previous problem or vaporware or was promised months earlier. Don't take my word for it. Go there and read for yourself. Some companies have the president in the middle of resolving issues. Other companies have hired specialized help to work those issues. Try and follow the logic of some of the answers and how oftentimes the problem is with another supplier's product. Listen to the excuses provided as to why a software upgrade is late or delayed. Listen to the tone of the responses. You can learn a lot about what you read there than you will here as we will never call OUR baby ugly.
Product compatibility with other products is a real and time consuming issue. If you have an avionics guy you can assign to workout all the bugs and they have lots of time on their hands, then you can go with anyone. However, if you are new to avionics, and really don't want to learn about software versions, known compatibility issues, and weird interactions, then you may want to stick with one brand for the whole panel. I hate this advice because this is what the experimental avionic manufactures want you to do. I'm one of the few folks who believe that competition is good for the business and products should work out of the box with no upgrades or software revisions. How many revisions did the old steam gauges needs?
Also, take note that there is no competition when it comes to certified GPS. Garmin has that market cornered and you are at the mercy to them to pay what they want to use their stuff. The other experimental avionics companies are fighting tooth and nail to get market share and thus trying to earn your business. But they can't compete (or won't) with Garmin on the certified GPS.
By the way, I saw a post here on VAF where a comparison between Dynon and AFS was made. Search the archive to see if that helps you distinguish between the two.
I decided to go with AFS which was a purely economical decision. I got a great deal. For me, economics plays an important role in my flying hobby. Note, VAF Classifieds can be your friend.
Good luck!!
cj
I know this is a big question with a lot of variables but was just wanting to get any thoughts on the Garmin ephis compared to the AFS. Looking at the 10" touch screen. Does anyone have experience with both and what are the pro's and con's of each.