Item Discontinued
PLEASE NOTE: This item has been superseded by GNS-430W
FEATURES
The GNS-430 has been replaced by the GNS-430W with WAAS capabilities
Combines 10 watt VHF communications transceiver, VHF navigation and UHF glideslope receivers, 12-channel GPS receiver with color moving map
760 channel VHF comm with 25khz spacing; software configurable for 2280 channels (8.33 kHz spacing) for Europe
Provides both course deviation and optional roll steering outputs to aircraft flight guidance systems which will enable ARINC 424 lateral guidance procedures including IFR arrivals, departures and approaches
Automatically will nominate appropriate VOR and localizer frequencies for VHF navaid
Sends correct ATIS, approach, clearance, tower or ground control frequency to the comm radio at the touch of a button
16-color, active-matrix LCD measuring approximately 2" high and 3" wide with a resolution of 128 by 240 pixels
Cartographic database displays geopolitical boundaries, federal interstate highways, state routes, major local thoroughfares, plus railroads, rivers, coastlines and lakes
Can be interfaced to main indicators such as KI-202/203/204/206/208/208A/209/209A as well as KPI-552/553A (see interconnect diagram
Can be interface to Bendix/King RMI units such as KI-229 and KNI-582
Can tune most panel mount DME and remote mount DME units
Interaces to ARINC 429 EFIS systems such as Sandel SN3308 and Bendix/King EFIS 40 & 50
RS-232 and RS-422 serial ports for interfacing
ARINC 429 digital output (GAMA standard) for left/right analog course deviation, ng, encoded or greycode altitude, and basic fuel flow sensor links
Fuel Flow page configurable to allow for simultaneous display of left and right engine fuel flows
ARINC 429 digital output compatible with some autopilots which can accept ARINC 429 roll-steering information
ARINC 429 output data can be used with digital to analog adapter such as Allied Signal KA-90 to produce roll-steering signal used by autopilots systems requiring analog signal
Accepts RS-232 fuel flow data from external sources
28 Volt or 14 Volt operation
TSO'd
Interfaces to BF Goodrich WX-500 Weather Mapping Sensor and Skywatch Traffic Advisory System for combined moving map display with nav data and weather/traffic information
Interfaces to Ryan 9900B / 9900BX TCAD and Goodrich Skywatch to display traffic information
Approach, arrival, control area, departure, Class B, Class C, TMA, TRSA-with sector, altitude and text usage info, also, ASOS, ATIS, AWOS, center, clearance delivery, ground, pre-taxi, tower, unicom, localizer and ILS
Minimum safe altitude along and in proximity to active flight plan
Approaches:
Non-precision and precision approaches throughtout the database coverage
SIDs/STARs:
Contains all pilot-nav SIDs and STARs
Waypoints:
1000 user-defined
Flight Plans:
20 reversible; up to 31 waypoints each
Emergency Search:
9 nearest airports, VOR's, NDB's, intersections, or user waypoints; 2 nearest FSS with frequncies; 2 nearest ARTCC frequencies
Alarms:
Arrival and CDI, timers, SUAs less than 10 min, 2NM and insude SUA
Receiver:
PhaseTrac12, 12 parallel channel receiver, simultaneously tracks and uses up to 12 satellites
Acquisition Time:
12 seconds (warm), 45 seconds (cold)
Update Rate:
1/second, continuous
Accuracy:
15 meters (49 feet) RMS, 1.5 meters with differential corrections
Nav Features:
Pilot-defined Course Selection and Waypoint Hold, Closest Point of Approach, Departure and Arrival Frequencies, Approach Navigation using published approach procedures stored on NavData card, Terminal Navigation using SIDs/STARs from NavData card
Planning Features:
True Airspeed, Density Altitude, Winds Aloft, RAIM Availability, Sunrise/Sunset Times, Trip and Fuel Planning, Vertical Navigation (VNAV)
-103.5 mW minimum into 500 ohm load; external amplifier required
GS Freq. Range:
329.15 MHz to 335.00 MHz
GS CDI Output:
+-150mV Full Scale
LOC Freq. Range:
108.10 MHz to 111.95 MHz
LOC CDI Output:
+-150mV Full Scale
LOC Accuracy:
<4.5mV
LOC Flag Sens.:
-103.5 dBm
Size:
6.25"W x 2.65H x 11.0"L
Weight:
6.6 lbs.
Display:
Color LCD
Power:
14/28 VDC
Certification:
GPS: TSO C129a, Class A1 (en route, terminal, and approach)
VOR: TSO C40c
LOC: TSO C36c
GS: TSO C34e
VHF COM: TSO C37d, Class 4 and 6 (transmit) and TSO C38d, Class C and E (receiver)
VHF Frequency Range:
118.000 MHz to 136.976 MHz
Comm Transmit Power:
10 watts min.
Comm Modulation:
70%
Receiver Sensitivity:
2.0 microvolts for 6dB S/N with 1 kHz 30% mod.
Comm Channels:
760 (25 Khz spacing); configuration for 2280 channels (8.33 kHz spacing) also provided
Frequency Display:
Upper left corner of active matrix LCD, 2-lines with active freq. above standby
Squelch Sensitivity:
2.0 microvolts typical
Audio Output:
100mW min. into a 500 ohm load; external amp required
Temperature:
-20 to +55C operating
Humidity:
95% non-condensing
Altitude Range:
-1500 ft. to 50000 ft.
AVAILABLE GNS-430
Part #: 011-00280-10
GPS/Nav/Comm (14/28V)
PRODUCT FAQ
Click on a question below to see the answer. If you have a question about this model that is not answered below, please contact sales@seaerospace.com
What indicators can be used with the Garmin GNS-430 and 530 Series Systems?
According to the Installation Manual, the following indicators are compatible with main switchable VOR/ILS/GPS Indicator output (Connector P4001) for the Garmin GNS-430 and GNS-530 GPS/Nav/Comms. GI-102 (no longer available), Garmin GI-102A, GI-106 (no longer available), GI-106A, S-Tec ST-180 HSI, King KI-202, KI-206, KI-208A, KI-209A, KI-525A, KPI-552, KPI-552B, KPI-553, KPI-553A, KPI-553B, Collins 331A-3G HSI, 331A-9G HSI, 331A-6P HSI, Bendix IN-831A, Century NSD-360, NSD-360A , NSD-1000 HSI, Sperry/Honeywell RD-550A, 650 HSI. The following indicators are compatible as well but not mentioned in the installation manual: King KNI-520, Collins/STec IND-350, IND-350A, IND-351, IND-351A, 331H-3G Basically, a non-converter type indicator is required for the VOR/ILS/GPS Indicator interface to the GNS-430/530 Note: The following indicators may be interfaced to the secondary VOR/ILS output of the GNS-430/530 (Connector P4006). This output only provides VOR/ILS information on the indicator not GPS deviation information. King KI-203, KI-204, KI-208 KI-209
What software version is required for the processor of the Skywatch system to interface with the Garmin GNS-430/530?
Software Version 1.6 is required on the processor of the Goodrich Skywatch System to interface and display traffic information on the Garmin GNS-430 and GNS-530 GPS/Nav/Comms.
Does the Garmin GPS 400 contain the same annunciators/switches that the GNS 430 has?
No. Since the Garmin GPS 400 is the GPS only version of the GNS 430 GPS/Nav/Comm, it only contains the annunciators for message, waypoint, Auto (GPS AUTO mode of operation), OBS (GPS OBS mode of operation), terminal, approach, and integrity (for position error). Since the GPS 400 does not contain the VOR/LOC/Glideslope portion of the GNS-430, the CDI source select button is omitted as well as the VLOC/GPS annunciator.
Can the Bendix/King KPI-553A display the distance information output by the Garmin GNS-430?
Yes, the Bendix/King KPI-553A can display the distance information output from the Garmin GNS-430 BUT only with the use of the Garmin GAD-42 Adapter. The KPI-553A uses King Serial Data/Clock for its distance information format. The GNS-430 outputs ARINC 429 distance information. The GAD-42 is required with this interface to convert the ARINC 429 Distance Label to the KING Serial Data/Clock Distance information
How can the new 14/28 Volt version of the GNS-430 be used in both 14 and 28 Volt aircraft?
The 14/28 Volt version of the GNS-430 units will work on either 14 or 28 volts. The wiring is the same with the only difference being that the 14 volt usage requires a 10 amp breaker instead of a 5 amp breaker on the comm power line.
What DME formats does the Garmin GNS-430 output for DME channeling?
The Garmin GNS-430 can channel a DME based on the tuned VLOC frequency. The GNS-430 outputs 2x5, BCD or slip parallel DME and King Serial DME channeling formats. There is a setup page in the GNS-430 where you can select which DME you will be channeling with the GNS-430.
What indicators can be used with the Garmin GNS-430 and 530 Series Systems?
According to the Installation Manual, the following indicators are compatible with main switchable VOR/ILS/GPS Indicator output (Connector P4001) for the Garmin GNS-430 and GNS-530 GPS/Nav/Comms. GI-102 (no longer available), Garmin GI-102A, GI-106 (no longer available), GI-106A, S-Tec ST-180 HSI, King KI-202, KI-206, KI-208A, KI-209A, KI-525A, KPI-552, KPI-552B, KPI-553, KPI-553A, KPI-553B, Collins 331A-3G HSI, 331A-9G HSI, 331A-6P HSI, Bendix IN-831A, Century NSD-360, NSD-360A , NSD-1000 HSI, Sperry/Honeywell RD-550A, 650 HSI. The following indicators are compatible as well but not mentioned in the installation manual: King KNI-520, Collins/STec IND-350, IND-350A, IND-351, IND-351A, 331H-3G Basically, a non-converter type indicator is required for the VOR/ILS/GPS Indicator interface to the GNS-430/530 Note: The following indicators may be interfaced to the secondary VOR/ILS output of the GNS-430/530 (Connector P4006). This output only provides VOR/ILS information on the indicator not GPS deviation information. King KI-203, KI-204, KI-208 KI-209
What software version is required for the processor of the Skywatch system to interface with the Garmin GNS-430/530?
Software Version 1.6 is required on the processor of the Goodrich Skywatch System to interface and display traffic information on the Garmin GNS-430 and GNS-530 GPS/Nav/Comms.
Can the Bendix/King KPI-553A display the distance information output by the Garmin GNS-430?
Yes, the Bendix/King KPI-553A can display the distance information output from the Garmin GNS-430 BUT only with the use of the Garmin GAD-42 Adapter. The KPI-553A uses King Serial Data/Clock for its distance information format. The GNS-430 outputs ARINC 429 distance information. The GAD-42 is required with this interface to convert the ARINC 429 Distance Label to the KING Serial Data/Clock Distance information
Why aren't certain Garmin Avionics products available without installation?
As a dealer for an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), it is required to commit to a dealership agreement. Garmin's dealer agreement states that certain TSO'd products must be installed by the dealer for the factory warranty to be valid. There are generally 2 reasons for this policy. First, the OEM wants to minimize their liability risk by assuring their equipment is installed by factory trained and knowledgeable technicians. Second, Garmin wishes to maintain their products integrity by making sure the product is installed and operating properly so the customer is satisfied with the performance. Avionics installations and interfacing can sometimes be very complex. It is very important that pilots, aircraft owners and operators ensure installations are performed by skilled, experienced technical personnel to provide the safest flying environment and experience.
What is required to upgrade the Garmin GNS-400/500 series GPS units to include WAAS?
There are quite a few changes and issues that need to be addressed in reference to upgrading/modifying a GNS-400/500 series unit to include WAAS capability. It is strongly suggested that you go through an authorized Garmin dealer who has performed this modification/upgrade previously.
There are several installation and certification issues including review of the STC approval from Garmin. This STC includes appendices detailing the approved equipment that can be interfaced to the WAAS capable units as well as approved installation diagrams for these interfaces.
The upgrade from Garmin is approximately $1500 and includes the necessary updating of the unit, WAAS antenna, and new IFR-W Jeppesen database. The existing GPS antenna is replaced with the WAAS antenna. This WAAS antenna utilizes the same mounting holes however it should be noted that it is physically larger than the original GA-56 GPS antenna that was included with all GNS-400/500 series units. Also, in regards to the antenna installation, RG-142B or RG-400 coaxial cable must be used.
What is the difference between the classic Garmin GNS-400/500 GPS/Nav/Comms and the GNS-400W/500W units?
The 400/500W units with WAAS capability offer many new features and enhancements over the classic models. Some enhancements include WAAS enable GPS antenna, receiver, and software. The 400W/500W series units comply with WAAS TSO C146a and include hardware upgrades with a faster micro-processor. A terrain database for terrain awareness is included a standard feature. Most importantly, the WAAS GPS receiver allows pilots to use the GNS-400W/500W units for primary navigation and vertical guidance for LPV, L/VNAV, and LNAV+V approaches.
For a complete summary of the feature changes and enhancements, click Here.
What does the WAAS upgrade add to the classic GNS-400/500 series units?
The hardware and software upgrade for WAAS to the classic GNS-400/500 series navigators adds FAA TSO C146a Gamma-3 certification. This upgrade and certification enables pilots to fly Lateral-Precision with Vertical guidance approaches and receive GPS navigation via the Wide Area Augmentation System.
Are there any additional benefits added to the GNS-400/500 series units during the WAAS upgrade?
Yes, some are noticeable and some are minor. The WAAS upgrade to the GNS-400/500 series units WAAS upgrade includes a faster 5Htz update rate on the GPS signal. Therefore, the GPS receiver in the unit is extracting GPS information 5 times per second instead of 1 time per second as with original units.
If the terrain advisory feature is installed on the 400/500 series unit, then the terrain information will have a higher resolution.
When the GDL69 datalink is interfaced to the WAAS upgraded units, the weather will cover the entire USA instead of just 250 miles. METARS are included in the waypoint section making it easier to see weather information for a particular destination. Installations using the GDL69A with music will now be able to view the title and artist name on the GNS display.
Lastly, the WAAS upgrade provides the ability to fly curved flight paths with a roll steering autopilot for pilots who wish to utilize DME arcs or full approaches.
What are some of the other issues that need to be addressed when upgrading the GNS-400/500 series to include WAAS capability?
The WAAS upgrade for the GNS-400/500 series units is not a 'plug and play' upgrade. There are several installation, certification, and operational subjects that must be adhered to before a proper WAAS upgrade can be completed.
For aircraft with dual GNS-400/500 series units, both units must be upgraded for the crossfill function to operate. A WAAS upgraded 400/500 series unit will not crossfill to a non-WAAS 400/500 series unit.
One subject that many people upgrading to WAAS may overlook involves the GPS navigators distance from the pilot's primary field of view. The original GNS-400/500 series installation guidelines only provided general suggested guidelines for the distance of the unit from the pilot's primary view. Page 2- of the WAAS GNS-400/500 installation instructions is very specific in regards to the suggested guidelines for this distance. The left edge of the GNS unit should be no more than 11.8 inches from the centerline of the pilot's field of view. The 500 series units allow 12.1 inches. Vertically, the top of the GNS unit cannot be lower than the bottom edge of the primary flight instruments. If these measurements are exceeded then an additional annunciator may need to be installed near the pilot's primary field of view.
There are several wiring changes that need to be made to make the Bendix King KAP-140 / KFC-225 autopilots and original Sandel SN3308 EHSI completely compatible with the WAAS upgraded units. Certain features regarding proper navigation deviation will not function properly unless wiring changes are made in the aircraft. In addition, aircraft with more recent glass cockpit technology (e.g. EX5000 and G1000) have not been completely addressed for the WAAS upgrades.
In order to ensure that you receive the most accurate and realistic quotation for this WAAS upgrade, we strongly suggest that you contact our Installation Department for further assistance.
How do Garmin GNS-400/500 series part numbers change when upgraded to WAAS?
What factors could be causing a newly installed or replacement avionics unit to not be working properly?
Many avionics systems require a configuration or setup process. This process is required to interface certain avionics systems to other systems in the aircraft that will be inputting or outputting information to and from these systems. Some examples of systems that require a configuration or setup process include:
Autopilot
EFIS
GPS
EGPWS
EHSI
RADAR
TAWS
TCAS
In addition, most newer technology or solid state systems require configuration via computer interface of some type. A qualified avionics technician should always refer to the appropriate manufacturer's installation manual for complete information and instructions.
How does Southeast Aerospace calculate exchange prices and acceptable exchange cores?
Southeast Aerospace exchanges are based on the return of an undamaged, economically repairable core unit with identical part number as the unit shipped to the customer. An "economically repairable" core is defined as one where the cost to repair/overhaul (or Repair Cap) does not exceed 75% of the original SV/OH exchange price billed. Should the Repair Cap exceed 75%, the customer will be billed the additional amount. In the event this amount exceeds the Outright Price for the unit, the customer would only be billed the difference between the Outright Price and SV/OH Exchange Price with the core returned as-is to the customer.
Here is an example of such a transaction:
$1000 Exchange Price charged to customer
$1000 x .75 = $750 Maximum Allowable core repair charge or Repair Cap
$2000 Cost to repair core unit
- $750 Less Core repair cap
---------
$1250 Additional billing amount.
2250.00 Total Cost of transaction
Please Note:
SEA offers exchange on new items as well. However, repair cap as indicated above is still based on SV/OH exchange price.
Will the Trig TT31 transponder interface with the Garmin GNS430/530 series units for ADS-B functionality?
As of June 2010, the TT31 can accept GPS information from the Garmin GNS 430/530 navigators; however the data from the GNS 430/530 does not meet the requirements of the FAA ADS-B Final Rule. The GNS 430/530 GPS does not export position integrity, which is now required by the new Rule. The Garmin GNS 430W/530W (WAAS) is an acceptable data source.
At this time, the Trig Transponders cannot accept input from the GNS 430/530W GPS. Trig is working to correct this integration issue & plans to have the software upgrade complete by end of 2010.
The software upgrade would allow the TT31 to extract the ADS-B parameters from the Garmin WAAS family of GPS navigators. This software will not be compatible with non-WAAS Garmin GPS units.
Are SEA's Exchange prices negotiable?
Negotiating the exchange price of a unit only limits the allowable repair cap for the core unit. Southeast Aerospace's exchange transactions are based on the return of economically repairable core unit. Once the core is received and evaluated, the core repair cost incurred by SEA cannot exceed 75% of the original exchange price. That is, it cannot cost SEA more than 75% of the original exchange price collected from the customer. Therefore, when and if an SEA exchange price is discounted, there is a risk that additional charges may be assessed once the core is returned and evaluated.
For more information, please refer to these other Exchange FAQs
Does the GNS430/530 need to be configured before use?
The Garmin GNS400/500 series units require setup and configuration before proper function and use. The system does not utilize a configuration module to allow easy removal and replacement of units while retaining the programmed configuration information. Therefore, if you are exchanging units in an aircraft, then you must have record of the configuration parameters to reprogram into the replacement unit.
Will my discontinued 28V GNS navigator still be supported by Garmin if it has the WAAS upgrade?
Yes, Garmin will still support the discontinued units with the WAAS upgrade; however, units without the upgrade will not be supported.
GNS-430 Product FAQ
Click on a question below to see the answer. If you have a question about this model that is not answered below,
please contact sales@seaerospace.com
What indicators can be used with the Garmin GNS-430 and 530 Series Systems?
According to the Installation Manual, the following indicators are compatible with main switchable VOR/ILS/GPS Indicator output (Connector P4001) for the Garmin GNS-430 and GNS-530 GPS/Nav/Comms. GI-102 (no longer available), Garmin GI-102A, GI-106 (no longer available), GI-106A, S-Tec ST-180 HSI, King KI-202, KI-206, KI-208A, KI-209A, KI-525A, KPI-552, KPI-552B, KPI-553, KPI-553A, KPI-553B, Collins 331A-3G HSI, 331A-9G HSI, 331A-6P HSI, Bendix IN-831A, Century NSD-360, NSD-360A , NSD-1000 HSI, Sperry/Honeywell RD-550A, 650 HSI. The following indicators are compatible as well but not mentioned in the installation manual: King KNI-520, Collins/STec IND-350, IND-350A, IND-351, IND-351A, 331H-3G Basically, a non-converter type indicator is required for the VOR/ILS/GPS Indicator interface to the GNS-430/530 Note: The following indicators may be interfaced to the secondary VOR/ILS output of the GNS-430/530 (Connector P4006). This output only provides VOR/ILS information on the indicator not GPS deviation information. King KI-203, KI-204, KI-208 KI-209
What software version is required for the processor of the Skywatch system to interface with the Garmin GNS-430/530?
Software Version 1.6 is required on the processor of the Goodrich Skywatch System to interface and display traffic information on the Garmin GNS-430 and GNS-530 GPS/Nav/Comms.
Does the Garmin GPS 400 contain the same annunciators/switches that the GNS 430 has?
No. Since the Garmin GPS 400 is the GPS only version of the GNS 430 GPS/Nav/Comm, it only contains the annunciators for message, waypoint, Auto (GPS AUTO mode of operation), OBS (GPS OBS mode of operation), terminal, approach, and integrity (for position error). Since the GPS 400 does not contain the VOR/LOC/Glideslope portion of the GNS-430, the CDI source select button is omitted as well as the VLOC/GPS annunciator.
Can the Bendix/King KPI-553A display the distance information output by the Garmin GNS-430?
Yes, the Bendix/King KPI-553A can display the distance information output from the Garmin GNS-430 BUT only with the use of the Garmin GAD-42 Adapter. The KPI-553A uses King Serial Data/Clock for its distance information format. The GNS-430 outputs ARINC 429 distance information. The GAD-42 is required with this interface to convert the ARINC 429 Distance Label to the KING Serial Data/Clock Distance information
How can the new 14/28 Volt version of the GNS-430 be used in both 14 and 28 Volt aircraft?
The 14/28 Volt version of the GNS-430 units will work on either 14 or 28 volts. The wiring is the same with the only difference being that the 14 volt usage requires a 10 amp breaker instead of a 5 amp breaker on the comm power line.
What DME formats does the Garmin GNS-430 output for DME channeling?
The Garmin GNS-430 can channel a DME based on the tuned VLOC frequency. The GNS-430 outputs 2x5, BCD or slip parallel DME and King Serial DME channeling formats. There is a setup page in the GNS-430 where you can select which DME you will be channeling with the GNS-430.
What indicators can be used with the Garmin GNS-430 and 530 Series Systems?
According to the Installation Manual, the following indicators are compatible with main switchable VOR/ILS/GPS Indicator output (Connector P4001) for the Garmin GNS-430 and GNS-530 GPS/Nav/Comms. GI-102 (no longer available), Garmin GI-102A, GI-106 (no longer available), GI-106A, S-Tec ST-180 HSI, King KI-202, KI-206, KI-208A, KI-209A, KI-525A, KPI-552, KPI-552B, KPI-553, KPI-553A, KPI-553B, Collins 331A-3G HSI, 331A-9G HSI, 331A-6P HSI, Bendix IN-831A, Century NSD-360, NSD-360A , NSD-1000 HSI, Sperry/Honeywell RD-550A, 650 HSI. The following indicators are compatible as well but not mentioned in the installation manual: King KNI-520, Collins/STec IND-350, IND-350A, IND-351, IND-351A, 331H-3G Basically, a non-converter type indicator is required for the VOR/ILS/GPS Indicator interface to the GNS-430/530 Note: The following indicators may be interfaced to the secondary VOR/ILS output of the GNS-430/530 (Connector P4006). This output only provides VOR/ILS information on the indicator not GPS deviation information. King KI-203, KI-204, KI-208 KI-209
What software version is required for the processor of the Skywatch system to interface with the Garmin GNS-430/530?
Software Version 1.6 is required on the processor of the Goodrich Skywatch System to interface and display traffic information on the Garmin GNS-430 and GNS-530 GPS/Nav/Comms.
Can the Bendix/King KPI-553A display the distance information output by the Garmin GNS-430?
Yes, the Bendix/King KPI-553A can display the distance information output from the Garmin GNS-430 BUT only with the use of the Garmin GAD-42 Adapter. The KPI-553A uses King Serial Data/Clock for its distance information format. The GNS-430 outputs ARINC 429 distance information. The GAD-42 is required with this interface to convert the ARINC 429 Distance Label to the KING Serial Data/Clock Distance information
Why aren't certain Garmin Avionics products available without installation?
As a dealer for an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), it is required to commit to a dealership agreement. Garmin's dealer agreement states that certain TSO'd products must be installed by the dealer for the factory warranty to be valid. There are generally 2 reasons for this policy. First, the OEM wants to minimize their liability risk by assuring their equipment is installed by factory trained and knowledgeable technicians. Second, Garmin wishes to maintain their products integrity by making sure the product is installed and operating properly so the customer is satisfied with the performance. Avionics installations and interfacing can sometimes be very complex. It is very important that pilots, aircraft owners and operators ensure installations are performed by skilled, experienced technical personnel to provide the safest flying environment and experience.
What is required to upgrade the Garmin GNS-400/500 series GPS units to include WAAS?
There are quite a few changes and issues that need to be addressed in reference to upgrading/modifying a GNS-400/500 series unit to include WAAS capability. It is strongly suggested that you go through an authorized Garmin dealer who has performed this modification/upgrade previously.
There are several installation and certification issues including review of the STC approval from Garmin. This STC includes appendices detailing the approved equipment that can be interfaced to the WAAS capable units as well as approved installation diagrams for these interfaces.
The upgrade from Garmin is approximately $1500 and includes the necessary updating of the unit, WAAS antenna, and new IFR-W Jeppesen database. The existing GPS antenna is replaced with the WAAS antenna. This WAAS antenna utilizes the same mounting holes however it should be noted that it is physically larger than the original GA-56 GPS antenna that was included with all GNS-400/500 series units. Also, in regards to the antenna installation, RG-142B or RG-400 coaxial cable must be used.
What is the difference between the classic Garmin GNS-400/500 GPS/Nav/Comms and the GNS-400W/500W units?
The 400/500W units with WAAS capability offer many new features and enhancements over the classic models. Some enhancements include WAAS enable GPS antenna, receiver, and software. The 400W/500W series units comply with WAAS TSO C146a and include hardware upgrades with a faster micro-processor. A terrain database for terrain awareness is included a standard feature. Most importantly, the WAAS GPS receiver allows pilots to use the GNS-400W/500W units for primary navigation and vertical guidance for LPV, L/VNAV, and LNAV+V approaches.
For a complete summary of the feature changes and enhancements, click Here.
What does the WAAS upgrade add to the classic GNS-400/500 series units?
The hardware and software upgrade for WAAS to the classic GNS-400/500 series navigators adds FAA TSO C146a Gamma-3 certification. This upgrade and certification enables pilots to fly Lateral-Precision with Vertical guidance approaches and receive GPS navigation via the Wide Area Augmentation System.
Are there any additional benefits added to the GNS-400/500 series units during the WAAS upgrade?
Yes, some are noticeable and some are minor. The WAAS upgrade to the GNS-400/500 series units WAAS upgrade includes a faster 5Htz update rate on the GPS signal. Therefore, the GPS receiver in the unit is extracting GPS information 5 times per second instead of 1 time per second as with original units.
If the terrain advisory feature is installed on the 400/500 series unit, then the terrain information will have a higher resolution.
When the GDL69 datalink is interfaced to the WAAS upgraded units, the weather will cover the entire USA instead of just 250 miles. METARS are included in the waypoint section making it easier to see weather information for a particular destination. Installations using the GDL69A with music will now be able to view the title and artist name on the GNS display.
Lastly, the WAAS upgrade provides the ability to fly curved flight paths with a roll steering autopilot for pilots who wish to utilize DME arcs or full approaches.
What are some of the other issues that need to be addressed when upgrading the GNS-400/500 series to include WAAS capability?
The WAAS upgrade for the GNS-400/500 series units is not a 'plug and play' upgrade. There are several installation, certification, and operational subjects that must be adhered to before a proper WAAS upgrade can be completed.
For aircraft with dual GNS-400/500 series units, both units must be upgraded for the crossfill function to operate. A WAAS upgraded 400/500 series unit will not crossfill to a non-WAAS 400/500 series unit.
One subject that many people upgrading to WAAS may overlook involves the GPS navigators distance from the pilot's primary field of view. The original GNS-400/500 series installation guidelines only provided general suggested guidelines for the distance of the unit from the pilot's primary view. Page 2- of the WAAS GNS-400/500 installation instructions is very specific in regards to the suggested guidelines for this distance. The left edge of the GNS unit should be no more than 11.8 inches from the centerline of the pilot's field of view. The 500 series units allow 12.1 inches. Vertically, the top of the GNS unit cannot be lower than the bottom edge of the primary flight instruments. If these measurements are exceeded then an additional annunciator may need to be installed near the pilot's primary field of view.
There are several wiring changes that need to be made to make the Bendix King KAP-140 / KFC-225 autopilots and original Sandel SN3308 EHSI completely compatible with the WAAS upgraded units. Certain features regarding proper navigation deviation will not function properly unless wiring changes are made in the aircraft. In addition, aircraft with more recent glass cockpit technology (e.g. EX5000 and G1000) have not been completely addressed for the WAAS upgrades.
In order to ensure that you receive the most accurate and realistic quotation for this WAAS upgrade, we strongly suggest that you contact our Installation Department for further assistance.
How do Garmin GNS-400/500 series part numbers change when upgraded to WAAS?
What factors could be causing a newly installed or replacement avionics unit to not be working properly?
Many avionics systems require a configuration or setup process. This process is required to interface certain avionics systems to other systems in the aircraft that will be inputting or outputting information to and from these systems. Some examples of systems that require a configuration or setup process include:
Autopilot
EFIS
GPS
EGPWS
EHSI
RADAR
TAWS
TCAS
In addition, most newer technology or solid state systems require configuration via computer interface of some type. A qualified avionics technician should always refer to the appropriate manufacturer's installation manual for complete information and instructions.
How does Southeast Aerospace calculate exchange prices and acceptable exchange cores?
Southeast Aerospace exchanges are based on the return of an undamaged, economically repairable core unit with identical part number as the unit shipped to the customer. An "economically repairable" core is defined as one where the cost to repair/overhaul (or Repair Cap) does not exceed 75% of the original SV/OH exchange price billed. Should the Repair Cap exceed 75%, the customer will be billed the additional amount. In the event this amount exceeds the Outright Price for the unit, the customer would only be billed the difference between the Outright Price and SV/OH Exchange Price with the core returned as-is to the customer.
Here is an example of such a transaction:
$1000 Exchange Price charged to customer
$1000 x .75 = $750 Maximum Allowable core repair charge or Repair Cap
$2000 Cost to repair core unit
- $750 Less Core repair cap
---------
$1250 Additional billing amount.
2250.00 Total Cost of transaction
Please Note:
SEA offers exchange on new items as well. However, repair cap as indicated above is still based on SV/OH exchange price.
Will the Trig TT31 transponder interface with the Garmin GNS430/530 series units for ADS-B functionality?
As of June 2010, the TT31 can accept GPS information from the Garmin GNS 430/530 navigators; however the data from the GNS 430/530 does not meet the requirements of the FAA ADS-B Final Rule. The GNS 430/530 GPS does not export position integrity, which is now required by the new Rule. The Garmin GNS 430W/530W (WAAS) is an acceptable data source.
At this time, the Trig Transponders cannot accept input from the GNS 430/530W GPS. Trig is working to correct this integration issue & plans to have the software upgrade complete by end of 2010.
The software upgrade would allow the TT31 to extract the ADS-B parameters from the Garmin WAAS family of GPS navigators. This software will not be compatible with non-WAAS Garmin GPS units.
Are SEA's Exchange prices negotiable?
Negotiating the exchange price of a unit only limits the allowable repair cap for the core unit. Southeast Aerospace's exchange transactions are based on the return of economically repairable core unit. Once the core is received and evaluated, the core repair cost incurred by SEA cannot exceed 75% of the original exchange price. That is, it cannot cost SEA more than 75% of the original exchange price collected from the customer. Therefore, when and if an SEA exchange price is discounted, there is a risk that additional charges may be assessed once the core is returned and evaluated.
For more information, please refer to these other Exchange FAQs
Does the GNS430/530 need to be configured before use?
The Garmin GNS400/500 series units require setup and configuration before proper function and use. The system does not utilize a configuration module to allow easy removal and replacement of units while retaining the programmed configuration information. Therefore, if you are exchanging units in an aircraft, then you must have record of the configuration parameters to reprogram into the replacement unit.
Will my discontinued 28V GNS navigator still be supported by Garmin if it has the WAAS upgrade?
Yes, Garmin will still support the discontinued units with the WAAS upgrade; however, units without the upgrade will not be supported.
NOTE: Please Click Here to Review Important Information for this Repair Quote. Current average turn-time is 5-10 days. Click Here to submit a Return Material Authorization form.
Part#
Bench Test
Avg Repair
Avg Overhaul
Notes
011-00280-00
$330.00
$800.00
011-00280-10
$330.00
$800.00
011-00280-30
$330.00
$800.00
Item is not available for over-the-counter(OTC) sale and must be installed by Southeast Aerospace.
If you are interested in an installation quotation, please click here.