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Nav Database - Jeppesen benefits?

Posted: Wed Nov 05, 2014 6:48 pm
by russcoburn
I have a GRT Sport SX unit with an internal GPS database with current GRT nav data. My unit has the Vertical Guidance option and I'm about to install the GRT Autopilot Servos and begin setting up the autopilot servos. For now I've been flying some practice ILS approaches showing the HSI information from the SL30 unit I have installed interfacing with the GRT sport SX unit and it is working great. As I started reading through the manual about flying IFR approaches I realized the internal GPS in the unit doesn't have any GPS approach information (which is ok - understood) and I'm looking for some options I have to add that capability for VFR conditions.

I know that I can purchasing a Garmin 430 or panel IFR certified GPS and interface that unit to GRT, however my flight profile in pretty much 100% VFR with trying to stay current with my IFR ticket every six months at my local airport. What options do I have be able to have the autopilot be able to fly IFR approach waypoints as part of these practice approaches? I wasn't sure what additional data the Jeppesen nav data offered over the internal GPS and if there was a reason to purchase it outside of ifr waypoint data.
Specifically, would any of the following options work:
1) Purchase the Jeppesen Nav data and load that in the GRT Sport unit to supplement the internal VFR GPS (assuming that adds approach waypoints)
2) Purchase a portable X96 clone (loaded with Trueflight data or not for approach waypoints) - use it as a 2nd GPS input into the GRT sport for autopilot to fly
3) Purchase a panel mounted IFR GPS unit (I know this is the real solution if I planned to file and fly IFR)

Re: Nav Database - Jeppesen benefits?

Posted: Wed Nov 05, 2014 10:23 pm
by katieb
Hi Russ,

The only way you will get sequenced GPS approaches is with a certified IFR GPS unit. Most if not all the GPS waypoints are in the free database, and you can build a GPS approach manually as a flight plan. However, unless you just build a few local approaches and store them in the EFIS memory for practicing, it takes a lot of heads-down time and is impractical. If you've used an IFR GPS (GNS/GTN) before, you'll know it's really easy to fly an approach-- pick your runway, pick your initial approach fix, and hit LOAD/ACTIVATE and you're on your way. Now if they weren't so darn expensive... :roll:

Re: Nav Database - Jeppesen benefits?

Posted: Thu Nov 06, 2014 10:33 pm
by russcoburn
Thanks Katie, makes sense.

One follow-up, for a unit like the Sport SX without SV, what does the Jeppesen Nav data have over the internal GRT Nav DB? Would it just be some additional details on waypoints selected and displayed from the map view? Trying to see if there is a value add there I don't understand.

Re: Nav Database - Jeppesen benefits?

Posted: Fri Nov 07, 2014 7:51 am
by Bobturner
I may be way wrong here, but I think the main value of the Jepp database is if you operate outside of the US.

Re: Nav Database - Jeppesen benefits?

Posted: Fri Nov 21, 2014 11:02 pm
by GRT_Jeff
In the United States, for VFR, there's almost no difference. For IFR, there is currently much more data in the Jeppesen database, but not all of it is even displayed or used by our current software. You might gain a few more details, but you won't get approaches until our software supports them. We'll be making use of more of the IFR database in the future. The main advantage right now is outside the US, where the Jeppesen data is up to date.