Nav Database - Jeppesen benefits?
Posted: Wed Nov 05, 2014 6:48 pm
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)
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)