Garmin G1000
Introduced in June 2004, the system has since become one of the most popular integrated glass cockpit solutions for general aviation and business aircraft.
The GDU 1040 is the standard base bezel with no autopilot/flight director mode selection keys below the heading bug.
The top slot is used to update the Jeppesen aviation database (also known as NavData) every 28 days, and to load software and configuration to the system.
The multi-function display (MFD) typically shows a moving map on the right side, and engine instrumentation on the left.
Screens available from the MFD other than the map include the setup menus, information about nearest airports and NAVAIDs, Mode S traffic reports, terrain awareness, XM radio, flight plan programming, and GPS RAIM prediction.
The G1000 system consists of several integrated components which sample and exchange data or display information to the pilot.
The GDU display unit acts as the primary source of flight information for the pilot.
In normal operation, the display in front of the pilot is the PFD and will provide aircraft attitude, airspeed, altitude, vertical speed, heading, rate-of-turn, slip-and-skid, navigation, transponder, inset map view (containing map, traffic, and terrain information), and systems annunciation data.
The GMA panel provides buttons for selecting what audio sources are heard by each member of the cockpit.
The GDC computer replaces the internal components of the pitot-static system in traditional aircraft instrumentation.
The GRS system uses solid-state sensors to measure aircraft attitude, rate of turn, and slip and skid.
The GTX 32 provides standard mode-C replies to ATC interrogations while the GTX 33 provides mode-S bidirectional communications with ATC and therefore can indicate traffic in the area as well as announce itself spontaneously via "squittering" without prior interrogation.
However, there are significant differences with regard to the features, degree of integration, intuitive aspects of the design, and overall product utility.
The system has the potential to reduce downtime as key components, such as the AHRS, ADC and PFD, are modular and easily replaced.
Enhanced vision systems use thermal and infrared cameras to see real-time images and help turn obscurants such as bad weather, night time, fog, dust and brownouts into better images that can see 8-10 times farther than the naked eye.
The Garmin G1000 system offers a reversionary mode that will present all of the primary flight instrumentation on the remaining display.
In addition, there are multiple GPS units, and electronic redundancy incorporated extensively throughout the design of the system.
FAA FITS compliant training is recommended for any pilot transitioning to the G1000 or any other glass cockpit prior to operating the aircraft in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) or if operating a glass cockpit aircraft for the first time.
