Aspen Avionics has received FAA approval for new software that will allow Garmin’s GFC 600 digital autopilot to be integrated with the Aspen EFD1000 Pro MAX primary flight display (PFD). The Pro MAX v2.12 software update will enable GFC 600 interface features such as basic autopilot output functions; altitude, airspeed and vertical speed preselect targets that can be set on the Aspen display; and indicated airspeed (IAS) hold mode and electronic stability and protection (ESP) with no external air data computer required. The software package for the Garmin GFC 600 integration upgrade is priced at $1,995.
“Aspen’s Pro MAX PFD coupled with the Garmin GFC 600 autopilot enhances and expands the basic autopilot function and streamlines the controls, reducing workload and removes the need for some external adapters,” said Mark Ferrari, Aspen vice president of sales and customer support. “When combined with all the features and benefits of Aspen’s glass panel technology, flying becomes easier and safer, especially for single pilot IFR missions.”
The v2.12 software will also enable selected altitude support for Trio and Bendix/King AeroCruze 100 autopilots along with extended runway centerlines on Aspen’s MFD500 and 1000 MAX multi-function displays. In addition, the software release comes with TSO approval for Aspen’s Evolution E5 Dual Electronic Flight Instrument (EFI), a $995 upgrade for customers with previous software versions of the E5. Aspen noted that, along with Garmin, Trio and Bendix/King, it is currently working with digital autopilot manufacturers including Genesys and Avidyne.
Is the Aspen display already a compatible attitude system and control/display for the GFC500?
Two thousand dollars ransom to connect your expensive Aspen hardware with your expensive Garmin hardware, both of which you’ve already paid for? This is why I dropped Garmin Pilot; when, on a flight across the New Mexico/Arizona desert, my iPad suddenly said, “Your Garmin Pilot subscription has ended”, and the display closed! What if it had been night or IFR?
I switched to FlyQ EFB which is free for the application and the cost of data is significantly less, as well. BUT, I learned that Garmin encrypts their data and so my iPad/FlyQ can not use the output from my GNS430W. When I contacted Garmin to ask for use of data that I have already paid for, their best offer was six months free use of Garmin Pilot and then pay up. So I now use a Stratux device and don’t fly in IMC any more. I’m retired so I can wait for the sun to shine.