Design Improvements for the Zenith 601 HDS:
Garmin GDL 39 Receiver
Garmin GDL 39 Receiver
The GDL 39 receiver processes the data sent by ADS-B,
combines them with GPS information, and forwards
everything via Bluetooth to the iPad.
In turn, the iPad combines the GDL 39 information with data of its
Garmin Pilot data base to offer the pilot a wealth of information,
including:
- scalable aviation maps showing the plane's position,
the planned route, TFRs, radar weather, advisories such as
AIRMETS and SIGMETs, and PIREPs;
- advisories about nearby traffic, including altitude, speed,
and whether ascending or descending;
- airport information including data of the
AOPA directory, NOTAMS, ASOS/AWOS weather reports,
status as VFR, MVFR, IFR, or LIFR,
and even fuel prices.
The GDL 39 receiver is mounted on the fuselage
above the baggage compartment . . .
. . . but inside the canopy. Due to this location, the internal GPS and ADS-B antennas of the GDL 39 suffice.
Here is an example of the iPad2 display, showing reception statistics of the GDL 39 on the ground at our home base, Aero Country Airport.
For details of the installation and operation of the GDL 39/iPad2
combination, see the blog post
Points for Pilots: Garmin GDL 39 + iPad = Economy Glass Cockpit