BizAv Cockpit Upgrades: Garmin G1000 NXi Optional Features

In 2017 Garmin announced the production of the G1000 NXi flightdeck avionics as a successor to its G1000 system, which it originally introduced in 2004.

The Garmin G1000 NXi version represents a considerable change enabling many upgraded functions and features to be implemented in a one-time retrofit. G1000 NXi baseline flightdeck upgrades are currently available for the following light jets and turboprops (though options may not be available to all aircraft models):

• Cessna Citation Mustang
• Beechcraft King Air C90, 200, 300 & 350 Series
• Embraer Phenom 100 & 300
• Daher/Socata TBM 850

Don't miss our previous coverage of the baseline equipage of the Garmin G1000 NXi retrofit.

Optional Equipage, Information & Performance Improvements

Although not unique to Garmin, some optional capabilities mentioned here are not associated with a dedicated LRU, but are configured via Enablement Cards to activate what is already embedded in the G1000 NXi system.

When upgrading an aircraft you will be requested to select from available options, and the installer will either add the LRUs and wiring, or configure the system to ‘turn on’ your chosen functions and features at additional cost once the upgrade is complete.

The mix of equipment and embedded capability is dependent on G1000 NXi software levels and whether the aircraft has new or existing pre-requisite LRUs installed.

This implies that some features are fully dependent on others. It can become complex very quickly, so make sure you understand that to add an option to this system the MRO must know:

• All the existing G1000/G1000 NXi LRUs
• Hardware levels
• Software levels
• Options already configured via enablement cards, and
• Existing memory, database cards and engaged subscription services.

When considering options and additional equipage during a G1000 NXi upgrade, ensure that either the certification exists as part of the baseline Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) or there is a separate STC or approval process.

Garmin G1000 NXi Upgrade: Aircraft Connectivity Options

Different levels of connectivity enable different features and airspace capability. Configurations may be mixed, given the assumption highlighted in Figure 1, where adding some LRUs is predicated on selecting other equipment.

For example, the GSR 56 connects to the GDL 59 and in turn to the GDL 69A (or GDL 69A SXM). Note how the radar and TCAS also connect to the MFD via the GDL 69A datalink LRU.

GDL 59 & GDL 60 (Data Logger & Wi-Fi Transceiver): The GDL records configurable aircraft performance data and then (when selected) downloads it via WiFi as soon as the aircraft is within range of a valid signal at an airport or hangar. Data is evaluated for trend monitoring and maintenance planning.

If the aircraft is equipped with the GSR 56 Iridium transceiver the same data can be sent during flight or when out of WiFi range via low-earth orbit satellites.

The GDL 60 adds LTE capability for operation within range of cell towers, when WiFi availability is insufficient. If the GDL 60 is installed the Flite Stream 510 is not available. With the GDL 60 option the aircraft and cockpit PED can remain connected for automatic database uploading while the aircraft is on the ground.

The GDL 60 can use the Garmin Pilot application (via Database Concierge) operating similar to the Flight Stream 510. For King Air models, the GDL 59 and 60 are only available on the King Air 200 and King Air 300 series airframes.

GDL 69 & GDL 69A SXM (SXM Weather & Optional Entertainment): This datalink GEO satellite receiver offers real time weather and an optional full array of music and audio entertainment. Note in Figure 1 how other LRUs connect through this device to the MFD.

GSR 56 (Iridium Satellite Transceiver): Though it’s not available for all aircraft, with the global coverage that the GSR 56 satellite transceiver provides, the system offers weather and limited voice and text communications in most locations. For King Air models, the GSR 56 Iridium transceiver is only available on the King Air 200 and 300 series airframes.

Meanwhile, the GSR 56 and 66 can facilitate Datacom as Controller Pilot Datalink Communications (CPDLC) for Departure Clearance (DCL) and Enroute (US only). And with the GSR 56 transceiver the aircraft can navigate as FANS over Iridium (FOI), and using VHF can complete European LINK 2000+ datacom.

Flight Stream 510: This memory card provides Bluetooth wireless database transfer for flight plans and the sharing of data, via the Garmin Pilot app on compatible mobile devices.

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