GPS trainers

[Bernoulli]

Hey, I'm thinking of purchasing a GPS trainer so I can learn how to use the Garmin 430. I think the investment in a computer program will easily pay for itself rather than renting the plane for $90.00 and hour and trying to figure the thing out. I have seen two programs...ASA has one for around $89.00 and Vflite has one for close to $200.00 Have any of you guys tried these product and if so can you give me a quick review of what you used and what you think about a computer based GPS training aid. Thanks a bunch in advance.

 

[Andy Neill]

Go to Garmin's website at:

http://www.garmin.com/products/gns430/

and you will see a free Garmin 400 series simulator (13.5 MB). Would that do what you were wanting in terms of training?

 

[Bernoulli]

Go to Garmin's website at:

http://www.garmin.com/products/gns430/

and you will see a free Garmin 400 series simulator (13.5 MB). Would that do what you were wanting in terms of training?

I have seen the free simulator that you mention... the only problem is it does not tell you how to work the thing. The free simulator is great to practice on if you already know how to work the GPS. For me, I have never used a GPS so I would like some formal training and was wondering if the CD training products I mentioned were any good. Thanks.

 

[pilotman2105]

I have seen the free simulator that you mention... the only problem is it does not tell you how to work the thing. The free simulator is great to practice on if you already know how to work the GPS. For me, I have never used a GPS so I would like some formal training and was wondering if the CD training products I mentioned were any good. Thanks.

Grab a CFI that can show you the basics. There is some basic theory behind them as well, especially if you plan on using them for IFR purposes. After you get the basic training from the CFI, buy the manual (if they are reasonable in price. The ones that I'm thinking of aren't much more than $30 a pop). Then you can spend the time goofing around in the airplane while actually seeing the GPS at work instead of spending nearly the same amount of money on a trainer that you'll use just a few times until you get the hang of it.

 

[midlifeflyer]

I have seen the free simulator that you mention... the only problem is it does not tell you how to work the thing.

See if you can locate a copy of the Garmin training video. If you know someone who owns the Garmin set, they probably have it - maybe the FBO can arrange it. The instructor in the video uses the free simulator, so you can follow along with the lessons on your PC or review things as necessary.

 

[huncowboy]

Just and idea: Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 has a few different Garmins in it. There is also a description on how to work it on the CD through the ususal help files. It is not free but it goes for like $40ish. You can practice with it in the "air". HOWEVER: I have never used a real Garmin so I would not be able to tell you weather ALL the functions are included or not.

 

[Bernoulli]

Good points folks. Still, I sure would like to know if anyone has actually purchased one of the GPS training CD's and whether they are any good or not. If any of you out there have bought a GPS training CD-rom please comment on what you thought of it. Thanks

 

[340drvr]

Garmin's website also has a complete manual and a "training" syllabus free to download. Might not be as rigorous as the other software, but it's way cheaper.

 

[SabreFlyR]

If you download the simulator and the operators manual from Garmin, it will take you no time at all to figure it out. I never used a 430 or 530 until I started flying the plane I am in now and it took only a few days using the downloaded program to get up to speed on it. Try the freebie first before you spend the $$.

 

[YaMama]

I have used the ASA software, and it is quite good (somebody else sprung the 100 bucks though).

I think the ASA has a couple of other GPS units on it, which will be good if you ever encounter them.

 

[Luftpost]

ASA GPS Trainer

I have ASA's GPs trainer, V2.0. Bought it beginning 2004. Paid somewhere neighborhood $90-100 for it. Unfortunately, I did not use it more than 30 minutes, so I can' t give you a review.

The aircraft I fly each have a different GPS/FMS, none of which are on the Trainer. Therefore, it was a waste of money for me.

The ASA trainer includes Garmin 430 and 530, Garmin GPSMAP 295, BendixKing KLN 89B, KLN 94 and Apollo GX60.

The box and CD's are in "like new" condition. If interested, PM me with a resonable offer, and it's yours.