Author: SB Jim
Subject: Why choose the IFD540?
Posted: 09 Aug 2013 at 6:24pm
I expect the compelling reason to choose IFD 540 over a GTN will vary with each aircraft and the pilot's expectations.
Subject: Why choose the IFD540?
Posted: 09 Aug 2013 at 6:24pm
I expect the compelling reason to choose IFD 540 over a GTN will vary with each aircraft and the pilot's expectations.
I have a '76 A36 with the central control column and right side avionics stack. An IFD 540 will fit in the center panel (above the center yoke) with adequate clearance for the scissors mechanism behind the panel; a GTN 750 will not. I can't see spending that kind of money on a large display GPS/Nav/Com and not being able to mount it close to the pilot. So for me, it's IFD 540 or stick with my CNX 80 (aka GNS 480). Garmin's mistake was going massive (750) or very small (650) with nothing in between. They are out of the picture for me as a result of their product choices.
Since I don't have a 530 I gain no cost savings on installation.
As for features I feel both units have more than are necessary and the differences are modest.
One nicety of the 540 is the ability to fly an assigned heading to join an airway, but I don't see any "must have" features for either unit.
The bottom line is I'm hoping to get a unit more capable than a 440, with a much larger (and hopefully more useful display) for about the price of a 440 installed.
I'm hoping the IFD 540 display will be usable for ADS-B traffic and FIS-B weather.
I am concerned about the warranty issues. Service and support have always been a sore spot with Garmin. Avidyne has provided us with precious few details on such matters and it is something we should know prior to completing the purchase.