Garmin GTN 650 and GTN 750

Garmin GTN 650 and GTN 750

I think Garmin is doing a good job focusing in markets other than just end-consumer vehicle navigation. They have really great products for avionics. They just announced the GTN 650 and GTN 750 which are panel mounted touchscreen avionics units. They are certified and ready to fly GPS/NAV/COM systems that provide graphical flight planning with victor airways and high-altitude jet routes, remote transponder, remote audio control (750 only), SafeTaxi and electronic chart capabilities (750 only).

Apparently the GTN 650 and 750 are the first touchscreen avionics certified for general aviation aircraft. The biggest difference between these two models and the previous (430W, and 530W) is the screen size. GTN 650 has a 4.9″ screen giving 50% more area, and GTN 750 has a 6.9″ screen which is twice as much screen space.

The interface with the new GTN’s is also greatly improved. They have a shallow menu structure, audio and visual feedback, finger anchoring bezel, but still support the old knob’s for the most basic tasks such as setting a route, and changing COM frequencies. Other features includes enhanced situational awareness with built-in terrain, mapping and obstacle databases, high resolution presentation of the surrounding area, and even a built-in terrain elevation database that shows color-coded alerts when potential terrain conflicts are ahead.

You can also extend the features of Garmin GTN 650 and GTN 750 by adding sensors, XM WX Satellite Weather, lightning, and traffic system inputs.

Both units are approved for a long list covering most Part 23 fixed wing aircraft. They already started shipping. How much?

• GTN 650: $11,495
• GTN 750: $16,995

(Via NaviGadget.)

Nokia Astound

Nokia Astound: "

Nokia C7 will be known as Nokia Astound on T-Mobile! Nokia Astound will be available on the network starting on April 6 and will only cost $80 after a two year contract. The device is a Symbian and has a 3.5″ amoled display with 640x360 resolution. It can capture 720p HD video and as far as stills you can go up to 8MP.

The Nokia Astound supports five bands on HSPA, and quad band GSM, has 1200mAh battery, WiFi, microSD card slot, bluetooth, and even a GPU. But what we care about the most is of course the GPS navigation experience. Nokia has come a long way at this:

Equipped with the latest commercial version of Ovi Maps1, the Nokia Astound provides free voice-guided, turn-by-turn navigation in almost 100 countries in 46 languages. The Nokia Astound comes pre-loaded with automotive grade maps for the entire U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean2. With more than 8,000 3D landmarks and free premium content like Lonely Planet guides and TripAdvisor, consumers can explore new places and experiences along the way. New features include improved search engines and WiFi positioning, a drive assistance mode for real-time traffic updates, maps of public transit lines, and the ability to check in to places and share great moments with friends on Facebook, Twitter and many local social networks.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Cobra 5550 PRO

Cobra 5550 PRO

Cobra just today announced a new GPS navigation system called Cobra 5550 PRO, that is designed for truckers or any other professional driver with its 5″ screen. The new 5550 is very similar to Cobra 7750 Platinum but offers enhanced graphics, junction view with lane assistance, state mileage log, and hours-of-service log, and ‘last-mile routing’ which they claim is best in industry with unmatched road coverage on secondary highways.

Other features that target this market include distances to weigh stations, travel centers, rest areas and mile markers. Cobra 5550 PRO even has State Mileage Log feature to keep track of distance covered within a state for IFTA reporting and an Hours-of-Service timer that makes it easier than ever for drivers to track their On-Duty, Off-Duty, and Driving Time.

In addition drivers with Cobra 5550 PRO will get 3 months of unlimited downloads from Cobra’s exclusive AURA Camera & Driving Hazard Database, which alerts drivers to the locations of fixed speed and red-light cameras, dangerous intersections, and known speed traps.

Wait until April this year to get your hands on one of these. It will cost you $350.

(Via NaviGadget.)

Garmin unveils G1000H

Garmin unveils G1000H

Don’t get so excited! This doesn’t really apply to you unless you are planning on buying a new helicopter. But Garmin just unveiled G1000H, an all-glass avionics system designed for the VFR Part 27 helicopter market. The G1000H get your flight data, navigation, communication, flight instrumentation, weather, traffic, identification, terrain, and diagnostics and maintenance computer — and presents it digitally on large, high-resolution displays that are capable of real-time 3D images.

We’re not really experts on integrated aviation system so we’ll just quote the features:

…the G1000H seamlessly integrates control and presentation of virtually all flight data, sensor and instrument functions in one comprehensive ‘big picture’ package. The G1000H includes features like single or dual integrated solid-state attitude and heading reference systems (AHRS) that can align while in motion, including in-flight dynamic restarts and handle highly dynamic flight maneuvers; full reversionary capabilities allowing all flight-critical data to transfer seamlessly to a single display; integrated digital audio control system; and integrated Mode S transponder that interfaces to Garmin’s TIS capable transponders and ADS-B transceivers…

First in line to get the new G1000H is Bell Helicopter that will install the system on their 407GX…

(Via NaviGadget.)