Garmin GPS 100 AVD Manual

The Garmin GPS 100 AVD is a dedicated aviation GPS receiver designed for visual flight rules (VFR) navigation. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, a sunlight-readable display, a comprehensive aviation database, and audio alerts for airspace and terrain. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting to Aircraft Systems 7. Basic Navigation 8. Using the Aviation Database 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-sensitivity GPS antenna and receiver, Sunlight-readable LCD display, Dedicated aviation buttons, Audio output jack, External power/data port.

FeatureDescription
GPS ReceiverHigh-sensitivity WAAS-enabled receiver for accurate positioning
DisplaySunlight-readable, high-resolution color LCD
Aviation DatabaseIncludes airports, VORs, NDBs, intersections, and airspace
Audio AlertsProgrammable alerts for airspace, terrain, and proximity
Power Input10-32 VDC aircraft power
Data PortFor connection to external displays or flight data recorders
Direct-to NavigationOne-button navigation to any airport or waypoint
Nearest FunctionQuickly lists nearest airports, fuel, and services
Terrain AwarenessVisual and audio terrain alerts (if equipped)
Flight PlanningCreate and store flight plans with multiple waypoints

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper mounting location in aircraft.

  1. Select Mounting Location: Choose a location with clear view of sky, within pilot's reach and line of sight.
  2. Mount Unit: Use provided bracket and hardware to securely mount the unit to aircraft structure.
  3. Connect Power: Route power cable to aircraft bus (10-32 VDC). Connect red wire to positive, black wire to ground.
  4. Connect Antenna: Ensure external GPS antenna (if used) is securely mounted and cable connected.
  5. Connect Audio (Optional): Connect audio output jack to aircraft intercom or audio panel for alerts.

WARNING! Installation must be performed by a qualified avionics technician. Ensure installation does not obstruct aircraft controls or visibility.

First-Time Setup

Apply power to the unit; follow initial setup prompts.

  1. Acquire GPS Signal: Place unit with clear sky view. Allow several minutes for initial satellite acquisition.
  2. Set Units: Navigate to SETUP menu. Select UNITS. Set distance (nm/km), altitude (ft/m), and fuel (gal/l).
  3. Configure Alerts: In SETUP > ALERTS, configure airspace (Class B, C, etc.), terrain, and proximity alert parameters.
  4. Set Time: In SETUP > SYSTEM, set time format (UTC/Local) and time zone.
  5. Load Database (Optional): Connect to a computer via data port to update aviation database using Garmin software.

CAUTION! Do not rely solely on GPS for navigation. Always have paper charts and traditional navigation aids as backup.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER button, ROCKER key (up/down/left/right/ENTER), PAGE key, DIRECT-TO key, NEAREST key, MENU key.

Primary Pages: MAP page, NAV page (CDI), WAYPOINT page, AUX (system info) page. Cycle with PAGE key.

Settings (via MENU button): Map Setup (orientation, detail, traffic), Nav Setup (CDI sensitivity, OBS mode), System Setup (units, time, backlight, contrast), Alerts Setup (airspace, terrain, proximity).

Connecting to Aircraft Systems

Power: Connect to aircraft 10-32 VDC bus. Audio: Connect 3.5mm jack to audio panel or intercom. Data Out: Connect RS-232 port to compatible moving map display or flight data recorder.

  1. Ensure aircraft master switch is OFF before making connections.
  2. Use appropriate gauge wire for power connections. Install an inline fuse (2A recommended) on the positive lead.
  3. For data output, configure baud rate (e.g., 9600) and protocol (NMEA) in SYSTEM > INTERFACE settings.

Tip: Route cables away from sources of interference (e.g., strobe light wires, COM antennas).

Basic Navigation

Direct-to Navigation: Press DIRECT-TO key. Select an airport or waypoint from the database using the ROCKER key and ENTER. The unit will create a direct course line.

  1. Flight Planning: Press MENU from MAP page, select "Flight Plan". Create a new plan by adding waypoints in sequence.
  2. Activate a Flight Plan: From the flight plan list, highlight desired plan and select "Activate".
  3. Nearest Function: Press NEAREST key to view lists of nearest airports, VORs, NDBs, intersections, or airspace. Select one for direct-to navigation.
  4. OBS Mode: From NAV page, press MENU and select "OBS Mode" to set a specific desired radial or bearing.
  5. View NAV Page: Displays a Course Deviation Indicator (CDI), distance, bearing, ground speed, and estimated time enroute.

WARNING! GPS signals may be unavailable or inaccurate. Always use all available navigation resources and maintain situational awareness.

Using the Aviation Database

The database contains airports, frequencies, runways, airspace boundaries, and navaids.

Accessing Airport Information: From MAP page, move cursor over an airport symbol and press ENTER. Or, press DIRECT-TO, type airport identifier, and press ENTER to view info page (runways, frequencies, weather).

Airspace Alerts: The unit will provide visual and audio alerts when approaching or penetrating user-defined airspace (e.g., Class B). Ensure alerts are properly configured in SETUP.

Care & Maintenance

Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the display and case. For stubborn smudges, lightly dampen cloth with water. Do not use chemical cleaners, aerosols, or abrasives.

Database Updates: Aviation database should be updated regularly (typically every 28 days). Connect unit to a computer with Garmin update software.

CAUTION! Do not expose unit to prolonged moisture or extreme temperatures. Ensure power and data connectors are free of corrosion.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device. Aviation Use: This device is approved for VFR navigation as a supplemental source of navigation information. It is not approved for IFR navigation or as a primary navigation source. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Aviation Product Support.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No PowerBlown fuse, loose connectionCheck aircraft master and unit power switch. Verify power cable connections and inline fuse.
"Acquiring Satellites" message persistsPoor sky view, unit cold startEnsure clear view of sky. Allow up to 15 minutes for a full cold start acquisition.
Inaccurate positionPoor satellite geometry, database errorEnsure adequate satellites (4+). Verify database is current. Do not rely solely on GPS.
No audio alertsVolume low, not connectedCheck SYSTEM > SOUND settings. Ensure audio cable is securely connected to intercom/audio panel.
Database information missing or outdatedDatabase not loaded or expiredConnect to computer and update database using Garmin software. Check database expiration date in AUX > Database Info.
Display is dim or unreadableBacklight setting, sun shieldAdjust backlight and contrast in SYSTEM > DISPLAY settings. Use an anti-glare sun shield if necessary.

Reset: If unit becomes unresponsive, press and hold POWER button for 10 seconds to force a restart.

Service: Do not attempt to repair unit. Contact Garmin Aviation Product Support or an authorized Garmin dealer for service.

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