Garmin GPS 500 User Manual

The Garmin GPS 500 is a high-performance aviation GPS navigator featuring a sunlight-readable display, integrated WAAS/EGNOS GPS receiver, Jeppesen database compatibility, moving map, terrain awareness, traffic information display (when connected), flight planning, and approach capability. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sunlight-readable LCD display, Integrated GPS/WAAS receiver, Control knobs (Large & Small), Direct-to key, Menu key, COM/NAV/XPDR flip-flop keys, FMS knobs for data entry.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Installation should be performed by a certified avionics technician.

1. Mounting: Secure unit in approved instrument panel location using supplied hardware.
2. Power Connection: Connect to aircraft 10-32 VDC bus per wiring diagram.
3. Antenna Connection: Connect provided GPS antenna to rear ANT connector.
4. Interface Connections: Connect to COM/NAV radios, transponder, audio panel, and other systems as required.
5. Grounding: Ensure proper aircraft ground connection.

WARNING! Installation must comply with applicable aviation regulations. Ensure aircraft power is OFF during installation.

First-Time Setup

Apply aircraft power; unit will begin initializing.

1. Database Agreement: Acknowledge Jeppesen database agreement on startup.
2. Initial Position: Allow unit to acquire satellite signals. May take several minutes first time.
3. System Configuration: Enter SETUP menu to configure units (NM/km), time format, nav alerts, etc.
4. Sensor Calibration: Calibrate internal magnetometer (if equipped) as prompted.
5. Interface Setup: Configure serial ports for connected devices (COM, NAV, etc.).

CAUTION! Do not use for primary navigation until proper satellite acquisition and configuration are verified.

Specifications

• Display: Sunlight-readable LCD, 256 x 160 pixels.
• GPS Receiver: 12 parallel channels, WAAS/EGNOS capable.
• Database: Jeppesen NavData, updated via data card (28 or 56 day cycles).
• Accuracy: <3 meters with WAAS.
• Power Requirements: 10-32 VDC, 1.5A max.
• Operating Temp: -15°C to +55°C.
• Dimensions: Standard 6.25" instrument cutout.
• Weight: Approx. 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs).
• Certification: TSO-C146a, TSO-C129a, meets FAA AC 20-138.

Controls and Settings

Primary controls: Large outer knob (pages/menus), Small inner knob (cursor/data entry), Direct-to key, Menu key, COM/NAV/XPDR flip-flop keys, FMS knobs for alphanumeric entry.

Pages: Use outer knob to cycle through MAP, NAV, WPT, AUX, NRST pages.

Setup Menu: Configure system (units, time, alerts), sensor calibration, interface settings (serial ports, ARINC), display (contrast, backlight). Navigation Settings: Select desired CDI sensitivity (enroute, terminal, approach), set barometric minimums. Alerts: Configure terrain, traffic, and airspace alerts.

Connecting Devices

Standard interfaces: ARINC 429, RS-232 serial. Typical connections: VHF COM radio, VOR/ILS receiver, Transponder, Audio Panel, Autopilot, Fuel Flow sensor.

1. Ensure aircraft power is OFF.
2. Connect appropriate interface cables to rear connector pins per installation manual.
3. Configure each serial/ARINC port in the SETUP > INTERFACE menu for the connected device type.
4. Verify data exchange on appropriate pages (e.g., COM frequency on NAV page).

Tip: Refer to the Garmin GNS 500 Installation Manual for detailed wiring and configuration.

Navigation & Flight Planning

Supports direct-to navigation and multi-leg flight plans.

1. Direct-To: Press D-> key, enter identifier (airport, navaid, waypoint), press ENT.
2. Flight Plan: Press FPL key to create/edit. Use inner knob to select legs, outer knob to scroll.
3. Activate/Deactivate: Press MENU on FPL page to activate leg or entire flight plan.
4. Nearest Airports: Press NRST key for list of nearest airports with relevant data.
5. Approach Selection: From PROC key, select desired approach, transition, and activate.
6. Hold: Define and execute holding patterns from PROC menu.
7. Vertical Navigation (VNAV): Set altitude constraints for flight plan waypoints.

WARNING! Always cross-check GPS navigation with other available means. GPS signals may be unavailable or inaccurate.

Database Management

Navigation database is updated via Jeppesen data card.

1. Power off unit.
2. Insert new data card into front card slot.
3. Power on unit. It will automatically recognize and load new database.
4. Verify database effective date on AUX > STATUS page.

CAUTION! Do not remove data card while unit is powered on. Ensure database is current for intended flight operations.

Care & Cleaning

Turn aircraft power OFF before cleaning. Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not allow moisture to enter unit through seams or connectors. Keep display cover clean for optimal visibility.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Complies with FAA TSO-C146a and TSO-C129a for IFR enroute, terminal, and approach operations when installed per applicable guidelines. Copyright © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Jeppesen data provided under license. For product support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact Garmin Aviation Support.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Power cycle unit. For persistent issues, consult maintenance manual for built-in test (BIT) procedures.

Service: Contact authorized Garmin dealer or Garmin Aviation Product Support. Do not attempt internal repairs.