IFD 5 Series & IFD 4 Series Touch Screen GPS/NAV/COM

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S-TEC 3100 & Aspen

Printed From: Avidyne
Category: Avidyne General
Forum Name: IFD 5 Series & IFD 4 Series Touch Screen GPS/NAV/COM
Forum Description: Topics on Avidyne's IFD 5 Series and IFD 4 Series Touch Screen GPS/NAV/COM
URL: http://forums.avidyne.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1719
Printed Date: 19 Apr 2024 at 9:06pm
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.01 - http://www.webwizforums.com

Topic: S-TEC 3100 & Aspen

Posted By: AZ Flyer
Subject: S-TEC 3100 & Aspen
Date Posted: 02 Apr 2019 at 1:26pm

Perhaps others can benefit from what I have learned in the process of exploring an upgrade to the S-TEC 3100 AP.

The current setup, in a TR182, is an IFD540 linked to an Aspen 1000 Pro with GPSS and an S-TEC 30 with altitude hold and electric trim. So all of the components seemed to be in place for a straightforward upgrade to the 3100 using the existing servos at a consistently-quoted installed cost of about $15,000.

However, I recently came upon this very useful guide that makes it very clear that the currently-available Aspen software does not support all of the functionality of the 3100, and requires additional hardware to even accomplish what is currently available: http://www.chiefaircraft.com/pdf/S-TEC-3100-TechSpec.pdf" rel="nofollow - http://www.chiefaircraft.com/pdf/S-TEC-3100-TechSpec.pdf . The limitations of the current Aspen software and additional hardware requirements are explained and shown beginning at page 19. And, the improved capabilities and significantly simplified hardware setup once the new software version is available are explained and shown beginning at page 22.

And, of course, Aspen always extracts an unlock fee so that would have to be factored in, as well.

So, I have concluded that now is not the time for me to undertake this upgrade but will be content to watch for the long-promised Aspen software update.

Ironically, it appears that the Avidyne DFC90 AP would provide all of the functionality of a 3100 now with an STC and upgade path specifically available for my airplane as presently configured. But with the DFC90 seeming to be in limbo as to future upgrades, I'm leary of going down that path.

EDIT: Just learned that the TR182 is NOT on the DFC90 STC so no possibility of going that route.

Replies:

Posted By: chflyer
Date Posted: 05 Apr 2019 at 12:44pm

The link is broken. Do you know if they just moved it or have chief removed the doc? I can't find docs on their web site ... maybe I'm missing a trick.

-------------
Vince

Posted By: AZ Flyer
Date Posted: 05 Apr 2019 at 5:11pm

The link still works for me, but the pdf may be cached.

Posted By: HenryM
Date Posted: 05 Apr 2019 at 5:23pm

I get a 404 error when I click on the link. Thanks for putting the information on your Google drive. I didn't go as far as requesting access, though.

Posted By: AZ Flyer
Date Posted: 05 Apr 2019 at 5:27pm

Because the document is labeled proprietary, I thought better of posting it to Google Drive. Apparently it is available through Genesys dealers, however, so I would recommend requesting a copy from your Genesys dealer before contemplating the upgrade.

Posted By: AZ Flyer
Date Posted: 24 Apr 2019 at 9:53am

Here is a good discussion of the issues involved at Beechtalk: https://www.beechtalk.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=166361" rel="nofollow - https://www.beechtalk.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=166361 .

Apparently, a mere software upgrade to Aspen software version 2.9.1 (when available) is no longer sufficient to provide full functionality between a legacy 1000 Pro and the S-TEC 3100. An upgrade to the 1000 Pro Max on a scheduled basis is required. And a 2k software unlock.

Posted By: AZ Flyer
Date Posted: 24 Apr 2019 at 8:05pm

Here is an even more thorough (and illuminating) discussion of the issues involved: https://www.beechtalk.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=166059&start=30" rel="nofollow - https://www.beechtalk.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=166059&start=30