"Jim Caldwell" wrote in message
...
OK...the GPS database is separate from the FlightMax database. But isn't
there a GPS unit that is an integral part of the FlightMax system? I mean,
you don't but a Garmin to use with FlightMax, do you?
If it is an integral Avidyne GPS interfaced to FLightMax, then what about
updating *it*? I suppose it also has a CD-ROM uploader (but a different
one?)...and does it update as fast?


Unless the 850 is quite a bit different than my 650, the 850 derives all of
its position information from an external source via ARINC 429 or RS232
interface. In my case the external source is a Garmin GNS 430. Without the
Garmin, the 650 is a nice radar display, but not a lot more.

As far as updates go, the 650 has it's own database and must be updated
separately from the GPS update. There is a separate subscription for the
Avidyne unit. The updates come in the form of a CD. To update you simply
load the CD in the reader and start the Avidyne. The 650 will detect the CD
and ask you to confirm the update. It takes anywhere from 1 to 10 minutes
to update the database and maps.

jerry