The Avidyne IFD550 is a sophisticated GPS navigator and flight management system widely used in general aviation aircraft. Regular updates to its maps and databases are essential for ensuring accurate navigation, terrain awareness, and access to the latest charts. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for update IFD550's maps and databases, ensuring your system remains current and reliable.
Required Tools and Resources
To perform updates on the IFD550, you will need:
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Jeppesen Subscription: Obtain the necessary subscriptions for the required databases (NavData, CMax Charts, Terrain, and Obstacles) through Jeppesen's website.
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USB Flash Drive: A FAT32-formatted USB drive (4GB to 16GB capacity recommended). It's advisable to use separate drives for different data types (e.g., one for NavData, another for Charts) to prevent data conflicts.
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Jeppesen Services Update Manager (JSUM): This software is used to download the latest database updates to your USB drive.
Step-by-Step Update Process
1. Download Database Updates
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Install JSUM: Download and install the Jeppesen Services Update Manager (JSUM) on your computer.
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Log In: Open JSUM and log in using your Jeppesen account credentials.
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Select Updates: Choose the appropriate updates for your IFD550, including:
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NavData: Navigation data, including waypoints, airways, and procedures.
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CMax Charts: Geo-referenced approach charts and airport diagrams.
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Terrain and Obstacles: Data for terrain awareness and obstacle avoidance.
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Download: Initiate the download process to your FAT32-formatted USB flash drive.
2. Prepare the IFD550 for Update
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Power Off: Turn off the IFD550.
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Insert USB Drive: Plug the USB flash drive containing the downloaded updates into the IFD550's data port.
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Power On: Turn on the IFD550. The system should automatically detect the USB drive and prompt for the update.
3. Enter Maintenance Mode
To initiate the update process:
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Access AUX Page: On the IFD550, navigate to the AUX page.
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Enter Maintenance Mode: Hold down the leftmost (L1) and third (L3) buttons simultaneously for approximately 20 seconds until the Maintenance Mode page appears.
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Select Update: Use the knobs or touchscreen to select the "Update" tab.
4. Perform the Update
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Choose Data Types: In the Update tab, select the data types you wish to update (e.g., NavData, CMax Charts, Terrain, Obstacles).
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Start Update: Press the "Proceed" button to begin the update process.
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Monitor Progress: The IFD550 will display a progress bar. Do not power off the IFD550 during this process to prevent data corruption.
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Completion: Once the update is complete, the IFD550 will return to the main menu.
Post-Update Verification
After completing the updates:
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Verify Database Versions: Navigate to the AUX > Database Info page to confirm that the latest database versions are installed.
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Test Functionality: Check that all updated features, such as new procedures or charts, are accessible and functioning correctly.
Troubleshooting Tips
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Power Loss During Update: If power is lost during the update, the process may be incomplete. Contact Avidyne Technical Support for assistance.
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Data Conflicts: Ensure that only the necessary files are selected for upload to avoid conflicts or extended upload times.
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USB Drive Issues: Use a FAT32-formatted USB drive. Avoid drives with pre-installed software that may interfere with the update process.
Conclusion
Regular update Avidyne IFD550's maps and databases are essential for maintaining the accuracy and safety of flight operations. By following the steps outlined in this guide and adhering to best practices, pilots can ensure their IFD550 is equipped with the latest navigation and charting data. Always consult the latest manuals and support resources from Avidyne and Jeppesen for the most current information.