Garmin announces new radios, GFC 600 controller

The panel-mount GTR 205x and remote-mount GTR 205xR com radios add new intercom and audio features to the GTR 205 radio, the company announced. The 1.35-inch GTR 205x has the same bezel height as previous-generation radios, and both models serve as both radio and a stereo, two-place intercom. Both models are optimized for experimental aircraft, with a standard 10 watts of power with an optional 16-watt upgrade for the panel-mount version.

The GFC 600's new controller, the GMC 605C mode controller, features a larger display and offers a "flight level change" mode now available in Cessna Citation CJ2 installations. The color LCD display is sunlight-readable, with more than twice the screen area of the previous controller.

The GMC 605C automates preflight tests and includes features beyond the traditional autopilot functions including Smart Rudder Bias, which assists a pilot managing single-engine flight in a twin-engine aircraft. The system monitors engine power (via a G500 TXi or G600 TXi flight display), and activates when the power differential exceeds a predetermined value. Electronic stability protection functions independently of the autopilot, which also supports Smart Glide when paired with a Garmin navigation system and display.

Garmin also announced on July 18 FAA supplemental type certificate approvals for installation of GFC 500 digital autopilots in Cessna 190 and 195 aircraft, with certification of the retrofit for Cessna 210-5 models expected in August. The GFC 500 has been approved for installation in many certified aircraft, and the updated list is available online.