The Avidyne datalink uses the same system as EchoFlight, and is a
"Request/Reply" based system using the OrbComm LEO constellation, with only
a 1200 bps data throughput on a good day. The VHF antenna MUST be placed
properly, and can still be shielded by the vertical stabilizer depending
upon the position of the available sats.

Garmin uses the same system for the GDL-49 to provide weather datalink for
the GNS-530. After extensive research for my own purchase, I concluded this
technology is a dead end. Too unreliable for use in aviation, and
insufficient data throughput to provide the services I expect. I know from
discussions with a Garmin engineer, Garmin invested heavily in trying to
optimize this architecture, but they still have significant problems, mostly
due to improper installations of the antenna. That is why the G1000 will use
WxWorx, NOT the EchoFlight system. BUT, because Garmin invested so much in
providing EchoFlight for the GNS530 crowd, they are trying to clear their
stock GDL-49s and reach end of life for that product before they start
working to provide WxWorx to their legacy avionics (and may never, so my
reason for buying the 530 over the 430 in the first place is dead... Thanks
Garmin!)

I am glad I NEVER bought into that system, but it still taught me a valuable
lesson, NEVER believe avionics marketing hype!

I also looked closely at spherics devices (stormscopes), but the
installation is very sensitive to proper placement and the skill of the
technician. Not to mention maintenance issues later in the life cycle, and
if you add/remove/replace avionics over the years there is the distinct
possibility the sensor would be effected...

Instead I went with a portable WxWorx solution using a PDA and the NavAir
software. Wouldn't launch without it. On my last flight from Florida to
Virginia, my average NEXRAD data was only 10 minutes old. Lightning strike
data is overlayed on the NEXRAD image, providing some additional info on the
storm structure. It will also loop to provide some rudimentary directional
data. And having METAR/TAF available is great as well.

I am glad I did not spend all my money on a "stormscope", or a
"Request/Reply" datalink system. YMMV, but I think WxWorx has the best
bang-for-the-buck (portable systems under $1500), and so far better
reliability than the "certified" systems... I think WSI has a good product
coming on the market, but the certified systems plus installation at over
$6K plus subscriptions really is very discouraging.

Mark



"Mike Murdock" wrote in message
...
"Blueskies" wrote in message
...
Apparently they are still working out the details for stormscope
installs
in the Cirrus, something about composite and
static discharge issues...

--
Dan D.

Not correct. The L3 (formerly BF Goodrich) WX-500 stormscope works just
fine in Cirrus airplanes, and it always has. In all models, it displays
on
the standard-equipment MFD. On Sandel EHSI-equipped planes, it will also
display on the HSI. Later model planes will also display it on both
Garmin
430s.

You're thinking of the Avidyne weather downlink. That's the feature that
Cirrus and Avidyne have been unable to get working satisfactorily, rumored
to be because of static buildup on the airframe. Many Cirrus owners
report
excellent results with portable versions of the XM-radio based WxWorx, and
there is speculation that Cirrus will switch to this system.

-Mike