CaptainCraig wrote:

1. We would like to create a database of our own waypoints that will
remain in the memory. We are less experienced 530 users, and are under
the impression that updating the data card leads to memory expulsion.

User waypoints will remain in the GPS's non-volatile memory across data
card updates.

However, whenever the unit is sent to Garmin for repair or for software
update or is reset to factory defaults you will lose the user waypoints
that are stored in the unit.


2. What is the usage of the second data card on the 530? Can that be
used as a storage facility for our routes and waypoints that will
remain unmolested?

I do not know, although the GNS430 too has a slot for an extra card. If I
had to speculate, that second card slot is for some type of expanded
functionality such as terrain database, etc., that has yet to be
utilized/certified?

3. Are there any programs available for EXTERNAL (via Windows)
waypoint creation and route designation? We need a simpler system than
just spinning the dials.

No, there are not and this is by design. My understanding is that the FAA
specifically prohibited external flight plan and waypoint creation for the
certification under which this IFR GPS is covered. IIRC, the FAA wanted to
ensure that the user was given an updated GPS database-based confirmation
of every waypoint entered into the flight plan, which is only possible by
entering waypoints directly into the unit.

The spin dial was probably the most cost effective and practical design for
in-bumpy air data entry. As a point of interest I do recall reading that
the Garmin G1000 glass cockpit/GPS system is now being installed in some
aircraft with a keyboard entry system. Columbia Aircraft's G1000 install
comes to mind:

http://tinyurl.com/rdcxn


4. If there is such a program, can the waypoints/tracks/routes then be
shared with other users?
snip

See above.

5. To avoid having to also carry a Garmin GPS90 on board to download
track data to Windows post-mission, can you recommend a program that
will do the same for our 430/530? Analyzing our track data is a very
important part of our debrief with the Forces, and we would like to
eliminate the redundancy of carrying a THIRD gps unit.

Having never had a need, I am uncertain as to whether the GNSx30 is capable
of providing data that can be downloaded and stored on an external device.
However I suspect it is possible (at least in real time, rather than
post-flight) via an output cable feeding GPS data to a laptop or handheld
computer. Garmin will hopefully provide you with a more definitive answer.

--
Peter