New Toy, Garmin 496

The Garmin 496 comes ready to go right out of the box!

Garmin 496 Features:
WAAS-enabled, 12 parallel channel GPS receiver
Display Size: 3.75” Diagonal, 480 x 320 pixels
Display: 256-color, sunlight readable TFT with adjustable backlight
Unit Dimensions: 5.7” W x 3.2” H x 1.9” D
Preloaded SafeTaxi airport diagrams
Built-in AOPA airport directory data
Smart Airspace™ feature makes it easier than ever to identify what airspace lies ahead
Built-in Jeppesen database with terrain and obstacle databases
Terrain/obstacle display with pop-up warnings
5 Hz update rate on maps and "Panel" instruments
Supports optional XM Weather and XM Satellite Radio
Supports optional TIS traffic alerts
Preloaded with detailed City Navigator NT street maps and POI database
Upload custom POIs, including alerts for speed zones, safety cameras, and more
Provides voice-prompt road guidance when the power/speaker cable is connected
Accepts standard Garmin data cards and pre-programmed data cards
Rechargeable lithium-ion battery offers 5 to 15 hours of use depending on backlight settings
Water resistant, IEC 60529 IPX7 standards (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)

With an optional subscription to XM WX Satellite Weather™ and the included GXM 30A smart antenna, I’ll have access to constantly-updated, high-resolution weather data for the U.S, right in the cockpit. Weather information includes Next Generation Radar (NEXRAD), Aviation Routine Weather Reports (METARs), Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts (TAFs), Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs), Lightning and Winds Aloft, plus more and can be laid directly over the Garmin 496’s Jeppesen and topographic map databases. When connected to the Zaon PCAS XRX, the Garmin 496 will even display traffic. Each target is displayed on the map page, and the 496 will also issue pop up alerts for aircraft that are a threat. It’s truly a portable multi-function display.

As soon as it arrives and as fast as I can unpack the new toy I'll get a test flight and post a PIREP.