Garmin G500 Manual

G500
Pilot’s
Guide

© 2009 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. All rights reserved.
This manual reflects the operation of System Software version 3.00, or later. Some differences in operation
may be observed when comparing the information in this manual to later software versions.
Garmin International, Inc., 1200 East 151st Street, Olathe, KS 66062, U.S.A.
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
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Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
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or any revision hereto is strictly prohibited.
Garmin®, FliteCharts®, and SafeTaxi®are registered trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin
SVT™ is a trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. These trademarks may not be used without the
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Communications; and XM®is a registered trademark of XM Satellite Radio, Inc.
June 2009 Printed in the U.S.A.

i190-01102-02 Rev. B
Garmin G500 Pilot’s Guide
Foreward
Sec 1
System
Sec 2
PFD
Sec 3
MFD
Sec 4
Hazard
Avoidance
Sec 5
Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
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Glossary Appendix A
Appendix B
Index
LIMITED WARRANTY
This Garmin product is warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for two years from
the date of purchase. Within this period, Garmin will, at its sole option, repair or replace any components
that fail in normal use. Such repairs or replacement will be made at no charge to the customer for parts
and labor, provided that the customer shall be responsible for any transportation cost. This warranty does
not cover failures due to abuse, misuse, accident, or unauthorized alterations or repairs.
THE WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES CONTAINED HEREIN ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES EXPRESS OR IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING ANY LIABILITY ARISING UNDER
ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, STATUTORY OR
OTHERWISE. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, WHICH MAY VARY FROM STATE TO
STATE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL GARMIN BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, WHETHER RESULTING FROM THE USE, MISUSE, OR INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT OR
FROM DEFECTS IN THE PRODUCT. Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or consequential
damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
Garmin retains the exclusive right to repair or replace the unit or software, or to offer a full refund of the
purchase price, at its sole discretion. SUCH REMEDY SHALL BE YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR
ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY.
To obtain warranty service, contact your local Garmin Authorized Service Center. For assistance in
locating a Service Center near you, visit the Garmin web site at http://www.garmin.com or contact
Garmin Customer Service at 800-800-1020.

ii
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GlossaryAppendix A
Appendix B
Index
WARNING: Navigation and terrain separation must NOT be predicated
upon the use of the terrain function. The G500 Terrain Proximity feature
is NOT intended to be used as a primary reference for terrain avoidance
and does not relieve the pilot from the responsibility of being aware of
surroundings during flight.The Terrain Proximity feature is only to be used
as an aid for terrain avoidance and is not certified for use in applications
requiring a certified terrain awareness system. Terrain data is obtained
from third party sources. Garmin is not able to independently verify the
accuracy of the terrain data.
WARNING: The displayed minimum safe altitudes (MSAs) are only advisory
in nature and should not be relied upon as the sole source of obstacle and
terrain avoidance information.Always refer to current aeronautical charts
for appropriate minimum clearance altitudes.
WARNING: The Garmin G500 has a very high degree of functional integrity.
However, the pilot must recognize that providing monitoring and/or self-
test capability for all conceivable system failures is not practical.Although
unlikely, it may be possible for erroneous operation to occur without a fault
indication shown by the G500. It is thus the responsibility of the pilot to
detect such an occurrence by means of cross-checking with all redundant
or correlated information available in the cockpit.
WARNING: The altitude calculated by GPS receivers is geometric height
above Mean Sea Level and could vary significantly from the altitude
displayed by pressure altimeters, such as the output from the GDC 74A Air
Data Computer, or other altimeters in aircraft. GPS altitude should never
be used for vertical navigation. Always use pressure altitude displayed by
the G500 PFD or other pressure altimeters in aircraft.
WARNING: Do not use outdated database information. Databases used
in the G500 system must be updated regularly in order to ensure that the
information remains current. Pilots using an outdated database do so
entirely at their own risk.
WARNING: Do not use basemap (land and water data) information for
primary navigation. Basemap data is intended only to supplement other
approved navigation data sources and should be considered as an aid to
enhance situational awareness.

iii190-01102-02 Rev. B
Garmin G500 Pilot’s Guide
Foreward
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System
Sec 2
PFD
Sec 3
MFD
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Hazard
Avoidance
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Additional
Features
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Annun.
& Alerts
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Symbols
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Glossary Appendix A
Appendix B
Index
WARNING: Traffic information shown on the G500 Multi Function Display
is provided as an aid in visually acquiring traffic. Pilots must maneuver
the aircraft based only upon ATC guidance or positive visual acquisition
of conflicting traffic.
WARNING: XM Weather should not be used for hazardous weather
penetration.Weather information provided by the GDL 69/69A is approved
only for weather avoidance, not penetration.
WARNING: NEXRAD weather data is to be used for long-range planning
purposes only. Due to inherent delays in data transmission and the relative
age of the data, NEXRAD weather data should not be used for short-range
weather avoidance.
WARNING: For safety reasons, G500 operational procedures must be
learned on the ground.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of unsafe operation, carefully review and
understand all aspects of the G500 Pilot’s Guide. Thoroughly practice
basic operation prior to actual use. During flight operations, carefully
compare indications from the G500 to all available navigation sources,
including the information from other NAVAIDs, visual sightings, charts, etc.
For safety purposes, always resolve any discrepancies before continuing
navigation.
WARNING: Never use the G500 to attempt to penetrate a thunderstorm.
Both the FAA Advisory Circular, Subject: Thunderstorms, and the Airman’s
Information Manual (AIM) recommend avoiding “by at least 20 miles any
thunderstorm identified as severe or giving an intense radar echo.”
WARNING: Exceeding 200 deg/second in pitch or roll may invalidate
AHRS attitude provided to the G500. Exceeding 450 KIAS may invalidate
ADC information provided to the G500.
WARNING: Because of anomalies in the earth’s magnetic field, operating
the G500 within the following areas could result in loss of reliable attitude
and heading indications. North of 70° North latitude and south of 70°
South latitude. An area north of 65° North latitude and between longitude
75° West and 120° West. An area south of 55° South latitude between
longitude 120° East and 165° East.

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MFD
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Hazard
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Additional
Features
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& Alerts
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GlossaryAppendix A
Appendix B
Index
WARNING: Do not use Terrain-SVT information for primary terrain
avoidance. Terrain-SVT is intended only to enhance situational
awareness.
CAUTION: The United States government operates the Global Positioning
System and is solely responsible for its accuracy and maintenance. The
GPS system is subject to changes which could affect the accuracy and
performance of all GPS equipment. Portions of the Garmin G500 utilize
GPS as a precision electronic NAVigation AID (NAVAID). Therefore, as
with all NAVAIDs, information presented by the G500 can be misused or
misinterpreted and, therefore, become unsafe.
CAUTION: The Garmin G500 does not contain any user-serviceable parts.
Repairs should only be made by an authorized Garmin service center.
Unauthorized repairs or modifications could void both the warranty and
the pilot’s authority to operate this device under FAA/FCC regulations.
CAUTION: The G500 PFD and MFD displays use a lens coated with a
special anti-reflective coating that is very sensitive to skin oils, waxes, and
abrasive cleaners. CLEANERS CONTAINING AMMONIA WILL HARM THE
ANTI-REFLECTIVE COATING. It is very important to clean the lens using a
clean, lint-free cloth and an eyeglass lens cleaner that is specified as safe
for anti-reflective coatings.
NOTE: Interference from GPS repeaters operating inside nearby hangars
can cause an intermittent loss of attitude and heading displays while the
aircraft is on the ground. Moving the aircraft more than 100 feet away
from the source of the interference should alleviate the condition.
NOTE: All visual depictions contained within this document, including
screen images of the G500 bezel and displays, are subject to change and
may not reflect the most current GDU 620 system. Depictions of equipment
may differ slightly from the actual equipment.
NOTE: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
NOTE: Terrain data is not displayed when the aircraft latitude is greater
than 75°North or 60°South.

v190-01102-02 Rev. B
Garmin G500 Pilot’s Guide
Foreward
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System
Sec 2
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Sec 3
MFD
Sec 4
Hazard
Avoidance
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Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
Glossary Appendix A
Appendix B
Index
NOTE: This product, its packaging, and its components contain chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or
reproductive harm. This notice is being provided in accordance with
California’s Proposition 65. If you have any questions or would like
additional information, please refer to our web site at www.garmin.com/
prop65.
NOTE: Terrain-SVT is standard when the Garmin Synthetic Vision
Technology™(SVT) option is installed.

vi
Garmin G500 Pilot’s Guide
190-01102-02 Rev. B
Foreword
Sec 1
System
Sec 2
PFD
Sec 3
MFD
Sec 4
Hazard
Avoidance
Sec 5
Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
GlossaryAppendix A
Appendix B
Index
Record of Revisions
Part Number Revision Date Description
190-01102-02 A
B
6/1/09
6/17/09
Production release
Formatting changes

vii190-01102-02 Rev. B
Garmin G500 Pilot’s Guide
Foreward
Sec 1
System
Sec 2
PFD
Sec 3
MFD
Sec 4
Hazard
Avoidance
Sec 5
Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
Glossary Appendix A
Appendix B
Index
Contents
1 System Overview .................................................................................1-1
1.1 System Description................................................................................1-1
1.1.1 Line Replaceable Units (LRU) ................................................. 1-2
1.1.2 GDU 620 .............................................................................. 1-3
1.1.3 GDC 74A ..............................................................................1-3
1.1.4 GRS 77 .................................................................................1-4
1.1.5 GMU 44................................................................................1-4
1.1.6 GTX 330/330D (Optional)......................................................1-5
1.1.7 GTP 59 ................................................................................. 1-5
1.1.8 GDL 69/69A (Optional)..........................................................1-6
1.1.9 GAD 43 (Optional) ................................................................1-6
1.1.10 GWX 68 Weather Radar ........................................................1-7
1.1.11 Garmin Navigator Interface....................................................1-7
1.1.12 Attitude Heading Reference System (AHRS)............................1-7
1.1.13 Secure Data Cards................................................................. 1-8
1.1.14 Pilot Controls ........................................................................1-9
1.1.14.1 PFD Knob..............................................................................1-9
1.1.14.2 PFD Bezel Keys.................................................................... 1-10
1.1.14.3 PFD Soft Keys ......................................................................1-11
1.1.14.4 MFD Knobs .........................................................................1-13
1.1.14.5 MFD Bezel Keys...................................................................1-13
1.1.14.6 MFD Soft Keys..................................................................... 1-14
1.2 System Power Up................................................................................1-15
1.2.1 Autopilot Test...................................................................... 1-16
1.2.2 International Geomagnetic Reference Field ..........................1-17
1.3 System Operation................................................................................1-17
1.3.1 Using the Page Menus.........................................................1-17
1.3.1.1 Navigating within a Menu ................................................... 1-18
1.3.2 Using the Soft Key Controls ................................................. 1-18
1.3.3 System Settings ................................................................... 1-19
1.3.4 Display Backlighting ............................................................1-21
1.3.5 Dual GDU 620 Installations ................................................. 1-22
1.3.5.1 Crossfill Information ............................................................1-22
1.3.5.2 Crossfill Selection ................................................................1-23

viii
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190-01102-02 Rev. B
Foreword
Sec 1
System
Sec 2
PFD
Sec 3
MFD
Sec 4
Hazard
Avoidance
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Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
GlossaryAppendix A
Appendix B
Index
2 Primary Flight Display (PFD) ................................................................2-1
2.1 PFD Soft Key Map .................................................................................2-2
2.2 Airspeed Indicator.................................................................................2-2
2.2.1 Markings............................................................................... 2-3
2.2.2 Reference Speeds ..................................................................2-5
2.3 Attitude Indicator.................................................................................. 2-5
2.3.1 Extreme Attitude ...................................................................2-7
2.4 Altimeter ..............................................................................................2-9
2.4.1 Setting the Altitude Bug and Alerter....................................... 2-9
2.4.2 Altitude Alerting..................................................................2-10
2.4.3 Changing Barometric Setting ............................................... 2-10
2.4.4 Minimum Descent Altitude/Decision Height Alerting .............2-11
2.5 Vertical Speed (V/S) Indicator .............................................................. 2-13
2.6 Horizontal Situational Indicator ...........................................................2-14
2.6.1 Setting the Heading Bug......................................................2-15
2.6.2 Turn Rate Indicator ..............................................................2-16
2.7 Course Deviation Indicator .................................................................. 2-16
2.7.1 Changing CDI Sources......................................................... 2-17
2.7.2 Changing CDI Course ..........................................................2-18
2.7.3 Vertical Deviation Indicator (VDI) ......................................... 2-19
2.7.4 Auto-Slewing ......................................................................2-20
2.8 Supplemental Flight Data.................................................................... 2-22
2.8.1 Bearing Pointers .................................................................. 2-22
2.8.2 Temperature Display............................................................2-24
2.9 Wind Vectors....................................................................... 2-24
3 Multi-Function Display (MFD) ..............................................................3-1
3.1 Functional Display Map......................................................................... 3-2
3.2 MFD Soft Key Map................................................................................3-3
3.3 Navigation Map Pages ..........................................................................3-4
3.3.1 Default Navigation Map Page ................................................3-5
3.3.2 Editing Information................................................................ 3-5
3.3.3 Selecting Page Options.......................................................... 3-5
3.3.4 Changing the Navigation Map Range .................................... 3-5
3.3.5 Decluttering Map Pages.........................................................3-6
3.3.7 Selecting Items on the Map ...................................................3-9
3.3.8 Measuring Distances ...........................................................3-10
3.3.9 Customizing Navigation Map Pages..................................... 3-11

ix190-01102-02 Rev. B
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Sec 3
MFD
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Hazard
Avoidance
Sec 5
Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
Glossary Appendix A
Appendix B
Index
3.3.10 Map Setup ..........................................................................3-11
3.3.10.1 Map Feature Options...........................................................3-13
3.3.10.2 Weather Feature Options (Optional).....................................3-27
3.3.10.3 Traffic Feature Options (Optional).........................................3-30
3.3.10.4 Aviation Feature Options ..................................................... 3-31
3.4 Aux Mode Pages.................................................................................3-42
3.4.1 System Settings ................................................................... 3-42
3.4.1.1 Display Brightness ...............................................................3-43
3.4.1.2 Airspeed Reference Marks ................................................... 3-44
3.4.1.3 PFD Options - Wind Vector...................................................3-45
3.4.1.4 Synchronization (Dual Installations Only)..............................3-46
3.4.1.5 Date and Time.....................................................................3-47
3.4.1.6 MFD Display Units............................................................... 3-48
3.4.1.7 System Display Units ...........................................................3-49
3.4.2 XM Information (Optional)...................................................3-50
3.4.3 XM Entertainment Radio (Optional) .....................................3-51
3.4.4 System Status...................................................................... 3-52
3.5 Flight Plan Pages ................................................................................3-53
3.5.1 Active Flight Plan Page ........................................................3-53
3.5.1.1 Active Flight Plan Detail....................................................... 3-54
3.5.1.2 Active Flight Plan Options....................................................3-54
3.5.1.3 Setting the Altitude Minimums Alerter.................................. 3-55
3.5.2 Waypoint Information Page .................................................3-56
3.5.2.1 Selecting a Waypoint ........................................................... 3-56
3.5.2.2 Waypoint Information Detail................................................3-57
3.5.2.3 Waypoint Weather Information (Optional) ............................ 3-59
3.5.3 Charts Page (Optional) ........................................................3-61
3.5.3.1 Viewing Charts....................................................................3-62
3.5.3.2 Selecting a New Chart by Airport ......................................... 3-63
3.5.3.3 Selecting a New Chart by FPL, NRST, or RECENT...................3-64
3.5.3.4 Change Day/Night View....................................................... 3-64
4 Hazard Avoidance ................................................................................4-1
4.1 Terrain Configurations...........................................................................4-1
4.2 Terrain Proximity ...................................................................................4-3
4.2.1 Displaying Terrain Proximity ...................................................4-4
4.2.1.1 Terrain Proximity Page 120°Arc or 360°Rings.......................4-5
4.2.1.2 Terrain Proximity Page Aviation Data......................................4-6

x
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Foreword
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Hazard
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Additional
Features
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& Alerts
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Sec 8
GlossaryAppendix A
Appendix B
Index
4.2.2 Terrain Proximity Limitations .................................................. 4-8
4.2.3 System Status........................................................................ 4-8
4.3 External TAWS ...................................................................................... 4-9
4.4 Garmin Terrain-SVT™ (Optional)......................................................... 4-10
4.4.1.1 Garmin Terrain-SVT™ Page 120°Arc or 360°Rings.............4-11
4.4.1.2 Garmin Terrain-SVT™ Page Aviation Data............................ 4-12
4.4.1.3 Inhibiting/Enabling Garmin Terrain-SVT™ Alerting ...............4-12
4.4.1.4 Synthetic Vision Alerts and Annunciations............................. 4-13
4.5 TAS Traffic (Optional)...........................................................................4-15
4.5.1 Displaying and Operating Traffic (TAS Systems)..................... 4-15
4.5.1.1 Switching from Standby Mode to Operating Mode ...............4-15
4.5.1.2 Range Ring .........................................................................4-16
4.5.2 Altitude Display................................................................... 4-17
4.5.3 TAS Symbology.................................................................... 4-18
4.5.4 Traffic System Status............................................................ 4-19
4.5.5 Traffic Pop-Up...................................................................... 4-21
4.6 TIS Traffic (Optional)............................................................................4-22
4.6.1 Traffic Map Page.................................................................. 4-22
4.6.2 TIS Symbology..................................................................... 4-24
4.6.3 TIS Limitations..................................................................... 4-25
4.6.4 TIS Alerts.............................................................................4-27
4.6.5 Traffic Pop-Up...................................................................... 4-28
4.6.6 TIS System Status ................................................................4-28
4.7 XM Weather (Optional) .......................................................................4-31
4.7.1 Using XM Satellite Weather Products ...................................4-31
4.7.2 Customizing the XM Weather Map ...................................... 4-31
4.7.3 XM Weather Symbols and Product Age ................................4-34
4.7.4 Weather Legends ................................................................ 4-36
4.7.5 NEXRAD .............................................................................4-37
4.7.5.1 Reflectivity ..........................................................................4-38
4.7.5.2 NEXRAD Limitations............................................................4-39
4.7.6 Weather Page Map Orientation............................................ 4-40
4.7.7 NEXRAD Data Viewing Range.............................................. 4-40
4.7.8 NEXRAD Legend..................................................................4-41
4.7.9 Echo Tops............................................................................ 4-42
4.7.10 Cloud Tops .......................................................................... 4-44
4.7.11 XM Lightning ......................................................................4-46
4.7.12 Cell Movement....................................................................4-47

xi190-01102-02 Rev. B
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Foreward
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System
Sec 2
PFD
Sec 3
MFD
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Hazard
Avoidance
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Additional
Features
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Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
Glossary Appendix A
Appendix B
Index
4.7.13 SIGMETs and AIRMETs ........................................................4-49
4.7.14 METARs .............................................................................. 4-51
4.7.15 Surface Analysis and City Forecast........................................ 4-53
4.7.16 Freezing Level......................................................................4-56
4.7.17 Winds Aloft .........................................................................4-58
4.7.18 County Warnings.................................................................4-61
4.8 GWX Weather Radar (Optional)........................................................... 4-63
4.8.1 Garmin GWX 68 Radar Description...................................... 4-63
4.8.1.1 Principles of Pulsed Airborne Weather Radar ........................ 4-63
4.8.1.2 Antenna Beam Illumination .................................................4-64
4.8.1.3 Radar Signal Attenuation.....................................................4-65
4.8.2 Radar Signal Reflectivity ...................................................... 4-66
4.8.2.1 Precipitation........................................................................ 4-66
4.8.2.2 Ground Returns...................................................................4-67
4.8.2.3 Angle of Incidence............................................................... 4-67
4.8.3 Operating Distance.............................................................. 4-68
4.8.4 Basic Antenna Tilt Setup ...................................................... 4-69
4.8.5 Weather Mapping and Interpretation................................... 4-70
4.8.5.1 Weather display Interpretation.............................................4-70
4.8.5.2 Thunderstorms ....................................................................4-71
4.8.5.3 Tornadoes ........................................................................... 4-73
4.8.5.4 Hail.....................................................................................4-73
4.8.6 Radar Operation in Weather Mode.......................................4-74
4.8.6.1 Displaying Weather on the Weather Radar Page ................... 4-75
4.8.6.2 Vertically Scanning a Storm Cell........................................... 4-76
4.8.6.3 Adjusting the Antenna Tilt Angle.......................................... 4-77
4.8.6.4 Adjusting Gain ....................................................................4-78
4.8.6.5 Sector Scan .........................................................................4-80
4.8.6.6 Antenna Stabilization ..........................................................4-81
4.8.6.7 Weather Attenuated Color Highlight (WATCH™) ................. 4-81
4.8.6.8 Weather Alert...................................................................... 4-82
4.8.7 Ground Mapping and Interpretation ....................................4-83
5 Additional Features (Optional) ............................................................5-1
5.1 Viewing Charts ..................................................................................... 5-2
5.1.1 Chart Panning ....................................................................... 5-3
5.1.2 Choosing a Chart for the Current Airport................................5-4
5.1.3 Selecting a Chart by Identifier................................................ 5-5

xii
Garmin G500 Pilot’s Guide
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Foreword
Sec 1
System
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PFD
Sec 3
MFD
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Hazard
Avoidance
Sec 5
Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
GlossaryAppendix A
Appendix B
Index
5.1.4 Selecting a New Chart by FPL, NRST, or RECENT.....................5-6
5.1.5 Viewing Chart NOTAMs .........................................................5-7
5.1.6 Day/Night View .....................................................................5-7
5.2 ChartView ............................................................................................ 5-8
5.2.1 Cycle Number and Revision ...................................................5-8
5.3 FliteCharts®.......................................................................................5-11
5.3.1 Cycle Number and Revision .................................................5-11
5.4 SafeTaxi®.......................................................................................... 5-13
5.4.1 Using SafeTaxi®................................................................. 5-14
5.4.1.1 Decluttering ........................................................................5-14
5.4.1.2 Hot Spot Information...........................................................5-14
5.4.2 SafeTaxi®Cycle Number and Revision .................................. 5-15
5.5 XM®Radio Entertainment ..................................................................5-17
5.5.1 Activating XM®Satellite Radio Services................................ 5-17
5.5.2 XM®Information................................................................. 5-19
5.5.3 XM®Entertainment Radio ...................................................5-20
5.5.3.1 Channel Categories.............................................................5-21
5.5.3.2 Selecting an XM®Radio Channel.........................................5-22
5.5.3.3 XM®Radio Volume..............................................................5-23
5.5.3.4 XM®Radio Channel Presets................................................. 5-24
5.5.4 GDL 69/69A Data Link Receiver Troubleshooting.................. 5-25
5.6 Autopilot Operation ............................................................................ 5-26
5.6.1 Heading .............................................................................. 5-26
5.6.2 Altitude Capture (Optional Interface) ................................... 5-26
5.6.3 Autopilot Navigation ...........................................................5-27
5.6.3.1 Autopilot Operation with GPSS Enabled Autopilots...............5-27
5.6.3.2 Autopilot Operation with the GDU 620 Emulating GPSS.......5-28
5.7 Garmin Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT™) (Optional)........................ 5-30
5.7.1 Garmin SVT™ Operation..................................................... 5-32
5.7.2 Activating and Deactivating Garmin SVT™ ..........................5-33
5.7.3 Garmin SVT™ Features....................................................... 5-34
5.7.3.1 Flight Path Marker (FPM) .....................................................5-34
5.7.3.2 Zero-Pitch Line ....................................................................5-34
5.7.2.3 Horizon Heading .................................................................5-35
5.7.2.4 Airport Signs .......................................................................5-35
5.7.2.5 Runway Depiction ............................................................... 5-36
5.7.2.6 Traffic.................................................................................. 5-37

xiii190-01102-02 Rev. B
Garmin G500 Pilot’s Guide
Foreward
Sec 1
System
Sec 2
PFD
Sec 3
MFD
Sec 4
Hazard
Avoidance
Sec 5
Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
Glossary Appendix A
Appendix B
Index
5.7.2.7 Obstacles ............................................................................5-38
5.7.2.8 Field of View .......................................................................5-39
5.7.2.9 Unusual Attitudes................................................................5-41
6 Annunciations and Alerts.....................................................................6-1
6.1 Alerts ...................................................................................................6-1
6.2 System Status .......................................................................................6-8
7 Symbols................................................................................................7-1
7.1 Map Page Symbols................................................................................ 7-1
7.2 SafeTaxi™Symbols ............................................................................. 7-2
7.3 Traffic Symbols......................................................................................7-2
7.4 Terrain Obstacle Symbols.......................................................................7-3
7.5 Basemap Symbols.................................................................................7-4
7.6 Map Tool Bar Symbols........................................................................... 7-4
7.7 XM Weather Tool Bar Symbols...............................................................7-5
7.8 Miscellaneous Symbols..........................................................................7-6
8 Glossary ...............................................................................................8-1
Appendix A ................................................................................................. A-1
SD Card Use and Databases ..........................................................................A-1
Jeppesen Databases...............................................................................A-1
Updating the Jeppesen navigation database...........................................A-1
Garmin Databases..................................................................................A-2
Updating Garmin databases...................................................................A-3
Index........................................................................................................... B-1

xiv
Garmin G500 Pilot’s Guide
190-01102-02 Rev. B
Foreword
Sec 1
System
Sec 2
PFD
Sec 3
MFD
Sec 4
Hazard
Avoidance
Sec 5
Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
GlossaryAppendix A
Appendix B
Index
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1-1190-01102-02 Rev. B
Garmin G500 Pilot’s Guide
Foreword
Sec 1
System
Sec 2
PFD
Sec 3
MFD
Sec 4
Hazard
Avoidance
Sec 5
Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
Glossary Appendix A
Appendix B
Index
1 SYSTEM OVERVIEW
1.1 System Description
This section provides an overview of the G500 Avionics Display System.
The G500 system is an integrated display system that presents primary flight
instrumentation, navigation, and a moving map to the pilot through large-
format displays.
In normal operating mode, the Primary Flight Display (PFD) presents
graphical flight instrumentation (attitude, heading, airspeed, altitude, vertical
speed), replacing the traditional flight instrument cluster. The Multi-Function
Display (MFD) normally displays a full-color moving map with navigation
information.
GMU 44 Magnetometer GPS Navigator(s) Temperature Probe
GRS 77 AHRS GDC 74 Air Data Computer
GDU 620
Optional Interfaces
Traffic
Audio Panel
SL 30 ADF
GDL 69/69A Skywatch GTX330/330D
Autopilot
Flight Director
GAD 43
GWX 68
Figure 1-1 G500 System (LRU Configuration)
The system consists of the following Line Replaceable Units (LRUs):
• GDU 620 Primary Flight Display (PFD) and Multi Function Display
(MFD)
• GDC 74A Air Data Computer (ADC)
• GRS 77 Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS)

1-2
Garmin G500 Pilot’s Guide
190-01102-02 Rev. B
Foreword
Sec 1
System
Sec 2
PFD
Sec 3
MFD
Sec 4
Hazard
Avoidance
Sec 5
Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
GlossaryAppendix A
Appendix B
Index
• GNS 480, CNX80, GNS 400W series, or GNS 500W series GPS
Navigator
• Temperature Probe (such as the GTP 59)
• GMU 44 Magnetometer
• GTX 330/330D TIS-B Traffic (optional)
• GDL 69A Satellite Data Link Receiver (optional)
• SL30 NavCom (optional)
• Autopilot/Flight Director (optional)
• ADF (optional)
• Traffic (optional: TAS and TIS)
• Audio Panel (optional)
• GAD 43 Adapter (optional)
• GWX 68 Weather Radar (optional)
1.1.1 Line Replaceable Units (LRU)
This guide covers the operation of the GDU 620 as integrated in the G500
system. The G500 Avionics Display System is an advanced technology avionics
suite designed to replace the traditional flight instrument cluster. The system
combines primary flight instrumentation, navigational information, and a moving
map all displayed on dual 6.5 inch color screens. The G500 system is composed
of sub-units or Line Replaceable Units (LRUs). LRUs have a modular design and
can be installed directly behind the instrument panel or in a separate avionics
bay if desired. This design greatly eases troubleshooting and maintenance of the
G500 system. A failure or problem can be isolated to a particular LRU, which
can be replaced quickly and easily. Each LRU has a particular function, or set of
functions, that contributes to the system’s operation.

1-3190-01102-02 Rev. B
Garmin G500 Pilot’s Guide
Foreword
Sec 1
System
Sec 2
PFD
Sec 3
MFD
Sec 4
Hazard
Avoidance
Sec 5
Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
Glossary Appendix A
Appendix B
Index
1.1.2 GDU 620
The GDU 620 has dual VGA (640 x 480 pixels) 6.5 inch LCD displays. The
left side of the GDU is a PFD and the right side is the MFD. The MFD shows
a moving map, flight plan, weather, and more. The PFD shows primary flight
information, in place of traditional pitot-static and gyroscopic systems and also
provides an HSI for navigation.
Figure 1-2 GDU 620 PFD and MFD
1.1.3 GDC 74A
The GDC 74A Air Data Computer (ADC) compiles information from the
pitot/static system and an Outside Air Temperature (OAT) sensor. The GDC 74A
provides pressure altitude, airspeed, vertical speed, and OAT information to the
G500 system. The GDC 74A communicates with the GDU 620 and GRS 77
using an ARINC 429 digital interface.
Figure 1-3 GDC 74A Air Data Computer

1-4
Garmin G500 Pilot’s Guide
190-01102-02 Rev. B
Foreword
Sec 1
System
Sec 2
PFD
Sec 3
MFD
Sec 4
Hazard
Avoidance
Sec 5
Additional
Features
Sec 6
Annun.
& Alerts
Sec 7
Symbols
Sec 8
GlossaryAppendix A
Appendix B
Index
1.1.4 GRS 77
The GRS 77 is an Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS) unit that
provides aircraft attitude information to the G500 display. The unit contains
advanced tilt sensors, accelerometers, and rate sensors. In addition, the GRS 77
interfaces with both the GDC 74A Air Data Computer and the GMU 44
magnetometer. The GRS 77 also utilizes GPS data forwarded from the GDU
620. Actual attitude and heading information is sent to the GDU 620 using an
ARINC 429 digital interface.
Figure 1-4 GRS 77 AHRS
The IGRF (International Geomagnetic Reference Field) model is contained in
the GRS 77 and is only updated once every five years. The IGRF model is part
of the Navigation Database. At system power-up, the IGRF models in the GRS
77 and in the Navigation Database are compared, and if the IGRF model in the
GRS 77 is out of date, the user is prompted to update the IGRF model in the
GRS 77. The prompt will appear after the G500 splash screen is acknowledged
on the MFD.
1.1.5 GMU 44
The GMU 44 magnetometer senses the earth’s magnetic field. Data is sent to
the GRS 77 AHRS for processing to determine aircraft magnetic heading. This
unit receives power directly from the GRS 77 and communicates with the GRS
77 using a RS-485 digital interface.
Figure 1-5 GMU 44 Magnetometer