Garmin G5 software update

Russell MacDonald

Russell MacDonald

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rkmacdonald
I just found out there is a new Garmin G5 software Update 6.0.

If you have a certified G5 in your panel, the pilot/owner/operator is allowed to update per the STC instructions. Here's the link:

https://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=10739#Instruct

When you install this update, it includes all the previous updates for the G5, GAD 29B, GMC 507, GSA 28, and GMU 11. The update process is very simple and takes about 1 minute per G5. When you do the update in the G5, it automatically updates all the other units listed. I've done it six times with no issues, and each time the operation of the G5 system has been noticeably better in numerous respects.

Here are all the changes made since V2.2:

Change History
Changes made from version 5.70 to 6.00:
  • Improved VOR TO/FROM flag operation for NAV radios connected via RS-232
  • General improvements to system operation
  • Includes update to GAD 29 software version 3.10
  • Includes update to GMC 507 software version 2.80
  • Includes update to GSA 28 software version 4.30
  • Includes GMU 11 software version 2.00
Changes made from version 5.60 to 5.70:
  • Improved GMC 507 pre-flight test processing
  • General improvements to system operation
  • Includes update to GMC 507 software version 2.60
  • Includes GAD 29 software version 3.00
  • Includes GMU 11 software version 2.00
  • Includes GSA 28 software version 4.10
Changes made from version 5.50 to 5.60:
  • Improved contrast of vertical deviation indicator
  • Improved flight director command display across multiple displays that use different attitude sources
  • Improved NMEA date/time output prior to initial GPS fix
  • Improved GMC 507 attitude monitoring
  • General improvements to system operation
  • Includes update to GMC 507 software version 2.50
  • Includes GAD 29 software version 3.00
  • Includes GMU 11 software version 2.00
  • Includes GSA 28 software version 4.10
Changes made from version 5.20 to 5.50:
  • Added support for G500/TXI integration
  • Added support for GTN VNAV guidance
  • Added config mode indication that aircraft is in motion during magnetometer calibration
  • Improved CAN bus error reporting
  • Improved VHF NAV radio RS-232 OBS course data output
  • General improvements to system operation
  • Includes update to GMC 507 software version 2.40
  • Includes GAD 29 software version 3.00
  • Includes GMU 11 software version 2.00
  • Includes GSA 28 software version 4.10
Changes made from version 5.00 to 5.20:
  • Added support for GSA 28 yaw damper in certified aircraft installations
  • Improved GAD 29B analog heading/course datum outputs
  • Improved battery status display
  • Changed glideslope deviation to be hidden when not flying inbound on localizer course
  • General improvements to system operation
  • Includes update to GMC 507 software version 2.20
  • Includes update to GSA 28 software version 4.10
  • Includes GAD 29 software version 3.00
  • Includes GMU 11 software version 2.00
Changes made from version 4.10 to 5.00:
  • Added support for GMC 507 AFCS mode control panel
  • Added support for GSA 28 trim servos
  • Added support for flight director VOR, LOC, and GS modes
  • Added display of AFCS pre-flight test status
  • Added support for additional configuration for certified aircraft installations
  • Added ability to display AFCS data on all displays when multiple displays are present
  • Improved status message display
  • Improved ESP operation
  • General improvements to system operation
  • Includes update to GMC 507 software version 2.10
  • Includes update to GSA 28 software version 4.00
  • Includes GAD 29 software version 3.00
  • Includes GMU 11 software version 2.00
Changes made from version 3.20 to 4.10:
  • Added support for GAD 29B and analog autopilot interface with GPSS
  • Added option to configure roll indicator for sky pointer or ground pointer
  • Added ability to adjust pitch/roll calibration without leveling aircraft
  • Added ability to configure unit yaw installation offset for use in angled panels
  • Added display of battery status on backlight adjustment page
  • Added 'EFIS/Airdata 2' ARINC 429 output format
  • Changed battery status display when battery is unable to charge
  • Changed selected track bug symbol
  • Improved heading tape bug indicator display
  • Improved altitude display when adjusting baro setting
  • Improved HSI page data field display
  • Improved configuration of hectopascal pressure units
  • General improvements to system operation
  • Includes GAD 29 software version 3.00
  • Includes GMU 11 software version 2.00
  • Includes GSA 28 software version 3.20
Changes made from version 3.10 to 3.20:
  • Improved display of battery status
  • Improved attitude calculation
  • General improvements to system operation
  • Includes GAD29 software version 2.30
  • Includes GMU11 software version 2.00
  • Includes GSA28 software version 3.20
Changes made from version 2.70 to 3.10:
  • Added support for GMU11 magnetometer
  • Added ability to reset to factory defaults
  • Added auto-slew support to sync VLOC course when switching from GPS to VLOC
  • Improved VHF radio VOR bearing display
  • Improved display of HDG and GPS fields on PFD
  • Improved display of LOI/DR and MSG/WPT indicators on HSI
  • Save PFD heading bug, track bug, and VLOC course through power cycles
  • General improvements to system operation
  • Includes GAD29 software version 2.30
  • Includes GMU11 software version 2.00
  • Includes GSA28 software version 3.20
Changes made from version 2.60 to 2.70:
  • Improved GPS aiding from GTN and GNS navigators
  • General improvements to system operation
Changes made from version 2.40 to 2.60:
  • Added configuration option to disable VLOC course selection on standalone unit
  • Changed VLOC course to use decoded OBS setting from MapMX input, if available
  • Changed flight director TO mode to disengage autopilot when activated
  • Changed flight director GA mode to disengage autopilot if minimum airspeed limit is not configured
  • Improved attitude calculation
  • General improvements to system operation
  • Includes GSA 28 software version 3.20
Changes made from version 2.20 to 2.40:
  • Added display of CDI scale and GPS navigation source annunciations to HSI
  • Added support for Text Out RS-232 format
  • Added configuration setting to allow display of navigation data with a GDU display is present
  • Added configuration setting to hide HSI page
  • Added configuration setting to hide navigation data
  • Added configuration setting to inhibit user pitch offset
  • Added synchronization of TRK bug between multiple units
  • Improved flight director GPS mode when IFR GPS is navigating a heading leg
  • Improved attitude sensor processing
  • Improved GPS receiver performance
  • Improved GSA 28 software update process
  • Improved visibility of VNAV deviation indicator
  • Improved horizontal and vertical deviation data
  • General improvements to system operation
  • Includes GSA 28 software version 3.20
 
Russell MacDonald said:
If you have a certified G5 in your panel, the pilot/owner/operator is allowed to update per the STC instructions.
Click to expand...

Well that's cool. I wonder if they'll start allowing that on other units too... I'd love to update my GTN, and the avionics shop is up to their ears in ADS-B installs.
 
flyingcheesehead said:
Well that's cool. I wonder if they'll start allowing that on other units too... I'd love to update my GTN, and the avionics shop is up to their ears in ADS-B installs.
Click to expand...

If you poke around enough, you can find instructions on how to update your GTN on your own (and access to the firmware itself). Of course, you're only "allowed" to do so if you have an experimental airplane...
 
Just curious the update seems to be for the G5 as a DG. Is there anything new or reason to update if you only use it as an AI?
 
AdamZ said:
Just curious the update seems to be for the G5 as a DG. Is there anything new or reason to update if you only use it as an AI?
Click to expand...

It's for both. If you only update one, you will get an error when you power them on for a software mismatch.
 
AdamZ said:
Just curious the update seems to be for the G5 as a DG. Is there anything new or reason to update if you only use it as an AI?
Click to expand...

I think that many of the changes affected both HSI (HI,DG) and AI functions, and if you have any of the other items that are also updated, lots of changes were made to each of them, as well. The overall system runs much more smoothly now at V6.0 than V5.0 when first installed.

Also, your software version could be several versions older than V6.0, and when you update it does all of the previous updates. Some of the previous updates clearly affect the AI. One that I recall enhanced the glide path indication on the AI, which made a big difference to its ease of use.

So, I think it makes sense to update even if you have only the AI.
 
Latest version is 6.2 All you need is a micro-SD card. Take note of the details at the bottom of the page:

"Insert a FAT32-formatted micro SD card with at least 20 MB of free space into your card reader."

Default is Windows but Garmin does have instructions if you're using a Mac (like me).
 
alaskazimm said:
It's for both. If you only update one, you will get an error when you power them on for a software mismatch.
Click to expand...
How about if you only have one, and it is an AI? Is the update still worth while?
 
Guys, anybody know a way to verify if the sd card slot in the G5 is defective? I am trying to upgrade the firmware on my G5 but it doesn’t want to read the micro sd card. I tried different cards already without any luck.
 
FAT32. I tried a 32GB and 128GB cards. I’ll try a smaller capacity card and see how it goes. Thanks Salty.
 
Mystiq Skies said:
FAT32. I tried a 32GB and 128GB cards. I’ll try a smaller capacity card and see how it goes. Thanks Salty.
Click to expand...
Except....next size down is 16gb, and 20gb is listed as required. Definite logic problem. I’d recommend a different card manufacturer, such as san disk.
 
Hi,
Looking at this (I'm including a broken link because I'm a new member) garmin (dot) com/en-US/?faq=e42M4i4my20PzlBG81Kh5A

It says "If you have a G5 for Certificated Aircraft, then please have its software updated at an avionics shop. Software updates change the functionality on the unit, which for certificated aircraft, require a logbook entry."

I note it doesn't say "must" but it seems like it's what they meant. Can this be done by an owner? Can I update and enter it myself in the logbook, legally?

Another question, can the owner update the nav database and enter it in the logbook?

Thanks!
 
The G5 doesn't have a nav database. But if you mean the database in a 430/530, 650/750 or the like, the owner can do the update. It's supposed to be logged somewhere, but there's nothing that says it can't be a little spiral notebook or even a sticky note in the glovebox. It doesn't have to be (and shouldn't be) in the actual Aircrtaft Log.
 
OneCharlieTango said:
The G5 doesn't have a nav database. But if you mean the database in a 430/530, 650/750 or the like, the owner can do the update. It's supposed to be logged somewhere, but there's nothing that says it can't be a little spiral notebook or even a sticky note in the glovebox. It doesn't have to be (and shouldn't be) in the actual Aircrtaft Log.
Click to expand...
Thank you, I meant the separate nav unit.

So, a separate logbook for G5 and nav units is ok, but not in the original logbook because I'm not a mechanic.

Thanks!
 
No. Don't write in the original logbook because you don't want the important stuff buried in pages and pages of database updates. You can enter anything you want in the original logbook. And there shouldn't be anything to update on the G5 other than software, which you can't do and which should be in the actual logbook.
 
Last edited:
172Pusher said:
Thank you, I meant the separate nav unit.

So, a separate logbook for G5 and nav units is ok, but not in the original logbook because I'm not a mechanic.

Thanks!
Click to expand...

This is incorrect. The faa removed updating databases from the preventative mx category and removed the logging requirement. See here:

https://www.federalregister.gov/doc...ilot-loading-of-aeronautical-database-updates

"This final rule allows all pilots operating aircraft equipped with certificated avionics equipment as described herein to perform updates of aeronautical databases."

"In addition, as discussed below, we have removed all recordkeeping requirements for pilots who perform these updates."

I don't believe pilots can update the g5 software. Assuming it's like the firmware in the gtn, it requires a dealer enabled version of garmin pilot to connect and load the update.
 
Ok. So that applies to "navigation equipment" and "databases" so the 430/530/650 are ok for a regular airplane owner to update but G5's and the like need an avionics shop.

That stinks. Hopefully there is another ruling somewhere allowing it.
 
Thanks, Jim. I was out of date.

172P, you don't want to do software updates. There are too many ways for it to get screwed up, especially as the number of devices talking to each other increases.
 
Jim K said:
I don't believe pilots can update the g5 software. Assuming it's like the firmware in the gtn, it requires a dealer enabled version of garmin pilot to connect and load the update.
Click to expand...
FWIW the G5 is updated through a microsd card inserted right below the display. Nothing removed for access, no tools needed. You can download the update directly from Garmin.
 
172Pusher said:
FWIW the G5 is updated through a microsd card inserted right below the display. Nothing removed for access, no tools needed. You can download the update directly from Garmin.
Click to expand...
Oh yeah I forgot that was there. The downloadeable updates are surely for the experimental version though. I would assume they have the certified units locked down. If you decide to try, let me know if it works...

ETA: just re-read the OP and it says the g5 CAN be updated by the owner. Color me surprised. I'd want to read the stc to confirm; but I'd assume an owner can log it like any other preventative mx. Now you've got me wondering if my g5 is up to date.
 
Jim K said:
Oh yeah I forgot that was there. The downloadeable updates are surely for the experimental version though. I would assume they have the certified units locked down. If you decide to try, let me know if it works...

ETA: just re-read the OP and it says the g5 CAN be updated by the owner. Color me surprised.
Click to expand...
I can confirm, It is very simple to do.
 
OneCharlieTango said:
Thanks, Jim. I was out of date.

172P, you don't want to do software updates. There are too many ways for it to get screwed up, especially as the number of devices talking to each other increases.
Click to expand...

Legality aside, there's not much to "screw up" with a G5 update. It's a self-executing software loader, which writes to a microsd card. You put that card in the G5, and it updates itself and all equipment connected to the same CANBUS (GMU, GAD29b, etc.). It's not rocket surgery.
 
It should be easy, I agree. But there are so many things talking to each other that the gremlins can come out in force.
 
172Pusher said:
Hi,
Looking at this (I'm including a broken link because I'm a new member) garmin (dot) com/en-US/?faq=e42M4i4my20PzlBG81Kh5A

It says "If you have a G5 for Certificated Aircraft, then please have its software updated at an avionics shop. Software updates change the functionality on the unit, which for certificated aircraft, require a logbook entry."

I note it doesn't say "must" but it seems like it's what they meant. Can this be done by an owner? Can I update and enter it myself in the logbook, legally?

Another question, can the owner update the nav database and enter it in the logbook?

Thanks!
Click to expand...
Note that the instructions are just that - instructions how to do an update, not blanket authorization from Garmin and approved by the FAA to update the software. The quoted statement about Certificated Aircraft is Garmin's legalese to keep them out of trouble is on https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=e42M4i4my20PzlBG81Kh5A. They know owners will DIY and they shouldn't. Why? Same reason as removing any instrument (non-glass) for repair and update. An authorized shop repairs and certifies that the instrument has been repaired as per FAA and/or FTC (for radios) rules and provides documentation for it. There is trail of evidence for liability and everything else. That's why avionics in certificated aircraft are more expensive to maintain/update.

Personally, I think Garmin should have written the statement much more strongly using the word shall instead of must. Shall means something specific in the government (e.g. FAA) or else they shouldn't have added the statement at all, hence the owner could do the updates without question.
 
murphey said:
Personally, I think Garmin should have written the statement much more strongly using the word shall instead of must. Shall means something specific in the government (e.g. FAA) or else they shouldn't have added the statement at all, hence the owner could do the updates without question.
Click to expand...

Why should Garmin do that (and why do you care of the prohibition is stronger)? Plenty of owners are perfectly capable of updating the software in the G5; it's easier than updating a nav database. There is zero safety benefit in forcing owners to pay someone to stick an microSD card in the G5. Given the FAA Chief Counsel's somewhat expansive stance on what constitutes preventive mx, I think there's a decent argument that this kind of software update fits squarely in there.
 
bradg33 said:
Why should Garmin do that (and why do you care of the prohibition is stronger)? Plenty of owners are perfectly capable of updating the software in the G5; it's easier than updating a nav database. There is zero safety benefit in forcing owners to pay someone to stick an microSD card in the G5. Given the FAA Chief Counsel's somewhat expansive stance on what constitutes preventive mx, I think there's a decent argument that this kind of software update fits squarely in there.
Click to expand...
A person's ability vs legal requirement are not even in the same fruit category (apples v oranges, etc). I am perfectly capable of many activiies, but am prohibited by various laws.

As for the stronger wording....until Bell206 just provided the update, the word shall in government legalese meant the activity was written in stone. I've spent far too much time in the DOD/DOT/DOI/other accronyms world, and anything with the word shall was a contractual item, not to be changed or modified without many, many lawyers and contracting officers involved.
 
murphey said:
A person's ability vs legal requirement are not even in the same fruit category (apples v oranges, etc). I am perfectly capable of many activiies, but am prohibited by various laws.

As for the stronger wording....until Bell206 just provided the update, the word shall in government legalese meant the activity was written in stone. I've spent far too much time in the DOD/DOT/DOI/other accronyms world, and anything with the word shall was a contractual item, not to be changed or modified without many, many lawyers and contracting officers involved.
Click to expand...

My point is, the "grey area" here is good for aircraft owners and operators. Let's leave it that way, thanks.
 
Does anyone happen to have the STC from version 6.0 (the one in effect when the original post was made)? I'm almost positive it said it was OK for owners to do the upgrade, whether it was for a certified or experimental plane.
 
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