I have a new 2014 Carbon Cub on order (CC316) for delivery on May 29, 2014. Just going through my panel options for the new aircraft. I currently have 2010 Carbon Cub with the Executive GLASS option. Obviously this "old" technology panel is more than enough to drive a Carbon Cub around. But I am looking for some new solutions (and potentially less expensive) for my new Carbon Cub that will add new functionality without giving up current capability.
A few days ago Garmin introduced a new version (6.1) of Garmin Pilot that now includes Garmin Synthetic Vision (with the GDL 39 3D ADS-B weather, traffic and attitude accessory, Garmin Pilot Synthetic Vision also includes a fully functional HSI in the display). Garmin has a free 30 day trail for this software until March 5. You can evaluate a full featured version of Garmin Pilot on the iPad but you need a GDL 39 3D to evaluate the HSI functionality. It is clear Garmin is hot on the trail of ForeFlight with this latest move.
I loaded up Garmin Pilot 6.1 on my new Retina iPad Mini yesterday (11 GB download) to test it out. It appears to run smoothly on the new iPad and everything is there (IFR/VFR maps, approach plates, obstacles ect). I took delivery of the first Garmin Perspective installed in a Cirrus TN22 in June of 2008. Have not flown the new version of Garmin Pilot yet but just driving it around on the ground the Synthetic Vision on the iPad seems to be identical to Garmin Perspective that I flew in my Cirrus.
Below is a rendering I put together of one option I am looking at for my new Carbon Cub panel. This panel is a modified World VFR panel offered by CubCrafters. In place of the Aera 796 I have placed my Retina iPad Mini. Both devices are nearly identical in dimensions, so the fit is perfect. Obviously the functionality is very different with a internet connected full function iPad in place of the Aera 796. Also with iPad Mini you have the option of running other apps like ForeFlight instead of Garmin Pilot, if you like.
Common to both panels is a new engine monitoring system, the Electronics International CGR-30P. Here is a short video showing the different screens of the CGR-30P. This appears to be a very capable engine monitoring device that fits in a standard 3 1/8" mount.
What's missing? So far Garmin is not offering any BlueTooth air data computer devices. So there is no separate pitot/static data source available to the iPad to compute things like real time winds aloft in Garmin Pilot. I really like having the winds aloft vector arrow in the CC with my current Executive Panel.
Got a few weeks to make a final decision on the new panel in CC316. Just tossing around ideas.