Handheld Buyer‘s Guide

Though it's not truly a handheld device, the iPad continues to revolutionize both general aviation and commercial cockpits, while a cadre of interesting new palm-sized devices add new capabilities and features. Pilots can use the latest handheld devices for a number of tasks, with most complimenting each other in the cockpit. Also keep in mind that many cockpits simply can't accommodate devices like the iPad or laptops, so footprint becomes critical and features need to be plentiful but fit in a small footprint. We present some of our favorites.

ADR Florida FG-1700
www.adrsoft.com
ADR pioneered the electronic flight bag (EFB) concept back in 1998. Their latest device is an EFB that's integrated into a Fujitsu touch-screen portable computer running Windows XP tablet operating system---the FG-7100. The FG-7100 includes all essential functions such as GPS navigation from either a connected or Bluetooth GPS unit, XM, WSI and NEXRAD real-time satellite weather (from a portable receiver including WxWorx) and more. The beauty of ADR's EFB is that it can run all applications a laptop can run, but in a compact form factor. ADR also offers their FG-Airserve wireless transmitters for connection to GPS units, weather and chart services. ADR's FG-7100 EFB kit is $2,499.

Adventure Pilot iFly 720
www.ifly.adventurepilot.com
If there's one device that can be called "sexy," it's the new iFly 720. "Sexy," because the unit does everything right. The real genius in the new 720 is the user interface; it's as intuitive and clean as they come. For starters, the seven-inch touch screen is the perfect size. The way every feature is positioned and the way it's selected shows the thought that went into this device. Everything is quick-tap, finger-sweep and drag, all without a single complexity thrown in. Second, every function (and there are plenty) is based around image-enhanced FAA charts. You have to use this little wonder to really get to know it. Everything you can think of is here: georeferenced charts and approach plates, airport diagrams and information, rubber-band flight planning, moving map, live NEXRAD without fees, traffic, ADS-B weather, NMEA output for autopilot and a whole lot more. Sure, the iPad can do some of this, but not as simply, intuitively, or in such a nice, clean package. It works on streets, too! For $749, this is a home run.

AvMap EKP V
www.avmap.us.com
This unit packs quite a wallop in a small package. Like the iFly unit, AvMap's EKP V features a seven-inch screen, but is designed with heavier-duty features in mind and can be considered more of a portable multifunction display (PMFD). For example, the EKP V has a u-blox 5 GPS unit built in. One major new feature is the special docking station that allows the unit to connect to several on-board devices at the same time (autopilot, XM WX, CAS, EIS, EFIS etc.). The EKP V's maps contain Jeppesen Data, Low airways, private airports, Seattle Avionics' ChartData (32,000 georeferenced approach charts and airport diagrams for USA and Europe), Vertical obstructions, VFR Reporting points and detailed Terrestrial Coverage. Not a touch-screen device, AvMap's EKP V features a new practical keyboard with a configurable key, a progressive joystick and a smart-wheel selector. The EKP V has a new graphical user interface and full QWERTY virtual keyboard. It sells for $1,998 MSRP.

Control Vision Anywhere Map
www.anywheremap.com
Control Vision has been making some wonderful portable units. Their ultra-compact, 4.3-inch display Quadra is now in its second generation, with all of its "growing pains" ironed out. Users have applauded Anywhere Map's user interface, and it remains one of my favorites. The newest Quadra is one of the most full-featured truly portable units out there, and with a price range from $399 to $699 with all the bells and whistles, it's a great bargain. The newest Septa unit strides the handheld/yoke-mount category with its seven-inch display and unique powered yoke mount. Both units offer Anywhere Map's gorgeous and intuitive graphical interface, with all its features that include GPS moving map, charts, flight planning, weather and airport diagrams. The newest units have a built-in logbook, "taxi-express" that shows aircraft position on airport diagrams, rubber-band routing and more. Retails at $1,495 for the Septa.

Delorme In-Reach
www.delorme.com
This little unit truly is the world's most affordable satellite communicator. Since 90% of the Earth's surface lacks cell-phone reception, landing in a truly remote area could mean trouble for a pilot. Whereas PLBs can transmit your location, communication is very limited. In-Reach is a portable satellite communicator that fits into the palm of your hand. On its own, the unit will send pre-set messages to the GEOS International Emergency Response Coordination Center at the press of a distress button, and give delivery confirmation. It also transmits your GPS coordinates at intervals you select and provides remote tracking. Unlike a PLB, when paired with an Android phone through Bluetooth, In-Reach can send full text messages back and forth from and to anywhere on the planet regardless of cellular reception, and it can access topographical maps and pinpoint your location. Forget expensive satellite phones, since this unit costs $249.95, plus a monthly subscription of $9.95 to $49.95, depending on package. In-Reach floats, is waterproof and includes two AA lithium batteries that provide 60 hours of run time.

Garmin Aera 796
www.buy.garmin.com
Garmin raises the bar once again with their handheld Aera 796. A next-generation EFB, the Aera changes the portable game. Right out of the box, what makes this unit different is Garmin's new "3D Vision" technology. It shows a virtual 3D behind-the-aircraft perspective of surrounding terrain derived from GPS and the onboard terrain database. Sliding your finger across the touch screen rotates the view, and shows land and water contours and features, obstacles, runways and airport signposts in relative proximity to the aircraft. Garmin's ultra-fast, 5 Hz (five times per second) update rate makes graphics move smoothly. The 796's seven-inch touch-screen display is readable even in bright sunlight and has a portrait or landscape mode. Pre-loaded georeferenced charts are available, or users can load Jeppesen charts through Garmin's ChartView service. A document viewer is built in, and a scratch-pad feature allows you to write clearances, ATIS, etc. Two serial ports allow connection to other hardware. Retails for $2,749.

Icom IC-A24
www.icomamerica.com
When it comes to a solid and functional device, Icom's IC-A24 transceiver is a winner. Nothing fancy, it's a handheld aviation band receiver and transmitter that can double as either a backup radio or as a primary radio in LSA or vintage aircraft without electrical systems. All its features are well conceived: one-handed operation (critical for pilots), a large backlit display and keypad that remains lit until you turn it off, "flip-flop" frequencies with 10-channel storage and 200 frequency memory, an external DC power jack or optional batteries, and automatic noise reduction. The IC-A24 has both COM and NAB channels, while the smaller IC-A6 is just COM. The unit has a load of accessories available, including various clips and cases, headset adapters and chargers. The unit is made in Japan with quality components, which is rare these days. The A-24 lists for $599, though most dealers price it right around $300, while the A6 is even more affordable.

Spidertracks
www.spidertracks.com
Spidertracks is a PLB that allows you to pinpoint your position when traveling, send out distress messages and displays your track graphically. The lightweight S3 unit is designed for either private or light commercial aircraft. It has an integrated keypad and sits on the dashboard of your aircraft with an adhesive bracket. The S3 is powered through a cigarette lighter plug or hardwired into the aircraft's electrical system. Once powered up, the unit sends your location at intervals based on which subscription plan you choose. If the unit stops sending position reports (as in a crash), a distress signal is sent with your GPS coordinates. Spidertracks works in conjunction with a website piece that acts as a sort of "flight following" monitor and turns on automatically when you take off. The website piece displays where you took off, where you flew, how far you flew, how fast and how high, and records it all automatically in your online logbook. Friends and family can also view your flights through the web feature. The S3 lists for $995 plus various subscription plans based on how many hours you fly.

Sporty's SP-400
www.sportys.com
If Sporty's knows one thing, it's what pilots really use and what they really want. It's this thought process that resulted in Sporty's own SP-400 handheld NAV/COM radio. The SP-400 is so powerful that it matches---and sometimes exceeds---panel-mounted gear. The unit's oversized, crisp, high-resolution screen makes it easy on eyes of any age. The SP-400's simplicity is refreshing: There are no menus or wheels or touch screens. You just type in the frequency using the perfectly sized keys. Easy-to-find AA batteries power the unit, and it all fits in the palm of your hand. On the technical side, the SP-400 sports flip-flop frequencies, and both a NAV and COM mode. It's the only portable unit in the industry with a big ILS and VOR display. It also features a built-in NOAA weather receiver. Several accessories are available. $399.

SPOT Connect
www.findmespot.com
SPOT has become well known for their little orange PLBs. The devices have revolutionized hiking, boating and flying by allowing the user to initiate a distress signal that uses satellites instead of cellular towers. SPOT continues its innovation with their newest "connect" device that turns any smartphone into a full-featured satellite communicator. Connect is a three-inch square that works in conjunction with the SPOT app you download to your smartphone. You pair the two via Bluetooth, and you now have a communicator that can send text messages from just about anywhere on Earth. Connect will track your progress on Google Maps or SPOT Adventures web page, and it interfaces with social networking sites like Facebook so your friends and family can follow your progress visually. Connect even has an on-device "SOS" button for emergencies even without a cell phone. Connect lists for $169.99 and you'll need a one or two-year subscription plan beginning at $99/year.

Yaesu VXA-710
www.yaesu.com/airband
Yaesu has been making marine and airband radios for decades. With one of the smallest footprints and most affordable price tags, the VXA-710 is a versatile handheld NAV/COM communications radio. In addition to typical voice features, the VXA-710 radio is fully submersible and has a tough outer casing. It features a "quick-press" button for emergencies that immediately puts you on 121.5 MHz. The NAV mode has VOR and CDI indications, and a cool split mode where you can transmit to FSS while receiving a VOR station. A Yaesu exclusive, the unit receives Business Radio Service (BRS) broadcasts, as well as weather information and alerts from NOAA. The VXA-710 has a stopwatch timer mode, automatic power off to conserve battery life, display customization and a lot more. It comes with an antenna and antenna adapter for BNC (used in aviation), wall charger, Lithium battery pack and headset adapter. Lists for $297.

It's exciting to watch new devices hit the aviation and, in many cases, give new life to aircraft everywhere. Years ago it would have been inconceivable to have the situational awareness available now, literally in the palm of your hand and thus accessible in aircraft of any size or age. These ever-shrinking devices are making flying safer by giving the pilot more information and more options, whether it's through enhanced weather data or the ability to be found in case of a forced landing. With advances coming as fast as they are, it's anybody's guess what we'll be writing about in five years. But I can't wait.