Baron GNS430 as Nav Source

[kityatyi]

Hi all,

Can someone advise whether a single GNS430 unit (without a GNS530 as a second unit) can be used as a nav source? When I select this configuration (the single GNS430 GPS unit), it would appear I cannot select the GPS as the nav source. As if it was available as a COM unit only, with the added benefit of a moving map, but without the ability to couple it to the autopilot.

As soon as I choose the double GPS config (GNS530 + GNS430) or the single GNS530, then the green GPS appears as an option for the nav source, which can be toggled using the NAV/GPS button. Nothing happens, however, when the single GNS430 configuration is active, pressing the NAV/GPS button does not do anything. Is this intentionally so? Why the smaller GPS unit cannot be used as a nav source? Or am I doing something incorrectly?

[jbbz]

When configured as NAV2 the GNS unit does not drive the external navigation displays. GPS Navigation must be done using AP in heading mode and the CDI shown on the digital screen. The exception is the DME display can be used with NAV2.

As for the pilot accessory status display what you describe could be called a bug.

But selecting GNS530 as NAV1 and KX155 as NAV2 is much more aligned with a real-world updated cockpit. Nobody would install an expensive GNS and not be able to use it.

[kityatyi]

@jbbz

Thank you. It makes sense. Appreciate your reply.

It would be awesome if the smaller GPS, the GNS430 could be made as a NAV1 option. I personally would love to use it as the "main" nav unit, without the GNS530 also being installed.

[jbbz]

@kityatyi The way that MSFS assigns NAV 1 or 2 to a GPS unit is fixed at airplane load and not able to be dynamicly changed by switch while airplane is running.

I could give you a patched file that made GNS430 NAV1 but then GNS530 could not be used as NAV1 after changing switches.

Changing to two GNS430s would not fit the visibility boxes. There would be a black gap between units.

So I don't see any practical way compatible with the dynamic switch feature. Would have to be a third airplane type with fixed configuration and no GNS530 available.

[Voice of Reason]

Answer direct from the developer for you...

'This is a limitation of the 3rd party GPS addons that are used as NAVCOM2, unfortunately. Luckily, it's not impossible, and I know at least some of the GPS developers are currently working on this feature. I will make sure any changes are made to make my aircraft compatible when/if it does come to pass.'