EKP-IV Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is the EKP-IV cartography so detailed?
- The EKP-IV has different keys. What are they for?
- What are the interfaces on the EKP-IV used for?
- Can the EKP-IV use DGPS?
- The EKP-IV gives altitude... can I use it?
- What to do if the yoke mount is not possible?
- Can I update the Internal Jeppesen aeronautical data?
- What are waypoints and routes?
- How many waypoints can the EKP-IV hold?
- Is there a track log?
- Can the EKP-IV software and navdata be updated via the WEB?
- Can I create a flight plan on the map?
- Can I create a flight plan using NawBox, Jeppesen Flightstar or other?
- Can I define what I see in the data window?
- What is the difference between Aeronautical, Aero + terrestrial and marine map presentation?
- When arrived at destination, can I reverse the flight plan?
- Does the NEAR function (PAGE button) do more than bring me to the nearest Airport?
- What about MORA (Minimum Off-Route Altitude)?
- What is NMEA?
- In the MENU MAP among the items there are not the Land Elevation. Why?
- I have an AvMap EKP IV. What can I do in order to get the TAWS (Terrain Awareness Warning System)?
- Can I choose which NMEA strings can I get from the GPS antenna of my AvMap EKP IV?
- I have updated my AvMap EKP IV to the software version 1.xx.xxxR, with the Land Elevation data and TAWS (Terrains Awareness Warning System). What can I do to display this last data on the map?
- Is it possible to modify the Checklists of my AvMap EKP IV?
- I have an AvMap EKP IV. I would like to update it to the PRO version. Is it possible?
- What can I do to get the Low Airways on my AvMap EKP IV?
- I have an AvMap EKP III C. Can I update my unit with the TAWS (Terrain Awareness Warning System) and the Low Airways?
- From which scale can I display the Low Airways on the map of my AvMap EKP IV?
Q. Why is the EKP-IV cartography so detailed?
A. In contrast with the EKP-IIIc the EKP-IV has 2 layers instead of 3. The EKP-IIIc had a background layer, using CMAP vector data, a detailed layer (via a c-card) using TeleAtlas© data and the Aeronautical layer (using Jeppesen NavData). The EKP-IV uses 2 layers of mapping data. In the background layer TeleAtlas© vector data is used. This makes the EKP-IV so distict in all zoom levels. The TeleAtlas© vector data allows you to select all the detail you want, when you want it.
Q. The EKP-IV has different keys. What are they for?
- A) Data Fields
- Monitors data related to the current flight. User can choose several screen options and preset data fields based on mode of flight. Options include: interim and final destination; waypoint/airport info; distance; ETE; ETA; bearing; cross-track error; GPS info; as well as vertical navigation, fuel consumption, A-B function and timers.
- B) Power
- Brightness & contrast control, power-on/off unit.
- C) Page
- Displays 'Nearest' functions to include: Airports; VORs; NDBs; Intersections; ARTCC and FSS Frequencies; Points of Information (POIs). By holding the PAGE key 2 seconds an overview of all datafields will be displayed
- D) GoTo
- Allows direct 'GoTo' to any of the following: Cursor location, Airports, VORs, NDBs, Intersections and User Waypoints.
- E) Cursor Control
- Provides full range of panning capability, as well as auto info on map and NavData.
- F) Menu
- Easy access to all navigation and mapping functions.
- G) Cycle
- Function allows user to scroll between three pre-set data screens.
Q. What are the interfaces on the EKP-IV used for?
A. The EKP-IV has 4 interfaces:
- Compact Flash
- This 128MB card holds the software, maps and Jeppesen NavData. You can take the CF card out of the EKP-IV when updating software or Jeppesen NavData on you PC.
- Serial/Power
- Via the serial connection you are able to communicatie with the EKP-IV. It allows you to transfer flight plans, track data, waypoints either via you own software or by using AvMap's PCplanner. It also allows you to connect to the airplain's autopilot (using the NMEA0183 protocol).
- USB/IR
- The USB connection, just like the Infra Red (IR) port are there for future development. The idea behind the IR port is to allow you to have some kind of remote control. The way this is best implemented is under study. The USB port will allow you to connect the EKP-IV to you PC so that you have similar fuctionality as the serial port (up- and download flight plan, waypoints, track data and be able to update software and Jeppsesen NavData.
Q. Can the EKP-IV use DGPS?
A. Yes AvMap's EKP-IV can receive and process DGPS data. To do this a DGPS signal needs to be added to the EKP-IV. It is also possible to receive differential correction via WAAS. (for Europe EGNOS)
Q. The EKP-IV gives altitude... can I use it?
A. Although the EKP-IV gives you an altitude (corrected for height above ellipsoid) with a possible precision of 21-60 feet it still is merely informative. As a pilot you can only rely on your altimeter (which has a tolerance of +-60ft) as the only reliable source. Don't forget that the altitude is in function of barometric pressure, something a GPS does not take into account. To improve altitude reading on the GPS, WAAS should be enabled. You should then also check operation of WAAS.
Q. What to do if the yoke mount is not possible?
A. AvMap's EKP-IV is designed so that it can be mounted on a yoke or fitted on your knee. A Velcro (included in the package) securely holds the EKP-IV in position. As an option you can have other mounting devices that are produced by RAM Inc for example.
Q. Can I update the Internal Jeppesen aeronautical data?
A. Yes you can. We can provide you with a 28, 56, 84, 168 day or yearly update cycle. You will receive a file by email and update via following procedure (a Compact Flash card reader is needed):
- Connect the Compact Flash reader to the PC (through USB port).
- Remove The Compact Flash from EKP IV (it must be off) and put it in the CF reader.
- Open My Computer and click on Removable device.
- (We suggest to make a complete backup of your CF card, by copying the content on your PC)
- Inside you find a folder named "Charts", in this folder you find a file named EAN010.xx.AGS. Delete it and replace it with the one sent.
- Click on Removable device with the right button of the mouse and select EJECT.
- Wait a few seconds then take the Compact Flash off the reader.
- Put it into EKP IV.
- At this point your chart has been changed
Q. What are waypoints and routes?
A. A waypoint is just a position stored in the EKP-IV memory. The EKP-IV can calculate the distance and direction (and time-to-go) to the waypoint and , if interfaced to an autopilot, will direct the autopilot to steer the plane to the waypoint. A route is a series of waypoints. When navigating a route, the GPS will automatically change the destination waypoint to the next waypoint on the list as it reaches each waypoint. The EKP-IV or autopilot normally sounds an alarm, and requires an acknowledgment, before making any course change.
Q. How many waypoints can the EKP-IV hold?
A. The EKP-IV can store up to 1000 pilot definable waypoints within the internal memory. The internal waypoint memory capacity is shared with flight plan waypoints. There can be 10 flight plans, each consisting of 100 waypoints. Additional waypoints can be stored in the optional user C-card.
Q. Is there a track log?
A. Yes AvMap's EKP-IV is equipped with a 5000-point track log. It can be configured to capture points automatically or at defined time or distance steps.
Q. Can the EKP-IV software and navdata be updated via the WEB?
A. No, today the EKP-IV doesn't have this feature. In the near future it will be possible to do an update for registered users. When available, the web update feature will work on all EKP-III moving map GPS's. You will only need a cable to connect your EKP-III with the PC.
Q. Can I create a flight plan on the map?
A. Yes you can. The AvMap EKP-IV allows you to create your flight plan on the map or from the flight plan page (or both). If you are working on the map, you will also be able to add a waypoint just by positioning the cursor on a leg, clicking on Add Flight Plan Leg, positioning the cursor and pressing Enter.
Q. Can I create a flight plan using NawBox, Jeppesen Flightstar or other?
A. No, not yet. If you want to create a flight plan on your PC you can use PC-Planner which is also available via Visionaire. One advantage of PC-Planner is that you will also be able to up- and download Waypoints as well as dowload tracks. Visionaire also developed a small interface application between FliteStar and the EKP-IV. This application will download a FliteStar exported flight plan. For more information ekp@visionaire.be
Q. Can I define what I see in the data window?
A. Yes you can. Every data window (1, 2, 3, HSI) can be customised individually. These customisations are stored in memory and these data windows can be recalled via the quick access menu whenever you need them.
Q. What is the difference between Aeronautical, Aero + terrestrial and marine map presentation?
A. The Aeronautical setting will change all land based details to a light color to enhance aeronautical data. Aero+Terrestrial will show you land an aeronautical details (default setting). The Marine setting will be used when a C-MAP Marine C-Card is inserted and will show all marine related details (lights, depth,harbour details …).
Q. When arrived at destination, can I reverse the flight plan?
A. Yes this feature in provided in the EKP-IV.
Q. Does the NEAR function (PAGE button) do more than bring me to the nearest Airport?
A. The EKP-IV pops up a menu from which you can choose between Airports, VOR’s, NDB’s, Intersections, user waypoints when pressing PAGE. A list will be presented with the object closest to you (distance and ETE). Holding the PAGE button 2 seconds will display all data fields. Pressing ESC brings you back to the Map view.
Q. What about MORA (Minimum Off-Route Altitude)?
A. The EKP-IV has an option that allows you to see a grid MORA on the Moving Map, just like you have on your charts. Grid MORA clears all terrain and obstructions by 1000ft below 5000ft and 2000ft above 5000ft MSL. MORA’s are not shown where there is no published data.
Q. What is NMEA?
A. The National Marine Electronics Association is dedicated to the education and advancement of the marine electronics industry and the market that it serves. It is a non-profit association composed of manufacturers, distributors, dealers, educational institutions, and others interested in peripheralmarine electronics occupations (quoted from a promo in "NMEA News")
Q. In the MENU MAP among the items there are not the Land Elevation. Why?
A. If you have updated your AvMap EKP IV to the version 1.xx.xxxR and you have installed on your 256 MB Compact Flash (or 512 MB if you have an AvMap EKP IV PRO) the Jeppesen file that includes the Low Airways, the Land Elevation item has been deleted only by the menu. The Land Elevation is still displayed but up to 100 Nm scale. Starting from 50 Nm the display with the airways is activated. Please Note: if you activate the airways the Land Elevation value is displayed in the QUICK INFO window.
Q. I have an AvMap EKP IV. What can I do in order to get the TAWS (Terrain Awareness Warning System)?
A. In order to display the TAWS on your AvMap EKP IV you need:
- To update the software version of your unit to the release 1.xx.xxxR
- To purchase the Jeppesen update including the Land Elevation data
Q. Can I choose which NMEA strings can I get from the GPS antenna of my AvMap EKP IV?
A. This function is now available. You need to update your unit to the version 1.xx.xxx. Enter the COMUNICATION menu (pressing twice the MENU key from the Map mode), select the ‘SELECT NMEA MESSAGES’ item: it gives you the possibility to choose which NMEA strings get from your GPS when the NMEA output is set on ‘ON’. The default values re: RMC, RMB, GGA.
Q. I have updated my AvMap EKP IV to the software version 1.xx.xxxR, with the Land Elevation data and TAWS (Terrains Awareness Warning System). What can I do to display this last data on the map?
A. To display the TAWS you need to set your unit. In Map mode, press once the MENU key, select once the MENU key, select TERRAINS and press ENTER to confirm. A menu is displayed: select TAWS and confirm pressing ENTER. After this operation the TAWS is not visible yet on the map. It is necessary to activate your own position (fix): this is possible connecting the GPS antenna to the AvMap EKP IV. Otherwise you can set the unit in Simulation mode: press twice the MENU key and select ‘Simulator’ from the Main Menu. Press ENTER to enter the menu and set ‘ON’ in ‘Simulation’. Once you set it, the TAWS are displayed at any scale.
Important Note, suitable as well for the users who carry on the Low Airways update: we want to underline that even if the TAW squares might appear anaesthetically, AvMap prefers to conform to what the TAWS proposes: to represent a set of rules for the security. Following this aim, that’s why the Low Airways are reported on the map of your AvMap EKP IV in cyan and purple colour: we firmly believe they are the only two colours that can be perfectly displayed on the red, green or yellow squares of the TAWS.
Q. Is it possible to modify the Checklists of my AvMap EKP IV?
A. Thanks to the software version 1.xx.xxxR it is now possible to modify the Checklists. From the Map mode press twice the MENU key, select CHECKLISTS and press ENTER to confirm. Choose which list you want to edit.
Q. I have an AvMap EKP IV. I would like to update it to the PRO version. Is it possible?
A. If you have an AvMap EKP IV and you want take advantage of the additional functions of the AvMap EKP IV PRO, you can turn your model into a PRO version purchasing the EKP IV Upgrade Kit. The additional functions are:
- Functions for the automatic creation of Search and Rescue flight pattern.
- Customized Regional Coverage Area
- Place and Street Research
- Connection to the radio localization system Telefix and/or Kenwood APRS
Q. What can I do to get the Low Airways on my AvMap EKP IV?
A. If you are interested in the Low Airways and you want to get them please remember that you need:
- To update the software version to the release1.10.xxR. In order to get the software please send an e-mail to info@avmap.it. Remember that in order to carry on the update you need a memory card reader. The update is sent by e-mail with a complete procedure.
- To purchase the Jeppesen Database including the Low Airways data. In order to get the file please send an e-mail to info@avmap.it. Remember that in order to carry on the update you need a memory card reader. The update is sent by e-mail with a complete procedure. A new release is available every 28 days.
- For the AvMap EKP IV you need a 256 MB C-Map Compact Flash.
If your model is an AvMap EKP IV with a 128 C-Map Compact Flash you can get a permutation. If you send back your CF you will receive a bigger size one, a 256 MB. The very first time you want to carry on the update you have to send your CF back to the AvMap Technical Supporting Centre. This operation is required since the 128 MB CF can’t contain all the data you are interested in. Next time the Jeppesen update related to the Low Airways could be received by e-mail. If your model is an AvMap EKP IV PRO you just need to ask for the Jeppesen update related to the Low Airways and received it by e-mail. For method of payment and shipment conditions please contact us at info@avmap.it
Q. I have an AvMap EKP III C. Can I update my unit with the TAWS (Terrain Awareness Warning System) and the Low Airways?
A. Taws and Low Airways are available for AvMap EKP IV and AvMap EKP IV PRO only.
Q. From which scale can I display the Low Airways on the map of my AvMap EKP IV?
A. The Airline Airway, Control Airway and Direct Route Airway are showed from 5 Nm. This is the default setting. It is also possible to select them in scale 50 Nm, 20 Nm, 10 Nm. The Official Designated Airway and RNAV Airway have been set from scale 50 Nm.