Garmin 96c problem/query (Merged)

[bsfish2003]

Newbie to GPS. Just bought this unit and trying to set it up. One (so far!) problem.
On map set up page there is no (as per instruction manual) "Set up obstacles" in list of options. Anyone know why this should be so?

[Henry Hallam]

According to the Garmin website the obstacle database only covers the USA, so maybe they just don't give you the menu option when the European mapset is loaded.

Perhaps a future downloadable update will include obstacles for the UK and the rest of Europe?

[bsfish2003]

Thanks for that, Henry.

[bsfish2003]

Sorry to be a pain, folks. I have not used this in "anger" yet, so can anyone who has experienced its use tell me if, in a PA-28, I am like likely to need the remote antenna?

[Pat210]

My Garmin 296 definitely requires external in our PA28

[dwshimoda]

Sorry to be a pain, folks. I have not used this in "anger" yet, so can anyone who has experienced its use tell me if, in a PA-28, I am like likely to need the remote antenna?

I have found that in a C172 you definiteyly need a remote antenna, otherwise you keep getting "poor reception" and "satellite reception lost" errors.

Also, having then bought a remote antenna, you'll find that the accuracy is far more precise. You don't need the Garmin unit at £80 though - there are plenty of units available on ebay for far less. I f you want a specific, I bought one, including mount for less than £25 - PM me for details if you need.

DW :ok:

[TC_LTN]

Perhaps a future downloadable update will include obstacles for the UK and the rest of Europe?
You could always try my add-on obstruction database as an interim. The functionality is not the same as the US only product it does provide visual symbology for the entire UK (plus Spain And Holland) and gives an elevation for the obstruction by simply moving the cursor over the symbol.
Check the add-ons out at www.pipercub.org.uk

[GolfWhiskeyKilo]

My GPS96 (mono) works fine in a PA28 WITHOUT the extra antenna. I'd say try it before you take the plunge in buying extras for it!

WK

[fescalised portion]

My 96c also worked perfectly in a PA-28. The batteries won't last more than 2 hours if you use the background lighting though. Use the cigarette lighter adaptor if it is available to you.

[wombat13]

I used the 96c in the club archer for about 8 months without antenna. For the last four months I have used the external antenna and it is MILES better.

Miminum 9 sat's every time.

The Wombat