Pilot’s guide to the iPad connected panel

There are many connected panel systems available today which allow you to wirelessly connect your iPad to panel-mount GPS and ADS-B receivers. Here's a rundown of all the aftermarket GA avionics options and mobile app compatibility with each.

Use the Robust clamp to mount your iPad in multiple locations

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Finding the right hardware to mount your iPad or iPhone in the cockpit can be challenging. Fortunately, Robust offers several universal options designed for any size iPad or iPhone and can be mounted in multiple places in the cockpit.
Desk mount for tablet

Four new iPad accessories for pilots

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As any experienced iPad pilot knows, a few good accessories can make your tablet easier to use, more reliable, and more powerful. Here's a roundup of some new products that fit that description, from mounts to charging tools.

Using the Garmin D2 Air X10 with your iPhone and Garmin Pilot

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Garmin continues to improve their range of aviation smartwatches, and the new D2 Air X10 is their best yet. While it can function quite well as a standalone navigator (using the internal GPS and aviation database), it is even more powerful when paired with a smartphone. This allows you to get updated weather and even share flight plans; it's really an extension of your flight deck. Here's what it can do.
Dual 150

What’s the best external GPS for pilots?

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External iPad GPSs were one of the first accessories to appear for the iPad. After the iPad was released in 2010, pilots quickly realized that the tablet was far more useful with an accurate position source—moving maps, terrain warnings, and so much more come into play. Initially, there were very few options for pilots, but the market rapidly expanded and now there are more choices than ever. How do you pick the right one? Let's survey the market.
Flight Gear charging plug

Understanding USB-C and Power Delivery

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In a world of competing standards (iOS or Android, Safari or Chrome, Garmin or Avidyne), USB seems like a simple and comforting exception. But now the familiar USB-A port is slowly fading away. Here's what you need to know about USB-C plugs and what Power Delivery means.

What’s new in iPad accessories

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An iPad by itself is useful, but the smart pilot knows that a few well-chosen accessories can transform a simple tablet into a powerful electronic flight bag. Fortunately, a robust market has sprung up to provide these accessories, with solutions for mounting, protecting, and charging a tablet in flight. The second half of 2021 has brought a steady stream of new products in this category—here's a review.

iPad pilot gift guide—2021 edition

Whether you're a pilot shopping for another aviation enthusiast or you're a non-pilot desperately trying to figure out what to buy the (slightly odd?) aviator on your list, iPad apps and accessories are a good bet. Over 10 years into the tablet revolution, pilots are still snapping up this gear at a tremendous rate. Here's our list of the top 10 things any iPad pilot would like this Christmas.
18W iPad charger

Tips for charging your iPad before flight and in the cockpit

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One of the standout features of the iPad is its long battery life, but it's always a good idea to charge the iPad the night before your flight and start with a full battery. In fact, running out of battery power is about the only problem we've had in ten years of flying with the iPad. Here's how to avoid that situation, including some recommendations for the right charging gear.

Video: how to use SiriusXM Weather in Garmin Pilot

Datalink weather has transformed in-flight decision making, especially since it can be accessed with affordable portable receivers and displayed on popular EFB apps. This quick video tip from Garmin shows how to set up SiriusXM satellite weather on the Garmin Pilot app, how to enable different weather layers, and even how to use widgets to get detailed data on airport conditions. If you're only looking at radar, this video will help you dive deeper.
GPS outage

GPS outages—how ADS-B receivers can protect against jamming

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Portable ADS-B receivers like Sentry are must-have devices for many pilots, delivering subscription-free weather that helps make better in-flight decisions. Beyond datalink weather, many pilots have also discovered the value of having a portable ADS-B receiver as a backup. There's another level of redundancy that most pilots don't consider, though: GPS failure.

Video: comparing the top 4 iPad kneeboards

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Kneeboards have changed drastically over the last 15 years. Once used for charts and flight plan forms, kneeboards are now used to hold the most trusted navigational tool: an iPad, tablet, or phone. There are more options than ever, ranging from very basic to deluxe, so the decision can be a difficult one. In this new video, Sporty's John Zimmerman compares four popular kneeboards, and offers his thoughts on the strengths and weaknesses of each one.