DME - indispensable in Europe, dispensable in the USA?
While DME systems in North America may often be substituted by GPS-based distance information, their use in Europe is still widespread and in some cases prescribed by regulation. Especially for conventional instrument approaches (e.g. LOC/DME, VOR/DME) and for RNAV method based on DME/DME demands the EASA in many cases a physical DME device on board.
Until now, Garmin had to rely on third-party providers such as Collins, Honeywell or King to integrate DME functionality into its avionics solutions. With the new products GDM 450R and GDM 4500 Garmin now offers for the first time its own solution that is fully integrated into the Garmin architecture is integrated - including integration in TXi displays, GTN navigators and G500/G600 systems.
GDM 450R - the smart solution for general aviation
The model GDM 450R is for the Remote mounting and does not have its own control panel. It is controlled via existing Garmin screens in the cockpit. The compact design and uncomplicated system integration make the device particularly interesting for:
- Single-engine piston aeroplanes
- G500/G600 or TXi users
- Aircraft to be retrofitted for EASA/ICAO-compliant IFR procedures
One outstanding feature: The GDM 450R can be Receive two DME frequencies simultaneously and additionally Scan up to three additional stations. This ability is particularly valuable for modern RNAV RNP-DME/DME-based area navigation procedures - a plus point for operators who regularly fly in complex European airspaces.
GDM 4500 - robust high performance for turbines and helicopters
For more demanding applications such as Business jets, turboprops and helicopters Garmin has developed the model GDM 4500 developed. It features:
- ARINC-429 interfaces
- one Environmentally hardened housing for demanding operating conditions
- full Compatibility with third-party systemse.g. Collins Pro Line or Honeywell Primus
This makes the GDM 4500 not only an ideal option for new aircraft programmes, but also a Attractive retrofit system for fleet operators and aviation authorities.
Retrofit made easy - modern DME technology without a complete conversion
Both DME systems are also expressly available as Retrofit solution for existing installations suitable. Thanks to modern digital architecture and compact design they can replace older devices such as the King KN 63, the Collins DME-4000 or the Rockwell Collins DME-42 without complete avionics conversion.
Native integration into Garmin displays also eliminates the need for additional operating devices in the panel - an advantage, especially when space is at a premium in GA cockpits.
TXi display family gets 12.1-inch extension
In addition to the DME debut, Garmin has also launched the TXi series with a new, larger model: the 12.1-inch TXi complements the previous formats (7″ and 10.6″) and offers:
- More space for complex flight displays
- Larger display of navigation maps, traffic and weather data
- Optimised display in split-screen mode
The display can be used both as PFD (Primary Flight Display) as well as MFD (Multifunction Display) as usual in horizontal or vertical installation. The main target groups are High-end single-engine aircraft, Turboprops and Helicopterwhere panel size is not a limiting factor.
Availability and outlook
Garmin announced that both the GDM 450R / GDM 4500 DME systems as well as the new 12.1-inch TXi display from summer 2025 will be available. Prices have not yet been announced at the time of publication, but are likely to be in line with previous DME systems.
Classification: Why is this relevant?
By entering the DME market, Garmin is closing a strategic gap in its own portfolio - particularly important for European users who have had to make do with less integrated solutions to date. The seamless integration into existing Garmin systems, combined with state-of-the-art technology and a retrofit focus, makes the new products an important building block for the future of IFR avionics in the GA sector.
Source references:
Aviation magazine