- there are not enough Avidyne dealers

- many shops (dealer or not) are not available or interested in doing IFD software updates

- it would seem that more updates are going to be coming down the road as the IFDs full potential is realized through firmware upgrades

_SO_ owner assisted/A&P updates are likely to be the process for the short term and probably intermediate feature.

_AND_ there is some apprehension from A&Ps about doing and signing off as well.

I think we users largely don't see the current process as either comfortable, convenient, or viable in the long term.

 We all want to see Avidyne succeed, and the IFDs continue to acquire new capabilities.  So why not embrace the owner/A&P reality?

I would suggest Avi develop and sell an IFD docking station (like there was for the G* 530).  That way, the vagaries around power continuity should not be a consideration.  Updates, then, would just involve pulling the unit (an A&P can do this without issue), situate it on the docking station on a desk or bench, and follow the firmware update guide.  Then, when finished, return the unit to the radio stack.  Done!

Avi could even do this as a remote service if they wanted.  Dock the unit, log it onto the ambient wifi, and do this remotely (as is done now in the network world by most IT help desks).

I'd be willing to pay a reasonable amount for a dock.  It could even be multi-purpose for unit training and orientation, though I would not want my units to be slid in and out of the radio stack more times than necessary.

Mike