010-10579-20 - Garmin Aviation USB Aviation GNS Series Data Card Programmer

010-10579-20 – Garmin Aviation USB GNS Series Data Card Programmer

Available now on the Airparts.aero Marketplace.

Overview

The Garmin 010-10579-20 is a genuine OEM USB Aviation Data Card Programmer, an essential ground support tool for pilots and avionics technicians who operate and maintain aircraft equipped with the legendary GNS 400 & 500 series of IFR navigators. This device provides the critical hardware interface between a modern computer and the proprietary Garmin data cards used by these avionics. It enables users to download and program the latest Garmin Navigation, Terrain, and Obstacle database updates via a high-speed USB connection, ensuring the continued IFR-currency and safety of the aircraft's navigation system.

Key Features

• High-Speed Data Transfer: Engineered for significantly faster data transfer speeds—up to 80% faster than previous models. This drastically reduces the time required to program large Terrain and Obstacle database files, minimizing aircraft downtime.
• USB Interface: Provides a simple and universal plug-and-play USB connection to any compatible Windows-based PC, eliminating the need for obsolete serial ports or other legacy connection types.
• Garmin Database Compatibility: Specifically designed to program Garmin-sourced databases, including the 28-day AIRAC cycle NavData, as well as periodic Terrain and Obstacle database updates downloaded directly from the flyGarmin.com portal.
• RoHS Compliant Design: Manufactured in compliance with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive, ensuring global availability and environmental responsibility.
• Legacy System Support: The sole piece of hardware designed by Garmin to support database updates for one of the most prolific and reliable IFR GPS systems ever built, ensuring continued operational viability for thousands of aircraft worldwide.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 010-10579-20
• Component Type: USB Data Card Programmer/Writer
• Interface: USB Type-A to PC
• Compatibility: Garmin Proprietary GNS Series Data Cards (all types)
• Supported Databases: Garmin Navigation, Terrain, Obstacle
• Power Source: Powered via USB port
• External Dimensions: Approx. 4.95" (L) x 4.3" (W) x 1.2" (H)
• Weight: Approx. 0.24 lbs

Avionics Compatibility

The Garmin 010-10579-20 is purpose-built to program the data cards for the following Garmin panel-mount GPS systems:

• GNS 530 / 530W
• GNS 430 / 430W
• GPS 500 / 500W
• GPS 400 / 400W
• GNC 420 / 420W

Applications

This data card programmer is the essential tool for performing required database updates for IFR flight:

• Navigation Database Updates: Used to load the latest 28-day AIRAC cycle, which includes new airports, waypoints, instrument procedures, and airspace changes, a requirement for legal IFR flight.
• Terrain & Obstacle Updates: Allows for the programming of updated terrain and obstacle databases, which are critical for the function of the unit's TAWS (Terrain Awareness and Warning System).
• Avionics Shop & FBO Services: A necessary piece of shop equipment for any avionics facility or FBO that provides database update services to customers with GNS-equipped aircraft.

Why Choose 010-10579-20?

For an IFR-certified GPS navigator, flying with an expired navigation database is not only potentially unsafe but also a violation of regulations. The Garmin 010-10579-20 is the only factory-approved hardware solution for loading current Garmin databases onto GNS series data cards. It ensures a fast, reliable, and error-free data transfer process, giving pilots the confidence that their navigation system is current, compliant, and ready for flight. For any owner or operator of a GNS-equipped aircraft, this programmer is an indispensable tool for maintaining the safety and utility of their avionics investment.

Order Your 010-10579-20 Data Card Programmer Now

Keep your trusted Garmin GNS navigator current and IFR-compliant. Visit Airparts.aero to order your genuine Garmin USB Aviation Data Card Programmer today.

The 010-10579-20 programmer, in conjunction with the Garmin Aviation Database Manager software, provides the essential ecosystem for maintaining the certification of GNS series navigators. These legacy units store their critical aeronautical information on removable proprietary data cards. The NavData card (green for non-WAAS, orange/silver for WAAS) contains all waypoint, airport, and instrument procedure information. The Terrain/Obstacle card contains the high-resolution data that drives the TAWS safety feature. The 010-10579-20 contains the specific hardware controller and pin-out required to interface with these cards, allowing the Database Manager software to securely write new data cycles, which are encrypted and tied to a specific system ID. This ensures the integrity of the data and compliance with FAA requirements for certified navigation sources.

Note: This device is for programming Garmin-sourced databases only. It is not compatible with Jeppesen NavData update services, which require a different programmer (Jeppesen Skybound). The programmer does not include the data card or the database subscription, which must be purchased separately via a flyGarmin.com account. This device is compatible with Windows operating systems; it is not compatible with macOS.