Garmin has launched a series of comm and nav/comm radios that offer feature-rich solutions in a slim 1.3-inch bezel height form factor. The GTR 205 comm radio and GNC 215 nav/comm radio are affordable solutions for customers that feature an easy-to-read full colour LCD display, intuitive user interface and worldwide frequency database.

"The GTR 205 and GNC 215 products show Garmin's commitment to offering attractive and affordable ground-based navigation and communication options while continuing to provide world-class, modern capabilities. We are excited to offer these new solutions for our general aviation customers as we keep our entire product line fresh," says vice president of aviation sales and marketing Carl Wolf.

Designed for both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, the GTR 205 and GNC 215 are versatile radios that can serve in a variety of aircraft types and panel installations. The 1.3-inch height form factor matches previous-generation SL30 and SL40 radios, enabling easier upgrades and creating more room in space constrained panels. Pilot-selectable 25 kHz or 8.33 kHz channel spacing provides global capability. Both radios feature a sunlight-readable colour LCD display, indicating the currently tuned active and standby frequencies, as well as their station ID, such as 'KOJC TWR' or 'KSLE ATIS'. The vibrant display as well as the dual concentric knob and backlit keys mimic those found on other modern Garmin avionics products, providing an intuitive user interface and simplifying product operation.

Adding advanced communication capabilities to any panel, the GTR 205 is an optimised and cost-effective solution. The 2,280-channel capable VHF comm radio comes standard with 10 watts of power, and a 16 watt option is also available. For operators requiring NVIS compatibility, there is an option for that as well. Additionally, pilots can monitor a standby comm frequency while tuned to the active frequency, allowing them to perform various tasks such as listening to ATIS transmissions without leaving the active ATC frequency.

The worldwide frequency database makes it convenient to find frequencies by searching an airport identifier. Frequency memory and instant recall make tuning to the most often or recently used frequencies quick and efficient, plus holding down the volume knob will quick-tune to the emergency channel 121.5. To assist with approaches, holds or other assigned manoeuvres, the GTR 205 includes a built-in timer, with the option to count up or count down.

The GNC 215 nav/comm radio offers all the same comm features as the GTR 205, while also adding full VHF navigation capabilities, including VOR/ILS with localiser and glideslope. Navaid lookup allows the GNC 215 to find the desired frequency from its built-in worldwide database when entering a navaid, and the automatic station ID feature will automatically decode a station's Morse code to provide positive visual identification.

The GNC 215 also has the ability to monitor the standby VOR frequency while displaying the received radial and features a supplemental CDI display for a VOR or localiser. These nav/comm products interface with most CDI, HSI and autopilot systems, as well as most Garmin flight displays to show the nav indicators in the primary field of view.

The GTR 205 and GNC 215 have received FAA Technical Standard Order authorisation and will be available in March through the Garmin authorised dealer network.