Resetting a glass cockpit PFD after a battery disconnect is typically done by simply reconnecting the battery and powering on the avionics. Modern avionics systems, such as those from Garmin, Dynon, and Avidyne, are designed to retain their configuration data without power. After a battery disconnect, the PFD will perform its normal power-on self-test and retrieve its configuration from non-volatile memory or a configuration module.
The Role of Configuration Modules
Most certified glass cockpit systems use a configuration module or a similar non-volatile memory to store aircraft-specific settings. This is a crucial design feature based on the principle of consistency. When a PFD unit is installed, its settings (like engine parameters, sensor calibrations, and other aircraft-specific data) are saved to this module. When the PFD powers on, it reads this data. This means that a battery disconnect doesn’t erase these critical settings. The process of powering on the aircraft and running through the checklists is often all that is required to bring the PFD back online.
When a PFD Reset Is Needed
A manual reset is rarely needed after a simple battery disconnect. However, if the PFD displays an error message on startup, such as a “configuration error,” a manual reset procedure may be necessary. This is not a common occurrence but can happen if the system’s software was being updated or if the battery was weak during a startup. A technician would then follow a specific procedure, often involving holding a button while a circuit breaker is reset, to force the unit to reload its configuration data from the configuration module. The manufacturer’s maintenance manual is the authority on the specific procedure for each system.
The Aero Center’s Commitment
At The Aero Center, we understand that a grounded aircraft is a major inconvenience. Serving California, Arizona, and Nevada, our certified technicians have the specialized tools and manufacturer-specific knowledge to diagnose and repair your glass cockpit system. We are the only 24/7 maintenance center in the area, a commitment that allows us to begin diagnosing your aircraft’s problem immediately, significantly reducing your downtime. Our goal is to provide a swift, accurate, and reliable fix, getting you back in the air with confidence.
Footnotes
- Garmin, “G1000 System Maintenance Manual,” Garmin, 2024. https://static.garmin.com/pumac/G1000:EmbraerPhenom100_G1000SystemMaintenanceManual_LJ_VLJAircraft_.pdf
- Avidyne, “Entegra Integrated Flight Display System Installation Manual,” Avidyne, 2025. https://www.avidyne.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/R9_600-00160-000-Rev20.pdf
- Dynon, “SkyView HDX – General Maintenance Manual,” Dynon Certified, 2023. https://www.dynoncertified.com/downloads/documentation/general/SkyView_HDX_General_Maintenance_Manual_Rev_K.pdf
The Aero Center is located at William J. Fox Airfield KWJF | Lancaster, CA. Contact us at 209.885.6950 for questions or appointments.