Manual

Manual and installation instructions: SD-Link adapter for universal adapter (RS-232)

Q: Why is a ground wire mandatory in RS-232 wiring?

RS-232 requires a common ground connection between the radio and the adapter, in addition to RX and TX. Without it, the adapter will appear to connect but will deliver no data or only sporadic data – the most common wiring error in universal installations. Always connect the ground before troubleshooting.

Q: Am I allowed to use the adapter on my airplane?

The plug-and-play adapters are simply plugged in, not permanently installed – no modifications to the aircraft's wiring are required, and they can be removed at any time without leaving any residue. This is straightforward for ultralight and experimental aircraft. For a more detailed explanation – including for certified aircraft (E-class) – please see the page "Bluetooth adapters in aircraft: what is permitted?"

All installation instructions for the SD-Link adapters on the universal adapter (RS-232) are available as PDFs, separated by adapter variant and navigation app, in 14 languages. This includes the entry you select in your app and answers to the most frequently asked questions during installation.

Instructions

Installation instructions as PDF

Select your language, then open the instructions for your navigation app. If there are no instructions in your chosen language, we will link to the English version.

SD-Link Universal-E

No longer on sale, instructions remain available

SD-Link Universal DS Dual Source

View product

All instructions and datasheets are available on the download page.

Before installation

Frequently asked questions and stumbling blocks

Why is a ground wire mandatory in RS-232 wiring?

RS-232 requires a common ground between the radio and the adapter, in addition to RX and TX. Without it, the adapter appears to connect but delivers no data or only sporadic data – the most common wiring error in universal installations.

Always connect the ground connection before troubleshooting.

In which languages are the instructions for the SD link on the universal adapter (RS-232) available?

The installation instructions are available in 14 languages. If a language is missing for a particular navigation app, we link to the English version. A printed quick start guide is included with every shipment.

Does this instruction manual also apply to older adapters?

Yes. The current instructions (version 2.0) describe all adapters of this series that have been shipped. Older links to previous versions automatically redirect to the current instructions.

Which apps are the adapters compatible with?

The SD-Link adapters are tested and compatible with the following navigation apps:

SkyDemon
Sky-Map
VFRnav
EasyVFR
XCSoar

We'll explain step by step how to send frequencies from the app to the radio .

Tip: In SkyDemon for TY91/TY92, select the device type “Garmin GTR225 Compatible”.

Am I allowed to use the adapter on my airplane?

The plug-and-play adapters are simply inserted, not permanently installed – no modifications to the aircraft's wiring are required, and they can be removed at any time without leaving any residue. This is straightforward for ultralight and experimental aircraft.

The factual classification – also for certified aircraft (E-class) – can be found on the page Bluetooth adapters in airplanes: what is allowed?

Don't have an adapter yet?

The buyer's guide explains the different types of universal adapters (RS-232), and the adapter finder guides you to the right version in three steps.

Universal Buyer's Guide Adapter finder Compatibility

Questions before installation? Write to us at info@sdlink.de . We'll reply quickly and help you with the setup.