FreeFlight Systems debuts ADS-B traffic and weather receiver

FreeFlight Systems has introduced the RANGR-RX dual-band ADS-B receiver for simultaneous reception of 1090 and 978 MHz ADS-B traffic data and 978 MHz ADS-B In Flight Information Service-Broadcast (FIS-B) weather data.

The RANGR-RX gives aircraft owners increased flexibility when equipping for ADS-B, delivering the benefits of traffic and weather data now while maintaining compatibility with existing avionics, company officials said.

RANGR-RX also is designed to be part of a fully rule-compliant installation when configured with a certified WAAS GPS and ADS-B Out datalink radio. The system is permanently installed in the aircraft and includes an external bottom-mounted 978 MHz ADS-B antenna. An antenna diversity option is available for use with multiple antennas.

The modular system helps aircraft owners plan for one-time or phased installations of ADS-B capabilities before the Jan. 1, 2020 deadline to meet schedule and budget requirements. Owners of experimental aircraft also gain the benefits of ADS-B In avionics compatible with popular cockpit displays, plus a clear upgrade path to meet ADS-B Out requirements, company officials said.

RANGR-RX receives all 978 MHz FIS-B graphical weather, NOTAMs and other information from the ADS-B ground station network. It also receives ADS-B, ADS-R (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Rebroadcast) and Traffic Information Service-Broadcast (TIS-B) traffic data on 1090 MHz and 978 MHz.

With dual-band capability, you also receive air-to-air position reports directly from other aircraft using the same ADS-B Out frequency as your aircraft (e.g., 978 UAT to 978 UAT or 1090ES to 1090ES). The network broadcasts the position of traffic on the other frequency (e.g., 978 UAT to 1090ES, 1090ES to 978 UAT) as well as all aircraft in radar coverage.

Dual-band may be useful for maintaining separation from aircraft equipped with ADS-B Out or Mode S transponders in rare instances when flying outside of both radar and ADS-B network coverage, company officials said. However, the system will not detect non-ADS-B Out-equipped aircraft with legacy Mode A or Mode C transponders outside of radar and ADS-B coverage. After the Jan. 1, 2020 deadline all aircraft will be equipped with ADS-B Out and network coverage will be virtually ubiquitous, officials add.

RANGR-RX connects to a rule-compliant WAAS GPS for display of traffic and weather data. The system is optionally available with an integrated rule-compliant WAAS GPS and GPS antenna for ease of installation. RANGR-RX supports the industry-standard Capstone Data Interface Protocol for connection to a cockpit display and is available with a dual-output option for viewing of traffic and weather data on separate displays.

“With the size of the general aviation fleet and the wide range of installed avionics, we are committed to giving pilots an abundance of flexibility for installing ADS-B avionics without forcing them to over-equip or purchase expensive upgrades and replacements,” said Tim Taylor, CEO of FreeFlight Systems. “The dual-band RANGR-RX offers added capability for pilots who may need it, just as the more economical single-band receiver is the right choice for pilots who will remain in ADS-B airspace and enjoy comprehensive traffic and weather services.”

The RANGR-RX is compliant with applicable ADS-B In, traffic and FIS-B processing and installation requirements.

For more information: FreeFlightSystems.com