options for cheaply adding ADS-B Out to my Waiex

[gyroron]

I don't have lights on the outside of the plane and do have a trig transponder. I am based in airspace that will require me to comply by Jan!

[Sonex1517]

I’m assuming you’re asking about affordable solutions to ADS-B out for your Waiex?

There are several options, but I used uAvionix and chose the Echo as my solution. They (among other manufacturers) offer a relatively affordable solution that may be self-installed.

Search the threads for other conversations and if you look for the Sonex Builders & Pilots Foundation newsletters, I wrote up my installation. You can also PM me if you have questions about my installation.

Newsletter - http://sonexbuilders.net/shoptalk/april2019.pdf

Thread - viewtopic.php?f=29&t=1736&start=30

[sonex1374]

Since you have a functioning Mode C transponder, another option is the Garmin GDL-82. This unit is connected "in-line" with the exiting transponder antenna cable (e.g. disconnect the antenna cable from the antenna and connect to the GDL "in", then add a new cable from the GDL "out" to the antenna. Add some power and ground connections and plug in the GPS antenna and you;re done.

The Garmin unit is a bit larger and more expensive than the uavionics echo, but works on much the same principle.

https://www.sportys.com/pilotshop/garmin-gdl-82.html

Jeff

[N111YX]

I am about to install a GDL 82 in my Waiex. Keep in mind that the supplied Garmin GPS antenna is supposed to be 2 feet from any comm antenna so in my case, that would have required the GPS antenna placement to be unnecessarily far down the turtledeck. Also the antenna is supposed to be level in level flight so the turtledeck may not be ideal.

To avoid these potential problems, as well as not having to incorporate any filters, I am probably going to install a combination COMM/GPS antenna. According to the Garmin manual, this antenna is approved... https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/ ... kkey=13230

Thus, I'll be diverging from a "cheapest" option a bit but I like things to work the first time and most of the time.

Also note that the Q & A's in the antenna description say that the GDL requires its own proprietary antenna but the Garmin manual specifically approves the above one. *Edit...Aircraft Spruce took my comment and changed the antenna description to confirm that the -200 antenna is approved for the GDL 82.

I'll report back on how it goes!

[Rofomoto]

Do I need the altitude encoder for my gtx 327 transponder for ADSB out? Thanx Billy

[GordonTurner]

In a sense, yes.

ADS-B outputs the WAAS corrected GPS altitude, but the transponder, which is still a required element, outputs the encoder altitude as the mode C.

Gordon

[Sonex1517]

Do I need the altitude encoder for my gtx 327 transponder for ADSB out? Thanx Billy

Yes you do. I also have a GTX-327 and use my GRT Mini as an altitude encoder. There are numerous other options.

As others have pointed out, Garmin offers a great ADS-B out solution also, but they definitely run at the high end of the price range.

I’m curious if anyone has *successfully* used the uAvionix SkyBeacon wingtip units on a Sonex, Waiex, or Xenos?

[Mikegaydos]

Greetings,

Along these lines, for those of us who are building out new, which systems seem better suited as opposed to a bolt-on solution?

Not asking for a complete answer, just looking for starting points for further research.

Thx

M

[Sonex1517]

Hey Mike

I have GRT avionics, and since the uAvionix Echo requires a WAAS GPS that meets the same standards as a certified GPS, I chose a combination GRT SafeFLY 2020 GPS and the uAvionix Echo because they came as a known solution. Other than some cruddy documentation, it really was a great solution.

I am relatively sure all the other manufacturers offer paired sets also. Look at Dynon, Garmin, GRT, and other manufacturers that offer experimental avionics to see what they offer - I’d stick with something you know works together. That’s why I chose to use GRT.

For me, this made the most sense and cost me about $1500. If you are still deciding on avionics, this can be part of that decision.

Not sure if that helps.

[sonex1374]

I’m curious if anyone has *successfully* used the uAvionix SkyBeacon wingtip units on a Sonex, Waiex, or Xenos?

Not on a Sonex, and not specifically a SkyBeacon (wingtip light model), but yes to the TailBeacon on other similar aircraft. The hardest part is simply crafting a mount that the body of the TailBeacon plugs into (it's like a cylindrical cup about 1.5" deep). 4 people at my local airport have installed TailBeacons, and I've helped two of them. It really is that simple - two wires and use the app to configure. Once you have the unit mounted you're only about 30 minutes from being finished. All have passed their operational checks as well.

Jeff