Anybody looking at the SkyBeacon as an ADS-B solution?

https://uavionix.com/products/skybeacon/

I think it's a good idea, but you need a mode C transponder to satisfy the install, mode S is a no go

bobguhr wrote:I think it's a good idea, but you need a mode C transponder to satisfy the install, mode S is a no go

Their site says it works with any Mode C or Mode S transponder.

I’d love to use this solution, but I need something that I can use to cross into and out of Canada. This won’t do it, as it’s UAT only.

Unfortunate that it does not incorporate ADS-B in as well.

Problem with these solutions is that most of have or had transponders which are getting pretty old without parts or anyone to repair. That in itself pretty much says go for the transponder solution. Pay me now or pay me later.

They have this in the works that I am watching closely:

https://uavionix.com/products/echoesx/

Its all in one with a small panel footprint, you can ditch the KT76 and the altitude encoder, and it supports most of the EFB's out there to give you AHRS with your Synthetic Vision subscription. It will require some avionics shop time which will be an issue as the deadline approaches but it is a better cleaner install.

On the other hand, the SkyBeacon will be complete if you operate with it using the Sentry:

http://flywithsentry.com

This will be a virtual zero install advantage with all the features of the Echo ESX but you have to keep the KT76.

Stinger the following is the email I recieved from Uavionix after asking about mode S compatability

"Hi Bob,

Technically it does work but since Mode S doesn't transmit some data while on the ground it doesn't satisfy the "always" transmitting criteria set forth by the FAA.

Kurt"