31 January 2007
Garmin has announced that it will be introducing a cheaper Mode S transponder, which will meet the European regulations for much-discussed, little-wanted <a href=’newsfeed.php?artnum=401′ target=’_blank’>Mode S</a> implementation for VFR aircraft.
The unit is called the GTX 328, and is based on technology already available in the GTX 330 Mode S transponder.
The company says the unit has the following features:
– The GTX 328 is intended to serve VFR/Class 2 aircraft where there is adequate size and power consumption support for a GTX 328 unit. The GTX 328 is designed to be a straightforward retrofit
– has an easy-to-use pilot interface, high-contrast LCD display, and user-friendly keypad featuring a dedicated VFR button
– retains many of the GTX 330 features such as displaying outside air temperature, altitude monitoring, count up and count down timers (using a built-in digitized voice annunciator to alert the pilot when preset altitude limits have been exceeded or timer expiration), density altitude functions, and front-panel input for flight ID.
– has a solid-state design that uses less power, reduces heat emissions and eliminates warm-up time.
The unit, unlike the 330, will not offer TIS (Traffic Information Services), EHS (Enhanced Mode S) or <a href=’newsfeed.php?artnum=436′ target=’_blank’>ADS-B</a> functionality.
It is hoped that the unit will be certified in April this year. The suggested retail price is $2,995. The 330 is priced at $4,995.
