uAvionix on March 23 introduced its “Trade-up to Certified” avionics upgrade program enabling users of uncertified Mode A/C/S and ADS-B transponders models to trade up to the uAvionix ping200X, which the company describes as the only TSO certified transponder for drones on the market today.

uAvionix explains the “Trade-up to Certified” program helps operators and manufacturers upgrade their operational capabilities and accelerate approvals by providing a credit of $800 towards uncertified Mode A/C/S and ADS-B transponders from Sagetech or older uAvionix ping200Si and ping200SR transponders when returned to uAvionix in working condition after purchasing a ping200X certified transponder. The program includes an option for higher rebates when combined with other TSO products such as the certified truFYX WAAS GPS or a pingRX-pro ADS-B receiver.

“We are excited to offer UAS operators and manufacturers the ability to up their game by helping them replace their obsolete transponders,” said Christian Ramsey, President, uAvionix. “It is our mission to connect everything that flies.”

uAvionix explains that with regulators increasingly focusing on transponder requirements when operating a UAS in transponder mandatory airspace, many older model transponders are being considered as non-compliant, putting operational approvals at risk. Higher complexity flights, including BVLOS operations, IFR operations, and flights operating in controlled airspace, continues uAvionix, require aviation-grade ADS-B transponders that are DO-260B compliant and meet TSO requirements that are applicable to traditional aircraft as well.

Operating a certified transponder, uAvionix explains, will simplify any type certification process that an operator or OEM might be pursuing, and it will significantly simplify obtaining regulatory approvals to operate in transponder airspace or beyond visual line of sight.

At a weight of 50-grams and a power draw of 1.5W Continuous On/Alt. 4W Peak (8ms maximum), uAvionix explains ping200X will integrate and operate with any unmanned airframe, regardless of its size and mission.

(Image: uAvionix)