Trig Avionics, a Dynon company, announced Thursday its introduction of the TT23, the latest model in its compact transponder line. The certified Class 1, Mode S transponder includes ADS-B Out capability and is intended for both VFR and IFR operations. According to the company, the new design is smaller and up to 15% lighter than earlier units, potentially addressing space and weight considerations for a range of aircraft.
The TT23 is available in two versions. The TT23G includes an integrated GPS receiver designed to provide an ADS-B Out solution, well suited for experimental and light sport aircraft operating in U.S. airspace. In regions where ADS-B participation is voluntary, the company stated that the internal GPS can support increased visibility in surrounding airspace.
The second version, the TT23, is intended for aircraft already equipped with an approved GPS position source, including type-certificated aircraft. Trig reported that an STC will be available for compatibility with commonly used third-party GPS navigators and with the company’s TN70 remote position source.
The TT23 series follows the TT21 and TT22 models and retains a similar control layout. Both versions include a built-in altitude encoder and an LCD display.
“The new TT23 transponder takes our compact avionics product line up a notch,” Andy Davis, CEO of Trig Avionics, said.
He said the unit combines a compliant ADS-B position source with a smaller and lighter design.
ADS-B out capabilities are taking on renewed relevance recently, especially in light of proposed wording of new Part 108 regulations that would accomodate drone operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). If formalized, the regulations would require manned aircraft to be equipped with ADS-B out in order to retain right of way over unmanned vehicles under 400 feet AGL.
Combining the GPS into the transponder is great idea to reduce complexity and cost. Just how much? I wish I had an option for my TT22. The TN70 GPS is almost the same cost as the TT23, so that’s not going to work. My ADS-B solution was a uAvionix EchoUAT with GPS. Works great but Canadian airspace doesn’t care about UAT. The TT22 thinks it has a GPS on the TMAP Bus but it will not go 1090 ADS-B. Yes, I talked to both manufacturers. I would like a solution that doesn’t cost so much. How about a deal for existing TRIG customers to introduce this solution!
If you are installing in a SeaRey, you could use the TN72 GPS. Much less expensive, and ideal for an Experimental aircraft with a TT22.
Thanks Andy for that post. The TN72 GPS with TA70 GPS antenna is almost another $2K. This is still too expensive and I don’t like the constraints on coax to the antenna. The TT22 allows 3 different inputs @9600 B. If I select NMEA 0183 then I can use a cheaper serial data GPS but the SIL will be 0 and NavCan/FAA will not accept the ADS-B. Will other aircraft & tracker systems follow me better than my UAT in Canada? NavCan/FAA will still get my transponder A/C/S for separation, just not 1090 ADS-B.