uAvionix Launches ping978EC ADS-B Transceiver for UK BVLOS UAS Compliance

uAvionix, a leader in aviation communications, navigation, and surveillance data solutions, is excited to announce the launch of the new ping978EC 978MHz UAT ADS-B transceiver. It will be a huge enabler for UK BVLOS UAS operators, as explained in the ping978EC launch video below.

UK Regulatory Compliance

ping978EC enables UK operators to comply with the latest Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) electronic conspicuity requirements for Specific Category UAS BVLOS operations.

ping978EC complies with CAA CAP 1391 Appendix E and fulfils the electronic conspicuity requirements in CAA CAP 3040 for BVLOS UAS Operations in Atypical Air Environment. ping978EC meets the RTCA DO-282B Class A1S performance standard. 

Reducing Administrative Burden

To broadcast ADS-B using ping978EC, UK operators need an Ofcom UAS Operator Radio Licence but they no longer need to apply to CAA for an ICAO 24-bit Aircraft Address. Instead, as required by CAA 978MHz UAT ADS-B regulations, each time it is powered on and gains a GPS fix, ping978EC dynamically generates a unique temporary non-ICAO Self-Assigned 24-bit Aircraft Address.

CAP 1391 Appendix E requires UK BVLOS operators to submit the detailed specification of their 978MHz UAT ADS-B transceiver to their CAA RPAS Inspector when applying for their Operational Authorisation (OA). To simplify this task, uAvionix provides a ping978EC Statement of

Compliance here which can be passed to the Inspector.

Proven Technology

ping978EC builds on uAvionix proven and widely used ping ADS-B transceiver technology. Like the ping2020i and ping1090i, ping978EC is a low SWaP (Size, Weight and Power), easy to install, easy to use ADS-B transceiver designed for use on UAVs. 

Measuring 50x25x18mm and weighing just 26 grams (including antenna), ping978EC broadcasts ADS-B Out on 978MHz UAT at a nominal 20W power and detects ADS-B In traffic on both 1090MHz and 978MHZ UAT. ping978EC has integrated precision barometric pressure sensor and high integrity GNSS sensor/antenna (derived from uAvionix’s TSO C-199 FYX technology). 

ping978EC comes with 978/1090MHz Antenna with SMA Connector.

ping978EC operators use the uAvionix Ping App (available on iOS or Android) to pre-configure the transceiver with their Callsign, ‘Squawk’ Code (if required), and other usual ADS-B configuration items.