ADS-B Installation Gallery

Panel cover
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author upgraded their airplane's failing and obsolete Narco 50A transponder and encoder to a new Stratus ESG system, installing a rack that fit the old location and a new encoder with improved 25 ft accuracy.
  • A new GPS antenna was carefully installed on the fuselage, requiring drilling a new hole, strengthening the installation with a doubler, and sealing it to ensure leak-free operation.
  • New antenna cables were routed from the GPS antenna and a whip antenna to the Stratus ESG transponder and integrated Stratus 2S, allowing the 2S to receive satellite information without needing direct sky visibility.
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Hole for GPS antenna

The new hole in my airplane. Gulp. That made me nervous. Once it is drilled, you can’t change your mind on where you want your antenna. Jacob used a step drill in the thin sheet metal. I sat inside with a cup under the skin to catch the metal shavings.

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