Aircraft Services Blog | Sparkchasers

GTX345: The All-in-one Transponder Solution for ADS-B “Out” and “In”

Written by Sparkchasers | Jan 5, 2023 10:00:00 AM

The ADS-B compliant GTX 345 looks and operates like a standard Mode S transponder. It fits in the same 1.65-inch high slot in your avionics stack. It boasts a bright, sunlight-readable digital display, a pressure altitude readout, handy timers for approaches and other operations, plus dedicated pushbuttons numbered 0-9 for quick and easy squawk code entry.

But where other transponders leave off, the GTX 345 is just getting started.

The addition of 1090 MHz ADS-B “Out” transmission capability (using precise GPS-referenced positioning information) enables the transponder to automatically output the more accurate, more dynamic traffic surveillance data that the NextGen airspace system requires.

For aircraft that may prefer or require a diversity solution, GTX 345 is available in a diversity configuration which utilizes two antennas — mounted on the top and bottom of the aircraft — to provide superior operational coverage.

Plus, available ADS-B “In” reception unlocks even more capabilities for pilots, enabling them to display ADS-B traffic, weather and more on a variety of installed or portable displays.

Two Ways to WAAS

The extra-precise GPS position reference needed to meet the traffic monitoring requirements of ADS-B can be provided either by the WAAS/SBAS-compliant navigation system that you may already have in your panel — or by an optional built-in GPS position source available with your GTX 345 transponder.

However your aircraft is currently equipped, the Garmin GTX 345 series offers a simple, minimally intrusive ADS-B solution to meet your needs.

ADS-B for Your Integrated Flight Deck

With a variety of compatibilities covering most fielded displays, the ADS-B enabled GTX series transponders offer the easiest NextGen upgrade path available from Garmin — especially for owners of select G1000-equipped aircraft.

For these systems, a remote mount version, the GTX 345R, interfaces with either the aircraft’s existing WAAS position source for navigation or uses an optional built-in WAAS position source to meet ADS-B “Out” requirements.

The G1000 series displays interface with the remote GTX transponder to provide onscreen squawk code entry and control in the conventional manner. Depending on the software version installed, your Garmin glass displays can also support subscription-free weather on the MFD — as well as ADS-B traffic targets on both the MFD and PFD displays for aircraft equipped with Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT™).

Alerting and Altitude Encoding Made Simple

For added situational awareness, the GTX 345 incorporates a built-in audio output for audible traffic and altitude alerts, which can be integrated into your existing audio panel. You can also pair the GTX series with an optional Garmin altitude encoder to satisfy data transmission requirements for IFR. As opposed to other transponders with altitude encoding built in, the Garmin altitude encoder mounts separately on the install rack. So, should the transponder ever require removal, there’s no need for the static line to be disconnected. Which, in turn, eliminates the need for a follow-on leak check — and thus helps minimize ongoing service costs.

 

An Easier Path to NextGen

The Garmin GTX 345 series is FAA and EASA approved for installation on hundreds of today’s most popular aircraft makes and models. For decades, Garmin has led in the development and deployment of ADS-B technology. And when you compare all the options available, it’s clear that Garmin is committed to making your transition to ADS-B operations as simple, economical and worry-free as possible.