SkyBeacon for my SkyMaster

[edasmus]

Just had my IA install the u-Avionix SkyBeacon ADS-B OUT 978 UAT on the pilot side wing tip of my 1973 C337G during the annual inspection. After emailing u-Avionix with pictures of my wing tip configuration, they assured me installing the unit under the plastic lens would cause no problem for SkyBeacon. I was also concerned about the proximity to my strobe light immediately behind the SkyBeacon and they assured me that it would cause no interference either. I do have the option of running another power wire to the unit and utilizing the SkyBeacon's strobe light however at this time I chose not to do that for simplicity of the install.

I have not had the opportunity to configure the unit as of yet however the app provided by uAvionix looks very straight forward. I will do this after completion of the annual inspection as well as take a flight and have the FAA email a status report of my ADS-B OUT performance. I'll report back then with results.

The install was very easy with the trimming of the plastic lens cover to accommodate the blade antenna taking the most time. My IA said 2 hours in all.

Attached are two photos....

[FlyGuy]

Is it only certified to 18,000'? I'm trying to figure out if you could install it in a P337H certified to 20,000'?

Thanks,
Guy

[edasmus]

Yes, this unit is a 978 UAT OUT only useable only in the United States below Class A airspace. This unit would not be practical for your purpose if you intend to fly at 18,000 feet or above (in Class A airspace) or outside the USA. You could install it on your airplane but would then be limited to altitudes below 18,000 feet after January 1st 2020.

You really need a 1090 OUT to realize the full capibility of your airplane. Those units are significantly more money. I installed the Stratus 1090 ESG Transponder in another airplane 2+ years ago and the total cost was $6500.00 less the $500 FAA rebate that I took advantage of at that time.

Hope this helps. Good Luck!

Ed

[FlyGuy]

That's what I thought from the paperwork Ed, thanks. I'm just examining the options for potential buyers.

Best,
Guy

[Ernie Martin]

Ed, I noted your installation of a wingtip u-Avionix SkyBeacon ADS-B OUT, but did you consider Garmin's GDL 82 unit? The price is about the same and, for my Skymaster with a Garmin GTN 650 which can provide a GPS source, the installation is just as simple, perhaps even simpler (see image below).

I wonder if you or anyone else has installed the GDL 82 and can report on the installation.

Thanks,
Ernie Martin

[GAdams]

I'm now installing a Stratus 1090 OUT in my 337D model. It will be finished this week. It's costing $4K. I did not have a WAAS source so I went this route. I have a 530 and a Garmin 330 transponder. I figured by the time I upgrade the 530 to WAAS and the 330 to ADS B out I'm not gaining much and I wind up with an old GPS and an old Transponder, for more money. This way I can fly until the 530 dies and up grade then. My dealer took the transponder in trade. Net $4K

[cessnadriver]

Ernie. I purchased the Garmin 82 but have yet to install it. Waiting for warmer weather. I'll let you and SOAPA members know how it went after the install. I have an avionics guy around here that has installed 6 Garmin 82 in different type airplanes and said they are very simple to install BUT 4 out of 6 failed the FAA performance check DUE TO THE OLDER ENCODER INSTALLED. The old encoders had to be replaced but afterwards the FAA checks passed.
Regards, BILLS A&P C337 owner

[edasmus]

Hi Ernie, and yes I did consider the GDL 82 and others. Just my opinion, the SkyBeacon seemed easiest to install but even more importantly it did not require one second of anyone crawling around the airplane or behind the panel. I'm all for that as you can't have a MIF (maintenance induced failure) if no one is touching anything. I love my shop and mechanics. They have done well for me over the years but I prefer to not create opportunities for them to put their hands "IN" my airplane. Just my opinion. I'm certainly no expert.

For what is worth, I installed the Stratus 1090 ESG OUT/IN transponder in my other airplane several years ago. I've since sold that airplane. That airplane had a really crappy transponder so it made more sense to so that. It was WAY more expensive than the SkyBeacon. Hopefully u-Avionix is around for the long haul and hopefully their device stands the test of time. I decided to take the gamble. We'll see, time will tell.

Ed

P.S.

BTW Ernie, Glad to see you're back. I always enjoy your posts and I haven't seen you around much lately. Hope your G model is treating you well. I still love mine!

[Ernie Martin]

Thanks, Ed. I've had a bunch of stuff, none critical -- divorce, new house, etc. But I'm still flying and now looking for ADS-B Out.

Ernie