This manual contains information about the physical, mechanical and electrical characteristics,
installation and operation for the KTX2-F Mode S Transponder. Additionally it describes the ADS-B
functionality for a compliant ADS-B Out installation using Extended Squitter (ES).
1.2 Scope
This manual applies to the operation and installation of the KTX2-F Mode S Transponder.
At the publication date of this manual the software version is 0100 and the FPGA version is 0042. The
software and FPGA versions are subject to change without further notice.
1.3 Terminology
Except where specifically noted, references made to “the Unit” or “the Installation” will apply to the
transponder defined in 1.2.
Referenced Documents where the respective document is identified by document number, document
title and issue.
•
The word MUST in the text denotes a mandatory instruction. A deviation is not permissible.
•
The word SHOULD in the text denotes a recommendation or advice. Such recommendations or
advice is expected to be followed unless good reasons are stated for not doing so.
•
The word MAY in the text denotes a permissible practice or action.
Note: Background information contained in this document is always indicated by using an italic character
font.
1.4 Symbols
DANGER:
Advices whose non-observance can cause radiation damage to the
human body or ignition of combustible materials.
ATTENTION:
Advices whose non-observance can cause damage to the device or
other parts of the equipment or reduce the correct functionality of the
device.
INFORMATION:
Supplemental information for operating the device.
In order to facilitate a rapid handling of returned shipments, please send your request to the
email address below. Additional information and FAX number can be found on the TQ
Avionics web portal:
In order to operate the Mode-S transponder it is necessary to
request an ICAO 24-Bit Aircraft Address at the responsible
National Aviation Authorities. The received code must be
configured within the transponder (see chapter 3.4.2.1.2).
• Class 1 Level 2els Non-Diversity Mode-S-Transponder for ground based
interrogations at 1030 MHz and response at 1090 MHz
• Replies to Secondary Radar Interrogations
o Mode-A replies with a Squawk (one of 4096 possible Codes; e.g. flight plan
number, Squawk assigned by a Controller or the VFR Squawk).
o Mode C replies, including encoded Flight Level.
o Mode S replies, including Aircraft Address and Flight Level.
o IDENT capability for activating the “Special Position Identification“- Pulse
(SPI) for 18 seconds, which is requested by the Controller “Squawk Ident”
• ADS-B out:
o Airborne Position
o Identification and Category
o Airborne Velocity
o Operational Status
o Extended Squitter Aircraft Status
• Maximum flight level 30 000ft; maximum airspeed 250kt
• Display information contains Squawk code, mode of operation and pressure
altitude
•
Temperature compensated
high
precision
piezo-resistive pressure sensor
• RS-232 data port enabling connection with mutual suppression and On the Ground
(weight on wheels) inputs. In addition, an appropriate GNSS receiver for ADS-B
can be connected
For safe operation of the transponder the following notices have to be observed:
•The installation of the transponder into an aircraft should be carried out only by an authorized
installation company. The country regulations always have to be observed.
•Use the transponder only within the specified conditions, see chapter 7.
Power supply:
• Do not connect the transponder to AC sources.
• Make sure that the transponder is connected to the mandatory DC source, see chapter 7.
• Do not connect the transponder with reversed polarity to the DC source.
Circuit breaker:
• The transponder should be protected from the aircraft power supply by a dedicated 3 A circuit
breaker or fuse (slow-blow).
Excessive pulses on the DC bus of the aircraft may cause damage on electrical circuits of any installed
instrument.
Do not switch ON the transponder during engine start or shutdown.
1.9 Restriction for Use
The transponder is to be used only inside the declared limits.
To switch on the transponder press the ON/OFF button once. The button will be locked in its “ON”
position. Press the button again to switch it off.
The initial display is shown shortly after the transponder is switched on (see figure below).
Figure 5: Initial Display
The initial display shows the current software and FPGA version.
After approx. two (2) seconds the transponder switches either to its normal operation display or a
selection menu is shown if multiple Flight IDs are configured.
If a failure is detected during start-up a fault notification is displayed. In
that case see chapter 4 for details.
2.2.1.1 Multiple Flight ID selection
If multiple Flight IDs are configured a selection menu is displayed.
2.2.1.2 Normal operation
The normal operation always starts in standby mode. The normal operation display is shown as follows:
The Flight ID is not displayed if no valid Flight ID is configured.
2.2.2 Transponder-
Modes
The currently active mode is displayed at the lower left corner of the display.
STBY Transponder is switched on but
does not
respond to any interrogation.
-B out is disabled.
GND Transponder responds to Mode-S interrogations.
-B out is enabled (Surface Squitter).
ON Transponder responds to all interrogations, but altitude is not transmitted.
-B out is enabled.
Transponder responds to all interrogations.
-B out is enabled.
Table 1: Transponder Modes
During the flight the Mode “ALT” should always be set, unless the ATC gives other instructions.
While rolling on the ground the transponder should be set to “GND”.
If the installation includes a weight on wheels switch and it is correctly configured then the mode is
changed automatically.
To change the mode press the “MODE” button until the desired mode is displayed.
The “MODE” button is also used to enable or disable the ADS-B out function. Press the “MODE” button
for at least 3 seconds until the ADS-B indication changes (see 2.2.7).
Note:
The ADS-B out function is enabled by default if a GNSS device is configured (see 3.4.2.1.3.4).
To set the active squawk to a predefined code press the “VFR” button. The VFR-squawk code is now
shown as active squawk. “VFR” is indicated on the right hand side of the display and the former active
squawk becomes the standby squawk.
Figure 7: VFR-Squawk
Press the “VFR” button again to restore the previous squawk code as active squawk. The “VFR”
indication disappears.
The factory setting of the VFR-Squawk code is 7000. The VFR-squawk code can be configured in
accordance with local requirements using the setup mode (see 3.4.3).
Press the “IDENT” button if the ATC requests you to send “Ident” or “Squawk Ident”.
For 18 seconds the Ident Pulse is activated in the transponder replies. This is indicated by “IDT” on the
left hand side of the display.
Figure 8: Squawk Ident
2.2.6
Airborne
/Ground Indication
If the aircraft is equipped with a “weight on wheels” switch or has an automatic air/ground system the
transponder can be configured to use it for Airborne/Ground mode switching (see 3.4.2.1.3.2).
Depending on the status either “FLY” (Flight) or “GND” (Ground) is shown on the display in the lower
right corner.
Some parameters can be changed while in normal operation mode. The changes are effective
immediately after confirmation, but will remain only until the transponder is powered off.
Note:
To make changes permanently the parameters have to be changed in setup mode (see 3).
2.2.8.1 Flight ID
To modify the Flight ID press the ID button for at least 3 seconds.
Figure 12: Change Flight ID
The Flight ID can be adjusted in the same way as described in chapter 3.4.2.1.
Note:
The AA-Code is shown for information only and cannot be changed.
2.2.8.2 Brightness
To modify the display brightness and the button illumination press the VFR button for at least 3 seconds.
Figure 13: Change Brightness
To change the display brightness select “Display” and press the rotary knob.
Turn the rotary knob to change the value for brightness between 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Press the
rotary knob to save the new value.
To change the button illumination select “Btn-Mode” and press the rotary knob.
The button illumination has three (3) modes: Off, On and Auto.
Turning the rotary knob will change the mode. Press the rotary knob again to confirm the mode.
Depending on the selected mode further parameters can be configured.
2.2.8.3.1 Button Illumination Mode “Off”
If this mode is selected the button illumination is switched off. No further parameters can be configured.
2.2.8.3.2 Button Illumination Mode “On”
If this mode is selected the button illumination is switched on.
To change the illumination level select “Level” and press the rotary knob. Turn the rotary knob to change
the value between 1 (dark) to 5 (bright). Press the rotary knob to save the new value.
2.2.8.3.3 Button Illumination Mode “Auto”
If this mode is selected the button illumination is switched between a day and night setting depending on
the ambient light sensor. No further parameters can be configured.
The settings can only be configured in setup mode, see chapter 3.4.1.
To enter the setup mode, press the “IDENT” button while switching on the transponder and the setup
menu appears as shown below.
Figure 17: Setup Menu 1
3.3 Controls
3.3.1 Selection
Turning the rotary knob moves to the desired menu item.
Press the rotary knob to select the desired parameter for configuration or to enter a submenu.
If a menu consists of several pages, e.g. the setup menu, the next page can be accessed by turning the
rotary knob clockwise until the next page is shown. To go back turn the rotary knob counterclockwise
until the previous page is displayed.
Figure 18: Setup Menu 2
3.3.2 Return to parent menu
Any menu showing an arrow left of the headline can be left by selecting the headline and pressing the
rotary knob. The previous menu will be displayed.
3.3.3 Cancel/Discard
The “IDENT” button can be used for cancelling, discarding or returning.
While editing pressing the “IDENT” button briefly will cancel the current editing. The previous
configuration value is restored.
While in a submenu pressing the “IDENT” button briefly will return to the previous menu.
Pressing the “IDENT” button for at least 3 seconds will discard any unsaved changes and return to the
main setup menu.
3.4 Setup Menus
3.4.1 Brightness
To change the display brightness select “Display” and press the rotary knob.
Turn the rotary knob to change the value for brightness between 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Press the
rotary knob to save the new value.
Figure 19: Setup Brightness Menu
3.4.1.1 Button Config
To change the button illumination select “Button Config” and press the rotary knob. A menu for
configuring the button illumination and its modes is displayed.
The button illumination has three (3) modes: Off, On and Auto.
To change the mode select “Mode” and press the rotary knob. Turning the rotary knob will change the
mode. Press the rotary knob again to confirm the mode.
Depending on the selected mode several parameters can be configured.
3.4.1.1.1 Button Illumination Mode “Off”
If this mode is selected the button illumination is switched off. No further parameters can be configured.
If this mode is selected the button illumination is switched on.
To change the illumination level select “Level” and press the rotary knob. Turn the rotary knob to change
the value between 1 (dark) to 5 (bright). Press the rotary knob to save the new value.
Figure 21: Button Illumination Mode "On"
3.4.1.1.3 Button Illumination Mode “Auto”
If this mode is selected the button illumination is switched between a day and night setting depending on
the ambient light sensor.
To change the illumination level for day or night select appropriate menu item (“Day”, “Night”) and press
the rotary knob. Turn the rotary knob to change the value between 0 (off) to 5 (bright). Press the rotary
knob to save the new value.
To change the threshold level for the day/night switching select “Threshold” and press the rotary knob.
Turn the rotary knob to change the value between 1 (high light sensitivity) to 5 (low light sensitivity).
Press the rotary knob to save the new value.
The transponder can store up to eight flight IDs for multiple aircraft configurations (e.g. in a portable
station as used in hot-air/gas filled balloons).
For multiple flight IDs, an appropriate Aircraft Address must be assigned to each of the flight IDs.
See 3.4.2.4 for details.
Note:
ICAO regulations require Mode-S data to contain a valid flight identification (FID), to ensure automatic
exchange of flight plan and radar data. Commercial flights usually have their own FIDs. General aviation
FIDs should be the registration letters or numbers of the aircraft. The FID must not be confused with the
24-bit Aircraft Address. The FID is left aligned and shown in green characters. The FID may not contain
any blanks.
To configure a Flight ID configuration select “Flight ID” and press the rotary knob. A menu for adding,
modifying and deleting a Flight ID configuration is displayed.
Figure 23: Flight ID configuration
Select “Add” to add a Flight ID, “Modify” to modify a Flight ID or “Delete” to delete a Flight ID and press
the rotary knob.
3.4.2.1 Add/Edit Flight ID
To add a Flight ID select “Add” and press the rotary knob.
If all eight possible IDs are already configured the following notification is displayed.
Figure 24: FID Limitation Notification
If this message appears you can either modify an existing entry (see 3.4.2.2) or delete an existing entry
(see 3.4.2.3) and add a new one as shown below.
To configure the Aircraft Address (AA) perform the following procedure:
1. Select “AA” and press the rotary knob to start editing the AA. The first digit turns yellow.
2. Turn the rotary knob to change the value.
3. Press the rotary knob again to save the selected digit. The next character turns yellow.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until all digits are set to desired value.
Note:
After editing the changed value is not saved automatically! You have to select “Save” once all data have
been configured (see 3.4.2.1.4).
Note:
Before you can enter the Aircraft Address, the Flight ID needs to be defined.
Note:
All values except “000000” and “FFFFFFF” are valid. The transponder accepts all values but if an invalid
value is used as Aircraft Address the transponder will show a failure and the transponder switches to
AC-only mode.
3.4.2.1.3 Device Parameter
To configure the parameters associated to a Flight ID select “Device Parameter" and press the rotary
knob. A submenu “Device Param.” is displayed.
Note:
The submenu “Device Parameter” consists of two (2) pages.
Figure 26: Device Parameter Configuration Menu
Note:
After changing any parameter the new value is not saved automatically! You have to select “Save” once
all data have been configured (see 3.4.2.1.4).
3.4.2.1.3.1 Aircraft Category
To configure the aircraft category select “Aircraft Category" and press the rotary knob. A submenu “AC
Category” is displayed.
Note:
The submenu “Device Parameter” consists of two (2) pages.
Turn the rotary switch to select the desired aircraft category and press the rotary knob to confirm.
Note:
The transponder is not yet certified for A/C FixW>5.7t, speed >250kts and helicopters (RotorCr).
Therefore, these items are not yet selectable.
3.4.2.1.3.2 Ground Switch
To activate or deactivate the Airborne/Ground switch function select “GND Switch Support” and press
the rotary knob. A submenu “GND Switch Sup.” is displayed.
Figure 28: Ground Switch Setup Menu
Turn the rotary knob to select Yes or No and press the rotary know to confirm.
Support
Yes The Airborne/Ground switch function is enabled. The transponder switches
the Airborne/Ground mode automatically depending on the status of the
Ground Switch input (see 5.1.3).
No The Airborne/Ground switch function is disabled. Airborne/Ground mode has
Table 2: GND Switch Support
3.4.2.1.3.3 Speed Category
To configure the maximum speed category select “Max. Cruise Speed" and press the rotary knob. A
submenu “Maximum Speed” is displayed.
If the ADS-B function is used, an appropriate WAAS GNSS source needs to be connected (see 5.1.5).
This transponder is certified to TSO-C166b and meets the requirements of AC 20-165B when directly
connected to one of the certified or approved GNSS units listed below. This will form the basis of a 14
CFR 91.227 compliant ADS-B installation.
NexNav Mini WAAS GPS
Receiver
Part Number 21000
Table 3: Certitified GNSS Units
Other aircraft voluntarily equipped with ADS-B like experimental aircrafts, gliders, ultralights etc. may be
equipped with an appropriate low-cost WAAS GNSS source. It is encouraged to use only GNSS
receivers recommended by TQ.
Holux GPS Receiver
Model: M-215+
Table 4: Approved GNSS Units
If other than a recommended GNSS receiver is used the following shall be
observed:
• Standard NMEA0183 protocol ($GPRMC message required)
• Update Rate from 5 to 0.5 Hz (0.2 to 2 seconds)
To configure the GNSS Device select “Select GNSS Device" and press the rotary knob. A submenu
“GNSS Device” is displayed.
The GNSS antenna offset is used together with the aircraft length and width to manage taxiway conflicts.
Within the GNSS antenna offset menu, the longitudinal and lateral position offset of the GNSS antenna
can be entered. While mainly important for large aircraft, the values can be entered for small aircraft as
well.
To configure the GNSS antenna offset select “GNSS Ant. Offset” and press the rotary knob. A submenu
“GNSS Ant. Offset” is displayed.
Figure 33: GNSS Antenna Offset Configuration Menu
To configure the longitudinal offset of the GNSS antenna perform the following procedure:
1. Select “Long." and press the rotary knob. The first digit of the offset value turns yellow.
2. Turn the rotary knob to change the value.
3. Press the rotary knob again to save the selected digit. The next digit turns yellow.
4. Turn the rotary knob to change the value.
5. Press the rotary knob again to save the selected digit. The offset value turns green.
Note:
The longitudinal offset has to be entered in meters measured from the nose of the aircraft.
E.g.: If the offset is 3.2 m, the value must be 04.
To configure the lateral offset of the GNSS antenna perform the following procedure:
1. Select “Lat." and press the rotary knob. The “+/-“ sign of the offset value turns yellow.
2. Turn the rotary knob to change the sign.
3. Press the rotary knob again to save sign value. The first digit of the offset value turns yellow.
4. Turn the rotary knob to change the value.
5. Press the rotary knob again to save the selected digit. The next digit turns yellow.
6. Turn the rotary knob to change the value.
7. Press the rotary knob again to save the selected digit. The offset value turns green.
Note:
For most small aircraft a value of “00” is adequate. In case an antenna offset is applicable, the position to
the left side of the aircraft will require a negative sign, to the right a positive sign. The lateral offset has to
be entered in meters measured from longitudinal (Roll) axis of the aircraft.
E.g.: If the offset is 1.3 m to left side, the value must be -02.
To save a Flight ID configuration select “Save” and press the rotary knob. The “Flight ID” menu for
adding, modifying and deleting a Flight ID configuration will be displayed after the configuration is saved.
3.4.2.2 Modify Flight IDs
To modify a Flight ID select “Modify” and press the rotary knob. A submenu “Select FID” is displayed.
See 3.4.2.4 for details.
After the desired Flight ID is selected the submenu “Edit FID Param.” is displayed and the parameters of
the Flight ID can be modified (see 3.4.2.1).
3.4.2.3 Delete Flight IDs
To delete a Flight ID select “Delete” and press the rotary knob. A submenu “Select FID” is displayed.
See 3.4.2.4 for details.
After the desired Flight ID is selected the submenu “Delete FID” is displayed.
Figure 34: Delete Flight ID Menu
To delete the Flight ID turn the rotary knob to select “Yes” and press the rotary knob. The Flight ID is
deleted and the “Flight ID” menu is displayed.
If you select “No” and press the rotary knob the Flight ID is not deleted and the “Flight ID” menu is
displayed.
The “FID” and “AA-Code” are only displayed for information purposes.
3.4.2.4 Multiple Flight IDs
In case multiple Flight IDs are configured a selection menu is displayed where necessary.
The selection menu for multiple Flight IDs allows the selection of an already configured Flight ID (see
3.4.2.1) for the operation or configuration of the transponder. The selection menu may consist of two
pages (see note below).
Turn the rotary knob to select the desired Flight ID. Press the rotary knob to confirm the selection. The
transponder will then use the selected configuration.
Note:
If more than four Flight IDs are configured turn the rotary knob clockwise until the next page is shown. To
go back to the previous page turn the rotary knob counterclockwise.
3.4.3 Modify VFR
To configure the VFR squawk code “Modify VFR" and press the rotary knob. A submenu “Modify VFR” is
displayed.
Figure 36: Modify VFR Code Menu
To change the VFR squawk code perform the following procedure:
1. Press the rotary knob. The first digit of the standby squawk turns yellow.
2. Turn the rotary knob to change the value.
3. Press the rotary knob again to save the selected digit. The next digit turns yellow.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until all four (4) digits are set to desired VFR squawk code.
In certain cases it may be necessary to perform a factory reset. Performing a factory reset will reset all
settings to their factory defaults.
To perform a factory reset select “Factory Reset” and press the rotary knob. A submenu “Factory Reset”
is displayed.
Figure 37: Factory Reset Menu
To perform a factory reset turn the rotary knob to select “Yes” and press the rotary knob. A notification is
displayed which requests a restart of the transponder.
3.4.5 Test Menu
The second page of the setup menu contains only the test menu.
To enter the test menu select “Test Menu” and press the rotary knob. A submenu “Test Menu” is
displayed.
Figure 38: Test Menu
To calibrate the altitude offset select “Altitude Offset” and press the rotary knob. A submenu “Altitude
Offset” is displayed (see 3.4.5.1).
To enter the test mode select “Test Mode” and press the rotary knob. A submenu “Test Mode” is
displayed (see 3.4.5.2).
To show some device information select “Device Information” and press the rotary knob. A submenu
“Device Info” is displayed (see 3.4.5.3).
The Altitude Offset Calibration allows you to adjust the built-in altitude encoder to ensure that the flight
level transmitted by the transponder complies with all relevant standards.
This process is normally carried out every 24 months, as part of the altimeter checks on the aircraft. The
maximum allowed difference between the primary altimeter and the altitude encoder is 125 feet
according to ETSO C88a.
The altitude encoder in the transponder is extremely accurate, has an excellent long-term stability and is
accurately calibrated during manufacture. But it is possible that a combination of allowed accuracy
deviations in the altitude encoder and the primary altimeter may show an altitude difference exceeding
125 feet. In that case it is recommend to perform an altitude offset calibration.
3.4.5.1.1 Calibration Equipment
To perform the altitude offset calibration the transponder needs to be powered up. Additionally a pitot
static test set is needed together with the appropriate adapters to connect to the static port on the
aircraft. The pitot static test set should be able to drive the altitude from sea level to above the service
ceiling of the aircraft.
Note:
For the calibration procedure no transponder test set is required. During the calibration procedure all
necessary information is displayed. Nevertheless a transponder test set can be used to verify the
transmissions of the transponder.
3.4.5.1.2 Calibration Procedure
Figure 39: Altitude Offset Calibration Menu
To perform the altitude offset calibration perform the following procedure:
1. Select “Altitude” and press the rotary knob. The first digit of the altitude set point turns yellow.
2. Turn the rotary knob to change the value.
3. Press the rotary knob again to save the selected digit. The next digit turns yellow.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until all digits are set to desired altitude set point.
Note: It is recommended to use 18000 ft as altitude set point.
5. On the pitot static test set drive the altitude to the set point value as entered before and wait until
the pressure has stabilized.
6. Select “Start” and press the rotary knob. The calibration procedures is started. During the “Delta”
value shows three dashes (“---“).
7. After a few seconds either the “Delta” value is showing the altitude offset value or a notification is
displayed.
In a normal case the calibration procedure was successfully performed and the new altitude offset
value is stored.
In a rare case the offset value determined by the calibration procedure is beyond the limits.
Possible reasons can be:
•Altitude set point values of transponder and static test set do not match.
=> Check the settings.
•Failure in the static port connection from the static test set to the transponder.
=> Check the installation.
•Failure of the altitude encoder.
=> Send the unit for servicing.
To verify the altitude measurement the following procedure must be performed:
1. Switch off the transponder.
2. Switch on the transponder in “Setup Mode” and enter the “Test Mode” (see 3.4.5.2).
3. On the pitot static test set drive the altitude to -1000 feet.
4. Verify that the altitude displayed on the transponder correspond within the 125 foot tolerance.
Additionally verify the altitude value transmitter by the transponder.
5. Repeat this procedure for all altitudes to the service ceiling of the aircraft in steps of 1000 feet.
3.4.5.2 Test Mode
The submenu “Test Mode” displays the following internal measurements:
• Operating voltage (Battery)
• DC Converter voltage (power supply for the transmitter)
• Altitude (in feet)
Figure 40: Test Mode Menu
3.4.5.3 Device Info
The submenu “Device Info” displays the checksum of the software and the serial number of the device.
Additionally notifications are displayed where appropriate.
In order to be serviced, a defective transponder needs to be shipped to the nearest service station. For
addresses see the TQ General Aviation website:
https://www.tq-general-aviation.com/en/Service
4.1
Degrading failures
If a degrading failure is detected the transponder continues to operate. But its performance may be
reduced. Once detected a warning message is displayed. This message can be confirmed by pressing
the rotary knob. The normal operation display will be shown again with the failure indication.
To handle a nonrecurring cause the transponder can be switched off and
on again. If the error reoccurs the transponder can be operated as usual
but with reduced performance.
Note:
Only the last failure is shown except for the battery voltage warning.
The following table shows a list of all degrading failures of the transponder.
DC converter TX supply voltage
is low
Bad antenna
bad (very high)
Transmitter weak TX output power is
too low
Flight Level The altimeter
reports a failure
TX output power
is reduced.
TX output power
is reduced.
TX output power
is reduced.
No barometric
altitude
information is
sent.
Send unit for servicing.
Check antenna installation (cable,
connectors etc.) to resolve the
problem before next flight.
If no root cause can be discovered,
send unit for servicing.
Check antenna installation (cable,
connectors etc.) to resolve the
problem before next flight.
If no root cause can be discovered,
send unit for servicing.
Check connection and function of
static air port to resolve the problem
before next flight.
If no root cause can be discovered,
send unit for servicing.
Low battery voltage Battery voltage is
See below. See below.
below 11 Volts
Battery voltage is
See below. See below.
below 7.5 Volts
Table 6: Degrading Failures
4.1.1 Low Battery Voltage
If the supply voltage of the transponder falls below 11 V DC, a yellow indication “BAT LOW” is shown in
the center of the display. The indication is shown as long as the voltage is too low.
Figure 42: Low Battery Voltage
Note:
The transponder is designed to operate above 9 V DC. Do not operate the unit below 9 volts.
If the supply voltage of the transponder falls below 7.5 V DC, a red indication “BAT LOW” is shown in the
center of the display. The indication is shown as long as the voltage is too low.
Figure 43: Very Low Battery Voltage
Degradation:
Transponder is switched into “STBY” mode. No further operation possible.
If no FID-Code (Flight ID) is entered or if the corresponding Aircraft Address (AA-Code) is missing or
incomplete, the following failure is displayed after switching on the transponder:
Figure 44: Missing AA-Code
To fix this error an appropriate FID and AA-Code has to be configured as described in chapter 3.4.2.
Note:
This message can be cleared by pressing the rotary knob. The transponder will then operate in A/C
mode only.
4.3 Severe failures
In case a severe failure is detected, a message (example) as shown below is displayed. No further
operation of the transponder is possible. No replies will be made to interrogations and ADS-B out is
switched off.
Figure 45: Critical Error (Example)
To handle a nonrecurring cause the transponder can be switched off and
on again. But if the error reoccurs the transponder must be switched off.
The 15pin D-SUB connector at the rear side of the unit includes all electrical connections, except for the
antenna, see chapter 5.2.2 for details.
The positive supply line needs to be protected by a 3A slow blow
fuse!
The transponder should be connected to an uninterruptible power supply
as short power interrupts may cause the transponder to restart in “STBY”
Mode or in Multiple Flight ID selection.
5.1.2 Mutual Suppression
Other equipment
on board
(e.g.
DME)
may transmit in the same frequency band as the transponder. If
such a device is installed a single wire bus (Suppression = active at +12V) must be installed in order to
protect the receiving parts of the different devices from in-band transmissions.
Mutual suppression is a pulse that is sent to the other equipment to suppress transmission of a
competing transmitter for the duration of the pulse train transmission. The transponder transmission may
be suppressed by an external source and vice versa.
To activate mutual suppression the SUPP_I/O requires a +12V source from the other equipment, see
chapter 5.2.2.
All equipment connected to the suppression line must be re-inspected and
reapproved from a qualified avionic technician before operation.
Use only shielded lines.
5.1.3 Ground Switch
If a Ground Switch is connected (and activated in the Setup), the transponder is enabled to distinguish
between weight-on-wheel (On the Ground) and no-weight-on-wheel (In-Flight) conditions. In the weighton-wheel condition the transponder automatically enters the Standby mode.
In order to complete this installation the input “FLY-GND“ must be connected to a switch, which connects
the input with “GND“ in case there is weight on wheels, or remains open during flight, see chapter 5.2.2.
This option must additionally be activated in the Setup. For details on configuration please refer to
chapter 3.4.2.1.3.2.
5.1.4 Static Air Port
The transponder has a built-in altitude encoder which must be connected to the same source of static
pressure as the primary altimeter on the aircraft.
For this purpose the transponder has a hose connection at its rear side for nominal 5mm or 3/16 inch
tubing (inside diameter).
Connect the static air connection to the static pressure port and ensure a tight connection with a suitable
hose clamp.
5.1.5 GNSS Interface
A GNSS source can be connected to the serial interface (RS232) providing GNSS position data for use
of ADS-B out.
Requirements:
•Required GNSS hardware:
o NexNav Mini (Part-No. 21.000) which turns the transponder into a 14 CFR 91.227
compliant device as required for TC’d aircraft (FAA 2020 mandate).
or
o Standard NMEA0183 RMC data stream including the RMC-sub-format
(4800/9600/19200/38400 Baud) for aircrafts which do not require the ADS-B requirements
defined in 14 CFR 91.227.
•GNSS hardware needs to be connected to pin 13 (RX-RS232) and optionally pin 2 (TX-RS232)
of the D-SUB connector (see chapter 5.2.2). Power supply needs to be provided separately
considering the required operating voltage for the GNSS hardware.
The WAAS GNSS device needs to be selected in the setup menu (see chapter 3.1.4.4).
Note:
For connection to the NexNav Mini device, a proprietary cable is available from TQ. Please contact you
dealer for more information.
If a standard NMEA0183 WAAS GNSS source is sufficient for your aircraft (LSA, Experimental, Ultralight
etc.) you should consider brands recommended by TQ to avoid incompatibilities or malfunctions.
Note:
For correct function of the movement detection an update rate of 5 Hz is recommended for NMEA
devices.
5.1.6 Antenna Connector
The antenna is connected to a single coaxial connector (SMA) at the rear side of the transponder.
5.1.6.1 L-Band ADS-B Antennas
The L-Band antenna used with the KTX2 must fulfil to the following specifications:
• Standard 50 Ω, vertically polarized antenna with a VSWR < 1.7:1 at 1090 MHz.
• TSO-C66( ), TSO-C74( ), TSO-C112( ) , or TSO-154c antennas that also meet the VSWR
specification.
Only the L-Band antennas listed in the table below have been tested for compatibility with transponder
installations.
Type
RAMI
Comant CI-105 BNC
Comant CI-105-11 TNC
Table 8: L-Band Antennas
5.1.6.2 Antenna Installation
The antenna should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The following considerations should be taken into account for the antenna installation:
•The antenna should be placed not directly near any projections, the engine(s) and propeller(s). It
should also be placed not directly near landing gear doors, access doors or others openings
which will break the ground plane for the antenna.
•The antenna should be mounted on the bottom surface of the aircraft and in a vertical position
when the aircraft is in level flight.
•The antenna should not be mounted within 3 feet of the ADF sense antenna or any COMM
antenna and 6 feet from the transponder to the DME antenna.
-74 BNC
•Where practical, the antenna location should be chosen to keep the cable lengths as short as
possible and to avoid sharp bends in the cable to minimize the VSWR.
•To prevent RF interference, the antenna must be physically mounted at a minimum distance of 3
feet from the transponder.
Electrical connection to the antenna should be dust and water proof to avoid loss of efficiency as a result
of the presence of liquids or moisture. All antenna feeders must be installed in such a way that a
minimum of RF energy is radiated inside the aircraft.
5.1.6.3 Antenna Cable
The transponder is designed to fulfil the ADS-B Class 1 requirements allowing a maximum loss of 2 dB
in the connectors and cable used to connect it to the antenna. Exceeding this loss will degrade the
transmitter output power and receiver sensitivity.
A typical installation needs two (2) connectors at each end of the antenna cable.
Calculating a loss of 0.25dB for each connector allows a loss of 1.5dB for the cable itself.
An acceptable cable must have the following characteristics:
• Less than 1.5dB loss for the cable length needed.
Once the cable length from the transponder to the antenna is known, a cable type can be chosen which
has a loss per meter low enough to meet the above requirements (see table below).
Note:
Low loss cable typically uses foamed or cellular dielectrics and foil screens. These make such cables
especially prone to damage from too-tight bends or from momentary kinking during installation. Once
kinked, these cables do not return to full performance when straightened.
The following table is shows a list of some common cable types and the maximum usable lengths.
meters (feet)
dB/meter
(db/100ft)1
RG-400
M17/128-RG400
RG-304
M17/112-RG304
RG-393
M17/127-RG393
Carlisle IT Type
3C142B
Carlisle IT Type
311601
Carlisle IT Type
311501
Carlisle IT Type
311201
Carlisle IT Type
310801
2.5 (8’ 2”) 0.6 (18.5)
4.2 (13’ 9”) 0.36 (11.1)
5 (16’ 5”) 0.3 (9.2)
3.1 (10’ 2”) 0.48 (14.5)
5.2 (17’ 1”) 0.29 (8.7)
6.5 (21’ 4”) 0.23 (7.1)
8.3 (27’ 4”) 0.18 (5.6)
12.5 (41’) 0.12 (3.6)
Table 9: Common Antenna Cables
When routing the cable, ensure that you:
• Keep the cable length as short as possible.
• Avoid routing the cable round tight bends.
• Avoid kinking the cable, even temporarily during installation.
• Secure the cable so that it cannot interfere with other systems.
• Route the cable away from any heat sources.
1
RG type coaxial cable insertion loss can vary significantly between manufacturers. The insertion loss for RG type
cables shown in this column is considered 'worst case'. Refer to the cable manufacturer's specification sheet for
actual attenuation (insertion loss) for the cable being used.
•Route the cable away from potential interference sources such as ignition wiring, 400Hz
generators, fluorescent lighting and electric motors.
•Allow a minimum separation of 300mm (12 inches) from an ADF antenna cable.
Note:
In case an already installed antenna can be further used (old transponder is replaced) and the existing
connector does not fit, it is recommended to replace the connector. Alternatively, an adapter from the
existing connector to a SMA male type connector can be used. But this will add an additional loss of
typical 0.1 – 0.2 dB to the installation which must be considered. If the total loss of 2 dB is exceeded the
cable must be replaced.
Power Supply (Batt. Plus, GND): AWG20 (0.62 mm²)
Signals:
AWG22 (0.38 mm²)
The conductors must be approved for aircraft use. Recommended Quality:
MIL-Spec 22759/34, (Spec 55) 20AWG / 22AWG
Crimped D-Sub connector is always preferred against soldered connectors. Original TQ harness comply
with common aviation wiring standards. Consult your approved aviation shop for installation details.
This transponder complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment. This transponder should be installed and operated with minimum distance of 200
mm between the radiator and your body.
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or
transmitter.
Notice: This transponder has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This transponder
generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
8.2 Compliance
Notice: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and with Industry Canada license-
exempt RSS standard(s).
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this transponder may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this transponder must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
8.3 Modifications
Note:
Changes or modifications made to this transponder not expressly approved by TQ-Systems
GmbH may void the FCC authorization to operate this equipment.
This transponder has been designed and manufactured to allow “on condition maintenance”. This means
that there are no periodic service requirements necessary to maintain continued airworthiness, and no
maintenance is required as long as it does properly perform its intended function. When service is
required, a complete performance test must be accomplished following any repair action. Repairs must
only be carried out in accordance with TQ-Systems GmbH service procedures.
9.2 Repair
Only exchange and flat repair of the equipment is permitted. In case of equipment malfunction, the unit
must be sent to the manufacturer. Refer to section “1.2 Customer Service”.
9.3 Cleaning
Clean the display only with, lint-free cloth and an eyeglass lens cleaner that is specified as safe for antireflective coatings.
10. EXCLUSIVE LIMITED WARRANTY and LIMITATIONS ON LIABILITY
1. Our warranty and liability is based on legal provisions, provided nothing else has been agreed.
2. Delivery items may differ from product illustrations, especially in regard with color and weight.
Such differences do not constitute a defect of quality which is relevant for warranty claims.
3. The Customer's warranty rights are subject to the fact that the Customer has properly fulfilled its
obligations of examination and notification of defects under § 377 HGB (Commercial Code).
Inasmuch as the Customer is a consumer, the delivery will be considered as approved if written
notice of defects is not received within a period of ten (10) working days after arrival of the goods.
If the defect was not noticeable in an ordinary inspection the period is extended to four (4) weeks.
If the claim for defects is not files in good times, warranty shall be excluded.
4. Our warranty obligation to the Customer ends 36 months after delivery to the Customer or 24
months after delivery to the end customer, whichever period expires first. The warranty obligation
for claims for subsequent performance, replacement deliveries or replacement performance after
a substitute performance, replacement delivery or replacement performance exist within the
scope of the remaining period of the warranty term as stated above.
5. The warranty period expiries prematurely, however, if repair attempts or other modifications are
made to the contractual objects by the Customer or agents it has commissioned without the prior
agreement.
6. Our liability for damages attributable to it or its agents is, in cases of gross negligence or damage
with negligence, an obligation that is significant for achieving the purpose of the contract and is
financially and materially limited to the business and product liability insurance cover concluded.
Any further liability is excluded.
OpenSource-Software has been developed with the collaboration of many different developers under
differing conditions. Thus, any liability for consequential damages arising out of the use of OpenSourceSoftware shall, if not compulsory regulated by law, be excluded or limited to modifications or alterations
of OpenSource-Software which can clearly and definably be assigned to TQ or its auxiliary persons.
Used licenses:
• TQSSLAv1.0.2
• BSD-3-Clause
• GPL-3.0-with-GCC-exception
• Zlib
• ATT-style
Copyright holders, warranty disclaimer and license text can be downloaded from: