FAA Certifies The Garmin GTX 330 ES And GTX 33 ES Transponders

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FAA Certifies The Garmin GTX 330 ES And GTX 33 ES Transponders

By Eddy Metcalf

May 20, 2013 - Garmin has received an Approved Model List Supplemental Type Certification (AML STC) that allows their GTX 330 ES and GTX 33 ES transponders to be installed in hundreds of makes and models of fixed-wing aircraft.

The GTX 330 family brings ATC aircraft surveillance to new levels of precision, reliability and performance. A panel mounted Mode S digital transponder series with traffic datalink capability and dedicated pushbutton keys for squawk code selection.

With the GTX 33 ES you can see the same radar traffic your ATC controller is watching with remote-mounted Mode S digital transponder. This IFR-certified unit features traffic datalink capability and also meets the European mandate for Mode S level 2 surveillance.

The GTX 33 is an all solid-state design, which makes for lower power consumption and reduced heat emissions. The transmitter delivers up to 250 watts of nominal power output. And other highlights include remote ident and auto standby, a Traffic Information Services (TIS-A) interface, plus altitude monitor with voice alerts.

Certification qualifies these products for ADS-B NextGen compliance (with accompanying WAAS position source), and are an ideal solution for aircraft that fly at any altitude in the U.S. or outside of the U.S. where it will be required to broadcast on the 1090 frequency band.

Customers that already own a GTX 330/33 transponder can purchase an ES upgrade from a Garmin Authorized dealer for $1,200. For aircraft owners that already have a GTX 330 ES, GTX 33 ES or a GTX 23 ES, a free update is now available through Garmin Authorized Dealers.

Earlier this year, the FAA granted an AML STC for the GDL 88, a simple, ADS-B rule-compliant solution for aircraft operating in the U.S. and below 18,000 feet. The innovative dual-link capability allows the GDL 88 to receive both the 978 MHz UAT and 1090 MHz frequency bands to provide the most comprehensive level of traffic situational awareness. Advanced traffic awareness features include TargetTrend relative motion technology, which helps the pilot visualize the trend of the traffic threats as it relates to their aircraft, and SURF technology, which detects other aircraft or ground vehicles on runways and taxiways that may pose a threat while taxiing or on approach.