ping978EC FAQs

The ping978EC is the world's smallest, lightest, and most affordable full-range, dual-link ADS-B transceiver with integrated SBAS GNSS and precision barometric sensor. It weighs 22 grams and is designed for Detect and Avoid (DAA) functionality in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) exclusively for the UK market. It supports ADS-B IN on 1090MHz and 978MHz, and ADS-B OUT on 978MHz. The ping978EC is the world's smallest, lightest, and most affordable full-range, dual-link ADS-B transceiver with integrated SBAS GNSS and precision barometric sensor. It weighs 22 grams and is designed for Detect and Avoid (DAA) functionality in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) exclusively for the UK market. It supports ADS-B IN on 1090MHz and 978MHz, and ADS-B OUT on 978MHz.

Key features include a 978MHz transceiver with time-based self-assigned temporary non-ICAO aircraft address, detection of ADS-B equipped aircraft within a 100-statute mile radius, GDL 90 combined UAT/1090ES traffic reports, integrated high-integrity SBAS GNSS sensor, integrated GNSS antenna, precision barometric sensor, battery-backed GNSS for fast TTFF, and compatibility with popular autopilots via GDL 90/Mavlink.

Yes, it meets the UK CAA CAP 1391 Appendix E, for UAS operations in the United Kingdom. It also complies with RTCA DO-282B Class A1S MOPS and FCC 47CFR part 87. A Statement of Compliance (SoC) is available on the uAvionix product support webpage to support Specific Category authorization applications.

uAvionix warrants the product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for one year from installation. Repairs or replacements are provided at no charge for parts or labor, but the customer covers transportation costs. The warranty excludes cosmetic damage, consumables, or damage from accident, abuse, misuse, fire, flood, theft, unauthorized servicing, improper installation, or modifications.

The ping978EC does not support installation on aircraft with an active TCAS II system or SatCom equipment (transmitters on L1/L2 bands) without additional interference testing. It uses a non-ICAO self-assigned aircraft address and only transmits once a GNSS lock is achieved. It is intended for situational awareness and navigational aid, not for IFR flight conditions.

The FCC ID is 2AFFTUAT016.

Carefully unpack the device and visually inspect it for damage incurred during shipment. If damaged, notify the shipping company, file a claim, and save the original shipping container and packing materials.

The package includes the ping978EC hardware, a 978MHz transceiver antenna, and mating connectors for interfaces.

For setup, you'll need a smartphone to download the "uAvionix Ping Installer" app from your app store. The pingWiFi module is required for wireless configuration.

Ensure the device is powered off during unpacking. Attach an antenna or dummy load to the SMA connector to prevent damage. Power it on (11-28V DC) only after connecting necessary interfaces, and use the pingWiFi module for initial configuration via the app.

The device is developed exclusively for the UK market under CAP 1391. For use elsewhere, check local regulations.

Mount the ping978EC in a location that minimizes vibration and moisture. Dimensions are 25x49x22mm (width x depth x height). Secure it to the airframe, ensuring the GNSS antenna (on the top PCB, broad face skyward) has minimal skyview shadowing from fuselage, wings, or other components.

Mount the antenna as close as possible to the ping978EC to minimize cable loss. Use the included 978MHz dipole antenna or a TSO-C66, TSO-C74, or TSO-C112 compatible antenna with peak gain ≤4 dBi, omni-directional pattern, and VSWR ≤1.8 at 978MHz. Ensure an adequate ground plane on the airframe. Place the antenna at least 4cm from any body part for RF safety.

The integrated GNSS antenna is on the top of the device (yellow-highlighted PCB area). Mount the ping978EC with this face skyward for optimal reception. Consider airframe components that may shadow the skyview and impact performance.

Use the power interface (2-pin Molex): Pin 1 for 11-28V DC, Pin 2 for ground. Navigation interface (5-pin JST): For configuration via pingWiFi. Autopilot interface (4-pin JST): For mode control. Always connect an antenna to the SMA connector before powering on.

No modifications are permitted. The device must remain in its original form and be used only with included or specified components (e.g., antennas). Unauthorized modifications void conformance to standards and may violate regulations.

The device operates from -45°C to +70°C (datasheet) or -35°C to +70°C (guide). Install in an environment within this range, avoiding extreme heat or cold sources.

Install the "uAvionix Ping Installer" app on your smartphone. Connect the pingWiFi module to the 5-pin JST connector, power on the device, and connect to the WiFi SSID "Ping-VXYZ". Open the app, select "ping978EC" as device type, set parameters like Emitter Category (default: UAV), GPS offsets, Control ("UAT TX enabled" recommended), Squawk Code (if avaliable), and Stall Speed. Press Update to save changes.

Select "ping978EC" from the device type dropdown (mandatory). Callsign is also mandatory. For normal UAS operation, keep Emitter Category as "UAV". Other fields like Squawk Code/Flight Plan ID, Aircraft Length/Width, and GPS offsets are configurable but not always required. "UAT TX enabled" is recommended for full operation.

Stall speed determines Air/Ground State. It is recommened that you leave it as zero.

Use the Ping app's Monitoring tab while connected via pingWiFi. Note: When the app is connected, GNSS data is not available to the ADS-B OUT transmitter. Disconnect from the WiFi module to resume normal UAT transmissions.

Yes, changes committed via the app's Update button are persistent across power cycles. Reconfigure only if changes are needed.

The autopilot interface (4-pin JST) allows enabling/disabling ADS-B operation in flight (e.g., Standby/Off, RX Only, UAT TX enabled modes) using Mavlink, but primary configuration is done via the app and pingWiFi.

Once configured with "UAT TX enabled" and powered on with a GNSS lock, it automatically transmits ADS-B OUT on 978MHz and receives on 1090MHz/978MHz. It uses a self-assigned non-ICAO address and only transmits after GNSS lock. No in-flight control is required unless using autopilot integration.

GREEN: Flashing indicates UAT/1090ES Traffic. RED: ON indicates FAULT; Flashing indicates Transmit.

Standby/Off: No transmit/receive, but GNSS lock remains. RX Only: ADS-B IN active. UAT TX enabled: ADS-B IN and OUT active. Modes can be controlled via autopilot interface.

No, it operates autonomously after configuration. Optional autopilot control allows mode switching. Always have an antenna or dummy load attached to prevent damage.

Place the antenna at least 4cm from body parts. To stop RF emissions, remove power. Handle the antenna only when disconnected. The device complies with FCC RF exposure limits for Public/Uncontrolled environments. It is for situational awareness only, not IFR conditions.

It detects ADS-B equipped aircraft on 1090MHz and 978MHz within a 100-statute mile radius in real time given best set of conditions.

Check GNSS antenna orientation (skyward, minimal shadowing). Ensure the device is powered and battery-backed GNSS is functional. Monitor via the Ping app. Transmissions only start after lock; if persistent, contact support.

RED ON indicates a FAULT. Check connections, power, and configuration. Flashing RED means Transmit is active (normal during operation).

Ensure configuration is set to "UAT TX enabled," GNSS lock is achieved, and an antenna is connected. If connected to the Ping app via pingWiFi, disconnect to resume transmissions. Verify power (11-28V DC) and no faults (RED LED).

Contact uAvionix support with model, serial number, description of issue, shipping address, and contact number. Provide proof of purchase.Warranty covers defects for one year from installation.

For additional customer support, please submit a Support Ticket to the uAvionix customer support team.