Getting Started

Unpacking the FX Device:

• Carefully remove the FX Device from its packaging. Handle it by the case to avoid electrostatic discharge to the pins of the gold SMA RF connectors.
• Inspect the device for any visible signs of damage before proceeding.
• If there is any damage or anything is missing contact your supplier.
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Internal Kit:

1. PilotAware FX EC System
2. 869.5 MHz and 1090 MHz  Di-Pole antennas
3. GPS Remote Antenna
4. USB Type-C Cable
5. RJ12 FLARM Power and Data cable.
6. DC Molex-SL Power Cable.

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Unpack and Identify: Locate the two internal dipole antennas connected with gold coaxial cables.
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Antenna Details:‍

• The shorter antenna (105mm) is tuned to 1090MHz for ADS-B signal reception.
• The longer antenna (135mm) is tuned to 869.5MHz for PilotAware transmissions.
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Important: These antennas are not interchangeable and must be connected to the correct SMA connectors on the FX device, as outlined in the installation instructions.
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GPS Antenna: The FX unit has a built-in GPS antenna, so using the remote internal GPS antenna is optional. The remote GPS antenna is helpful if you choose to install the FX device behind the dashboard or in a concealed position. In this case, you can position the remote GPS antenna in a spot with a clear view of the sky, such as on the dashboard cowling, to ensure optimal satellite reception.

External Kit:

1. PilotAware FX EC System
2. 2M RG142 Coaxial Cables
3. GPS Remote Antenna
4. USB Type-C Cable
5. RJ12 FLARM Power and Data Cable
6. DC Molex-SL Power Cable
7. External Aviation Grade Antennas

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Unpack and Identify: Locate the two external aviation antennas, coaxial cables, and mounting components in the kit.
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Antenna Details:

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• ‍‍Shorter Antenna (55mm): Tuned to 1090MHz for ADS-B signal reception.
• Longer Antenna (75mm): Tuned to 869.5MHz for PilotAware transmissions.
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Important: These antennas are not interchangeable and must be connected to the correct SMA connectors on the FX device, as outlined in the installation instructions.
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GPS Antenna: The FX unit has a built-in GPS antenna, so using the remote internal GPS antenna is optional. The remote GPS antenna is helpful if you choose to install the FX device behind the dashboard or in a concealed position. In this case, you can position the remote GPS antenna in a spot with a clear view of the sky, such as on the dashboard cowling, to ensure optimal satellite reception.‍

Power and Connection Cables ‍

Gather the remaining cables and lay them out separately ensuring that you have the following:

• RJ12 cable to be used to connect to an existing FLARM unit and FLARM display.
• One Molex-SL fused power cable, solely for 12-30V power.
• One USB-C cable, solely for power.

Examine each cable for any signs of wear or damage to ensure optimal performance upon installation. If there are any issues contact us at support@pilotaware.com

USB-C Power Input

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• ‍‍The USB-C port provides a convenient way to power the device with a standard USB-C 5V input.
• This method is ideal for testing or when an aircraft has no power bus but USB power is available, such as from a 5V power bank (e.g., ANKER Power Bank).
• Note: The FX USB-C port must not be used to supply power to other devices.
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Molex-SL Power Input:

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• ‍‍Recommended for permanent, secure installations.
• Accepts a 9-30V connection from your aircraft (12-24V) bus bar.
• The cable includes a 2A quick blow fuse and a keyed, locking Molex-SL connector for a reliable connection.

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RJ45 Power/Data Input:

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• ‍‍The FX can receive both power and data from an existing FLARM installation using the standard port pinout.
• The FX RJ45 port is compatible with RJ12 cables, providing flexibility. An RJ12 cable is supplied with the FX.

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Steps for Powering Up the Device.

Using the USB-C for Power

1. Insert the USB-C cable into the designated USB port on the FX device.
2. Connect the other end to a 5V USB power source such as an ANKER Power Bank.

Using the Molex-SL for Power

1. Attach the spade connectors to a fused BUS within the 9-30V range. FX is reverse-polarity protected; however, please ensure the polarity is correct when installing.
2. Securely connect the Molex-SL cable to the device’s Molex-SL port. Please note that the keyed Molex-SL connector has a simple top latch that needs to be dpressed to remove the connector.

Using RJ12 cable for Power and Data from FLARM

If connecting in series with an existing FLARM device, the power and GPS signals will be supplied from the FLARM device to the FX.

1. Ensure your existing FLARM unit is functioning and has the latest software.
2. Turn off power to the FLARM device.
3. Disconnect the cable from the FLARM box to the FLARM display at the FLARM box end. Connect this cable to the FX output port.
4. Use the supplied RJ12 cable to connect the output of the FLARM box to the FX input port.

This setup provides power and data to the FX, which is now installed in series between the FLARM and the FLARM display.

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Important Notes:

• Voltage Check: Double-check the voltage range of your power source before connecting to avoid damage.
• Power Sources: Do not attempt to power the FX through both a power bank and your aircraft bus simultaneously.

• FLARM Manual: Refer to the FLARM manual for detailed instructions and safety information.
• Cable Management: Do not over-tightly wrap or strain any cables, as this may cause damage or failure over time.

• Consult an Expert: If you are unsure about your installation, consult a qualified engineer or inspector.

Preparing for Installation:

1. Components: Ensure you have all the Rosetta-FX kit components: FX device, antennas, and necessary power and interconnect cables.

2. Identify Connectors and Antennas:

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• Locate the two gold SMA radio connectors on the FX device.
• The smaller antenna (1090MHz) is for ADS-B reception.
• The longer antenna (869.525MHz) is for PilotAware transmission and reception.

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3. Antenna Types: Internal and external antennas differ and are detailed below.

Installing with FLARM

PilotAware FX has been designed to extend the capabilities of an installed FLARM device so that it will then have full interoperability with PilotAware and also have access to the advanced facilities of the PilotAware infrastructure.

Alternatively, the FX can be used without a connection to a FLARM device but of course you will not then be transmitting a FLARM signal.

‍External Antenna Installation:

Location and Ground Plane:

• Monopole antennas are supplied that need to be mounted on a conducting ground plane for correct operation. The skin of a metal aircraft is an ideal ground plane.
• For antenna location, choose a non-load-bearing location under the fuselage, ensuring it provides a clear line of sight for the UHF transmissions.
• If the fuselage material is non-conductive ie fabric or fibreglass, add a metallic plate at the mounting point to act as the ground plane (Minimum radius of ~20cm).
• Avoid installing the antennas near metal obstructions such as wheel struts, exhaust pipes, and other objects that could cause signal obscuration (blocking).
• Make sure that there is a good connection between the antenna and the ground plane by removing paint and aluminium oxide at the interface between the two.
• Ensure that the supplied locking washer, nut and O-ring are used to secure the antenna and effect a corrosion-resistant electric connection.
• The longer antenna (750mm) is the PilotAware transmitting and receiving antenna. The shorter antenna (550mm) is the 1090MHz ADSB receiving antenna.
• When correctly installed, the PilotAware transmitter should give a VECTOR Diagram showing a near 360-degree radiation pattern.

Vertical Installation:

• Mount the external antennas vertically for optimal performance. Vertical orientation is essential for optimum signal transmission and reception.

Safe Distance:

• Install the antennas at least 50cm (20 inches) away from the the existing 1090MHz Mode-C/S transponder antenna.

Cable Management

• Carefully route the RG142 coaxial cable, avoiding kinks or sharp bends. Securely lock the BNC connector to the antenna and device for a stable connection.

Securing Antennas:

• Ensure that the antennas and cable are securely mounted to sustain the dynamic forces anticipated during operation and finally check the locking washer, nut and O-ring are secure.

‍Internal Antenna Installation:

The Internal antennas supplied are efficient centre-feed dipole antennas. Dipole antennas do not need a ground plane. The longer one (130mm) is the PilotAware transmitting and receiving antenna and the shorter one (105mm) is the 1090Mhz  receive-only antenna.

Choosing the Best Location Inside the Aircraft for the Antennas:

• Select a location within the aircraft that minimises signal obscuration (blocking), such as away from large metal surfaces and bodies of water, including occupants fuel tanks (including plastic ones) and electronic equipment. The antennas need the best possible clear view, outside of the aircraft.

Mounting:

• Securely mount the antennas vertically, initially ensuring they have ample clear space around them for signal transmission and reception. Initially, this can be done using the suction cups provided on each antenna.

Minimising Obstructions:

• Place the antennas near windows or other non-metallic (or carbon fibre) areas to enhance signal transmission and reception.
• In most metal or carbon fibre aircraft, the best location is the top left and right-hand corners of the windscreen to provide a predominantly forward-facing radiation and detection pattern.
• In fibreglass and fabric aircraft, there are more location options as fibreglass and fabric do not obscure radio signals. 'Carbon fibre does block UHF signals'.
• Check the radiation pattern of the PilotAware transmissions using PilotAware VECTOR. This should be as close to 360 degrees as possible.
• When, after a few flights and experimentation you have found the optimum position, the antennas can be additionally secured with the 3M double-edged adhesive tape provided.
• Finally, route the antenna cables to effect a neat installation with no cables showing.

Connecting Antennas to the Rosetta-FX Device

Identifying SMA Ports:

• Locate the gold SMA ports on the rear side of the FX device. The ports are designated for each antenna connection.

Connecting the Coaxial Cable:

• Connect the SMA end of the PilotAware antenna coaxial cable to SMA port 1 on the FX device. This is on the far left of the FX, identified by a ‘Transmission icon'.
• Connect the SMA end of the ADS-B antenna coaxial cable to SMA port 3 on the FX device. This is on the far right of the FX, identified by a 'Jet icon'.

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Connecting the Device:

Power Connection:

• Choose a suitable power source for the FX device (USB-C, Molex-SL, RJ45 or RJ12) as described in the power section, and connect one power supply accordingly.

FLARM Connection:

• If using the smaller RJ12 connector supplied, connect it from the FX device Data output port to the FLARM display. Connect the original FLARM cable from the FLARM to the FX Data input Port.

Connecting a remote GPS antenna.

• FX has an inbuilt GPS and antenna. If the FX unit is to be installed hidden behind the dashboard or other parts of the cockpit or fuselage as recommended, then the remote GPS antenna should be used.
• The remote GPS antenna should be mounted on the dashboard or other location with a clear, uninterrupted view of the satellite constellations.
• The remote GPS cable is terminated in a male SMA connector that should be connected to the female SMA socket on the rear of the FX, second from the right, identified by a ‘Satellite ICON’. The FX will auto detect that the remote antenna has been connected.

Final Checks and Testing:

• Double-check all connections are in the correct position and are secure.
• Permanently install the FX box ensuring it is secure enough to withstand all anticipated vibration and G forces in operation.
• Test the device and antennas to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
• Check for interference with other aircraft systems and resolve any issues.

Safety Precautions:

• Follow all safety guidelines as outlined in the FX manual.
• Consult an experienced engineer, inspector or reach out to PilotAware Customer Support.

Regular Maintenance:

• Periodically inspect the antennas and connections for signs of wear, water ingress or damage.

For a permit to fly aircraft, please ensure that the installation is recorded in the aircraft maintenance log.

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‍Step 1: Choosing Your Power Source

• Select one method of powering up the device. Your options include USB-C, Molex-SL, or RJ12/RJ45 connections. Consult the section on power supply options.

Step 2: Connecting Antennas

• Attach the antennas to the designated PilotAware and ADS-B inputs on the FX device. Consult the section on Installation.

Step 3: Applying Power

• Once the antennas are connected, apply power to the device using your chosen method.‍

Step 4: Monitoring LED Indicators

• On powering up, observe the four LED indicators on the front of the FX device. Initially, the three LEDs on the left will light up RED, and the right-hand LED will remain off.
• These LEDs represent ADS-B in, PilotAware Transceiver, GPS, and iGRID functionality respectively.
• 3 colours (plus off ie no LED) are used to indicate the current state.
• RED:     Not functioning or acquiring a signal.
• Blue:    Intermediate action or temporary loss of signal or function.
• Green: Fully operational and functioning correctly.

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Understanding the LED Indicators:

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ADSB Indicator: (1st left-hand LED with ‘Jet ICON’)

1. 🟢 Green: ADS-B signals are being correctly received.
2. 🔵 Blue:    No ADS-B received for over 15 seconds. (this is a normal non-fault indicator) 
3. 🔴 Red:     No ADS-B received for over a minute. This is only a fault if continuous. It can occur regularly at night, in remote areas, or when running on the ground.

PAW Indicator: (2nd LED with 'Transmitter ICON')

1. 🟢 Green: The PilotAware transmitter and receiver are functioning properly.
2. 🔴 Red:     Indicates a fault in the PilotAware transceiver if remains continuous in flight.

GPS Indicator: (3rd LED with ‘Satellite ICON’)

1. 🟢 Green: The GPS has a lock and is functioning correctly.
2. 🔴 Red:     The GPS is acquiring a lock. The initial lock may take longer as it collects local ephemeris and Almanac data. To expedite this, power up the device in a       location with a clear view of the sky. The initial lock may take several seconds, or several minutes depending on location and frequency of use.

iGRID Indicator:(4th right-hand LED with ‘Mobile ICON’)

1. ⚪ No LED: No Wi-Fi hotspot connection has not yet been established.
2. 🔵 Blue:      WiFi connection to the hotspot established.
3. 🟢 Green:   FX is connected to the PilotAware servers, enabling iGRID functionality. Consult the iGRID setting page on how to pair with your mobile hotspot.

Follow these instructions to activate your FX device using the provided link and entering the required details.

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Step 1: Access the Activation Page

Open your web browser and go to the following link:

https://pilotaware.lode.co.uk/subs/

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Step 2: Fill in the Required Fields

You will see a form similar to the one in the image. Complete the fields as described below:

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1. Name: Enter your full name.
2. Email Address: Enter your valid email address.
3. PilotAware Serial Number: Enter the serial number of your FX device. You can find the serial number printed on the outer packaging, on the bottom of the FX device, or on any on-screen licensing prompts.
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Step 3: Scan QR Code (Optional)

If you prefer, you can scan the QR code located on the FX device to automatically fill in the serial number.

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Step 4: Submit the Form

Once all fields are filled in, click the Submit button.

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Step 5: Stripe Checkout

After submitting the form, you will be redirected to a Stripe-hosted checkout page. Complete the payment process to generate your first year's subscription.

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Step 6: Receive Your Licence Key

Once the payment is completed, you will receive an email to the billing email address provided during checkout. This email will contain your licence key, which consists of 16 characters formatted as follows:

xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx

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Confirmation

You will receive a confirmation message that your serial number will be activated or renewed once the subscription is set.

By following these steps, you will successfully activate your FX device and ensure uninterrupted service.

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The Settings Page is split into two sections. Basic and Advanced, with the Basic Section inputs being a Mandatory Requirement.

Each section includes a '?' symbol which if activated toggles information that describes the relevant action to be undertaken.

New features will be updated automatically to the Settings Page, ready for you to accept when you are connected to iGRID. These will be complete with ‘?’ instructions.

When inputs and selections have been made then a banner will appear at the top of the page to let you know that your new configuration has been saved.

Basic Settings

Basic Settings are mandatory requirements that MUST be installed to allow the Rosetta FX to operate correctly.

Mandatory HEX-ID Input

The HEX-ID is a unique 6-digit identifier needed for your aircraft to be uniquely recognized across Europe. It can be derived from three sources, in order of priority:

1. ICAO HEX Code: Issued during aircraft construction, this code is globally unique and linked to your country of registration. For UK-registered aircraft, it starts with “4xxxxx.” Check the CAA G-INFO website to retrieve it.
2. FLARM Serial Number: A unique 6-digit code starting with “Dxxxxx,” based on your FLARM unit.
3. PilotAware FX Serial Number: A unique 6-digit code beginning with “Fxxxxx,” based on your FX unit.

Always use your ICAO HEX-ID if available, especially if your aircraft has a Mode-S transponder or other electronic conspicuity (EC) devices. This helps avoid detecting your own aircraft as a ghost and aids ATC with traffic services.

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Aircraft Type

Selecting your aircraft type is important so that it can be correctly identified on in flight screens and Electronic Flight Bags such as Sky Demon.

Advanced Settings

Advanced Settings improve your FX experience by configuring services to meet your individual requirements. This includes such unique PilotAware features such as Mode-S/3D that provides Mode-S targets with their GPS coordinates using multilateration so they can be plotted on the PilotAware RADAR screen and EFB’s such as Sky Demon.

Changing the Baud Rate will set a single Baud Rate for both the FX Input and Output Ports. Only change this if you are sure of what you are doing. If not ask advice.

Horizontal and Vertical Filters apply only to the RS232 output port destined for Glass cockpits without the ability to filter aircraft heights. FX will do it for them based on your input.

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Update FX

FX software updates will be sent to you automatically. However of for any reason you want to update software from a file then you can so do with the following inbuilt routine. To do this, please ensure that you are an advanced user or you are undertaking this with help from PilotAware Support. Failure to upload this correctly may render FX inoperable and the unit will have to be turned to PilotAware for reset as this cannot be done remotely.

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Licensing

Use this section to check your current license staus or if you need to change the ownership of your FX. For instance if you have sold your aircraft with the FX and the new owner needs to be registered.

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FX WiFi Settings

To change your SSID or Password, go to the "Advanced Settings WiFi" section. Enter your desired network name in the Wi-Fi SSID field and your new password in the Wi-Fi Password field to prevent any unwarranted Wi-Fi connections. Click "Update Wi-Fi Settings" to save your changes, and ensure you keep your new password safe.

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Next Step

Set up your iGRID connection via the iGRID page

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PilotAware iGRID: enhance your situational awareness with advanced services via iGRID.

Introduction:

‍Connecting to the PilotAware iGRID via your smartphone, provides you with advanced traffic and situational awareness data using an encrypted internet link to the PilotAware servers.  

To connect to the PilotAware servers, you will use 2 WIFI links available from the FX. It’s important to distinguish between the two links.

(i) FX WiFi Hotspot. This is a WiFi access connection from FX to your smart tablet. This has a unique WiFi SSID name such as Rosetta FX-9676DEF.

(ii) Smartphone WiFi Hotspot. This is a WiFi hotspot on your Smartphone which when enabled will broadcast a preset SSID such as iPhone77 set by the manufacturer.

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This smartphone hotspot connects your FX to the internet via the mobile network. Therefore you must have a current data contract, mobile data turned on and the Smartphone Hotspot enabled and discoverable for this to work correctly.

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How to connect FX to the iGRID servers via the Internet

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1. The Smartphone WiFI hotspot to which the FX is to be connected should ideally be available and discoverable before power is applied to the FX.
2. Any WiFi hotspot connected to the internet can be used to test the iGRID connection. In the air this will however come from your smartphone.
3. If you are using your mobile phone hotspot ensure that it is available and discoverable to initiate and maintain the paring of the two devices.
4. When paired, navigate to the FX iGRID page on a separate device and select 'Scan Networks’.  Select your phone SSID and insert your password when prompted.
5. Select Submit.
6. Check that you are connected to the smartphone hotspot. This will also be shown on the phone screen.

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Here is how to do it step by step.

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Step 1: Preparing Your Mobile Device:‍

Example using an iPhone 6S or later device:

• Tip. Ensure your hotspot SSID and password are set to simple ASCII characters (0-9, A-Z, with no spaces or special characters). For example: set SSID as billsphone and password as bills1997
• Navigate to the iOS 'Personal Hotspot' settings and if your phone supports it enable 'Maximise Compatibility'. Without it, your hotspot may fail to be discoverable.

• Activate your hotspot and make it discoverable. For iPhone 14, swipe down from the top right-hand side to access the control screen.

• Expand the top left-hand block, by putting your finger in the middle the block, and select the hotspot to make it discoverable as shown below.

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• IMPORTANT The WiFi should turn off as shown in the following screenshot. If it doesn't manually turn it off.

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Step 2: Connect FX to the discoverable iPhone Hotspot ‍

Using a separate Smart Tablet

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• Power on the FX, connect the smart tablet to the FX WiFi hotspot and log onto the FX Home screen by typing in 192.168.1.1.
• This will take you to the Home Page (FX Dashboard) 
• Navigate to the 'iGRID Setup’ page by selecting the blue ICON.

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• Once on the iGRID System Page
• Select 'Scan Networks' in the top box and wait for your phones' SSID (e.g., ‘iPhone77') to appear.
• Select your SSID and enter your password when prompted.

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Monitoring Connection Status:

• Once connected to the hotspot, the right-hand LED on the FX will turn Blue 🔵, indicating a local connection from the FX to your smartphone’s hotspot.
• The Wi-Fi hotspot on the iPhone, will also indicate 'connected' when the FX is connected to the hotspot.

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• When the phone connects to the PilotAware servers via the mobile network, the 4th LED on the FX will turn Green 🟢, and your iPhone hotspot will show 1 device connected. This completes the connection between the FX and the PilotAware servers through the iPhone .

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In-Flight Network Dynamics:

• In flight the 4th LED may sometimes turn Blue🔵 , indicating the connection to the iPhone hotspot is intact but there is no network connection to the iGRID servers.
• This is normal and will be variable depending on your height, current access to the mobile network used and the network availability.
• Experiment with the placement of the phone in your aircraft to optimize the connectivity. A good starting point for your phone is your chest pocket.

Verifying that you have iGRID Connectivity:

• When connected ti iGRID, the PilotAware RADAR screen will display considerably more targets than normal. Everything available unto 60km.
• The iGRID LED on FX will be illuminated Green. 🟢
• The Weather RADAR feature, when available, will also become selectable.
• The iGRID row on the status page will show as green if a connection is valid.

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Tips.

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Enabling the hotspot on an iPhone needs to be done using the instructions above. The FX will attempt an iGRID hotspot connection on power-up, so for simplicity, enable the phone hotspot before applying power to FX. If you dont it will try to connect to the strongest nearby hotspot. In the aircraft however this will always be your smartphone.

Remember, subsequent pairings in the cockpit will be automatic after the initial setup, and FX will remember the configuration details of your primary hotspot.

Adjust the above steps for Android devices as their interface and settings may differ. Please check with your individual smartphone instructions.

This guide aims to make the process of connecting to iGRID straightforward and effective, enhancing your overall experience with the PilotAware system.

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1. Core Features:

• Dashboard : Your main dashboard for accessing essential device information and alerts.
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• Settings Page: Customize alerts, update settings, and fine-tune device performance. Click Here
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• Status Page: Monitor the health and performance of your FX device, including GPS strength and connectivity. Click Here

• Traffic Page: View real-time traffic data Click Here

• Radar Page: Visualize traffic and enhance situational awareness with the Radar features. Click Here

2. Device Integration

• EFB Linking: Seamlessly connect your Electronic Flight Bag for enhanced traffic information display.
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• RS232 Linking: Set up and integrate RS232 devices with your FX system.
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• FLARM Linking: Configure your PilotAware FX to work with FLARM devices.

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