Getting Started

Overview

The Core Features page provides an overview of the essential functionalities of the PilotAware FX device, enhancing situational awareness, connectivity, and in-flight safety. Here’s a summary of the main sections and features:
1. Unboxing

1. Unboxing

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

PilotAware FX External Kit

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

Antenna Details:

  • Shorter Antenna (55mm): Tuned to 1090MHz for ADS-B signal reception.
  • Longer Antenna (75mm): Tuned to 869.5MHz for PilotAware transmissions.

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.

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

2. Power Supplies

2. Power Supplies

USB-C Power Input

  • 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.

Molex-SL Power Input:

  • 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.

RJ45 Power/Data Input:

  • 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.

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.

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.
3. Installation Overview

3. Installation Overview

Installing the FX Device

Step 1: Preparation

  • Ensure you have all kit components, including the FX device, antennas, and necessary power and interconnect cables.

Step 2: Identifying Connectors and Antennas

  • Locate the two gold SMA radio connectors on the FX device.
  • 1090MHz (ADS-B) – Small antenna for ADS-B reception.
  • 869.525MHz (PilotAware TX/RX) – Long antenna for PilotAware transmission and reception.

Installing with FLARM

Step 1: FLARM Integration

  • PilotAware FX extends the capabilities of an installed FLARM device, enabling full interoperability with PilotAware and access to its advanced features. The FLARM is connected to the FX input with the supplied RJ12. (A FLARM compatible RJ45 is also acceptable)

Step 2: Standalone Mode

  • FX can be used without FLARM.

External Antenna Installation

Step 1: Ground Plane Requirements

  • Monopole antennas require a conducting ground plane for proper operation.
  • A metal aircraft skin is ideal.

Step 2: Placement

  • Mount the antennas under the fuselage with a clear line of sight for optimal UHF transmission.
  • If the fuselage is non-metallic (fabric or fiberglass), install a metallic plate (minimum 20cm radius) at the mounting point.

Step 3: Avoiding Obstructions

  • Install antennas away from metal structures, including wheel struts, exhaust pipes, and other objects that could block the signal.

Step 4: Secure Mounting

  • Ensure a good connection between the antenna and the ground plane by removing paint or oxide layers.
  • Use the locking washer, nut, and O-ring to secure the antenna and create a corrosion-resistant connection.

Step 5: Antenna Orientation

  • Mount antennas vertically for the best performance.

Step 6: Safe Distance

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

Step 7: Cable Management

  • Route the RG142 coaxial cable carefully, avoiding kinks or sharp bends.
  • Securely attach the BNC connectors to both the antenna and the device.

Internal Antenna Installation

Step 1: Understanding Dipole Antennas

  • Internal antennas are center-feed dipole antennas and do not require a ground plane.

Step 2: Placement

  • Install antennas in a location that minimises signal blockage, away from metal surfaces, fuel tanks, and electronic equipment.

Step 3: Optimal Mounting Locations

  • Metal/Carbon Fibre Aircraft: Best placement is in the top left and right-hand corners of the windscreen for a forward-facing signal pattern.
  • Fiberglass/Fabric Aircraft: More flexible positioning options, as these materials do not block radio signals.

Step 4: Secure Installation

  • Initially mount the antennas using suction cups.
  • Once an optimal position is determined, secure them using the 3M double-sided adhesive tape provided.

Step 5: Minimising Obstructions

  • Place antennas near windows or other non-metallic areas to improve signal reception.
  • Avoid carbon fiber, as it blocks UHF signals.

Connecting Antennas & Remote GPS

Step 1: Locate SMA Ports

  • PilotAware Antenna (TX/RX)SMA Port 1 (Far left, Transmission Icon).
  • ADS-B Antenna (Receive-only)SMA Port 3 (Far right, Jet Icon).
  • GPS Antenna → SMA Port 2 (Satellite Icon)

Step 2: Connecting the Remote GPS Antenna (if needed)

  • If the FX unit is installed behind the dashboard or cockpit panels, a remote GPS antenna should be used.
  • Mount the GPS antenna on the dashboard or an area with a clear sky view.
  • Connect the male SMA connector of the GPS antenna to SMA Port 2 (Satellite Icon) on the FX device.
  • FX will auto-detect the connection.

Power & Additional Connections

Step 1: Choosing a Power Source

  • Power the FX device using USB-C, Molex-SL, RJ45, or RJ12 from FLARM as needed.

Step 2: FLARM Integration (optional)

  • Connect FX Data Output → FLARM display or other compatible hardware.
  • Connect FLARM → FX Data Input.

Fitting & Testing

Step 1: Secure Connections

  • Double-check all connections are correct and secure.

Step 2: Mounting the FX Device

  • Ensure the FX device is firmly mounted to withstand vibrations and G-forces during operation

A template for FX's mounting holes can be downloaded here.

Step 3: System Functionality Check

  • Verify that all components function correctly.
  • Check for interference with other aircraft systems.

Step 4: Regular Maintenance

  • Periodically inspect antennas and connections for wear, corrosion, or damage.

Step 5: Regulatory Compliance

  • For permit-to-fly aircraft, record the installation in the aircraft maintenance log.

4. Powering Up

4. Powering Up

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.

Understanding the LED Indicators:

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 ‘Chain 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.
5. Activating FX

5. Activating FX

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

Step 1: Access the Activation Page

Open your web browser and go to the following link:

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

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:

  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.

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.

Step 4: Submit the Form

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

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.

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


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.

6. Basic Settings

6. Basic Settings

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Next Step

Set up your iGRID connection via the iGRID page

7. Connecting to iGRID

7. Connecting to iGRID

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.

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.

How to connect FX to the iGRID servers via the Internet

  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.

Here is how to do it step by step.

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.

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

Step 2: Connect FX to the discoverable iPhone Hotspot

Using a separate Smart Tablet

  • 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.

FX Home or Dashboard Page

  • 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.

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.

  • 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 .

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.

Tips.

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.

8. Where To Next?

8. Where To Next?

1. Core Features:

  • Dashboard : Your main dashboard for accessing essential device information and alerts.
  • Settings Page: Customize alerts, update settings, and fine-tune device performance. Click Here
  • Status Page: Monitor the health and performance of your FX device, including GPS strength and connectivity. 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.
  • RS232 Linking: Set up and integrate RS232 devices with your FX system.
  • FLARM Linking: Configure your PilotAware FX to work with FLARM devices.

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