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

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.

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