06Jan
uAvionix Ping200S granted FCC approval
January 6, 2017 – uAvionix continues to roll-out innovative products within the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) arena.
Their latest addition? The Ping200S Mode S Transponder, which just received FCC approval.
The Ping200S provides a unique combination of small size, low power and high visibility. All these factors make it an ideal choice for drones and other beyond line of sight UAV operations.
“We are excited to offer Ping200S to the market,” said Paul Beard, CEO of uAvionix. “Until now, operators requiring a transponder had to choose between unlicensed devices or heavier, power-hungry legacy solutions.”
Legislation introduced in the state of Washington aims to limit drone interference for some very special residents…an endangered population of Orcas.
These Orcas, also known as the southern resident killer whales, are the smallest of four resident communities within the area. It is the only killer whale population listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. In addition, they are protected under the Endangered Species Act.
The proposed bill requires drone operators to maintain a 200-yard buffer, in all directions, from any southern resident killer whales. This buffer already applies to boats, vessels and other objects that might encroach on the animals.
However, the existing law was unclear as to whether or not the line other objects applied to drones and other sUAS.
In a world increasingly reliant on technology to function, cyber security has quickly become an important issue.
Which begs the question, how safe is your drone from a hacker attack?
Experts predict that the hijacking of drones may be one of the next big cyber threats; which raises the potential for worrying possibilities.
In its 2017 Threats Predictions Report, McAfee Labs listed drone hijackings as one of 14 cyber security issues for the coming year. The report noted that attacks against hardware – such as mobile devices and drones – would increase in 2017.
Before you fly, review the steps below to make sure your first flight is a success.
December 22, 2016 – Last Christmas the FAA estimated that over 1 million individuals received a drone as a gift. This year, that number is expected to rise.
The continued popularity of drones, coupled with increased selection and lower prices, means a fair share of holiday gifts will include a drone.
However, with that gift comes responsibility.
So, what exactly do first time flyers need to do before taking that drone out for a spin? Read on to find out.
December 19, 2016 – With all the new FAA regulations taking affect, many drone operators – professionals and hobbyists, alike – are asking a very important question: “Where can I fly my drone legally?”
As you know, the FAA has rules defining where and when commercial operators and hobbyists can fly legally. The rules, of course, differ for each group.
To provide clarity, the FAA developed the B4UFLY app to help operators quickly determine where they can fly legally. The app is offered for both iOS and Android systems.
Download the B4UFLY app:
What exactly is ADS-B and do I need it?
1. GPS satellites provide location information to ADS-B equipped aircraft.
2. ADS-B equipped aircraft transmit altitude, speed and velocity information to other ADS-B equipped aircraft and ADS-B ground stations.
3. ADS-B ground receive stations provide aircraft location back to other aircraft, as well as air traffic control centers.
"ADS-B In" systems can be installed on any aircraft to display location information of other aircraft with ADS-B Out transmitters.
Aircraft also transmit their location directly to other “ADS-B In” equipped aircraft within their transmit area. Thus, forming a long-range mesh network that shares real-time position information.
For pilots flying with Visual Flight Rules cockpit-based ADS-B receiver displays provide earlier warning of aircraft in their flight area. This helps improve safety during inclement weather conditions.
