I've sold dozens of these already and had the same responses from almost all
users....
IMHO this is the answer we should be looking for rather than adding
transponders to gliders.
We have an FAA exemption from requiring transponders in all gliders based on
our "inability" to properly power the additional load transponders require
and an exemption based on the )fact) that we don't normally fly in congested
airspace and in IFR enjoinments....having said that, the FAA is acutely
aware that there is a growing number or transponder equipped gliders, many
of which can routinely be found running down the airways and flying near
military and commercial airliners. I continually hear that "we have to fly
though this heavy traffic area, this is just where we nee to go to get to
the best soaring" or similar comments....the truth of the matter is, as long
as we have this attitude eventually this will not be an option and this
airspace will be closed to all gliders or all gliders will be required to
have an maintain transponders, communicate with appropriate ATC and get
permission to enter into the shrinking airspace we have come to know and
open.
Keeping in mind that a transponder is only truly effective when fully
operational and when the pilot is in contact with ATC (and not chatting on
123.3), that still most of the aircraft you are likely to encounter may also
not be in contact with ATC and will also not have sophisticated TCAS systems
(ever see a C-172 with TCAS?) so your transponder is doing nothing to help
avoid conflict.
The TPAS or MRX system does give you a heads up and a general location for
traffic in question,,more sophisticated TPAS systems can also narrow this
down to range relative altitudes and relative bearing much like a TCAS
system might warn larger aircraft of your position. The MRX is CHEAP...just
over $400 here, simple and completely portable.it may be an excellent answer
to many and may help to allow us to soar more freely for more seasons...
please see : http://www.wingsandwheels.com/page4.htm
respectfully
Tim
Please visit the Wings & Wheels website at www.wingsandwheels.com

"noel56z" wrote in message
oups.com...
After reading of the recent mid-air out West I bought a Zaon MRX PCAS
(Portable Collision Avoidance System) from Aircraft Spruce &
Speciality to try out. I also fly a Piper Vagabond without an
electrical system and this unit doesn't require your aircraft have a
mode C transponder as it's a passive system using the Mode C readout
from another airplane. The unit has a build in electronic altimeter
which compares the Mode C readout of the "target" a/c and gives you a
"relative" altitude difference and approxiamate range. I used it
locally on the ground and observed the readout of a Piper Cherokee
on downwind at the local airport..turn base and
final........amazing!!! Although this unit doesn't give you a bearing
to the target it does give you the altitude and range which sure gives
you some warning. They have a web site http:zaonflight.com which has
an online manual, etc.

Noel Anderson
Schweizer 1-26E