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uAvionix replacement for Navworx EXP

flightlogic

Well Known Member
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Dallas Avionics has made an agreement with uAvionix to supply a replacement ADS-B for customers who suffered from the AD on Navworx products. Discounts are available when a customer provides the serial number of their experimental unit. This is not for certified customers. YET.
I will paste the press release below. As before, Scott Edwards will be the primary POC. I have personally followed uAvionix in the UAV market for several years. They have mature products and engineering. Replacing the experimental Navworx should be straight forward with the available plug and play harnesses. It is unfortunate that Dallas Avionics got caught up in a product no longer available. Losses financially are large. This solution is at least a step towards making individual customers ready for the ADS-B mandate. Cheers, Nick
ALLAS, TEXAS DATE) Dallas Avionics, Inc. announced today that the company is working with uAvionix to offer an affordable ADS-B solution for customers of experimental aircraft impacted by the ADS600-B. The uAvionix bundle includes the uAvionix echoUAT and skyFYX products. For a limited time, Dallas Avionics will offer the bundle at a reduced price of $1,090.00. Normal retail is $1,499.00. The bundle can be ordered using part number ECHOFYX-KL5. Customers must provide the serial number of their ADS600-B to obtain the reduced price.

?There are a lot of people in the aviation industry that fly experimental aircraft that were negatively impacted by the ADS600-B,? said Dallas Avionics Vice President of Sales Scott Davis. ?We were thankful to partner with uAvionix to provide a solution quickly to help those that need a replacement. For decades Dallas Avionics has built a reputation of taking care of customers. We wanted to find an ADS-B solution that was affordable, easy to install and helped all those impacted receive a proven solution at a discounted rate to help them become compliant. The solution from uAvionix gives our customers the equipment necessary to accomplish that.?

The plug and play connector will make the bundle easy for experimental aircraft operators to replace the existing system. Using the plug and play harness, customers can quickly install the two products in their aircraft after removing the ADS600-B. Both the echoUAT and skyFYX are lightweight and small so they will not require a lot of space.
 
The certified units are not approved yet. BUT, if a customer owns a 600-B, they can provide the serial number to purchase an experimental box replacement. Be aware though... the new units (two very small boxes) are built with connectors to match the old Navworx box. 600-EXP So, if you did this swap, you would have to attach new connectors to your wiring harness.
 
1090 receiver built in

Just a side note. The new product from uAvionix has a dual receiver. Those waiting on the old Navworx to activate the second frequency will now have dual receive without waiting for software etc.
 
additional email announcement

This was forwarded from Scott Edwards,
Attention: Experimental & LSA Aircraft Owners

Dallas Avionics, Inc. is pleased to announce a ?plug and play? replacement system for your Experimental or LSA Aircraft with existing NavWorx AD affected system.
Working with uAvionix Corp., we are pleased to be offering the EchoUAT and SkyFyx Bundle (P/N ECHOEUAT-KL5) at a reduced price of $1090.00 (regularly $1499.00). The system bundle will come with a factory supplied ?pig tail? harness/connector that will require no additional wiring making replacement system ?plug and play? for those with an existing ADS600-EXP. (Those with experimental aircraft with the ADS-600B system are also included in this special but will require connector replacement). With all the capabilities of your existing system, the EchoUAT also provides Dual (978 & 1090) traffic as a dual frequency receiver.
In addition to the ?plug and play? system, we will offer additional configurations to include a bundle with SKYFYX-EXT which includes replacement of your existing portable antenna with a GPS antenna with built in WAAS receiver (in antenna). This bundle is offered at a discounted price of $1050.00 (regularly $1399.00).
Lastly, for those customers that would like to interface an existing compatible WAAS GPS (Garmin, Avidyne, etc) we offer just the EchoUAT at a discounted price of $799.00 (regularly $999.00).
Customers must verify serial number of existing ADS-600EXP or ADS-600B system to qualify for this incredible one time offer. Dallas Avionics, Inc. will offer this price through 12/31/17.
Please visit dallasavionics.com or uavionix.com for detailed unit specifications. Dallas Avionics, Inc. will begin to accept orders on Friday 11/3/17. For ordering, contact Dallas Avionics, Inc. at 800-527-2581 or general questions or inquiry, contact Dallas Avionics, Technical Sales/Product Specialist Scott Edwards at 214-668-7466.
Note: This solution is for Experimental and LSA aircraft only. Dallas Avionics, Inc. is working on a similar solution for Certified Aircraft Owners and should have additional information in the next coming weeks.
 
Thats just great! Navworx just cost me another $350 . I bought a uAvonix echo and EXT just last week. At full price! But do appreciate DA making the offer for replacement and would have taken it had the offer been a week earlier.
 
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This is good news for NavWorx Customers like myself. The efforts put forth by Dallas Avionics is appreciated.

For those who have a position source like a 430W or similar, is there any reason to opt for the SkyFyx apart from not having to access the 430W harness to add a wire?
 
I have to hand it to Dallas Avionics. They too are a victim of the NavWorx debacle. However, they are dipping into their own pocket to try to help former NavWorx customers and maintain their impeccable reputation in the process. Despite all the headaches they are sewing a slik purse out of a sow's ear. And they won't see one penny from the fine imposed upon NavWorx by the FAA. In fact nobody, including the FAA will.

We need more companies like Dallas Avionics.

Jim
 
I suppose those of us who have their 600 EXP sitting in the box uninstalled won't need the adapter harness and can go with the standard uAvionix installation from the beginning. When I order I will tell Dallas /uAvionix to keep the custom retrofit harness for the next person.

Jim
 
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Unfortunately FAA rebate reservations now closed

This could have provided some relief to the situation. As an early adopter I paid $2300 for the TSO'd (haha) ADSB-600. Dallas is offering a great deal, now if we only could have gotten to this point earlier, we may have been able to get the $500 rebate. Bummer . . .
 
Will It work with the Navworx Transmon

For us with old transponders ( KT76A ) does anyone know if this new option will work with the Navworx Transmon?

Bill
 
I don't think you will need it. The uAvionix unit picks up the signal directly. It is internal and wireless.
 
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Tail cone mounting OK for EchoUAT?

This looks promising.

Will the EchoUAT wireless transponder sniffer work if the EchoUAT and SkyFyx are mounted in the tail cone?

I ask on behalf of those of us who installed the EXP box in the tail cone (e.g. with a TransMonSPE routed forward to attach to a transponder cable near the copilot's feet).

This was forwarded from Scott Edwards,
Attention: Experimental & LSA Aircraft Owners

Dallas Avionics, Inc. is pleased to announce a ?plug and play? replacement system for your Experimental or LSA Aircraft with existing NavWorx AD affected system.
Working with uAvionix Corp., we are pleased to be offering the EchoUAT and SkyFyx Bundle (P/N ECHOEUAT-KL5) at a reduced price of $1090.00 (regularly $1499.00). The system bundle will come with a factory supplied ?pig tail? harness/connector that will require no additional wiring making replacement system ?plug and play? for those with an existing ADS600-EXP. (Those with experimental aircraft with the ADS-600B system are also included in this special but will require connector replacement). With all the capabilities of your existing system, the EchoUAT also provides Dual (978 & 1090) traffic as a dual frequency receiver.
In addition to the ?plug and play? system, we will offer additional configurations to include a bundle with SKYFYX-EXT which includes replacement of your existing portable antenna with a GPS antenna with built in WAAS receiver (in antenna). This bundle is offered at a discounted price of $1050.00 (regularly $1399.00).
Lastly, for those customers that would like to interface an existing compatible WAAS GPS (Garmin, Avidyne, etc) we offer just the EchoUAT at a discounted price of $799.00 (regularly $999.00).
Customers must verify serial number of existing ADS-600EXP or ADS-600B system to qualify for this incredible one time offer. Dallas Avionics, Inc. will offer this price through 12/31/17.
Please visit dallasavionics.com or uavionix.com for detailed unit specifications. Dallas Avionics, Inc. will begin to accept orders on Friday 11/3/17. For ordering, contact Dallas Avionics, Inc. at 800-527-2581 or general questions or inquiry, contact Dallas Avionics, Technical Sales/Product Specialist Scott Edwards at 214-668-7466.
Note: This solution is for Experimental and LSA aircraft only. Dallas Avionics, Inc. is working on a similar solution for Certified Aircraft Owners and should have additional information in the next coming weeks.
 
The transponder signal should be even stronger at the tail. Remember, a wireless receiver directly above a vertical dipole antenna, like the transponder, is not optimum. Behind the antenna, at the tail should be a nice spot to receive pulsed signals from the transponder. Even though they are brief, the pulses are very powerful. As in 250 watts or more...
 
EchoUAT serial out - will it also plug-n-play?

That makes sense - thanks.

One more technical question: Will the plug-n-play include the serial out to the EFIS that the EXP had? We had the serial going to our MGL Odyssey EFIS, and getting that part of the wiring/harness set up was one of the challenges for me.

If the serial connection to the EFIS from the EchoUAT will be plug-n-play using the cable that currently plugs into the EXP, I'm definitely interested.

The transponder signal should be even stronger at the tail. Remember, a wireless receiver directly above a vertical dipole antenna, like the transponder, is not optimum. Behind the antenna, at the tail should be a nice spot to receive pulsed signals from the transponder. Even though they are brief, the pulses are very powerful. As in 250 watts or more...
 
I sent that question to Scott Edwards for his input. The serial connections are important. I know I feed my -EXP box data over to the Grand Rapids EFIS.
I hope the harnesses (or pinouts anway) mirror the original box.
 
I sent that question to Scott Edwards for his input. The serial connections are important. I know I feed my -EXP box data over to the Grand Rapids EFIS.
I hope the harnesses (or pinouts anway) mirror the original box.

Yes, EchoUAT plug-n-play harness supports RS232 of GDL90 traffic from 9600-115200 baud. This supports GRT EFIS and others.
 
For those that are going to take this bait, are you going with the 2 modules that plugs into your current GPS antenna, or with the WASS GPS and antenna built into 1 unit. Any benefits to either?
 
Shane,
I purchased the Echo and SkyFX external GPS single unit and got rid of the small GPS antenna. My rational was to decrease clutter in the cockpit (this is in my Christen Eagle II). Also, after speaking with a few radio shops there was a sentiment that eventually the FAA will start to come down on the small antennas that are not permanently mounted to the air frame. A safety concern. Take it with a grain of salt. But, I have to say the installation of the external GPS antenna was ridiculously simple, three wires--Power, Ground and signal. As long as its easy for you to make the wire run, I would suggest the single unit.
 
Shane,
I purchased the Echo and SkyFX external GPS single unit and got rid of the small GPS antenna. My rational was to decrease clutter in the cockpit (this is in my Christen Eagle II). Also, after speaking with a few radio shops there was a sentiment that eventually the FAA will start to come down on the small antennas that are not permanently mounted to the air frame. A safety concern. Take it with a grain of salt. But, I have to say the installation of the external GPS antenna was ridiculously simple, three wires--Power, Ground and signal. As long as its easy for you to make the wire run, I would suggest the single unit.

I have the Navworx EXP unit in my RV-8 and went to get the SN and to look at the installation last night (it was installed by Jesse at Saint Aviation). The Navworx has a rubber ducky antenna on the exterior of the unit that I assume is the ADS-B antenna. The unit is wired to an outside transponder antenna and the main wiring harness. I have looked through the uAvionix web site and it seems to need an antenna for the ADS-B or is that what the transponder antenna does and all I would have to do is wire it together? I am looking for the simplest installation. I also have a GTN but wonder if it wouldn't be more trouble to wire it into the harness.

Wouldn't the external GPS for the skyFX external unit need to face skyward?

Any help or suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.
John
 
The little rubber ducky antenna ( about 1.5 inches long) mounted to the Navworx unit is the WiFi antenna. The one that looks like a transponder antenna ( ball and 4 inch rod ) is the ADS B "in" . And yes the GPS puck ( satellite recpetion) need to go on the top side of the aircraft . Although some have had good results on mounting them under the fiberglass cowl.
 
The little rubber ducky antenna ( about 1.5 inches long) mounted to the Navworx unit is the WiFi antenna. The one that looks like a transponder antenna ( ball and 4 inch rod ) is the ADS B "in" . And yes the GPS puck ( satellite recpetion) need to go on the top side of the aircraft . Although some have had good results on mounting them under the fiberglass cowl.

Thanks, Dennis. That is very helpful. I wonder if the GPS antenna that I had with Navworx will work with the uAvionix unit. It is under the fiberglass and has worked flawlessly.

I guess that I am asking more questions this time....live and learn.

John
 
Shane,
I purchased the Echo and SkyFX external GPS single unit and got rid of the small GPS antenna. My rational was to decrease clutter in the cockpit (this is in my Christen Eagle II). Also, after speaking with a few radio shops there was a sentiment that eventually the FAA will start to come down on the small antennas that are not permanently mounted to the air frame. A safety concern. Take it with a grain of salt. But, I have to say the installation of the external GPS antenna was ridiculously simple, three wires--Power, Ground and signal. As long as its easy for you to make the wire run, I would suggest the single unit.

Mark I was leaning that way and if it?s that simple I think I may be sold. Just hate to shell out the cash.....again
 
Good answers

Shane, thanks for the clarification on RS-232 data out on the plug and play harness. I know most Van's owners will be concerned about retaining that. And also for clarifying the wifi antenna detail. I assumed most did their own installation, but if Jesse Saint did some of them... then which antenna does what might not be clear. The used market was flooded with Garmin GPS antennas a while back, and many used those for the Navworx receiver. It will still work fine... but I like that uAvionix has an all in one receiver, and patch antenna that is an option for builders. We all appreciate your posting answers to early questions here. Keep up the good work. Nick
 
I wonder if the GPS antenna that I had with Navworx will work with the uAvionix unit. It is under the fiberglass and has worked flawlessly. I guess that I am asking more questions this time....live and learn. John[/QUOTE said:
My research shows that the Navworx external GPS antenna is same as furnished on the FreeFlight ( "in & out" ) Units. But not same as on the uAvionics units especial the FYX EXT antenna which is a 12v powered. I m sure the transponder antenna is compatible with the ADSB IN and out reception on the ECHO. I plan to use the Delta POP blade installed earlier one the 600 EXP.
 
Well I jumped in

I ordered the Dallas Avionics ECHOFIX-KL5 package. They said it would ship on the 10th. I'll let you know.
 
I talked with Shane Woodson of uAvionix about the Navworx replacement offer and he stated that the EchoUAT and SkyFyx Bundle (P/N ECHOFIX-KL5) would be really easy to install. Essentially unplug the fittings going into the Navworx and plug them into the new harness with no new wiring needed. The system uses your existing GPS antenna and existing UAT out antenna. Ordered system through him. Hope it plays nicely with my AFS 5400 EFIS and Garmin 330 Transponder.

Bob Cowan, RV7A, 450 hours.
 
P/N ECHOFIX-KL5

The wiring issue is the easy part. uAvionix has made the harness compatible with the existing ADS600-EXP wiring harness, so there's nothing to re-wire when replacing the ADS600-EXP. The other issue is the setup of the EchoUAT device. It will require downloading and app from the App store onto an IPhone or IPad, and using it to setup the EchoUAT. See the EchoUAT installation manual for the details.(at http://www.uavionix.com/support/echouat/).

Then there's the setup of your display device......

I talked with Shane Woodson of uAvionix about the Navworx replacement offer and he stated that the EchoUAT and SkyFyx Bundle (P/N ECHOFIX-KL5) would be really easy to install. Essentially unplug the fittings going into the Navworx and plug them into the new harness with no new wiring needed. The system uses your existing GPS antenna and existing UAT out antenna. Ordered system through him. Hope it plays nicely with my AFS 5400 EFIS and Garmin 330 Transponder.

Bob Cowan, RV7A, 450 hours.
 
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The wiring issue is the easy part. uAvionix has made the harness compatible with the existing ADS600-EXP wiring harness, so there's nothing to re-wire when replacing the ADS600-EXP. The other issue is the setup of the EchoUAT device. It will require downloading and app from the App store onto an IPhone or IPad, and using it to setup the EchoUAT. See the EchoUAT installation manual for the details.(at http://www.uavionix.com/support/echouat/).

Then there's the setup of your display device......

I ordered mine through Dallas Avionics. Very smooth, friendly interaction. The programming doesn't look too difficult but we will see. It gets shipped next Friday.

John
 
Yes, the website is more geared to avionics shops. Dallas Avionics is a distributor, not an installation avionics shop.
Normal sales are to dealers only. These experimental sales are a courtesty to customers who own failed Navworx products. For tech questions, you can ask me, or Scott Edwards as well. Cheers.
 
Where's the wi-fi?

I didn't read anything specifically about the new scheme's wi-fi capability. Are we I-pad users left out? And if it does have wi-fi or Bluetooth which EFB apps does it interface with?
 
Dallas Avionics offer

We will make sure all original owners of the experimental devices are happy. There is not a hurry. Nick
 
wifi strength

A Van's member wrote and asked me if the wifi would reach behind a rear bulkhead. I don't know the answer. Does anyone know how strong they are?
 
A Van's member wrote and asked me if the wifi would reach behind a rear bulkhead. I don't know the answer. Does anyone know how strong they are?

I have the uAvionix Echo UAT and their SKYFYX-EXT GPS, all mounted behind the rear bulkhead. The WiFi works perfectly with my iFly GPS 740 mounted on the panel.

So far, flawless. Great customer support, as well! :)
 
I've been told by a reputable source that this offer is based on a limited production of approximately 200 units. First come first serve. I ordered one this afternoon and was told it will ship Friday. Don't count on this offer being available for very long unless Uavionix decides to build more.
 
Satisfied Customer Report - -

I removed the EXP, and installed the UAvionix UAT & GPS source combo. I was provided an adapter to go from GPS antenna I had to smaller hookup on their GPS source. I was able to re-use the output TXP antenna from the EXP. Set it up, and flew. Requested report same afternoon I installed it. Come back perfect. SIL 3. I am using IFly thru Wi-Fi. I had 7 ground stations on a very recent flight. Seems to work exactly as advertised.
 
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