The Ultimate in Compliance and Visibility
Upgrade your aircraft’s compliance and visibility with the uAvionix tailBeacon—the simplest and most innovative ADS-B Out solution for general aviation. Designed to replace your rear position light and work seamlessly with your existing Mode C transponder, tailBeacon delivers full FAA 2020 ADS-B Out compliance with minimal installation time and cost. It’s a streamlined, affordable upgrade that gets you flying smarter and safer—without the downtime or complexity.
Primary Features
Integrated ADS-B Compliance
Meets 2020 FAA ADS-B mandates with a near-zero install solution by integrating a UAT transmitter and WAAS GPS in a rear position light, compliant with 14 CFR §91.227.
Patented Power Transcoder Technology
Seamlessly communicates with existing legacy Mode C Transponders via the aircraft’s electrical system, simplifying installation and maintaining existing equipment compatibility.
Enhanced Privacy with Anonymous Mode
Anonymous Mode protects your privacy by withholding aircraft identification from ADS-B OUT transmission while squawking 1200—displaying only a (1200) squawk code and (VFR) call sign to the FAA and nearby aircraft.
Improved Visibility and Safety
Incorporates a bright LED nav light that provides enhanced visibility with 40 candelas intensity and less power consumption.
Additional Features
Enhancing Convenience and Capability
Easy Installation
Direct replacement for the rear position light with minimal wiring changes needed; mounts with a simple twist and lock.
Self-Contained WAAS GPS
No need for additional GPS; includes a TSO-certified uAvionix truFYX WAAS GPS with RAIM for integrity protection.
Robust Build
Designed to withstand harsh environments from -45 to 70°C, ensuring reliable operation under varying flight conditions.
Smart Configuration via Mobile App
Easily configure the tailBeacon via a smartphone app available on iOS and Android, enabling settings adjustment like ICAO address and call sign.
Low Energy Consumption
Operates efficiently with a low power draw of only 3 watts, minimizing impact on the aircraft’s electrical system.
Continuous Calibration™ Technology
Automatic and continuous calibration of the integrated altitude encoder maintains accuracy and compliance in remote and challenging environments.
FAQ's
Knowledge Base
What types of aircraft is the tailBeacon compatible with?
Compatible with most general aviation aircraft that have an existing rear position light. Not suitable for aircraft with obstructions that block GPS visibility.
Does tailBeacon meet FAA requirements for ADS-B?
Yes, it meets all necessary FAA TSO and performance standards for ADS-B Out mandated by 2020 FAA regulations.
How is tailBeacon installed?
Replace the existing rear position light with tailBeacon using the included mounting kit. Connect to existing power and ground wiring. Full installation instructions are provided in the app.
How do I configure and test tailBeacon?
Configuration is done through the mobile app. Post-installation testing involves verifying ADS-B transmissions and GPS functionality using the app.
What maintenance does tailBeacon require?
tailBeacon requires minimal maintenance. Periodic checks are recommended to ensure functionality, mainly through app diagnostics.
What should I do if the tailBeacon is not functioning properly?
Check the installation for proper mounting and wiring connections. Ensure there are no obstructions to the GPS signals. Use the app to check system status and configurations. If problems persist, contact uAvionix support for assistance
Documentation
Manuals and Guides
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage | 11-31V DC |
| Operating Power | 3 watts |
| Size | 92x43x73mm |
| Weight | 70 grams |
| SDA/SIL | 2/3 |
| Operating Temp | -45 to 70°C |
| 978MHz UAT Transmitter | |
| Power Classification | DO-282B Medium Power |
| WAAS GPS | |
| Tracking Reacquisition Cold Start |
-166dBm -160dBm -148dBm |
| LED Position Light | |
| Color | Aviation White |
| Intensity | 40 candelas |
| Wi-Fi Configuration | |
| Physical | 802.11b/g/n |
| App Compatibility | iOS, Android |
| Power Transcoder | Decodes Mode A and C via Power Transcoder |
Downloads
Additional
Additional documentation can be found here.
Accessories
tailBeacon Installation Kit (#4-40 Screws)
tailBeacon Installation Kit (#6-32 Screws)
Ercoupe Adapter for tailBeacon
Mobile App
TBD
Owners of the uAvionix skyBeacon, tailBeacon and tailBeaconX ADS-B devices can use this free application to monitor, install, and configure their hardware.
