(smackey) wrote in news:29ecea1.0402262153.3d20ce81
@posting.google.com:

2. I assume that the traffic warning in the mode-s will not alert to
traffic if I'm not in a mode-s area, and/or there are aircraft only
only squaking mode-c or other. In other words, if I'm fling along out
in the hinterlands (a frequent occurance) where there is no mode-s,
the traffic warning is nonexistent!!

It's not really a "Mode-S area" thing. It doesn't matter whether the
other aircraft has Mode-S or not, or really even if ATC has the
facilities for Mode-S.

What matters is that you must be in an *operational* area with TIS.
There is a map (Garmin web site?) that shows where these "might" be
(there may be some not shown on the map, and a lot on the map aren't
always operational).

TIS areas are expected to eventually be found around MAJOR (read class C
and B) airports. On the east coast, as would be expected, this can
provide fairly decent coverage. But enroute between airport don't
expect any traffic advisories from TIS.

Wouldn't I do just as well with
a portable Monroy, or similar, traffic alerter?

Well, no and yes. Within TIS coverage, it's a LOT better than any cheap
Monroy or TCAD type system. But outside of TIS coverage its value goes
to zero, while the TCAD provides at least some small help. Of course,
the true second-best solution is a Skywatch or other TCAS-like system -
but you are talking upwards of $15K to $20K. [The best solution is
targetting radar and a good RIO in the back seat.]

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James M. Knox
TriSoft ph 512-385-0316
1109-A Shady Lane fax 512-366-4331
Austin, Tx 78721
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