On Thu, 15 Sep 2005 18:52:49 -0500, Andrew Sarangan
wrote in
::

Checking the transponder is an unnecessary distraction during a takeoff.

The controller says, "Cherokee 12X cleared for takeoff."

And you reach over and twist the transponder knob, apply takeoff
power, and the "distraction" is gone. It's not a very big deal.

You should be watching for other traffic and your engine gauges.

Right. Those are some of the things that should happen, and there's
nothing to prevent them.

If the transponder is off, you will find out sooner or later.

Absolutely.

Same with lights or strobes.

Umm, not necessarily. If it's day VFR/VMC, and you want to burn a
landing/taxi light to enhance conspicuity and discourage bird strikes,
you may not become aware of the fact that the light is off.

But if you miss a low oil pressure reading, or a conflicting traffic,
the outcome may not be so good.

True. But I don't see how twisting the transponder knob before adding
power interferes with those things.