On Sunday, January 12, 2014 11:51:54 AM UTC-6, Chris Nicholas wrote:
If gliding clubs invested in Zaon MRX or similar transponder detectors at the launch point or the winch, they would almost always give more warning of incoming infringers before the lookout person at the launch point could see them coming. We have one at Ridgewell, which I have tested on the ground and seen nearby traffic indicated several miles away. Unfortunately, no other UK gliding club has copied this (AFAIK), in spite of frequent incidents such as Martin and I have mentioned; our own unit has seldom been deployed, though some of us are trying to change that, but Zaon are now closed, I understand, so another manufacturer would be needed before any new transponder detectors could be so deployed.


Chris, a PowerFLARM would accomplish the same thing (and more), albeit at a significantly higher cost. You would get the same Mode A/C transponder detection as the MRX, along with Mode S and ADS-B (actual position, not just range); plus any FLARM-equipped glider or tug in the vicinity.

If overflying traffic is a concern, that would be my approach - would be like having your own ATC radar on the field.

Kirk
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