Entries by John Zimmerman

ADS-B traffic explained

Portable ADS-B receivers for the iPad can receive ADS-B traffic in addition to weather. But unlike weather, which is broadcast continuously, traffic is only transmitted in response to specific prompts. This can make ADS-B traffic very confusing – when does it work and when doesn’t it work?

Product PIREP video: ForeFlight Sentry ADS-B Receiver

ForeFlight introduced Sentry at EAA AirVenture 2018, and the small ADS-B receiver has found a following since then. At $499, it’s a good value and packs a lot of features into a small device. We took it flying in a Cirrus SR22 to see how it performs, and to compare it to Stratus 3, the other popular ADS-B receiver for ForeFlight.

5 quick tips for ForeFlight pilots

The number of features available in ForeFlight is truly staggering, with everything from basics like moving maps to advanced performance planning. But beyond the flashy tools, ForeFlight has a number of time-saving features that can make your next flight safer and easier. Here are five of our favorites.

Flying with Garmin’s Flight Stream 510

Garmin is continuing its relentless push for a connected cockpit, with avionics and apps that allow a wide variety of portable and panel-mount products to sync up. The latest (and greatest) offering is the Flight Stream 510, a tiny card that unlocks an impressive number of features. We recently flew with it and the latest version of the Garmin Pilot app and came away very impressed. Here’s a detailed review.

Product PIREP video: Flight Gear Battery Pack

Keeping all your electronic devices charged in the cockpit is a continual struggle for many pilots. Between an iPad (or two), an iPhone, an ADS-B receiver and passenger needs, the power requirements can be quite high. A new battery pack from Flight Gear solves this problem and is specifically made for pilots. We went flying with it to see what it can do.

How to safely contain a tablet fire

Many airlines and corporate flight departments require pilots to carry fire containment systems on all flights. After all, in a pressurized airplane at 37,000 feet, you can’t exactly throw the tablet out the window. Fortunately, there’s a new option that is both portable and far less expensive than traditional systems.

ADS-B Update: equipping for 2020 and reviewing portables

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast, or ADS-B, is a hot topic among pilots right now. With the January 1, 2020 deadline to equip with ADS-B Out coming up fast, the time to make a decision about a panel upgrade is here. In addition, a new group of portable ADS-B receivers have been introduced this year, making it a great time to add in-flight weather to your favorite EFB app. In this fast-paced webinar recording, you’ll learn all about ADS-B In, ADS-B Out, the options for equipment, and some operating tips.