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TCAS

The acronyms are confusing enough aren’t they?

The sheer number of acronyms used to describe aircraft traffic systems is enough to confuse anyone. ACAS, TCAS I, TCAS II, TAS, TIS, TCAD and PCAS all refer to systems capable of alerting pilots to nearby traffic and the possibility of a mid-air collision. It is important to understand that all of these traffic detection systems are transponder based and therefore the other aircraft must have an operating transponder in order for a collision threat to be detected.      

Traffic systems can be sorted into three main categories; active, passive and data link. Active traffic systems send out a continuous stream of interrogation signals which cause transponders in nearby aircraft to issue a reply. The system processor evaluates these replies, makes a determination of the threat level and presents that information to the pilot. Passive traffic detection systems do not send out interrogation signals but instead rely on third party interrogations from ATC radar or other TCAS equipped aircraft. Traffic information service – TIS is a mode S transponder data link service offered by select ATC radar facilities in the United States.

  TCAS – Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems are recognized internationally as ACAS – Airborne Collision Avoidance Systems. These active interrogating systems include two sub categories: TCAS I issues real-time traffic alerts (TA) and is typically installed on Turboprop aircraft and smaller jets. TCAS II issues traffic alerts (TA) and resolution advisories (RA) and is usually found on larger aircraft.

 TAS – Traffic Advisory System is a TSO approved active interrogating system similar to TCAS I but available at a considerably lower prices. TAS products are available from Garmin, Avidyne, L3 Avionics and Honeywell. These systems can be interfaced to display traffic on a wide variety of installed electronic display systems. 

 TCAD – Traffic Collision Alert Device: This passive installed system is no longer in production but it was the first affordable traffic system for GA. 

 PCAS – Portable Collision Avoidance Systems: These passive non-interrogating portable devices provide traffic awareness at a budget price. They can be interfaced to display traffic on other portable devices.      

 TIS – Traffic Information System: Installation of a mode S transponder will enable the traffic data link service offered by select ATC radar facilities in theUnited States. TIS systems have an inherent delay of 5 to 15 seconds due sweeping of the ATC radar.

Maxcraft Avionics is a leader in airplane and helicopter avionic system upgrades like the Garmin GTN series, including installation of everything from a basic VHF Radio and simple Garmin portable GPS all the way to TCAS, EFIS, and autopilot systems. We have the largest avionics facility in Canada and we have over 20,000 unique part numbers in our in inventory to repair your aircraft or upgrade your cockpit.