FLARM Range Analysis Tool
This is a great resource. It allows you to upload a flight log that was recorded with any FLARM unit. The tool creates a top-view range analysis plot showing the maximum distance to FLARM targets in all directions. The flight log contains data location of other FLARM units received during the flight. Flights to be analyzed must have at least a duration of 30 minutes and contact with 5+ other FLARM equipped aircraft during the flight. Only FLARM traffic data is analyzed. ADS-B and Mode C/S transponder traffic is not analyzed. http://flarm.com/support/tools-software/flarm-range-analyzer/
Cumulus Soaring, Inc. Selected as FLARM Service Partner for the Americas
January, 2017
In recent months, all PowerFLARM repairs were done by FLARM in Europe. That was inconvenient and costly for U.S. customers.
Starting immediately, all warranty and non-warranty repairs of PowerFLARM Core products for the Americas will be handled by Cumulus Soaring, Inc. Significant investments in test equipment, tools, and spare parts have been made by Cumulus Soaring, Inc. in order to support PowerFLARM Core users. Please contact me (contact information at the bottom of this page) if your PowerFLARM core needs testing, repair, or electronic security seal reset, or logger altimeter calibration. I am very happy to be able to support the soaring community in this way.
PowerFLARM Portable repairs will require shipment to Europe at this time. It is possible that will change in the future.
Install and configure according to product-specific instructions. Configure your assigned aircraft address, type, and privacy needs.
Verify the effectiveness of the installation and configuration after flight using the online range analyzer, then improve if required. Repeat this annually.
Update at least every 365 days to avoid firmware and/or obstacle database expiration.
FLARM requires good GPS reception to operate. Install the GPS antenna with unobstructed view of the sky in all flight attitudes and at least 30 cm away from any other antenna.
Radio range is key for early traffic warnings and depends on a good installation of radio antennas and cables. Radio signals require unobstructed line of sight; thus avoid conducting materials (metal, carbon) in any direction you want FLARM to be effective. Nearby antennas, conducting material, or cables may cause interference and/or reduce effectiveness. Keep your antennas at least 30 cm away from any other antenna, and without direct contact to your canopy. Do not use splitters for FLARM radio antennas.
Do not shorten antenna cables, and do not bend them below specified minimal radius. Replace defective cables and antennas.
Ensure that your FLARM display communicates correctly with the FLARM device.
Use PowerFLARM for better range and radio diversity.
Familiarize yourself prior to the flight with your device and the technology in detail, to operate in a safe and efficient manner and know the limitations.
Overview
FLARM is a collision and obstacle alert system that it extremely popular
(14,000+ units in service).
PowerFLARM is the next generation version of FLARM.
What is PowerFLARM? PowerFLARM alerts you to other traffic. FLARM is a shortening of
"Flight Alarm". It consists of a small box with a built-in GPS, altitude sensor,
low-power "FLARM" radio transmitter and receiver, ADS-B receiver and Mode C
and Mode S transponder receiver. Each PowerFLARM unit
transmits its position, future flight path and altitude every second over
the PowerFLARM radio band.
Other PowerFLARM units in the area will display traffic warning if a collision or
near collision is detected. It is especially useful in crowded soaring
locations such as in the European Alps, along ridges (PA and Minden) and in
soaring contests. The rate at which is was adopted by sailplane pilots
in Europe was astounding! After just a few years, everyone is flying
with FLARM in their sailplanes. PowerFLARM is an extension of FLARM.
It has a longer range than FLARM units do, and also has built-in receivers
for ADS-B traffic and Mode C and Mode S transponder traffic - making it more
able to warn of general aviation traffic that is using either an ADS-B
transmitter, or a transponder that is being interrogated by a ground radar
station or nearby aircraft.
PowerFLARM combines:
The FLARM collision-avoidance system
An 1090-ADS-B receiver
A transponder detector (similar to the
Zaon MRX). If is nearby aircraft's
transponder is interrogated (pinged) by a ground radar station or nearby
aircraft it will respond with its altitude and other data. The
PowerFLARM uses the strength of the signal to estimate the distance.
The relative altitude of the aircraft is calculated by comparing the
altitude data sent by the other aircraft's transponder and the altitude
of the PowerFLARM. The direction of the aircraft is not known -
only the distance and relative altitude. If you get a
non-directional warning (see below) it is time to put your head on a
swivel and locate the traffic with your eyes.
Obstacle collision warning system -
warns you of obstacles in front of you - such as radio antenna towers,
ski lifts, water towers, etc. This feature will probably require
an annual subscription.
An IGC certified logger suitable for
badges, contests, and the Online Contest (OLC) - Note: The standard unit
does not have Engine Noise Level recording enabled. It can be
enabled by purchasing an upgrade key. Also, the unit does not include an altimeter calibration
sheet. I can calibrate it for you for $75.
A serial output, which can provide
traffic enriched GPS data for a flight computer, PDA or transponder.
PowerFLARM Display
Screens
Radar Screen
- Orange symbols: more hazardous traffic, relative altitude is
depicted above or below the symbols, +03 means 300 feet above and so
on..
- Green symbols depict less critical traffic. The darker ones are
underneath you, the brighter ones are above you
- Not all received traffic is shown, only relevant FLARM- or ADS-B
targets and Mode C/S transponder targets. Traffic that is outside the horizontal and vertical range limits is not shown.
Note: The warning screen appears automatically if there is a
possible collision within a given time period. It shows angles to
the other aircraft like the original FLARM does. (Only FLARM and
ADS-B targets)
Directional Warning Screen
A possible collision with other FLARM equipped aircraft is detected.
In this example screen there are 2 aircraft at your 11 o'clock
position and higher than you. This screen is available on remote FLARM displays from Butterfly and LXNAV, but not on the PowerFLARM Portable's display.
Non-Directional Warning Screen
A possible collision with a Mode C or Mode S transponder target is
detected. Relative altitude and approximate distance are shown. The
red circle around the aircraft-symbol pulsates. This graphic
indicates the threat is 200 feet higher then you and approximately
1.2 miles away. Since the direction to the target is not
known, it is time to put
your head on a swivel and locate the traffic with your eyes.
Obstacle Warning Screen
A possible collision with an obstacle ahead is detected. Later
version might incorporate more detailed obstacle positions in the
warning screens, at the moment the PowerFLARM only warns of
obstacles on track - such as radio antenna towers, ski lifts, water
towers, etc. This feature will probably require an annual
subscription.
Group Discounts
Since multiple PowerFLARM units are required in an area to get any benefit,
group discounts are available for pilots flying from a specific soaring
site. The orders must be paid for with a single check and shipped in
one shipment to a single address to qualify for the discount.
Free Shipping
Free shipping is included for all orders of 5 or more units.
Discounted Logger Altimeter Calibrations
PowerFLARM units will be delivered without a calibration
data sheet for the logger's altimeter. I normally charge $75/each for
that service, but I will charge $50/each for units ordered in batch orders.
PowerFLARM Group
Discounts
Quantity
Group Discount
1 to
9
0%
10 to
39
5%
40 or
more
8%
FLARM Simulation Video The video below is a simulation showing what FLARM units would have
displayed in the gliders which were involved in a mid-air collision near
Parowan, UT during the 2010 U.S. Sport Class Nationals. One of the
gliders suffered significant damage but fortunately, neither pilot was
injured in the collision. As the video shows, had they both been
equipped with FLARM technology, the accident would have certainly been
avoided.
Built-in IGC Approved GPS Flight Recorder
PowerFLARM units also include an IGC approved GPS flight recorder for
flights up to and including diamonds (but not national or world records). If no
one in your area is using FLARM yet - you still have a very nice IGC
approved flight recorder along with the ability to display ADS-B and
Mode C and Mode S transponder traffic. The PowerFLARM unit can also supply GPS data to
your PDA. Then, when other local glider pilots start using PowerFLARM, or
you are flying in a soaring contest with PowerFLARM users, you will be PowerFLARM
equipped and ready for dramatically enhanced safety.
Great for "Buddy Flying" Most soaring flight software can display FLARM traffic on the moving map
display. In addition to knowing where your PowerFLARM-equipped friends are
- the software also displays their climb rate! Therefore, PowerFLARM used
together with a PDA becomes a great "remote thermal strength indicator"!
Imagine how much fun it would to do a cross-country soaring flight with a
another PowerFLARM equipped glider. You wouldn't need to ask him/her "how
good is that thermal?" and you would know exactly where he/she is at all
times. Below are screen captures of the "FLARM Radar" in
SeeYou Mobile and
pocket*StrePla. Both
SeeYou Mobile and
pocket*StrePla can display not only the traffic, but also a track
showing where each target has been in the last few seconds, with the track
colored to indicate whether it
was in lift or sink. They also offer pop-up warning windows for urgent
alerts.
FLARM Use in U.S. Soaring Competitions Of course, there is currently a very heated debate going on in the USA
regarding whether it should be legal to use FLARM to keep track of
competitors and their climb rates in soaring competitions. However, it is possible for you
and your competitors to put the FLARM into "Stealth Mode" or
"Competition Mode" - as detailed in
the document below. I believe that mandating Stealth Mode or
Competition Mode would be a
bad idea as it reduces the safety level in the competition and increases the
work load for contest volunteers (because they would need to verify that the
flight log from the FLARM shows that the required mode was enabled.
http://www.flarm.de/support/Flarm_Competitions.pdf
Update from November 2011 The U.S. Soaring Contest Rules Committee has done a lot of research and
had many discussions regarding the use of FLARM in contests in the USA.
The have published their stance on the use of FLARM in U.S. Contests in
2011. I recommend reading the entire document. It is well
written. I agree with all their decisions. The main statements
are made at the very beginning of the document: FLARM use will be allowed
and encouraged, but not mandated. Stealth mode will not be required in
2011.
http://www.ssa.org/files/member/2011FlarmUSA.pdf
PowerFLARM Logger IGC Approval The PowerFLARM has been approved by the IGC for badge flights up to and including
the three diamond badges. It is not approved by the IGC for world records or national records. However, in October, 2015, the SSA approved the use of products like the PowerFLARM for National and State Records (see below).
From the IGC Sporting Code, Section 3,
Annex B
1.1.3.3.3 IGC - approval for badge flights up to Diamonds . This
approval level applies to Flight Recorders that may be used only for
evidence for FAI/IGC Silver, Gold and Diamond badge flights, although
for competition flights, see 1.1.3.3.6. This level may be used for
recording systems that have significantly lower standards of security
and other characteristics compared to those with higher levels of
approval. For instance, this level includes systems that use a separate
off-the-shelf GNSS unit (for the design and security of which, IGC has
no influence) connected to the Flight Recorder unit by cable. These
assessments will be at the discretion of the IGC GFA Committee (GFAC).
(AL1)
6.2. For National Records: b. Documentation must be provided by a Flight Recorder IGC-approved at the “All Flights”, “All Badges” or “Up to Diamonds” level
(The PowerFLARM meets the "Up to Diamonds" level.)
6.3. For State Records: a. Documentation may be provided by any means acceptable for FAI Silver badge flights.
(The PowerFLARM exceeds that level.)
IGC Enable
PowerFLARM units have an optional "IGC Enable" license which determines whether or not that particular PowerFLARM is enabled with IGC Approval for badge flights.
Early PowerFLARM units all had the "IGC Enable" set. Then for a few years the IGC Enable license was an extra cost option. All PowerFLARM units sold after February, 2016 have the IGC Enable License included by default.
If the IGC enable is not set, flight logs from the unit can be used for the Online Contest (OLC), but not for badges. If the IGC Enable is set, then the flight logs can be used for both OLC and IGC badge flights. Below are some notes on how to determine whether the IGC enable has been set in a particular PowerFLARM. Also, U.S. National Soaring contests require that the PowerFLARM has the IGC Enable set.
Example System with PowerFLARM and LXNAV FlarmView or FlarmView57 or FlarmView2 or AIR Avionics ATD-57 or Nano3 or Nano4 With this unit you get not only a low cost IGC approved flight recorder, but also a traffic and collision avoidance unit.
The FlarmView and FlarmView57 show FLARM, ADS-B and Mode C/S traffic. The FlarmView2 also allows navigation to waypoints and around tasks. The Nano3 and Nano4 are also fully IGC approved GPS flight recorders.
Example System with
PowerFLARM Core, LXNAV FlarmView, FlarmView57 or FlarmView2
PowerFLARM Core - IGC
Approved GPS Flight Recorder and Traffic and
Collision Avoidance unit: $1599
Calibration - The PowerFLARM Core's altimeter is not calibrated at the factory. It will need to be calibrated if you want to use it for badge and record validation. I can calibrate it before shipment for $75.
LXNAV FlarmView ($230) or LXNAV FlarmView57 ($290) or LXNAV FlarmView2 ($350) or AIR Avionics - ATD-57 ($475) or LXNAV Nano3 ($570) or LXNAV Nano4 ($690)- The FlarmView and FlarmView57 display FLARM, ADS-B and Mode C/S transponder traffic. The FlarmView2, adds waypoints, airspace, tasks and navigation. The Nano3 and Nano4 are fully IGC approved GPS flight recorders with waypoints, airspace, tasks, and navigation
Example System with PowerFLARM, Naviter Oudie and SeeYou Mobile Soaring Flight Software With this unit you get not only a low cost IGC approved flight recorder, but also a traffic and collision avoidance unit.
The PowerFLARM Core sends GPS and FLARM traffic data to the Oudie.
Example System with
PowerFLARM, Naviter Oudie and SeeYou Mobile Soaring Flight Software
Power/data cable supplied with Oudie
The cable's RJ45 connector plugs directly into the PowerFLARM
The cable is powered with 12V from the glider power system and
supplies 12V power for the PowerFLARM Core and 5 V power for the Oudie.
PowerFLARM Core - IGC
Approved GPS Flight Recorder and Traffic and
Collision Avoidance unit: $1599
Calibration - The PowerFLARM Core's altimeter is not calibrated at the factory. It will need to be calibrated if you want to use it for badge and record validation. If I can calibrate it before shipment for $75.
Naviter Oudie2 - includes SeeYou Mobile license which is tied
to the Oudie: $625
K6 Mux NMEA-Multiplexer The K6 Mux is a powerful, extremely configurable module which makes
it possible to combine data streams from up to 3 devices and send the
combined data out to a PDA or similar device. It is very useful,
for example, when you want to combine traffic data from a FLARM device
with GPS, vario, wind and airspeed data from a flight computer - such as
a Cambridge 302 or similar. The K6 Mux makes it possible for the
soaring flight software on the PDA to receive all the available data. The K6 Mux also handles baud rate
conversions with ease. In the example below, the Cambridge 302
communicates with the K6 Mux at 4800 baud. The PowerFLARM
communicates with the K6 Mux at 19200 baud. And the K6 Mux
communicates with the PDA at 19200 baud.
Great FLARM-only low-cost solution with optional LXNAV FlarmLED or FlarmView display
Great FLARM-only low-cost solution with optional LXNAV FlarmLED or FlarmView display,
Includes 2nd FLARM antenna for additional coverage.
Great FLARM-only low-cost solution for glider or towplane.
Includes 2nd FLARM antenna.
Most popular in the USA due to reception of FLARM, ADS-B and PCAS transponder traffic
Good option for towplanes
Doesn't fit well in many gliders.
Receives FLARM, ADS-B and PCAS transponder traffic
How to Order To order a product, click on the
button next to the product. When you are ready to complete your order, click on the
button. Click on the small images to view larger versions.
Part #
Description
Photo
(Click on images below to view large versions)
PowerFLARM Core The PowerFLARM Core is a "black box"
FLARM unit with remote antennas, but without any remote display or control knob.
It transmits and receives FLARM traffic data and also receives and displays ADS-B and Mode C/S transponder traffic. It also features a built-in IGC Approved GPS flight recorder.
Since the main unit does not have any type of display or user-interface, a dedicated remote FLARM display, or a PDA running soaring flight software, or soaring flight computer with
FLARM display capability is
required. While the display of FLARM traffic data
on a PDA is very nice and useful, it is not as simple, clear, urgent
or reliable as a dedicated FLARM display. Therefore a dedicated
FLARM display of some kind is highly recommended.
The PowerFLARM
Core does not include provisions for internal batteries so it must be
powered externally.
Due to the need for an external display, the
PowerFLARM Core has an additional data output port (when compared with
the PowerFLARM Portable). Since the "black box" is
normally mounted out of reach, the PowerFLARM Core includes a
panel-mountable USB port - to be used with a USB Flash Drive.
Several display options are available.
Features
FLARM functionality – sending out
your position and vector and receiving vectors from gliders in range
ADS-B Traffic Reception – ADS-B
traffic position and relative altitude are displayed on the
PowerFLARM display.
Mode S Transponders – Nearby Mode S
transponders are displayed on the PowerFLARM display. Since
direction is not known, the traffic is displayed as a ring around
the glider.
Mode C Transponders – Nearby Mode C
transponders are displayed on the PowerFLARM display. Since
direction is not known, the traffic is displayed as a ring around
the glider.
IGC Approved GPS Flight Recorder
Options
Logger Calibration - The PowerFLARM Portable is delivered without a logger altimeter calibration data
sheet. I can calibrate it before shipment for $75 ($95 normally). You can select the optional calibration at check-out..
Audio Output Enable- The built-in audio output port for sending FLARM alarms (beeps only) to an aviation headset can be enabled for $120. (Note: This option is not usually necessary In sailplanes because FLARM alarms are heard through the speaker in the remote FLARM display.)
(Core and Core Pure h/w 1.1+, SN: 2000+)
Cable-PFLARM-Pwr-DB9m-2, Cable with DB-9m connector to for connection to a PowerFLARM Core's DB-9f port, 12V power leads are also provided for powering the PowerFLARM Core and connected accessories with 12V.
Cable-PFLARM-Pwr-DB9m-RJ45-0p3 Cable for connecting both 12V power and a remote device to the PowerFLARM Core's DB-9 port. An RJ-Coupler-RJ45-RJ45 is usually required and not included. This cable works great for connection to an SN10 which had previously been connected to a Volkslogger's RJ45 port. It can also be used to connect a remote FLARM display.
Cable-PFLARM-Pwr-DB9m-S7-0p5, Cable, PowerFLARM DB-9 port to 12V power leads and RJ12 6-pin connector for LXNAV S7, S8 or S80 GPS port, or LX Navigation EOS or Zeus FLARM port. 12V power leads are also provided for powering the PowerFLARM Core with 12V. This cable does not pass 12V power from the S7, S8 or S80 to the PowerFLARM Core.
Dimensions (not
including mounting tabs): 79.5 x 119.5 x 41 mm
(3.13 x 4.70 x 1.61 inches)
Weight of Core unit only: 9.8 ounces (278 grams)
Weight
of Core and 3 antennas: 13.5 ounces (383 grams)
Weight of Core and 3 antennas and DB-9 power cable and USB extension cable: 1 pound, 1.3 ounces (490 grams)
Sensors and GPS:
latest technology pressure sensor
integrated 50-Channel GPS receiver
optional ENL Engine Noise-Level sensor
for motor-gliders
LXNAV Nano3 IGC approved GPS flight recorder with waypoints, airspace, task navigation, and FLARM display, $570, Total price with Core and LXNAV-NanoPower-PF-MiniUSB cable, $2259
LXNAV Nano4 IGC approved GPS flight recorder with waypoints, airspace, task navigation, and FLARM display, $690, Total price with Core and LXNAV-NanoPower-PF-MicroUSB cable, $2379
Note: The 2 images above
show the FLARM
and ADS-B
connector polarities incorrectly.
The 2 FLARM ports should
have a pin (reverse
polarity) and the ADS-B
port should not have a pin
(standard polarity)
PowerFLARM Portable The PowerFLARM Portable has a built-in display and control knob,
attached antennas, and internal battery. It can also be powered
with external power. It is the perfect portable solution for use
in multiple gliders and towplanes. A microSD card slot is included
in the front of the unit for flight log and other data transfers. I think the photo makes it look larger than
it really is.
To get a good feel for its size I highly recommend
printing and building the
PowerFLARM Paper Model. Be sure to set the page scaling to
"None" (not "Reduce to Printer Margins" or "Fit to Printer Margins")
when printing it.
Features
FLARM functionality – sending out
your position and vector and receiving vectors from gliders in range
(about 4 miles)
ADS-B Traffic Reception – ADS-B
traffic position and relative altitude are displayed on the
PowerFLARM display.
Mode S Transponders – Nearby Mode S
transponders are displayed on the PowerFLARM display. Since
direction is not known, the traffic is displayed as a ring around
the glider.
Mode C Transponders – Nearby Mode C
transponders are displayed on the PowerFLARM display. Since
direction is not known, the traffic is displayed as a ring around
the glider.
2nd FLARM Antenna Port Enabled (2nd antenna not included)
Audio Output Enable - The built-in audio output port for sending FLARM alarms (beeps only) to an aviation headset is enabled by default.
GPS Flight Recorder - Accepted by OLC, no IGC Approval or task declarations
Options
IGC Enable, $95, required if you want to use it to validate badge and record flights
Logger Calibration - The PowerFLARM Portable is delivered without a logger altimeter calibration data
sheet. I can calibrate it before shipment for $75 ($95 normally). You can select the optional calibration at check-out.
Cable-PFLARM-Pwr-RJ45-2, Cable with RJ45 8-pin connector to for connection to a PowerFLARM's RJ45 port, 12V power leads are also provided for powering the PowerFLARM with 12V.
Cable-PFLARM-Pwr-Barrel-2, Cable with male barrel connector for connection to the Portable's 12V female power port, 12V power leads are also provided for powering the PowerFLARM with 12V.
Cable-PFLARM-Pwr-RJ45-RJ12-1 - Cable, PowerFLARM RJ45 port to remote FLARM display, 12V power leads are also provided for powering the PowerFLARM Portable with 12V.
Dimensions:
Main Unit:
94 x 94 x 46mm (3.7 x 3.7 x 1.8 inches)
Total Height from the base of the FLARM to the top of the FLARM antenna: 125 mm (4.92 inches)
Sensors and GPS:
latest technology pressure sensor
integrated 50-Channel GPS receiver
optional ENL Engine Noise-Level sensor
for motor-gliders
Display:
sunlight readable active matrix TFT
display
resolution 132 x 176 pixels
2" screen size
180° viewing angle
day and night mode
Power and batteries:
6 interchangeable AA-batteries (all
types)
adaptive battery loading circuit with
temperature monitoring (NiCd and NiMh batteries)
usable without batteries (10 to 30V DC
aircraft power)
lasts up to 8h on one charge (depends on
traffic volume)
PowerFLARM Audio Output Enable License All PowerFLARM Portable units and PowerFLARM Core units (hardware version 1.1 or greater) are supplied with audio output circuitry. The audio output is used to send beep tones to an aviation headset. The beep tones are intended to alert you to traffic and get you to look at your FLARM display. The audio output functionality is normally only needed in motorgliders when the pilot is using a headset. It is not normally needed in sailplanes because the traffic warning sounds are generated by the PowerFLARM Portable unit or remote FLARM display and most sailplane pilots don't wear headsets. The audio output functionality is not enabled by default. It can be enabled at any time by purchasing this enable license.
The license is provided in a small text file that permanently enables the Audio Output functionality in a particular PowerFLARM unit. I save backups of the enable files on my computer, but I recommend that you back it up too - just in case it is ever needed again.
The enable key must be ordered for your specific PowerFLARM unit - so please allow 48 hours for the reception of the enable file.
To enable the Audio Output functionality in your PowerFLARM:
Purchase this enable key - Your FLARM's hardware serial number (not the IGC serial number) is required when you order. You will receive an email with the enable file within about 48 hours. It is a very small text file.
Save the enable file to a USB flash drive (PowerFLARM Core) or microSD memory card (PowerFLARM Portable).
Plug the USB flash drive or microSD card into your PowerFLARM and power-up the PowerFLARM
Wait about 1 minute.
You can verify that the upgrade has been successful by looking at the contents of the "FLARMDEV.CSV" file that is saved to the USB flash drive or microSD memory card after the upgrade has been completed. The .CSV file can be opened in Notepad or Excel.
PowerFLARM ENL (Engine Noise Level) Recording Enable License All PowerFLARM units are supplied with built-in microphones for recording engine noise level - as required for motorglider badges and records and soaring contests. However, the ENL functionality is not enabled by default. It can be enabled at any time by purchasing this enable license.
The license is provided in a small text file that permanently enables the ENL functionality in a particular PowerFLARM unit. I save backups of the enable files on my computer, but I recommend that you back it up too - just in case it is ever needed again.
The enable key must be ordered for your specific PowerFLARM unit - so please allow 48 hours for the reception of the enable file.
To enable the ENL functionality in your PowerFLARM:
Purchase this enable key - Your FLARM's hardware serial number (not the IGC serial number) is required when you order. You will receive an email with the enable file within about 48 hours. It is a very small text file.
Save the enable file to a USB flash drive (PowerFLARM Core) or microSD memory card (PowerFLARM Portable).
Plug the USB flash drive or microSD card into your PowerFLARM and power-up the PowerFLARM
Wait about 1 minute.
You can verify that the upgrade has been successful by looking at the contents of the "FLARMDEV.CSV" file that is saved to the USB flash drive or microSD memory card after the upgrade has been completed. The .CSV file can be opened in Notepad or Excel.
PowerFLARM Flarm Antenna Port B Enable License All PowerFLARM units are supplied with a "FLARM B" antenna port. It can be connected to a 2nd FLARM antenna (receive only) which can be mounted in a location which improves all-around FLARM reception. However, the FLARM B antenna port is not enabled by default. It can be enabled at any time by purchasing this enable license.
The license is provided in a small text file that permanently enables the FLARM B antenna port functionality in a particular PowerFLARM unit. I save backups of the enable files on my computer, but I recommend that you back it up too - just in case it is ever needed again.
The enable key must be ordered for your specific PowerFLARM unit - so please allow 48 hours for the reception of the enable file.
To enable the FLARM Antenna Port B functionality in your PowerFLARM:
Purchase this enable key - Your FLARM's hardware serial number (not the IGC serial number) is required when you order. You will receive an email with the enable file within about 48 hours. It is a very small text file.
Save the enable file to a USB flash drive (PowerFLARM Core) or microSD memory card (PowerFLARM Portable).
Plug the USB flash drive or microSD card into your PowerFLARM and power-up the PowerFLARM
Wait about 1 minute.
You can verify that the upgrade has been successful by looking at the contents of the "FLARMDEV.CSV" file that is saved to the USB flash drive or microSD memory card after the upgrade has been completed. The .CSV file can be opened in Notepad or Excel.
PowerFLARM IGC Enable License All PowerFLARM units are supplied with built-in GPS flight recorder. However, in some versions, the flight recorder is not IGC enabled - so flight logs generated by the unit can't be used to support a badge or record claim. IGC functionality can be enabled at any time by purchasing this enable license.
*** This option is included as standard with all PowerFLARM Core and Core Pure units purchased after February 1, 2016. It is not included as standard with PowerFLARM Portable units.
Note: Flight logs generated by the PowerFLARM without the IGC feature enabled can be used in the OLC (Online Contest). They may or may not be accepted at a soaring contest.
The license is provided in a small text file that permanently enables the IGC functionality in a particular PowerFLARM unit. I save backups of the enable files on my computer, but I recommend that you back it up too - just in case it is ever needed again.
The enable key must be ordered for your specific PowerFLARM unit - so please allow 48 hours for the reception of the enable file.
To enable the IGC functionality in your PowerFLARM:
Purchase this enable key - Your FLARM's hardware serial number (not the IGC serial number) is required when you order. You will receive an email with the enable file within about 48 hours. It is a very small text file.
Save the enable file to a USB flash drive (PowerFLARM Core) or microSD memory card (PowerFLARM Portable).
Plug the USB flash drive or microSD card into your PowerFLARM and power-up the PowerFLARM
Wait about 1 minute.
You can verify that the upgrade has been successful by looking at the contents of the "FLARMDEV.CSV" file that is saved to the USB flash drive or microSD memory card after the upgrade has been completed. The .CSV file can be opened in Notepad or Excel.
PowerFLARM Garmin TIS Interface Enable License All PowerFLARM units are capable of sending Garmin TIS data out to Garmin and compatible devices. However, the Garmin TIS interface is not enabled by default. It can be enabled at any time by purchasing this enable license.
The license is provided in a small text file that permanently enables the Garmin TIS functionality in a particular PowerFLARM unit. I save backups of the enable files on my computer, but I recommend that you back it up too - just in case it is ever needed again.
The enable key must be ordered for your specific PowerFLARM unit - so please allow 48 hours for the reception of the enable file.
To enable the Garmin TIS functionality in your PowerFLARM:
Purchase this enable key - Your FLARM's hardware serial number (not the IGC serial number) is required when you order. You will receive an email with the enable file within about 48 hours. It is a very small text file.
Save the enable file to a USB flash drive (PowerFLARM Core) or microSD memory card (PowerFLARM Portable).
Plug the USB flash drive or microSD card into your PowerFLARM and power-up the PowerFLARM
Wait about 1 minute.
You can verify that the upgrade has been successful by looking at the contents of the "FLARMDEV.CSV" file that is saved to the USB flash drive or microSD memory card after the upgrade has been completed. The .CSV file can be opened in Notepad or Excel.
PowerFLARM Dipole FLARM Antenna with Standard-Polarity Connector
For use on "B" FLARM port on PowerFLARM Portable units.
This antenna does not fit onto either FLARM port on a PowerFLARM Core or the FLARM "A" port on a PowerFLARM Portable because the polarity of the connector is wrong.
Note: For maximum range, the antenna should be mounted pointing up and down (oriented vertically).
Note: It is important that the antenna does not touch the glider canopy.
Has a 3M Adhesive strip on one side for easy attachment.
Antenna Length: 98 mm (3.86 inches)
Cable Length:
2 m (6.5 feet)
Frequency Center Point:
916 MHz
Frequency Range: 816MHz ~ 1.016GHz
PowerFLARM Dipole FLARM Antenna with Reverse-Polarity Connector - Long Antenna Length
This antenna is a new, longer version of the standard PowerFLARM Core FLARM dipole antenna (immediately above). The antenna manufacturer says that it has better range than the standard length antenna that is supplied with the PowerFLARM Core. However, the long length may make it more difficult to fit into some sailplanes.
For use on either FLARM port on a PowerFLARM Core or the FLARM "A" port on a PowerFLARM Portable.
This antenna does not fit onto the FLARM "B" port on a PowerFLARM Portable because the polarity of the connector is wrong.
Note: For maximum range, the antenna should be mounted pointing up and down (oriented vertically).
Note: It is important that the antenna does not touch the glider canopy.
Has a 3M Adhesive strip on one side for easy attachment.
Antenna Length: 137 mm (5.4 inches)
Cable Length:
2 m (6.5 feet)
VSWR: <= 1.9 typical at center
Peak Gain: 50-ohms
Frequency Center Point:
916 MHz
Frequency Range: 816MHz ~ 1.016GHz
PowerFLARM FLARM Antenna, Shark Fin - No FLARM Logo Works great as an external FLARM A transmit/receive antenna or FLARM B receive-only antenna. Designed to work well for all FLARM frequency ranges. It does not work as an ADS-B 1090 MHz antenna.
Most FLARM-equipped sailplanes have a single FLARM antenna mounted up front and high - so they can see forward, up, and to the sides. However, sailplanes with carbon fiber fuselages block the FLARM signals - so it is not possible to receive FLARM signals from aircraft below and behind. Connecting a 2nd "receive only" FLARM antenna to the FLARM B port will greatly enhance safety if the antenna is mounted on the bottom of the glider behind the landing gear. This antenna is perfect for installation in that way.
This antenna does not have a FLARM logo on it, so it can be mounted either on the top of bottom of the aircraft. The version below with the FLARM logo looks best mounted on top of the aircraft.
The antenna housing is constructed of anacrylonitrile-styrene-acrylic (ASA) shell. The white color allows maximum performance without losses due to color pigments or unseen dirt. The antenna is supplied with cellular neoprene mounting pad and hardware. The antenna is designed to operate at speeds up to 350 mph and altitudes up to 50,000 feet.
This antenna is made by RAMI (R.A. Miller Industries, Inc.) and has RAMI part number AV-75. This part is available only through FLARM and their dealers.
Tips for Ground Planes for FLARM External Antennas
I talked to Ben Ennenga at RAMI about external antenna ground planes. Some interesting notes from that conversation are below. Thank you Ben for the friendly and helpful support!
A ground plane is required with both rod style and shark fin style transponder and FLARM antennas.
The smallest recommended ground plane would be 12 inches in diameter (6 inches radius).
A ground plane works about equally well regardless of whether it is made from a solid plate (such as aluminum) or instead made using 2 wires in a "+" arrangement. In either case, the radius should be at least 6 inches.
When working with carbon fiber glider fuselages, the antenna must be mounted on the outside of the fuselage, but it is OK to mount the ground plane on the inside.
The mounting screws for the antenna are connected to the antenna ground. Therefore, you can connect the ground plane to either or both of the mounting screws.
It is OK for the ground plane wires ("+" configuration) to curve and follow the inside of the glider fuselage.
PowerFLARM FLARM Antenna, Shark Fin - With FLARM Logo Works great as an external FLARM A transmit/receive antenna or FLARM B receive-only antenna. Designed to work well for all FLARM frequency ranges. It does not work as an ADS-B 1090 MHz antenna.
This antenna has a FLARM logo on it which is oriented such that the antenna looks great when mounted on the top of the aircraft. Mounting it on top of the fuselage just behind the canopy is probably ideal. Or it could be mounted inside the cockpit on top of the instrument panel cover. It looks much nicer than the standard dipole antenna. The version above without a FLARM logo looks good mounted either on the top or bottom of the aircraft.
The antenna housing is constructed of anacrylonitrile-styrene-acrylic (ASA) shell. The white color allows maximum performance without losses due to color pigments or unseen dirt. The antenna is supplied with cellular neoprene mounting pad and hardware. The antenna is designed to operate at speeds up to 350 mph and altitudes up to 50,000 feet.
This antenna is made by RAMI (R.A. Miller Industries, Inc.) and has RAMI part number AV-75 (-F). This part is available only through FLARM and their dealers.
Tips for Ground Planes for FLARM External Antennas
I talked to Ben Ennenga at RAMI about external antenna ground planes. Some interesting notes from that conversation are below. Thank you Ben for the friendly and helpful support!
A ground plane is required with both rod style and shark fin style transponder and FLARM antennas.
The smallest recommended ground plane would be 12 inches in diameter (6 inches radius).
A ground plane works about equally well regardless of whether it is made from a solid plate (such as aluminum) or instead made using 2 wires in a "+" arrangement. In either case, the radius should be at least 6 inches.
When working with carbon fiber glider fuselages, the antenna must be mounted on the outside of the fuselage, but it is OK to mount the ground plane on the inside.
The mounting screws for the antenna are connected to the antenna ground. Therefore, you can connect the ground plane to either or both of the mounting screws.
It is OK for the ground plane wires ("+" configuration) to curve and follow the inside of the glider fuselage.
Mounting Kit for
PowerFLARM Portable - Flat Dual-Lock Version This rugged yet lightweight aluminum
mounting bracket makes it easy to mount a PowerFLARM Portable on top of
any flat surface - such as the top of the
instrument panel cover. It includes 2 parts, a flat plate the
attaches to the bottom of the PowerFLARM Portable using 2 screws, and a
"U" shaped mounting base that mounts to the flat surface with 4 screws
and nylon lock nuts. 3M Dual-Lock is used to secure the PowerFLARM
Portable and its mounting plate to the mounting base.
It may be easier and less expensive to
use 3M Dual-Lock fasteners to secure the PowerFLARM Portable directly to
the mounting surface, but that would cause the bottom of the PowerFLARM
Portable and the top of the mounting surface to get "gunky" from the
adhesive on the Dual-Lock (which is very difficult to remove).
Also, since the majority of the bottom of the PowerFLARM Portable is
taken-up by the battery compartment cover (which is not secure enough to
use as a mounting surface) this system offers a much more secure
solution.
Dimensions:
Width: 101 mm (3.98 in)
Depth: 81 mm (3.19 in)
Height of sides of base: 14 mm (0.55 in)
Height PowerFLARM Portable sits up off the mounting surface: 10 mm (0.39
in)
Weight: 113 g (4.0 oz)
Panel-Mount Kit for
PowerFLARM Portable - Tall Version This rugged yet lightweight aluminum
mounting bracket makes it easy to mount a PowerFLARM Portable in the
instrument panel. The 4 mounting holes are spaced to match a
standard 3 1/8" (80 mm) instrument hole. They are equally spaced
on an 89 mm bolt circle. However, the overall width may be wider
than other 80 mm size instruments (see dimensions below).
Two screws are provided for attaching the mount
to the bottom of the PowerFLARM Portable using it's built-in threaded
mounting holes. Four screws and nylon locknuts are provided for
attaching the mounting adapter to the instrument panel.
Note: You will want to remotely mount the
PowerFLARM's FLARM and ADS-B/Transponder antennas using an extension
cable. I will have them in stock soon in several lengths. Since the GPS antenna is built-into the
PowerFLARM, and it may not get good reception if mounted under other
instruments in your panel, you may need to buy a remote GPS antenna.
I will stock those soon. If the PowerFLARM is mounted at the top of the panel -
you shouldn't need a remote GPS antenna and may not need to remote mount
the FLARM and ADS-B/Transponder antennas - if you make a holes for them
to stick up through the top of the instrument panel cover.
Dimensions:
Width: 101 mm (3.98 in)
Height: 76 mm (2.99 in)
Depth: 64 mm (2.52 in)
Weight: 91 g (3.2 oz)
Panel-Mount Kit for
PowerFLARM Portable - Wide Version This rugged yet lightweight aluminum
mounting bracket makes it easy to mount a PowerFLARM Portable in the
instrument panel. Two screws are provided for attaching the mount
to the bottom of the PowerFLARM Portable using it's built-in threaded
mounting holes. Four screws and nylon locknuts are provided for
attaching the mounting adapter to the instrument panel.
Note: You will want to remotely mount the
PowerFLARM's FLARM and ADS-B/Transponder antennas using an extension
cable. I will have them in stock soon in several lengths. Since the GPS antenna is built-into the
PowerFLARM, and it may not get good reception if mounted under other
instruments in your panel, you may need to buy a remote GPS antenna.
I will stock those soon. If the PowerFLARM is mounted at the top of the panel -
you shouldn't need a remote GPS antenna and may not need to remote mount
the FLARM and ADS-B/Transponder antennas - if you make a holes for them
to stick up through the top of the instrument panel cover.
Dimensions:
Width: 129 mm (5.08 in)
Height: 51 mm (2.01 in)
Depth: 64 mm (2.52 in)
Weight: 77 g (2.7 oz)
PowerFLARM Y-Adapter, RJ45 The PowerFLARM Y-Adapter, RJ45 is an RJ45 "splitter". It makes it possible to connect 2 FLARM displays or a single FLARM display and 12V power leads to a single RJ45 port on a FLARM unit. To avoid data collision issues, one of the 2 ports allows data in both directions between the FLARM and display and the other port only sends data from the FLARM to the 2nd display - It does not allow data to be sent from the 2nd display to the FLARM. One display can both send and receive data from the FLARM and the other display can only receive data from the FLARM. 12V and 3.3V power connections are passed through to both ports.
LXNAV Splitter with 4 RJ45 8-pin Ports and cable with RJ12 6-pin connector For connecting up to 3 devices to a FLARM with 6-pin RJ12 port - such as a "Classc" FLARM or LXNAV LX80x0 or LX90x0 with built-in PowerFLARM Module.
Two ports pass both transmit (TX) and receive (RX) lines. The other 2 ports pass transmit (TX) only. One of the RX/TX ports should be connected to the cable that goes to the FLARM device. The other RX/TX cable goes to a FLARM remote display and can be used to edit parameters (ranges, etc.) in the FLARM unit. The "TX Only" ports send data to additional FLARM displays, but don't allow those devices to send data to the FLARM unit. That avoids the possibility of having two devices try to send data to the FLARM at the same time.
The included cable has an RJ45 8-pin connector for connection to the splitter and RJ12 6-pin connector for connection to the FLARM device.
All 4 ports follow the IGC standard - as used by the following products:
FLARM
PowerFLARM
LXNAV LX80x0 or LX90x0 built-in FLARM or PowerFLARM module
LXNAV Splitter with 4 RJ45 8-pin Ports and cable with RJ45 8-pin connector For connecting up to 3 devices to a FLARM with 8-pin RJ45 port - such as a PowerFLARM Core, PowerFLARM Portable, LXNAV FlarmBat, or LXNAV PowerMouse.
Two ports pass both transmit (TX) and receive (RX) lines. The other 2 ports pass transmit (TX) only. One of the RX/TX ports should be connected to the cable that goes to the FLARM device. The other RX/TX cable goes to a FLARM remote display and can be used to edit parameters (ranges, etc.) in the FLARM unit. The "TX Only" ports send data to additional FLARM displays, but don't allow those devices to send data to the FLARM unit. That avoids the possibility of having two devices try to send data to the FLARM at the same time.
The included cable has 2 x RJ45 8-pin connectors for connecting the splitter to the FLARM device.
All 4 ports follow the IGC standard - as used by the following products:
FLARM
PowerFLARM
LXNAV LX80x0 or LX90x0 built-in FLARM or PowerFLARM module
Panel-Mountable USB Extension Cable 1 m long USB extension cable with male USB connector and panel-mountable rectangular USB female connector. Used to make the USB port on a soaring instrument accessible on the instrument panel. Works great with PowerFLARM Core units. Not compatible with PowerFLARM Portable units.
Panel-Mountable USB Extension Cable with Cap USB extension cable with male USB connector and panel-mountable rectangular USB female connector. Used to make the USB port on a soaring instrument accessible on the instrument panel. Works great with PowerFLARM Core units. Not compatible with PowerFLARM Portable units. The cap can be screwed-on to protect the port. A nut of about 20 mm diameter is used to secure the panel-mounted end into the 20 mm hole in the panel.
This item is included with all PowerFLARM Core units.
button next to the product. 
