Unlike a traditional airborne radar which follows an aircraft by bouncing off of it, ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast) is an active communication between an aircraft and its ground-based sensors. ADS-B transmits data at a standard frequency of 1090 MHz to ground facilities. This allows them to determine the aircraft's speed and location. This system is now mandatory for large aircraft in the United States and Europe, with its implementation slated for 2020 and 2023, respectively.
ADS-B is an extremely new function in aviation. It was implemented for the first time in 2005 in the United States. There are two major subsystems to the ADS-B function. One is the transmitter that sends data down to ground facilities, and the other is the receiver that receives data from transmitters. These subsystems can provide information about aircraft like speed, altitude, and other relevant data to ground-based facilities. The transmitter is the most important component of the system. ADSB is capable of receiving position reports from other aircraft. ADSB can be used to improve air traffic management by displaying aircraft locations in real time. This is not possible through other forms.
There are many types of ADS/B systems. The most popular is the TACAN. Other systems include FLARM, which does not work with ADS-B. The TACAN-G is more expensive and slower. FLARM is the best of these systems, as it can be used in tracking gliders. This system is not compatible for ADS-B so it is not a good choice for gliders. ADS-B provides more information, both on ground and air movements. It is far better than the other options. It is also a very effective means of surveillance.
There are several versions available of ADS-B. The most current version is ADS-B version 3.0. Although the name may sound clunky, the system has already been adopted by many countries, including the United States, France and Japan. The ADS-B signal can be heard in the stratosphere, as well as on the ground. ADS-B can be used to record and intercept position reports from other aircraft, but it is not necessary. Although it has proven to be a boon for air traffic control, there has been some controversy. Pilots claim that the system can be dangerous, particularly for flying gliders or other light aircraft.
