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MX12B FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about the MX12B Mode 5 IFF Micro Transponder

Product Features And Functions

Does The Mx12B Need To Integrate With A Flight Computer?

In order to achieve an 1102 AIMS platform certification, integration with the autopilot/flight computer is a requirement. If a platform certification is not required, the MX12B can be used as a standalone device as long as there is serial communications through the C2 link.

What Crypto Appliqués Does the Mx12B Work With?

The MX12B is built to the AIMS 04-900(A) option B interface protocol. Compatible appliqués include the Raytheon KIV-77, Leonardo SIT-2010, and (pending) Viasat KIV-79, and (pending) General Dynamics MAC.

I’VE ALREADY INTEGRATED THE MXS, DO I NEED TO DO A SEPARATE INTEGRATION FOR THE MX12B?

No. The MX12B is backwards compatible with the MXS, so all you will need to do is implement the military modes.

DO I NEED A GPS TO UTILIZE THE MX12B?

Modes A, C, S, 1, 2, 3, and 5 level 1 can be incorporated without GPS. You need a valid GPS position source in order to implement Mode 5 level 2, ADS-B In and ADS-B Out.

WHAT COMES IN THE BOX?

The MX12B hardware unit plus interface software are included with every MX12B purchase. Additionally, our technical support team brings millions of military program flight hours of expertise to answer your detailed questions. There is a large ecosystem of accessories available, including integration kits, test boxes, KIV emulators, cables, antennas, and other items.

DO I NEED A CERTIFIED CRYPTO TO GET MY PLATFORM 1102 CERTIFIED?

No, Sagetech offers a crypto emulator kit that is compatible with the IFF 45 test set. This option greatly simplifies your COMSEC requirements.

HOW DO I CONTROL THE TRANSPONDER?

The transponder can be controlled through the integration of our protocol into your autopilot or through the use of the included graphical user interface (GUI) along with a serial or Ethernet connection to the aircraft.

CAN I USE THIS WITH JUST A SINGLE ANTENNA?

The MX12B includes antenna diversity (dual antenna installation) by default. However, if your application requires just a single antenna, connect it to the bottom antenna port and follow the message protocol in the installation manual to configure for non-diversity.

DO I NEED ADS-B IN?

ADS-B In provides situational awareness of other aircraft to assist in avoiding collisions. ADS-B is integrated into the MX12B platform, which simplifies the overall aircraft integration and improves flight safety. This enables your aircraft to operate in airspace of all types around the world for multi-mission capability. ADS-B In additionally provides a strong safety case for BVLOS missions.

WHY IS ANTENNA DIVERSITY IMPORTANT?

Antenna diversity ensures visibility by both ground-based and high altitude communications equipment, and to other aircraft both above and below your platform in the same airspace. Diversity also helps avoid aircraft shadowing for larger platforms.

WHAT COMMUNICATIONS PROTOCOLS DOES DOES THE MX12B SUPPORT?

More aircraft are moving to incorporate Ethernet comms protocols. To support both modern and traditional aircraft integration, the MX12B supports Ethernet in addition to traditional serial protocols RS-232 and RS-422.

Usage And Integration

IS THIS PRODUCT ONLY FOR UNMANNED AIRCRAFT?

No. The MX12B is compliant with the full DoD AIMS 17-1000 specification, and is suitable for manned and unmanned aircraft alike.

HOW CAN I IMPLEMENT THE MX12B ON MANNED AIRCRAFT?

The MX12B transponder needs to be integrated with the cockpit display for the transponder interface. Sagetech can assist with this effort.

CAN THIS BE INTEGRATED WITH TCAS, LINK 16, AND OTHER L-BAND EQUIPMENT?

Yes. We utilize standard mutual suppression bus protocol designed to the ARINC 718 specification, which supports up to 6 difference L-band transmitters.

Pricing and Availability

IS THIS COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE?

Yes. Contact us for details.

WHAT ARE THE LEAD TIMES?

4-6 weeks ARO once in production and excluding an export license. 8-10 weeks including the time required for a US State Department export license.

WHAT IS THE PRICING STRUCTURE?

Our pricing sheet is available to qualified customers. Contact us for details.

Products described in this communication are subject to export license restrictions and regulations including the ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) and the Export Administration and Foreign Assets Control Regulations.  Further restrictions may apply.