How do the Ryan 9900B TCAD traffic systems produce traffic alerts?
The Ryan 9900B TCAD system is a passive traffic detection and alert systems. That is, unlike TAS systems such as L3/Goodrich Skywatch and Bendix/King KTA-870/970/KMH-880/980, it is does not actively interrogate aircraft transponders. Thus, the TCAD system is limited to receiving transponder replies from aircraft flying in SSR (Secondary Surveillance Radar) environments. SSR typically tracks transponder-equipped aircraft cruising at ranges of up to 250 miles. Due to the earth’s curvature, the SSR’s interrogation range is significantly reduced when tracking lower level aircraft and is generally ineffective when aircraft are below 3,000 feet at longer ranges. Ryan International describes the 9900B system as a lower cost alternative to more expensive TAS systems.
The Ryan 9900B TCAD system is a passive traffic detection and alert systems. That is, unlike TAS systems such as L3/Goodrich Skywatch and Bendix/King KTA-870/970/KMH-880/980, it is does not actively interrogate aircraft transponders. Thus, the TCAD system is limited to receiving transponder replies from aircraft flying in SSR (Secondary Surveillance Radar) environments. SSR typically tracks transponder-equipped aircraft cruising at ranges of up to 250 miles. Due to the earth’s curvature, the SSR’s interrogation range is significantly reduced when tracking lower level aircraft and is generally ineffective when aircraft are below 3,000 feet at longer ranges. Ryan International describes the 9900B system as a lower cost alternative to more expensive TAS systems.
