XPDR firmware update process

[swatson999]

A question arose on VAF unrelated to your stuff, but generated a side topic about updating the firmware on the TSO'd transponder in a SV system...

Will the forthcoming firmware update for the transponder be done using the normal SV firmware/software update process, i.e., by uploading new firmware to the SV via a USB port/memory stick? That is, in place? Or will it require the XPDR update be done differently (hopefully not), such as by removal of the XPDR and having to have it sent in for update or done by an FAA approved repair station?

Please say "in the normal manner"...

 

[jeffa]

I can't find the exact reply from Dynon, but they did already mention it would be part of the 5.0 release and would update the transponder software automatically. 

Edit - Here it is:

To be compliant with the FAA's 2020 ADS-B mandate today, you need our transponder updated to the next firmware revision (which will happen automatically when we ship the ADS-B IN software).

 

[dynonsupport]

You will be able to update the transponder the "normal" way, in your plane, via USB.

The only non-standard thing is that the FAA will require you to print out a label and stick it on the transponder indicating that it has been updated to the new TSO. You will only need to do this if you fly in the USA or have a US registration.

 

[dynonsupport]

Also, note that the transponder update won't be "automatic" as was implied. Because of the labeling requirement, the 5.0 update won't force the update (so that you don't end up accidentally not airworthy if you can't perform the required labeling at any given moment): You'll need to kick it off manually from the transponder setup menu.