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Special FAA Advisory...
Airworthiness Bulletin For Owners of Garmin GTX 327, GTX 330 and GTX 330D Transponders
A recent Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin from the FAA describes a situation where the pilot of a small airplane entered restricted airspace incorrectly squawking what the pilot thought was the appropriate ATC assigned transponder code. The pilot had missed the last digit when entering the new code. But because the transponder was now displaying the correct number, he assumed the new code was now active. However, the transponder was still responding to ATC ground interrogations with the previous code. The problem was aggravated because the last digit of the previously squawked code was the same as the newly assigned code, thus reinforcing the pilot's perception that the new code had been accepted. For example, if the old code was 1200 and the new code was 5660, the new code would not be active until the fourth digit--a zero--is entered, regardless of the fact that it is currently on display as a remnant of the previous code.
The Garmin GTX 327 and GTX 330 Pilot's Guides are clear that the new transponder code is not activated until the operator enters the fourth and final digit. GTX 330/330D and 33/33D software version 4.03 and later versions provide a "time-out" function. If the operator pauses an entry for more than 5 seconds, the displayed code reverts to the previously entered code. GTX 327 software version 2.09 and later, due in early January, will provide the same improvements.
For more information, or to have these upgrades installed, call 801-539-8412. Ask for Doug or Jim.
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