A portable ADS-B In receiver sends traffic and, in the US, free FIS-B weather to your EFB app. Choose a dual-band receiver (978 UAT and 1090ES) for the most complete traffic picture, and check it works with your EFB app. Traffic from ground rebroadcasts is tailored to ADS-B Out-equipped aircraft, so without ADS-B Out you may see partial traffic. It does not replace required ADS-B Out equipment.
A portable ADS-B receiver is one of the best value upgrades for situational awareness. Understand what it shows and what it does not.
ADS-B In vs Out
| ADS-B Out | ADS-B In | |
|---|---|---|
| What | Broadcasts your position | Receives traffic and weather |
| Required | In designated airspace (14 CFR 91.225) | No |
| Installed | Yes, certified | Portable or installed |
Frequencies
| Band | Carries |
|---|---|
| 978 MHz UAT | US FIS-B weather, UAT traffic, rebroadcasts |
| 1090 MHz ES | Most airline and high-altitude traffic |
Dual-band receivers see both.
Features
| Feature | Why |
|---|---|
| Dual band | Most complete picture |
| GPS | Position for the EFB |
| AHRS | Backup attitude display in the app |
| Battery life | Long flights |
| CO detector | Some models include one |
| EFB compatibility | Must match your app |
Limits
Displayed traffic and weather are advisory. Weather images have a delay. Use them alongside, not instead of, ATC services and certified equipment.
Mount the tablet well; see EFB tablets and mounts. Browse EFB and navigation.
Common questions
Does a portable ADS-B receiver satisfy the ADS-B mandate?
No. The mandate in 14 CFR 91.225 covers ADS-B Out, which is installed, certified equipment. Portable receivers are ADS-B In only.
Which frequency gives weather?
In the US, FIS-B weather is broadcast on 978 MHz UAT.
Will I see all traffic with a portable receiver?
Not always. Ground stations rebroadcast traffic around ADS-B Out-equipped aircraft, so aircraft without Out may see an incomplete picture.
Does my EFB app work with any receiver?
No. Each app supports specific receivers. Check the app's compatibility list.