Introduction to Stratux Portable ADS-B
Stratux is a popular open-source project that enables pilots to build their own portable ADS-B In receivers using affordable off-the-shelf components. Designed for use in general aviation, Stratux delivers real-time traffic and weather data to Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) apps like ForeFlight, FlyQ, and FltPlan Go, enhancing situational awareness and safety in the cockpit.
Unlike certified ADS-B solutions that can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, Stratux is designed to be a low-cost, DIY alternative. Built around a Raspberry Pi and USB software-defined radios (SDRs), it receives ADS-B broadcasts on both 978 MHz (UAT) and 1090 MHz (1090ES) frequencies. It can also include GPS and AHRS (Attitude and Heading Reference System) capabilities, providing a complete, self-contained situational awareness tool.
Why Build a Stratux Receiver?
The U.S. FAA’s ADS-B system broadcasts traffic, weather, and other flight information free of charge. However, to receive this data, pilots need an ADS-B In receiver. Stratux allows you to:
- See nearby traffic in real time
- Receive in-flight weather updates (including METARs and TAFs)
- Display GPS position in your EFB
- Optionally add AHRS to show attitude and heading
For pilots flying without panel-mounted ADS-B In equipment, Stratux provides an affordable and flexible alternative that works with many devices and flight planning apps.
What You’ll Need
Building a Stratux receiver involves both hardware and software. You’ll need:
- A Raspberry Pi (typically a Pi 3B+ or 4)
- Two SDRs (USB dongles) for 978 MHz and 1090 MHz
- GPS module (with USB interface)
- Optional: AHRS unit (e.g., Sparkfun IMU)
- Dual-band antennas
- Enclosure and cooling components
- microSD card and power supply
Once assembled, the Stratux broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal that EFB apps can connect to directly.
What This Guide Covers
This series walks through everything needed to build and use a Stratux receiver:
- Hardware: parts list, physical assembly, cooling, mounting
- Software: firmware installation, configuration, troubleshooting
- App integration: using Stratux with iOS and Android EFBs
Whether you’re a tech-savvy pilot or an avionics enthusiast, this guide will help you build a reliable Stratux system tailored to your needs.
Let’s get started with the hardware.