
Generic TT31 Minor Modification 21 February 2008
SUP/TT31/001 Issue 1.6
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Trig Avionics Limited Page 4
3. Modification Details
3.1 Description of Modification
This modification involves removing a Mode A/C transponder, and replacing it with a Trig Avionics
TT31 Mode S transponder.
The TT31 is designed to be plug compatible with the KT76A and KT78A; it fits in the same mounting
tray and uses the same connectors and connector pin assignments. Both transponders use the same
quick-release latch to hold them in the mounting tray, and therefore the physical upgrade can be as
simple as unlatching the KT76A or KT78A, sliding it out of the tray, sliding in a TT31, and latching it
into the tray.
If the existing transponder is another model (including the Bendix/King KT76) then the mounting tray
and connectors will need to be replaced. This will involve fitting the new tray as described below, and
rewiring the connectors to the transponder in accordance with the wiring diagram in section 3.5.
In all cases the existing antenna, altitude encoder, and circuit breaker will be re-used.
The upgrade is predicated on the suitability of the existing installation, and the compatibility of the
new transponder with the existing installation. The activities involved in the upgrade therefore include
pre-testing of the installation; verification of the suitability of the existing mechanical arrangements;
verification of the suitability of the existing power and signal wiring; transponder commissioning; and
post-installation testing. These activities are described in detail in the Accomplishment Instructions in
this document.
3.2 Mechanical Details
The TT31 is directly compatible with any approved antenna used with a Mode A/C transponder and
subject to this being correctly sited and in good condition the same antenna will be used.
The TT31 chassis is mechanically identical to the KT76A and KT78A, and fits into the same
instrument panel mounting tray. The TT31 is slightly lighter (by about 100g) than earlier models of
KT76A, but is slightly heavier (also by about 100g) than later models. The difference in weight has no
material effect on the mechanical mounting.
For replacement of other models of transponder the mounting tray must be replaced. The TT31
mounting tray complies with the “Mark width” de facto industry standard and the existing tray
mounting position will be appropriate for the TT31 tray. Note however that it is unlikely that the
existing screw holes for the old tray will be in the correct location, and new mounting provisions may
be required.
The TT31 uses a combination of knobs and press buttons to set transponder codes and control the
functions of the unit. The operating mode, squawk code and altitude are displayed on an LCD. It is
important that the knobs and buttons be reasonably accessible to the pilot, and that the screen be
visible, although the transponder is obviously not a primary flight control or instrument. Since the
switch positions and display location are very similar to the legacy Mode A/C transponders, a panel
location that was appropriate to the Mode A/C transponder will also be appropriate to the TT31.
The knobs on the TT31 protrude slightly further than some older transponders (up to 5mm). This is
not a significant factor in conventional panel mount radio locations.
3.3 Continued Airworthiness Instructions
The system described here is a Mode S transponder installation utilising a Gilham code altitude input,
and therefore EASA AD 2006-0265 will apply. The initial test described in section 4.5.3.2 of this
document satisfies the requirements of the AD. Subsequent functional checks shall be carried out at