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Accessories Avionics

Sentry Mini ADS-B:Sub-$300, Compact

If you plan to use ForeFlight for backup flight instruments the Mini probably isn't the device for you because it doesn't have the AHRS sensor to feed the app. It does, however, support the full range of FIS-B weather and data, including animated NEXRAD, METARs, TAFs, AIRMETs/SIGMETs, PIREPs, winds and temps aloft, TFRs, NOTAMs, SUA information, turbulence, lightning, cloud tops and center weather advisories.

Larry Anglisano
Verified

ForeFlight thinks there’s still a sizable market for budget-based portable ADS-B receivers so it came to AirVenture last month with a new model: the Sentry Mini. Think of the Mini-priced at $299-as the little brother of the full-sized Sentry receiver ($499) the company brought to AirVenture last year.

Like the full-sized Sentry, the new Mini is made by Montana-based uAvionix and has dual built-in antennas for receiving weather and traffic on both 978 MHz and 1090 MHz frequencies. The product’s name suits it well-the device is 3.3 by 2.3 by 0.6 inches and weighs 0.1 pounds. Check that against the full-size Sentry, which measures 3.25 by 2.25 by 1.25-still compact.

Larry Anglisano

Editor in Chief Larry Anglisano has been a staple at Aviation Consumer since 1995. An active land, sea and glider pilot, Larry has over 30 years’ experience as an avionics repairman and flight test pilot. He’s the editorial director overseeing sister publications Aviation Safety magazine, IFR magazine and is a regular contributor to KITPLANES magazine with his Avionics Bootcamp column.