Getting started with Stratux

A new Stratux is ready to use out of the box. Here's what to expect the first time you power it up.

1. Power it up

Plug Stratux into a 2 A or better USB power source: a good battery pack, a cockpit USB charger, or a wall supply for testing. The green light comes on and Stratux boots in about two minutes.

Weak 1 A chargers are the most common cause of reboots and odd behavior. If the unit keeps restarting, try a different power source and cable first. See Power and status lights.

2. Let the GPS find itself

The very first time, the GPS needs a clear view of the sky for 10 to 20 minutes to get its first fix. Take it outside or put it on the glareshield with the logo side facing up. After that first lock, later starts are much faster.

3. Join the Wi-Fi network

On your tablet or phone, open Wi-Fi settings and join the Stratux network. It has no internet connection; that's normal. Your EFB still has its downloaded charts and data.

4. Open your EFB app

Most apps detect Stratux automatically within a few seconds and show it as a connected ADS-B device. See EFB apps for the full compatibility list and app-specific tips.

5. Check the status page

While connected, open a browser and go to 192.168.10.1. The Status page shows what the receiver is doing: GPS, UAT (978 MHz), 1090 MHz and AHRS. See The Stratux web interface for a tour.

What you'll see, and when

  • On the ground: GPS position and some traffic from nearby aircraft on 1090 MHz. Weather usually won't appear yet. That's normal: ground stations are line of sight and you're too low to hear them.
  • After takeoff: weather typically appears around 1,000 ft AGL near a ground station, along with ground-relayed traffic. See No weather or traffic.

Mounting tips

  • Put Stratux where it can see the sky: the glareshield or a side window. A metal roof blocks GPS; consider an external GPS.
  • Keep the vents clear. The fan turns on at about 55 °C, and a hot cockpit plus blocked vents can slow it down.
  • Keep the antennas vertical and away from metal where you can.