What’s in a Name? FlightFeeder vs. PiAware
To make it easier to understand our offerings, we’re changing some of the names. We have the PiAware software which is the software that runs on a Raspberry Pi so you can use it as an ADS-B receiver, DIY PiAware kits which were hardware kits designed to build your own PiAware-based flight tracker, and FlightFeeders which are assembled PiAware-based feeders that FlightAware provides at no cost to qualified hosts.
While our FlightFeeders were provided at no cost to qualified applicants, they weren't available for purchase before now. This presented a problem when it came to trying to explain the difference between a PiAware kit and a FlightFeeder.
From now on, “FlightFeeder” refers to all of our physical ADS-B receiver devices -- not just the one device we provide to hosts -- while “PiAware” will continue to describe the software that runs on these devices. This clear naming distinction is designed to simplify our platform, and we’re working hard to update all documentation to reflect this change. We know there may be some confusion on our website and elsewhere as we implement these updates, and we appreciate your patience as we make everything consistent.
FlightFeeder Basic vs. FlightFeeder Pro
In addition to launching the FlightFeeder Pro -- a way purchase our traditional FlightFeeder -- we have also had many requests to sell a ready-to-run version of our existing PiAware ADS-B Kit. That is the DIY kit that comes with everything you need to build your own ADS-B receiver, but it does require some know-how to get it running.
We are now calling that kit FlightFeeder Basic. It will be available in the same DIY kit as before, as well as a ready-to-run version that is great for those who don't want to build it themselves or mess around with getting it flashed and setup.
The FlightFeeder basic and FlightFeeder Pro serve the same function, but with a few differences:
| |
Basic |
Pro |
| Mainboard |
Raspberry Pi Zero W |
Raspberry Pi 3b+ |
| Touchscreen |
No |
Yes |
| WiFi |
Yes |
Yes |
| Ethernet |
No |
Yes |
| Available as DIY kit |
Yes |
No |
Purchase Options and Ownership
When you buy a FlightFeeder Basic, you own the device and can use it as you wish. By contrast, our traditional FlightFeeders (the ones provided at no cost to qualified hosts) remain the property of FlightAware and are meant to be used within specific guidelines.
Interested in hosting a free FlightFeeder? Apply here!
What You Get
A ready-to-run FlightFeeder Basic which can be used as an ADS-B receiver. Simply plug in the necessary cables, power it on, claim the device to add it to your network, and you're ready to go!
It will allow you to track aircraft up to 250NM away. Using FlightAware’s open-source software you can receive data from 978MHz equipped aircraft and have it displayed in a web-based radar-like interface.
Included:
- FlightFeeder Basic
- Raspberry Pi Zero W
- Case
- Flashed Micro SD Card
- Your choice: Built and ready-to-run or DIY kit
- FlightAware Pro Stick SDR
-
Dual-Band signal filter
- Micro USB Power Supply
- Micro USB to USB A adapter (for connecting the Pro Stick SDR)
- Mini HDMI Adapter
- Indoor Antenna with 9' Attached Cable
- SD card reader is included with the DIY kit only
- Note: SD Card reader and connecting cables may vary slightly from the pictures
Available add-ons:
- Indoor/Outdoor antenna and various cable lengths
- Ready-to-run or DIY kit
For more information on the difference between a Pro Stick and a Pro Stick Plus, or information on the difference between 1090 MHz and 978 MHz choices, please check our FAQ.
For installation instructions please visit https://flightaware.com/adsb/piaware/build/
The DIY kit will need to be configured for 978MHz. Configuration steps can be found here: https://flightaware.com/adsb/piaware/advanced_configuration#uatsteps.
Please note that you will not need to follow the steps to build the unit, flash the SD card, or configure it for 978 MHz if you purchase the ready-to-run version. We are working hard to get all of our documentation updated.
