Key Notes on Transponder

A scientific instrument stands for a device used for a scientific purpose; it includes the learning of natural and theoretical research. Scientific Instruments are an essential part of science, and the transponder falls under this category. A transponder is a wireless device that catches incoming signals and responds automatically. We can say that a transponder is a wireless automatic responding device. A transponder performs two essential functions. It turns up the input signals and also translates the frequency of the received signals.  

Functions of a Transponder

A transponder is a device that acts as both a transmitter and responder. It is used to receive and transmit electrical signals wirelessly and is categorised into active and passive.

A passive transponder permits a computer and robot to recognise the objects. A credit card is an example of a passive transponder. It is used with an active sensor that writes out the transponder data.

An active transponder works towards identification, location, and navigation. It is mainly used for commercial and private aircraft. The signal of the transponder is tracked so it can constantly monitor. RFID device (radio frequency identification) transfers a coded signal when it receives a request from the control centre. Active transponders are also used in satellites.

A transponder falls under advanced technology. It not only helps in air traffic control but also prevents collision of aeroplanes.  

Types of Transponders

There are mainly two types of Transponders. They are:

Bent Pipe Transponders

The bent pipe transponder converts the frequency of the input signal to radiofrequency and then boosts it. It receives a microwave frequency signal. A bent pipe transponder is also known as a repeater and conventional transponder.

Regenerative Transponder

A regenerative transponder is also known as a processing transponder. Besides performing the functions of a bent pipe transponder, it regenerates the signals and modulation and performs demodulation of the radiofrequency carrier to the baseband. It is suitable for digital signals.

Uses of Transponder

A transponder is an automated responding device that works based on signals and frequencies. A few crucial uses of a transponder are mentioned below:

Aircraft: A transponder is used in an aircraft as part of an avionic system that provides altitude information.

Satellite: A transponder helps form communication by receiving and transmitting antennas in a satellite. There are many transponders in a single satellite, and each transponder can support more than one communication channel.

Advanced vehicles: A transponder helps receive and transfer signals in vehicles. It is used to receive audio and video signals.

Underwater: A sonar transponder measures distance based on underwater location marking.

Vehicle key: Transponders are also used in a key. It is used in the form of a small chip located in car keys and is usually placed inside the head of the key. A transponder communicates using RFID (radio frequency identification) technology with the car.

Aviation: Transponders are also used to identify enemies in air defence. Secondary use of the transponder in air defence includes the identification of objects. (trees, humans, etc.)

Modes of Transponder

There are mainly three modes of transponders. Aircraft are equipped with these modes.

Mode A: It is equipped for transmitting the identifying code only.

Model C: It is equipped as ATCO to automatically monitor the aircraft’s altitude.

Model S: It is also equipped to monitor the altitude and permit data exchange.

Principle of Transponder

The transponder is mainly operated on a bent pipe with only boosts and a shift from uplink to downlink frequency sending, and signals back to the earth what goes into the conduit.

Transponder and Transceiver

Generally, while preparing notes or learning about transponder and transceiver, the question arises, “if transponder and transceiver are same?”. 

The transceiver is a device that can transmit and receive signals. On the other hand, a transponder is a programmed device used to monitor incoming signals with a preprogrammed reply. This is how a transponder and transceiver are different from each other.

Transducer and Transponder

A transducer is a device that converts a specific type of energy to an electric signal. On the other hand, a transponder combines a transmitter and receiver.

Conclusion

The transponder is a technology based on frequency and signals. It is used with the help of signals input and output and is a mini device that sends and receives radio signals. This technology is proof of the rapidly advancing technology. Transponders are mainly used for satellites and air traffic control, but nowadays, this technology is also used in the medical field for advanced treatment.