TAS
Traffic Advisory System
A TAS actively sends out interrogation signals and listens for replies from transponder-equipped aircraft within range. Because it interrogates directly, it can see any aircraft with a working Mode C or Mode S transponder regardless of whether that aircraft has ADS-B Out installed. This makes it more capable than passive ADS-B In traffic in areas where older aircraft without ADS-B Out are still common.
For IFR training and cross-country flying, a TAS reduces the visual scan workload for traffic. Targets appear on the cockpit display with range, bearing, and relative altitude, so you can direct your scan to the right part of the sky. Systems like the Avidyne TAS600 series display targets alongside weather and terrain on a compatible multi-function display.
Common examples: Avidyne TAS600, L-3 SkyWatch, Ryan TCAD