Keywords
Citation
(2002), "Compact multifunction test set", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 74 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2002.12774cad.010
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2002, MCB UP Limited
Compact multifunction test set
Keywords: Aircraft, Testing, Equipment
Muirhead Avionics announce the introduction of the TR-220 Multifunction Ramp Test Set. Designed and manufactured by Tel Instrument Electronics Corp. of New Jersey, USA. The TR-220 is believed to be the first single-box solution for flight line testing of airborne Transponder, DME and TCAS systems. Previously, this level of testing would require two, or in some cases, three separate test sets, expensive to buy and with a proportionately high cost of ownership.
According to Muirhead the TR-220 will test Transponders in accordance with FAR 43 Appendix F and will include testing capabilities for functions of Mark 4 ATC Transponders as defined by ARINC 718A, scheduled for introduction in 2003. Future options will enable the test of enhanced surveillance functions.
The product also breaks new ground by enabling the inclusion of options for test of Automatic Dependant Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) functions that are currently under development and being tested in several industry evaluation programs. Decoded ADS-B information will include such functions as Aircraft Position (Lat/Long), Altitude, Velocity, Flight ID, and Flight Status along with many other parameters.
When testing TCAS systems, the TR-220 offers various scenarios that simulate ATCRBS and Mode S intruders, so as to determine accurate TA and RA annunciation and overall system integrity.
DME systems are simply tested by adjusting the distance and velocity controls and setting the airborne DME transceiver to the correct channel. The distance and in some cases, velocity, can then be read on the DME indicator and DME Power, PRF and frequency on the TR-220.
The TR-220 is available with a choice of case-mounted or hand-held directional antenna, and will also enable testing via direct connection. The design continues Tel Instruments tradition of rugged, user-friendly controls and large character display along with exceptional ease of use.
Muirhead Avionics is the European distributor for Tel Instruments products.
Details available from: Muirhead Avionics. Tel: +44 (0) 20 8571 3422; Fax: +44 (0) 20 8571 2336; E-mail: ginom@muirheadavionics.com; Website:http://www.muirheadaerospace.com