The Aeroflex ATC-600A is a portable transponder and DME test set engineered for field and bench evaluation of aircraft avionics systems. This compact, rugged instrument performs complete Mode A/C transponder testing and DME system validation in compliance with ARINC specifications and FAA regulations including FAR 91.177 and 43 Appendix F.
Technical Specifications
Transponder Testing
• Interrogation frequency: 1030 MHz (±0.006%)
• Interrogation level: Variable from −66 to −79 dBm (±1.5 dBm) direct with 34 dB pad
• Pulse spacing (P2/P3 relative to P1): ±1 µs from nominal
• Pulse Repetition Frequency: 235 Hz (±10%)
• SLS test capability: ±1.0 dB P2 at 0 dB or −9 dB relative to P1
• Reply power measurement: 10 W to 1.5 kW peak (±20%) direct with 34 dB pad
• Reply frequency range: 1086 to 1093 MHz (±0.3 MHz)
DME Testing
• Paired VOR frequency: 108.00 MHz (17X-channel) or 108.05 MHz (17Y-channel)
• Reply output power: Approximately −45 dBm direct with 34 dB pad
• Ident tone: 1350 Hz (±8 Hz) with equalizing pulses
• Range simulation: 0 to 399 NM in 1 NM steps (±0.07 NM or ±0.02%)
• Velocity simulation: 50 to 2400 knots (±0.02% of setting) with 12 selectable rates
• Velocity range steps: 0.025 NM (system), 0.1 NM (displayed)
• Reply percentage: 50% or 100%
• Squitter PRF: 2700 Hz (±50 Hz)
– Key Features
• Numerical display of transponder code and altitude
• Binary pulse information for code and altitude readout
• Direct transponder frequency and DME channel verification
• Receiver sensitivity measurement capability
• Front panel connector for altitude encoder output verification
• Second framing pulse (F2) position measurement relative to F1
• Crystal-controlled digital velocity with inbound/outbound selection
• Accurate range and velocity simulation with stepped command inputs
– Typical Applications
• Aircraft transponder bench and ramp testing
• DME ground equipment validation
• Field maintenance and troubleshooting
• Regulatory compliance verification
• Altitude reporting system verification
– Compatibility & Integration
Complies with ARINC specifications and FAA regulations. Supports Mode A/C operations with Mode B available upon request. Direct measurement interfaces for both transponder and DME systems via front panel connectors.
