The Marconi IFR Aeroflex TCAS201 is a specialized ramp test set engineered for verification and certification of Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS II) installations. It simulates the airborne environment, enabling technicians to perform essential tests during initial installations and routine maintenance while ensuring compliance with Supplemental Type Certification (STC) requirements.
Technical Specifications
The TCAS201 monitors TCAS interrogations and displays decoded information. It generates ATCRBS or Mode S replies to simulate threat aircraft for bearing accuracy checks. The unit supports switchable TCAS I (no P4 width detection) and TCAS II (normal P4 width detection) operation.
ATCRBS Reply Test simulates a Mode C transponder with programmable percentage reply, altitude, and range parameters. Mode S Reply Test evaluates the interrogator’s ability to receive, decode, and respond to Mode S replies, simulating Mode S transponders with formats DF0, DF11, and DF16.
The device generates squitter with selectable squitter address and includes a Broadcast Interrogation Monitor that displays the interrogating aircraft address and contents of major interrogation fields (UF0 and UF16), verifying TCAS Broadcast transmission approximately every ten seconds in UF16.
– Key Features
• Scenario simulation with programming flexibility for Traffic Advisory (TA) and Resolution Advisory (RA) alerts
• Simulation of approaching intruders with constant closing rate and constant altitude change rate
• Up to ten user-programmed scenarios stored and recalled
• Whisper-Shout Monitor provides information to verify whisper-shout steps and Side Lobe Suppression (SLS)
• Power and Frequency Measurement displays interrogator Effective Radiated Power (ERP) and Frequency
• Built-In-Test (BIT) for confidence testing and fault isolation
• LCD display with automatic light-sensing illumination control
• Soft-press key controls for operation
• Internal battery providing up to 1.5 hours of operation
• Internal battery charging circuit enables recharging when connected to AC power
• Ruggedized construction suitable for ramp conditions
– Typical Applications
Initial TCAS II installation verification, routine maintenance testing, STC compliance validation, and bearing accuracy checks on installed systems.
