DESCRIPTION, OPERATION, INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL ME406 ELT 570-1600 Rev. G Proprietary Information This document discloses subject matter in which Artex Aircraft Supplies, Inc. has proprietary rights.
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ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Table of Content 1. Introduction, Description and Operation .............................................................. 1 1.1 Basic Information ................................................................................................... 1 1.2 Application ............................................................................................................. 1 1.3 Description..............................................................................
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 3. Registration ......................................................................................................... 30 3.1 FAA Form 337 ...................................................................................................... 30 3.2 Radio Station License - USA .................................................................................. 30 3.3 U.S.A.A Registration ...............................................................................
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 6.9 6.10 6.11 6.12 7. iv 570-1600 Software .............................................................................................................. 49 Weights ............................................................................................................... 49 Table 4 – Weights................................................................................................. 49 Electrical Loading of Aircraft System ...........................................
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Table of Figures Figure 1 – ME406 Installed View ........................................................................................... 4 Figure 2 – ELT Front View..................................................................................................... 6 Figure 3 – Mounting Hole Diagram for Artex 110 Series and Narco ELT ................................ 11 Figure 4 – Mounting Hole Diagram for Artex 200 Series .........................................
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 1. Introduction, Description and Operation 1.1 Basic Information 570-1600 This manual describes the operation, installation and maintenance of the Artex models ME406 and ME406HM emergency locator transmitters (ELTs). The information is provided to ensure initial and continued airworthiness. Information presented in this manual is accurate at time of printing, but is subject to change. Refer to the Artex web site at www.artex.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Description 1.3 The ME406 and the ME406HM are type AF (automatic fixed) beacons. The ME406HM also features an additional 5 axis G-switch module that allows the ELT to be activated in any of six axes. These 5 auxiliary “G” switches are a “non-TSO function” as described in FAA Notice 8150.3. This “non-TSO” function has the following characteristics: 1.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. • • Note: 570-1600 COSPAS-SARSAT T.001 and T.007 47 CFR Part 87 (FCC requirements) Per FCC regulations 47 CFR § 2.902, the ELT is tested per “Verification” method, the FCC does not issue certificates for ELTs. The FCC identifier grantee code for Artex is H4K. Programming 1.5 The ME406 or ME406HM is pre-programmed at the factory using a short message format.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Figure 1 – ME406 Installed View 1.6 Operation In the event of a crash, the ME406 or ME406HM activates automatically (automatic fixed “AF” configuration), and transmits the standard swept tone on 121.5 MHz lasting until battery power is gone. This 121.5 MHz signal is mainly used to pinpoint the beacon during search and rescue operations.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 In addition, for the first 24 hours of operation, a 406 MHz signal is transmitting at 50-second intervals. This transmission lasts 440 ms and contains identification data programmed into the beacon and is received by COSPAS-SARSAT satellites. The transmitted data is referenced in a database (maintained by the national authority responsible for ELT registration) and used to identify the beacon and owner. 1.6.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. NOTE: Any time the ELT is activated, it is transmitting a 121.5 MHz distress signal. Therefore, all activations of the ELT should be kept to a minimum. Local or national regulations may limit testing of the ELT or impose special requirements or conditions to perform testing. For the “Self-Test,” Artex recommends the ELT be “ON” for no more than 5 seconds. Testing should occur during the first 5 minutes after the hour.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 2. Installation for the United States 2.1 Introduction to Installation 570-1600 Installations must be made by qualified personnel in accordance with FAA regulations. Duplicating a previous installation may not be acceptable. Refer to the following: • • FAA – Advisory Circular (AC) 43.13 (Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices – Aircraft Alterations), specifically, Chapters 1 through 3, 11 and 13. Found at www.faa.gov, or specifically: http://www.airweb.faa.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 2.2 570-1600 Parts List Installation kits offered for the ME406 include the necessary ELT-related components. The table below lists typical options. Parts can be ordered separately. Additional parts may also be available. Contact Artex at 1-800-547-8901 for details, pricing and availability.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Additional items required.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 The mounting location must conform to the requirements of RTCA DO-204 and AC 43.13. DO204 Sec 3.1.8 states: “The ELT shall be mounted to primary aircraft load carrying structures such as trusses, bulkheads, longerons, spars, or floor beams (not aircraft skin). The mounts shall have a maximum static local deflection no greater than 2.5 mm (0.1 in.) when a force of 450 Newtons (100 lbs) is applied to the mount in the most flexible direction.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Figure 3 – Mounting Hole Diagram for Artex 110 Series and Narco ELT NOTE: DRAWING IS NOT TO SCALE. DO NOT USE AS A TEMPLATE FOR DRILLING HOLES. Metric Dimensions 50.8mm X 139.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Figure 4 – Mounting Hole Diagram for Artex 200 Series NOTE: DRAWING IS NOT IS SCALE – DO NOT USE AS A TEMPLATE FOR DRILLING HOLES Metric Dimensions 46.4mm X 74.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Figure 5 – Mounting Hole Diagram for Pointer NOTE: DRAWING IS NOT TO SCALE – DO NOT USE AS A TEMPLATE FOR DRILLING HOLES Metric Dimensions 64.7mm X 108.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Mount Antenna 2.4 The ELT antenna must be mounted in accordance with the requirements of RTCA/DO-204, Section 3.1.10 and RTCA/DO-183 Section 3.1.10. Locate the antenna at least 30 inches (75 cm) away from other antennas, wires, vertical stabilizer, etc. to minimize distortion of the radiated field and interference with other equipment. The antenna must be installed VERTICALLY (within ±15º of the vertical plane is acceptable).
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 ‘Whip’ Antenna – P/N 110-773 2.4.1 See Figure 21. Refer to AC 43.13 for guidance. It is the responsibility of the installer to determine the appropriate and adequate antenna installation. To ensure adequate support for associated air loading during flight, use of a backing plate or doubler (not supplied) may be required. Type of Aircraft 2.4.1.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 6) Apply a small, smooth fillet with RTV sealant around the periphery of the antenna base to seal out moisture. 7) For maximum signal strength, the length of the antenna coax to the ELT should be as short as possible (use of the standard 6-foot (1.8 M) coax is recommended when possible). 2.4.1.5 Composite Aircraft Installation Except for preparation instructions and installation of a ground plane, installation is the same. Refer to AC 43.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 4) Mount the antenna using four 100º countersink #8-32 (M5) stainless steel machine screws and associated hardware. Tighten to 20 inch-lbs (226 Newton-cm) max. 5) Apply a small, smooth fillet with RTV sealant around the periphery of the antenna base to seal out moisture. 6) Install the antenna cable. Artex suggests using the standard 6-foot (1.8M) antenna cable (supplied with most kits). 2.4.2.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 2.6 570-1600 Mount Audio Indicator (“buzzer”) An audio indicator is required for TSO-C126 approval. The indicator, i.e., “buzzer” (P/N 4526505) is powered by the ELT and, therefore independent of the aircraft power system. When the ELT is activated, the buzzer ‘beeps’ periodically. The time between pulses lengthen after a predetermined transmitter ‘on’ time.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 A ground may be connected at either the ‘panel end’ or the ‘ELT end’ of the harness, but both locations should not be grounded. This prevents current flow thorough the shield from other equipment (ground loop). A convenient ground connection is pin 9 of the remote switch connector. This is connected internally to pin 6 (ground) and is provided for this purpose (see Figures 10 through 13). NOTE: 2.7.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 7) Fit remaining housing half onto lower section taking care to align thumb screws, grommet and connector. Position the bracket washers outside of housing. Screw housing together using the long, fully-threaded screws and nuts supplied. 8) Extra screws and strain relief supplied with housing kit are not used. Connect harness 2.7.
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ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Connect RF Coaxial Cable 2.7.4 The BNC to BNC cable provided carries both the 121.5 MHz and 406 MHz outputs. The ME406 was certified using a 6-foot (1.8M) RG-142 (MIL-C-17) coax cable. Maximum cable loss should not exceed 1 dB. In all cases the coax must meet or exceed RG-142 specifications. Contact Artex if other lengths of coax are required for your installation. If low loss cable is required, see paragraph 2.7.5.1, Low Loss Coax Cable.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Facsimile: (414) 421-5301 http://www.ecsdirect.com/ecs_home.html Transmitter Test 2.8 Always perform the tests within the first 5 minutes of the hour. Notify any nearby control tower of your intentions, in accordance with AC 43.13. If outside of the US, always follow all local or national regulations for testing of ELTs. Caution! Do not allow test duration to exceed 5 seconds. A false alarm may be generated.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 4 Flashes - 570-1600 Low power detected. Occurs if output power is below approximately 33 dBm (2 watts) for the 406 signal or 17 dBm (50 mW) for the 121.5 MHz output. Check coax and connections Check antenna installation Check that the frequencies are within acceptable limits 5 Flashes – Indicates the ELT was not programmed, or is incorrectly programmed. Does not indicate erroneous or corrupted programmed data.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Caution Non-electronics grade RTV may cause corrosion of the electrical wiring. The curing chemicals of some types of RTV contain a type of acid which will corrode the copper wiring. This corrosion may cause failure of the wiring causing the remote switch to not work correctly. Apply RTV to the rear of the 9-pin connector remote switch (P/N 151-5009), forcing the sealant into the wire holes and around exposed wire ends.
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ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 3. Registration 3.1 FAA Form 337 570-1600 For most installations an FAA Form 337 will be required for registration. Additional information regarding the completion of FAA Form 337 can be found in Advisory Circular AC 43.9-1 (Instructions for Completion of FAA Form 337). AC 43-210 (Standardized Procedures for Requesting Field Approval of Data, Major Alterations and Repairs) provides further guidance.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 3.3 570-1600 U.S.A.A Registration Registration forms (or links to them) are provided on the Artex web site at www.artex.net When a 406 MHz ELT is installed in an aircraft, it is imperative that the aircraft owner register the ELT. In the United States the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is the registration agency. Each 406 MHz ELT contains a unique identification code that is transmitted to the satellite.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 All online registrations will be entered into the National 406 MHz Beacon Registration Database on the same day of entry. Registration forms received via the postal mail service will be entered into the National 406 MHz Beacon Registration Database within 2 business days of receipt. For online registrations, a letter with an attached registration information sheet will be sent immediately via e-mail or fax (if provided), or via postal mail within two weeks.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 3.4 570-1600 Canadian Registration The ELT must be registered with the National Search and Rescue Secretariat (NSS). Refer to Industry Canada Regulations RSP100. At the writing, the latest issue is Issue 9, dated June 2007. Canadian Beacon Register National Search and Rescue Secretariat 275 Slater Street, 4th Floor Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K2 Telephone: 1-800-727-9414 Fax: 613-996-3746 beacons@nss.gc.ca E-mail: 3.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 4. Maintenance 4.1 Periodic Maintenance for the United States 570-1600 Artex suggests testing of the ELT every 1 to 2 months. This provides an indication of the integrity of the ELT and antenna system. If performed at this rate, the accumulated operating time will not reduce the 6-year life rating of the battery pack. In the United States, minimum maintenance requirements for ELTs are stated in FAR 91.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. • • • • • 570-1600 Performance Test, paragraph 4.2.2 Corrosion Inspection, paragraph 4.4.3 Installed Transmitter Test (Self-Test), paragraph 4.4.9 Battery Removal and Replacement, paragraphs. 4.4.4 and 4.4.5 respectively − The battery pack is NOT rechargeable. The reference to recharging in the Canadian regulation is NOT applicable to Artex products. − The battery pack must be replaced if a seven flash error occurs when the ELT is set to “ARM”.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 4.2.2.3 570-1600 Audio Modulation Check The audio modulation shall be recognizable as a typical ELT signal, and shall meet the specifications of the ELT manufacturer. Refer to paragraph 4.4.9, Antenna Test (page 46), to check the 121.5 MHz audio modulation sweep. Refer to paragraph 4.4.10, Verification of Digital Message (page 48), to check the 406 MHz coded message. 4.2.2.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Corrosion Inspection 4.4.3 Inspect all metal parts of the ELT exterior, its mounting tray, RF coax cable, remote switch and cable, and the antenna and its hardware for signs of corrosion. This includes mounting screws, electrical connectors, antenna base mount, etc. Battery Removal 4.4.4 CAUTION: The battery pack contains electrostatic sensitive parts. Take ESD precautions before handling.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 • Extra mounting screws (201-0402, Philips, truss-head, 6-32x7/8, 2 ea.) • Battery pack installation instruction, ME406 lithium battery packs (571-6504, 1 ea.) • Label, ME406 lithium battery pack (591-6499, 1 ea.) Replacement: See Figure 16 5) Lay the battery pack on the work surface with the cells facing up. 6) Install the replacement seal in the slot along the perimeter of the housing.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Battery Pack P/N Expiration Date (original label Figure 15 – Spare Battery Pack Label Approved batteries available from Artex or any Artex dealer Artex Aircraft Supplies, Inc. 14405 Keil Road NE, Aurora, Oregon 97002 or Artex Aircraft Supplies, Inc. P.O. Box 1270, Canby, Oregon 97013 (800)-547-8901 (503)-678-7929 FAX (503)-678-7930 web site: www.artex.net info@artex.
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ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 4.4.6 570-1600 G-Switch Check The G-switch is a specially made, momentary switch which closes when acceleration is applied to one of the switch axes. A basic test of the G-switch operation can be performed using the procedure outlined below. Caution Do not allow test duration to exceed 5 seconds. A false alarm may be generated. Any time the ELT is activated it is transmitting a 121.5 MHz distress signal.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Reset ELT by turning ELT switch to “ON” then to “ARM” position. NOTES: • • • • 4.4.7 Be sure the correct pins are shorted (D-sub pins 5 and 12). Some connections will force the ELT to activate when made. No combination of shorts will cause permanent damage to the ELT, however wrong pin combinations can erroneously indicate a faulty ELT. If the ELT activates without any pins shorted it is defective and should be returned for repair.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 3. To pass the test, you must hear the 3 sweeps on the radio AND see the front panel light immediately begin to flash continuously. During the ON to ARM transition, the microprocessor in the ELT checks the “G-switch” (automatic activation switch) latching circuit, pins 5 & 12 on the D-sub connector at the ELT; the 406 MHz transmitter for proper RF output and a battery check.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 4 Flashes - 570-1600 If this error code persists there may be a problem with the antenna installation. This can be checked with a VSWR meter. Check the antenna for opens, shorts, resistive ground plane connection. Low power detected. Occurs if output power is below approximately 33 dBm (2 watts) for the 406 signal or 17 dBm (50 mW) for the 121.5 MHz output.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 1) Disconnect the antenna coax cable at the ELT, connect test set or terminate as applicable. 2) Perform all necessary steps to prepare Test Set to receive 406 MHz signal including (but not limited to) turning on power, activating program or any other steps required for the particular Test Set being used. 3) Perform the Installed Transmitter Test (Self-Test) (page 47) by cycling local or remote switch from “ARM/OFF” to “ON” and back to “ARM/OFF”.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 5. 570-1600 Troubleshooting Guide SYMPTOM LIKELY CAUSE ACTION 3 Flash Error after performing Self-Test Bad load detect. Detects open or short condition on the antenna output or cable. 1) Check that the RF cable is connected and in good condition. Perform continuity check of center conductor and shield. Check for a shorted cable. Check for intermittent connection in the RF cable. 2) Check the antenna for opens, shorts, resistive ground plane connection.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. SYMPTOM LIKELY CAUSE 570-1600 ACTION 7 Flash Error after performing Self-Test ELT battery counter has accumulated >1 hr operating time. Battery may still power ELT, but must be replaced to meet FAA requirements. May also indicate damage to the battery circuit. 1) Replace battery. Remote Switch LED always on (steady) Wiring error or frayed wires shorting out pins on back of Remote Switch 1) Verify wiring. 2) Verify integrity of all crimp or solder connections on harness.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 6. Specifications 6.1 Operating Frequencies 570-1600 406.028 or 406.037 MHz +/- 1kHz (consult product label for frequency) Modulation: Bi-phase L (emission designator G1D) 121.5 MHz +/-6.075 kHz Modulation: AM (emission designator A3X) 6.2 Output Power 406 MHz: 37 dBm ± 2 dBm (3.2W Min to 7.9 W Max) (440 ms / 50 sec period) PERP or EIRP for 24 hours @ -20ºC to +55ºC >/= 17.0 dBm (50mW Min) PERP for 50 hours @ -20ºC to +55ºC or >/= 20.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 6.6 Mechanical Characteristics Vibration: Shock: Crashworthiness: Humidity: Penetration: Crush: 6.7 570-1600 10 Gs, 5Hz to 2000Hz 500 Gs for 4 ms 100 Gs for 23ms 95% for 50 hours 55 LBS from 6 inches 1,000 LBS Electrical Characteristics Spurious Emissions per CFR 47 Part 87 for 121.5 MHz; per RTCA/DO-204 for 406 MHz Impedance: 50 ohms (nominal) at 121.5/406 MHz 6.8 Coax Type: Connectors: 6.9 RG-142 (MIL-C-17) or equivalent BNC Software RTCA/DO-178B, Level D 6.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 6.11 570-1600 Electrical Loading of Aircraft System Component ELT Remote Switch* Audio Indicator** Aircraft Power (+28VDC) Continuous 5 Minutes 5 Seconds 0A 0A 0A 30 mA 30 mA 30 mA 0A 0A 0A Table 5 - Electrical Loading of Aircraft System *NOTE: Remote Switch only draws current when ELT is active for Self-Test or Emergency use. **NOTE: Audio indicator is powered by internal ELT battery.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Figure 18 – Battery Pack 452-6499 Chemistry: Lithium metal content: Voltage: Amp-hour rating: Certification: Lithium Manganese Dioxide (Li/MnO2) 4.4 grams 6.0 VDC (open cell) 11.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. Figure 19 – Audio Indicator (“buzzer”) 452-6505 Specifications @ +25ºC ±2ºC, Relative Humidity=65±5% Operating Frequency: Operating Voltage Range: Operating Current: Sound Pressure Level: Rated Voltage: Tone: Operating Temp.: Storage Temp.: Dimensions: Weight (Max): Material: Positive Terminal: Negative Terminal Page 52 of 60 3.5±0.5 kHz 3~28VDC Max 6 mA @ 12VDC Min 85 dB @ 30 cm / 12VDC 12VDC Continuous -30~+85ºC -40~+95ºC Ø28.0 x H25.4 mm 9.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 (26.4 mm) (2.5 mm) (5.1 mm) (44.0 mm) (50.8 mm) (7.6 mm) (35.6 mm) (7.6 mm) (25.4 mm) (33.0 mm) (12.7 mm) (27.0 mm) (30.5 mm) (36.8 mm) (43.2 mm) Figure 20 – Remote Switch 345-6196-04 Specifications: Supply voltage: Current draw: Connector type: Light: Switch type: Weight: 14VDC or 28VDC 35 mA Max.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 0.562” (14.3mm) DIA.
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ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 ME406 Series DO-160D Environmental Qualification Form 6.12 CATEGORY SECTION DESCRIPTION D1 4.0 TEMPERATURE ALTITUDE X 4.5.4 IN FLIGHT LOSS OF COOLING B 5.0 TEMPERATURE VARIATION C 6.0 HUMIDITY Per DO-204 7.0 SHOCK Per DO-204 8.0 VIBRATION X 9.0 EXPLOSION PROOFNESS R 10.0 WATERPROOFNESS X 11.0 FLUIDS SUSCEPTIBILITY X 12.0 SAND & DUST F 13.0 FUNGUS RESISTANCE X 14.0 SALT SPRAY X 15.0 MAGNETIC EFFECT Z 16.
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Glossary 7. NOTE: Some of the following definitions have been deliberately simplified to make them more easily understood by those who do not speak English as their first language. AC.......................Advisory Circular – Can also refer to Alternating Current electricity but in this manual it refers to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) bulletin with special information. AN ......................
ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600 Flex circuit ...........A flex circuit is a printed wiring board that is made on a heavy gauge flexible tape. G-switch ..............A special type of switch that momentarily closes during a sudden acceleration or deceleration. Switch is calibrated at a specified threshold. Lanyard ...............A short string or wire that connects two items together so that they do not become separated. LED .....................