Troubleshooting guide

ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600
4.4.6 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. If the unit operates for approximately 50 seconds, a “live” 406
MHz distress signal is transmitted and is considered valid by the satellite
system. Any time that the ELT is cycled from “ARM” to “ON” and then
back to “ARM”, a 406 MHz signal is transmitted, however it is specially
coded as a “Self-Test” signal that is ignored by the COSPAS-SARSAT
satellites.
NOTE: Even with the antenna cable removed, the ELT is capable of transmitting a
significant distance. This test should be performed with the same precautions as
described in the “Transmitter test” section of this manual, i.e., the test should be
performed within the first 5 minutes of the hour and any local control tower is to
be advised of this test.
Procedure:
1. Disconnect the antenna cable and remote switch harness connector from the ELT.
Remove the ELT from the mounting tray.
2. Electrically ‘short’ pins 5 and 12 with a jumper wire on the D-sub connector of the ELT.
Use Artex mating connector (P/N 150-1130) or equivalent 15-pin D-sub connector to
fabricate a “shorting plug”.
3. Apply acceleration greater than 4.5 ft/sec by using what Artex refers to as the “football
throw.” Hold the ELT like a football and use a rapid forward (throwing) motion in the
direction of the label arrow, then rapidly reverse direction.
4. A click should be heard within the ELT and the active light should begin to blink. Monitor
ELT activation by observing the ELT LED. For a more thorough test, monitor the
transmission with an AM receiver tuned to 121.5 MHz, as described in ‘Transmitter test’
section.
Operation: The ELT should remain ‘off’ until an acceleration of 4.5 ft/sec or more is applied
axially in the forward, then rearward direction. This action should activate the unit, transmitting
immediately on 121.5MHz. Allow ELT to transmit only long enough to verify operation.
Page 41 of 60