Troubleshooting guide

ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600
Reset ELT by turning ELT switch to “ON” then to “ARM” position.
NOTES:
• 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.
• As with all beacon-testing, this test should be performed within the first 5 minutes of
the hour, and any local control tower is to be advised of this test.
• The RF cable can be left disconnected to reduce the level of transmitted signal. This
should still allow reception within a few hundred feet (or more).
4.4.7 Reinstall ELT
Reinstall the ELT into aircraft by inserting the ELT into the mounting tray at an angle so that the
locking ears at the end fit into the mounting tray locking slots. Fasten the Velcro strap around
the ELT so that it is firmly held in place. Visually inspect connections ensuring that they are
seated properly.
4.4.8 Antenna Test
AC 43.13 advises:
“A low quality AM broadcast receiver should be used to determine if energy is
being transmitted from the antenna. When the antenna of the radio (tuning
dial on any setting) is held about 6 inches from the activated ELT antenna, the
ELT aural tone will be heard on the AM broadcast receiver. This is not a
measured check, but it does provide confidence that the antenna is radiating
sufficient power to aid search and rescue. The aircraft’s VHF receiver, tuned to
121.5 MHz, may also be used. This receiver, however, is more sensitive and
could pick up a weak signal even if the radiating ELT’s antenna is disconnected.
Thus it does not check the integrity of the ELT system or provide the same level
of confidence as does an AM radio.”
NOTE: All ELT “ON” tests should be performed within the first five minutes after the
hour UTC or as required by local or national authorities.
4.4.9 Installed Transmitter Test (Self-Test)
1. Tune a receiver (usually the aircraft radio) to 121.5 MHz.
2. Turn the ELT aircraft panel switch to “ON”, wait for 3 sweeps on the receiver, which
takes about 1 second, and then turn the switch back to the “ARM” (OFF) position while
paying special attention of the LED activity upon entering the “ARM” (OFF) condition.
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