OPERATING, INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL SKYHUNTER 406TM AF/HF MANL:INS:SH:X:XX
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8, 2013 Rev 25 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................... ii LIST OF TABLES ........................................................................................................ 1-1 1 System Description ....................................................................................... 1-2 1.1 1.2 Approvals ..........................................................................
4 5 6 2.9 SkyKey Programmer KEYY:XXP:SH:B:TS .............................................................. 2-2 2.10 SkyKey Maintenance KEYY:XXM:SH:R:XX ........................................................... 2-2 Design Features ............................................................................................ 3-1 3.1 Physical Features ................................................................................................ 3-1 3.2 Internal GPS Receiver ....................
6.4.2 6.5 6.6 7 Antenna Installation ......................................................................................... 6-14 6.5.1 ROD/GPS Antenna ANNT:XVG:SH:A:XX ..........................................................6-14 6.5.2 Whip Antenna (121.5 MHz/406 MHz) ANNT:XXW:SH:A:XX ............................6-14 6.5.3 Right angle antenna and gps connectors ........................................................6-14 6.5.4 Ground Plane Requirement (Wood/Fabric and composite aircraft) ....
9 10 11 8.5 Battery Replacement .......................................................................................... 8-3 8.6 Velcro straps ...................................................................................................... 8-4 8.7 Shipping .............................................................................................................. 8-4 Registration .................................................................................................. 9-1 9.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 Table of Figures Fig. 1 – System Description.......................................................................................................................... 1-2 Fig. 2 – SkyKey Maintenance Programmer-Red, KEYY:XXM:SH:R:XX .......................................................... 1-8 Fig. 3 - Mounting Bracket Kit, BRKT:KIT:SH:X:XX ......................................................................................... 6-4 Fig.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 1 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION The SkyHunter 406TM AF/HF models are of type Automatic Fixed , transmitting on 121.5/406.037 MHz and designed for use on either fixed or rotary wing aircraft. 6-position g-switch models are also available for helicopter use, SkyHunter 406TM HF . TYPE Single Axis G-Switch AF X HF X 5 Axis GSwitch Internal GPS Receiver X X X Fig.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 1.1 APPROVALS 1.1.1 Canada 1.1.1.1 Transport Canada CAN-TSO-C126a 1.1.1.2 Industry Canada 1.1.2 USA 1.1.2.1 FAA TSO-C126a 1.1.3 Europe 1.1.3.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 1.2 SKYHUNTER 406 TM ELT INSTALLATION KITS 1.2.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 1.2.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 1.2.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 1.2.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 1.3 FLEET OPERATOR OPTIONS: 1.3.1 SkyKey Programmer-Blue KEYY:XXP:SH:B:TS SkyKey Programmer for Fleet Operators, installed in each aircraft and programmed with specific Aircraft information so that an alternate ELT can be placed on board reducing “down time” for aircraft. The SkyKey is blue to indicate the additional capabilities it has when used to connect the Remote Rocker Switch to the Skyhunter 406TM. 1.3.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 2 REPLACEMENT PARTS 2.1 TRANSMITTER The SkyHunter 406TM AF and SkyHunter 406TM HF models are designed to be installed on board aircraft and transmit on 2 frequencies. The 406.037 MHz frequency is used to transmit location and aircraft identification and the 121.5 MHz frequency is used in the final stage of rescue to narrow the location of the distressed aircraft during SAR efforts. 2.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 2.7 ANTENNA CABLE – CABL:BNC:SH:A:X2 An RG 400 cable with BNC ends attaches the Antenna to the ELT. The cable will have a length of 2 meters (approx. 6 feet). 2.8 GPS QUICK DISCONNECT CABLE – CABL:GPS:SH:A:QD This RG 400 cable with SMA ends will allow the ELT to be attached to the GPS antenna. 2.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 3 DESIGN FEATURES 3.1 PHYSICAL FEATURES The SkyHunter 406TM models are constructed of durable plastic, with round edges that can be easily grasped by one hand. The Velcro® strap is simple and easy to remove for maintenance or portability. 3.2 INTERNAL GPS RECEIVER All SkyHunter 406TM models have been fitted with a GPS receiver which, when accompanied with the external GPS antenna will allow accurate tracking without interfacing with an onboard NAV system. 3.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 4 SPECIFICATIONS 4.1 TSO-C126A STATEMENT “The conditions and tests for TSO approval of this article are minimum performance standards. Those installing this article, on or in a specific type or class of aircraft, must determine that the aircraft installation conditions are within the TSO standards. TSO articles must have separate approval for installation in an aircraft.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 4.5 AUTOMATIC ACTIVATION Acceleration Switch (G-Switch) activates with a change in velocity of 2.3 G’s. 5 Position G-Switch is incorporated in addition to the main G-Switch for HF Model. 4.6 BATTERY The 5 Volt Non-Rechargeable battery pack is comprised of 4 “D” Cell Li-SO2 batteries. 4.7 HOUSING Material: Molded Plastic Colour: Yellow Dimensions (with mounting bracket): 200 x 130 x 80 mm Weight (with battery pack): 1.5 kg 4.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 5 INTERFACES 5.1 SMA CONNECTOR (A) The SMA Connector is used to connect the external GPS antenna. 5.2 BNC CONNECTOR (B) The BNC connector is used to connect the external transmitting antenna. 5.3 USB CONNECTOR (C) Micro USB connector is used for web testing and programming. 5.4 HIGH DENSITY DB15 CONNECTOR (D) The HD DB 15 connector is used to interface with the SkyKey as well as the connection to the remote switch. 5.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6 INSTALLATION 6.1 REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES 6.1.1 Canada – Transport Canada All Installations must be performed in accordance with Canadian Aviation Regulations (CAR) Part V, Chapter 551, Paragraph 551.104. 6.1.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6.2 MOUNTING BRACKET KIT INSTALLATION The Mounting Bracket Kit should be installed as far toward the rear of the plane as possible to enhance its survivability in a crash. Rotary wing aircraft should mount it as close as possible to the transmission or rotor shaft assembly. It must be accessible to ground crews for servicing. It should be accessible for maintenance removal and manual activation in the event of an emergency.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 Fig.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6.4 REMOTE SWITCH KIT INSTALLATION 6.4.1 Remote Switch Assemblies WARNING !!: The Remote Switch components contain components sensitive to static electricity: ESD precautions should be used. Do not bend or modify existing connections on the HD-DB15 as this could destroy components or inhibit correct ELT operation. The instructions in this guide should be followed to ensure a systematic and correct installation.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6-7
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6-8
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6-9
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6-10
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 Fig. 4 - Remote Connector and Buzzer Assembly , REMT:BUZ:SH:A:XX 1. Determine the remote switch location on the control panel. Use the cut out decal , part # REMT:ROC:SH:X:CO, as provided as a template. The chosen location should take into account pilot visibility and access for installation. 2. Cut a 1.150” X 0.720” inch hole at the chosen location with a chassis hole punch. 3. Clean the area around the hole . 6.4.1.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 7. The remote connector is ready to be connected to the ELT unit. 8. Pull the panel end of the shielded remote cable through the prepared panel hole. Dress and insert the wires into the remote switch male connector as shown in the Pre wired Remote Switch Installation Diagram, part # REMT:INS:SH:X:PR, found in SECTION 6. Press the male connector until closed.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6.4.2 SkyKey Programmer – KEYY:XXP:SH:A:XX CAUTION – BE SURE YOUR SKYKEY HAS BEEN PROGRAMMED WITH YOUR AIRCRAFT INFORMATION AT AN APPROVED SKYHUNTER406 MAINTENANCE SHOP BEFORE INSTALLATION Using the remote switch kit instructions replace the yellow remote connector with the blue SkyKey connector. In your SkyKey you will notice a green wire extending from pin 2, this will be your access point for pin 2 as the pin is shared with the memory module.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6.5 ANTENNA INSTALLATION Locate a position where the antenna can be installed vertically (up to 15o off the vertical plane is acceptable) and as far aft as possible. Refer to AC 43.13 The following factors must also be considered: Antenna must be mounted as far away as possible from other Very High Frequency (VHF) antennas. The antenna should be as close as possible to the transmitter. Must not foul other antennas in flight.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6.5.4 Ground Plane Requirement (Wood/Fabric and composite aircraft) The following has been reproduced from AC 43.13-2B, please refer to for a more up to date version. 6.5.4.1 When the antenna is not mounted to a conductive surface capable of providing a required ground plane for operation, a ground plane must be fabricated. 6.5.4.2 Most antennas require a ground plane of approximately 24” by 24”.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6.5.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6.5.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 6.6 ELT INSTALLATION AND CONNECTIONS NOTE: When making connections to the face of the ELT be sure to use silicone grease to aide in creating a water resistant seal and to help protect against corrosion. Do not use RTV on the mini USB port or the DB 15 connector. 1. Once the mounting bracket is installed, place the ELT in the bracket, ensuring that the arrow on the SkyHunter 406TM points in the direction of flight. 2.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 YAW AXIS 45° YAW AXIS ROLL AXIS 45° LABEL "DIRECTION OF FLIGHT" ARROW o Fig. 7 - Mounting AF Models o Fixed Wing Aircraft must have the SkyHunter 406TM AF ELT installed with the Direction of Flight Arrow facing forward around the roll axis. o Rotary wing aircraft can have either the SkyHunter 406 AF or SkyHunter 406TM HF ELT installed.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 o YAW AXIS ROLL AXIS LABEL "DIRECTION OF FLIGHT" ARROW Fig. 8 - Mounting HF Models o 6 position g-switch models (SkyHunter 406TM HF Models) must be installed with the Direction of Flight Arrow forward facing around the roll axis.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 7 SKYHUNTER 406TM OPERATION 7.1 ACTIVATION ELT is to remain “ON” until rescue as SAR forces could be searching despite darkness or poor weather. Your ELT antenna should have a clear view of the sky for best operation and SAR visibility. 7.1.1 Automatic Activation In order to be automatically activated by the G-Switch, the ELT must be in “ARM” mode. This mode is mandatory during flight.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 7.3 LED CODING You will notice specific LED codes flashing on your ELT’s LED or the ELT on the Remote Rocker Switch, these codes and meanings are described below 7.3.1 Self Tests There are separate self tests available on the SkyHunter406 ELT’s as follows: 7.3.1.1 Arm Test CAUTION: This Self Test uses battery power and as a result if you choose to perform more than the recommended monthly testing early battery replacement may be required.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 7.3.1.2 Power Test Burst Using the following switch sequence the ELT operator can send out a test 406 MHz burst to ensure the antennas are operating correctly. CAUTION: The ‘Power Test Burst’ Test uses battery power and as a result if you choose to perform more than the recommended twice yearly testing early battery replacement may be required. CAUTION: This test should only be performed annually to conserve battery power.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 7.3.1.3 GNSS Self Test Using the following switch sequence the ELT operator can send out a test 406 Mhz burst to ensure the GPS receiver and antennas are operating correctly. CAUTION: The GNSS Self Test uses battery power and as a result if you choose to perform more than the recommended annual testing early battery replacement may be required. CAUTION: This test should only be performed annually to conserve battery power.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 7.3.2 ELT “ON” The ELT will be “ON” when: (ELT Remote Switch must be connected) 1. The ELT locking Master Switch is placed in the “ON” position or; 2. The ELT is in the “ARM” position and the “ON” is pressed at the Remote Rocker Switch 3. or; The ELT is in the “ARM” position and the G-Switch has been activated.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 8 MAINTENANCE 8.1 CANADA The described maintenance steps below meet the requirements of the Canadian Aviation Regulations for annual performance check. These checks must be performed annually. 8.2 MAINTENANCE STEPS These steps are used to comply with the above regulations. 8.2.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 8.2.6 Check for proper sweep tone Turn the ELT “ON” and listen on a VHF receiver tuned to 121.5MHz for approx. 3 sweeps then switch the ELT back to the “ARM” or “ARM” position, continue monitoring 121.5MHz to be sure the sweep stops after the test has been completed. 8.2.7 Check the 406 Coded Message Attach a decoding device such as the WS Tech 406 ELT Beacon Tester and follow the tester’s instruction set.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 8.5 BATTERY REPLACEMENT For optimum performance it is recommended to have a battery pack which under load measures greater than 4.5 V at ambient room temperature. Mandatory battery replacement is required if any of the following conditions exist and is to be performed by one of Pointer Avionics certified maintenance shops listed at WWW.SKYHUNTER406.COM. If Battery has reached expiration date.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 1. Secure the Master Switch in the OFF position. 2. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the 8 screws from the front cover that has the SkyHunter406 TM label on it.(DO NOT REMOVE THE CIRCUIT BOARD COVER OR YOU WILL VOID ALL WARRANTY) 3. Detach the battery and replace with a new SkyHunter 406 TM battery pack. 4. Replace screws and using a torque screw driver finish tightening the screws evenly to 12 inch pounds. 5.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 9 REGISTRATION Your SkyHunter 406TM ELT is programmed with information that is specific to your aircraft. When properly registered this will aid Search and Rescue response by providing them with your name and contact information, as well as your aircraft type and registration number. It is mandatory in the US and Canada to register your ELT, which can be done for free in a few moments. It is the owner’s responsibility to do so.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 9.2 USA SkyHunter 406TM transmitters in the USA must be registered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Registration is mandatory and failure to register or reregister every two years will result in a penalty/fine. After registration you will receive a Registration Decal by postal mail. This decal is to be affixed to the beacon and should be placed in such a way that it is clearly visible.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 10 DIAGRAMS 10.1 MOUNTING BRACKET DRILLING PATTERN 130.5mm 65.3mm 32.1mm 32.1mm NOT TO SCALE Fig. 10 - Mounting Bracket Drilling Pattern, BRKT:TRY:SH:X:XX 10-1 29.7mm 198.5mm 24.2mm 53.8mm 100.0mm Ø3.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 10.2 ANTENNA INSTALLATION DIAGRAMS 10.2.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 Rod / GPS Antenna mounting detail side view part # ANNT:XVG:SH:A:XX 10-3
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 10-4
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8 ,2013 Rev 25 10.2.2 Whip Antenna (121.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8,2013 Rev 25 11 NOTICES TO USER Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.
MANL:INS:SH:X:XX August 8,2013 Rev 25 12 REVISIONS TABLE Revision # Description Page Numbers Altered Date (MM/DD/YYYY) 9 Initial Release All 09/16/2011 13 Release 05/14/2012 14 Release 06/14/2012 15 Release 06/21/2012 16 Release 17 Release 18 Release Kit weights , 1-3 07/16/2012 19 Release Dwgs 09/14/2012 20 Public Release Dwgs 11/01/2012 21 Public Release Self Test 11/09/2012 22 Public Release Remote Sw.