User`s guide

received textual messages. The columns are loosely

defined as message type, location and timestamp to

handle the most common type of FIS up-link data.

The different message types and data content are fully

controlled by the ground broadcast systems. The airborne

system will automatically display any message type that is

received.

Navigating the Displayed Data

By default, the system will show the nearest and most

recent weather report.

A green colored ‘Selection Pointer’ can be used to select

an alternative message for display. The pilot is able to

move the green Selection Pointer within the lower portion

of the page to select the desired category, location and

time that is of interest.

Using this interface, the pilot can easily select the desired

message type (such as METAR), then select the airport of

interest (such as KPDX), then select a specific METAR

report by time (such as 141512Z).

At all times, the message displayed in the upper FIS

Message area on the screen matches the highlighted entry

in the FIS Category area below.

Smart Key Function

The fourth smart key performs special functions within

the FIS Function:

When the Selection Pointer is located in the first of the

three columns, the fourth smart key displays the label

‘Clear’. When pressed, all messages for the currently

selected category will be flushed from the MX20. This

feature can be used to clear old, bad or corrupted data

received over the data link.

Detailed Operation