Fixed Direction Finding
10-246-1 | 406-28 | 407-3
Key Features
- Multi-beacon DF.
- Single compact antenna unit.
- High sensitivity receiver.
- Frequency range 110 to 410 MHz.
The Techtest DF system is designed to reduce the time to trace emergency locator beacons, thus reduce the time taken to rescue casualties or those in distress. Unlike traditional homing systems, the Techtest DF system offers unparalleled efficiency and fuel consumption, saving precious time and resources. The DF system seamlessly integrates with both 121.5MHz swept tone distress beacons and 406MHz Cospas-Sarsat transmissions, ensuring compatibility with the number one search and rescue frequencies.
Operators can monitor four frequencies simultaneously to effortlessly identify emergency transmissions. Each transmission is assigned a unique identifier, allowing for effortless retrieval of detailed information. For 121.5MHz transmissions, the system provides real-time relative bearing information, pinpointing the beacon’s approximate location.
For 406MHz transmissions, the system goes above and beyond, not only displaying relative bearing but also recording and decoding the Cospas-Sarsat message. This comprehensive information includes specific details of the distress beacon and the beacon’s GPS location.
The DF system represents a quantum leap in emergency beacon detection, offering unprecedented time savings, cost-effectiveness and accuracy. This innovative solution empowers search and rescue teams to reach those in distress faster and more efficiently, saving lives and upholding the highest standards of safety.
The System
The system comprises of three modules:
Antenna (10-246-1)
The Antenna is a single compact module comprising a circular array of elements with integral high sensitivity receivers. The array is designed to give optimal angular resolution of the emitters.
Control Unit (406-28)
The Control Unit takes the array output and, using a digital processing and advanced beam forming technique, is able to discriminate multiple emitters and direction find on the signals. All the data is processed using intelligent algorithms to reduce system noise and spurious.
Display (407-3)
Different display options are available and are platform specific. The basic display module is based on the Techtest 407-2 unit. This unit is designed for ease of use featuring mode and scroll controls and a dual function uncluttered graphic LCD display. A secondary display option is available.
Direction Finding / Homing
In normal operating mode, the DF receiver frequency is switched cyclically between 121.5, 156.8 and 243 MHz. If a signal above the threshold is detected, a 0.3 second snapshot is recorded before continuing. A separate receiver is used to continuously monitor the 406 SARSAT frequency. If a signal is detected then the DF receiver will immediately switch to 406MHz frequency and record a snapshot. In the event of transmitting beacons incorporating a GPS position, the system will display the applicable lat/long co-ordinates.
A 360˚ direction finding facility is provided giving a direction for the aircraft to fly to the transmitting beacon. No other navigation aids are required. If however on board GPS navigation systems are installed in the aircraft, system integration will provide aircrew with both an absolute bearing and distance information to the transmitting beacon. In the Homing mode, the system sequentially scans the distress frequencies and provides a visual display of left/right steer information.
Cockpit Controller / Indicator
The controller / indicator is mounted in the cockpit. There are just two controls: a push button mode selector (switching between Decode and DF modes) and a rotary click / push selector providing control of menu options. The unit is designed to operate mainly without user input.
Control Unit:
Part No. 406-28
Dimensions:
Short 3/8 ATR (90x198x322mm)
SAR frequencies:
121.5, 243, 156.8, 406 MHz
Training frequencies 4 selectable:
110 to 410 MHz
Sensitivity:
2.5μV
DF Accuracy:
Better than 5˚
Decoder Frequency:
406.025 – 406.050 MHz
Message Format:
Cospas-Sarsat C/S T.001
Supply Volts:
18-36V DC MIL-STD 704D
Antenna:
Part No. 10-246-2
Diameter:
250mm
Height:
180mm
Polarisation
Vertical
Cockpit Controller / Indicator:
Part No. 406-3
Dimensions:
146 x 67 x 152mm
LCD Display:
56 x 42mm (320 x 420 pixels)
Backlighting:
NVIS Green B (MIL-STD 3009)
Environmental:
MIL-STD 810F
EMI/EMC:
MIL-STD 461 F
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Our revolutionary DF system offers a quantum leap in emergency beacon detection, saving lives through unprecedented speed, cost-effectiveness, and accuracy, empowering search and rescue to uphold the highest safety standards.
