ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES ME406 ELT Instruction Manual

DESCRIPTION, OPERATION, INSTALLATION AND
MAINTENANCE MANUAL
ME406 ELT
570-1600 Rev. G
Proprietary Information
This document discloses subject matter in which Artex Aircraft Supplies, Inc. has proprietary
rights. Neither receipt nor possession thereof confers or transfers any right to reproduce or
disclose the document, any part thereof, any information therein, or any physical article or
device, or practice any method or process except by written permission from or written
agreement with Artex Aircraft Supplies, Inc.

ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600
Revision History
REVISION CHANGE DATE
RELEASE 06-30-05
A DCN 2670 11-17-05
B DCN 2777 05-01-06
C DCN 2847 08-21-06
D DCN 3007 05-21-07
E DCN 3076 09-27-07
F DCN 3182 03-03-08
G DCN 3227 05-19-08
G DCN 3413 03-30-09
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ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600
Table of Content
1. Introduction, Description and Operation .............................................................. 1
1.1 Basic Information ................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Application ............................................................................................................. 1
1.3 Description............................................................................................................. 2
1.4 Certification............................................................................................................ 2
1.5 Programming ......................................................................................................... 3
1.6 Operation............................................................................................................... 4
1.6.1 Accuracy ........................................................................................................... 5
1.6.2 Switch Operation ............................................................................................... 5
1.6.3 Self-Test mode .................................................................................................. 5
2. Installation for the United States.......................................................................... 7
2.1 Introduction to Installation...................................................................................... 7
2.2 Parts List................................................................................................................ 8
Table 1 – Parts List ................................................................................................. 8
2.3 Mount ELT ............................................................................................................. 9
2.4 Mount Antenna..................................................................................................... 14
2.4.1 ‘Whip’ Antenna – P/N 110-773 .......................................................................... 15
2.4.1.1 Type of Aircraft ........................................................................................ 15
2.4.1.2 Location ................................................................................................... 15
2.4.1.3 Preparation .............................................................................................. 15
2.4.1.4 Installation ............................................................................................... 15
2.4.1.5 Composite Aircraft Installation................................................................... 16
2.4.2 Rod Antenna – P/N 110-338 ............................................................................. 16
2.4.2.1 Location ................................................................................................... 16
2.4.2.2 Installation Preparation ............................................................................. 16
2.4.2.3 Type of Aircraft ........................................................................................ 16
2.4.2.4 Installation ............................................................................................... 16
2.4.2.5 Composite Aircraft Installation................................................................... 17
2.5 Mount Remote Switch ........................................................................................... 17
2.6 Mount Audio Indicator (“buzzer”) .......................................................................... 18
2.7 Cable harness and Wiring...................................................................................... 18
2.7.1 Harness Wiring – Remote switch end ................................................................ 19
2.7.2 Harness Wiring – ELT End ................................................................................ 19
2.7.3 Connect harness .............................................................................................. 20
2.7.4 Connect RF Coaxial Cable ................................................................................. 25
2.7.5 Coax Cable Assembly (Optional) ....................................................................... 25
2.7.5.1 Low Loss Coax Cable (Optional)................................................................. 25
2.8 Transmitter Test................................................................................................... 26
2.8.1 Self-Test.......................................................................................................... 26
2.8.2 Self-Test Schedule ........................................................................................... 27
2.9 Sealing Connectors in Wet Environments ............................................................... 27
2.10 Helicopter installations .......................................................................................... 28
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3. Registration ......................................................................................................... 30
3.1 FAA Form 337 ...................................................................................................... 30
3.2 Radio Station License - USA .................................................................................. 30
3.3 U.S.A.A Registration ............................................................................................. 31
3.4 Canadian Registration........................................................................................... 33
3.5 Other Country Registration.................................................................................... 33
4. Maintenance ........................................................................................................ 34
4.1 Periodic Maintenance for the United States ............................................................ 34
4.2 Canadian Maintenance Requirements..................................................................... 34
4.2.1 Regulations ..................................................................................................... 34
4.2.2 Performance Test............................................................................................. 35
4.2.2.1 Peak Power Check .................................................................................... 35
4.2.2.2 Frequency Check ...................................................................................... 35
4.2.2.3 Audio Modulation Check ............................................................................ 36
4.2.2.4 Current Draw Check.................................................................................. 36
4.2.2.5 Automatic Activation System Check............................................................ 36
4.3 Periodic Maintenance – Other Countries................................................................. 36
4.4 Maintenance Steps ............................................................................................... 36
4.4.1 Remove ELT Connections ................................................................................. 36
4.4.2 Remove ELT .................................................................................................... 36
4.4.3 Corrosion Inspection ........................................................................................ 37
4.4.4 Battery Removal .............................................................................................. 37
4.4.5 Battery replacement......................................................................................... 37
4.4.6 G-Switch Check................................................................................................ 41
4.4.7 Reinstall ELT.................................................................................................... 42
4.4.8 Antenna Test ................................................................................................... 42
4.4.9 Installed Transmitter Test (Self-Test) ................................................................ 42
4.4.10 Verification of Digital Message....................................................................... 44
4.4.11 Verify Registration ........................................................................................ 45
4.4.12 Logbook Entry.............................................................................................. 45
4.4.13 Shipping Instructions.................................................................................... 45
5. Troubleshooting Guide ........................................................................................ 46
Table 2 – Troubleshooting Guide ........................................................................... 46
Table 3 – Troubleshooting Guide (continued) ......................................................... 47
5.1 Special Precautions for Electro-Static Discharges (ESD)........................................... 47
6. Specifications ...................................................................................................... 48
6.1 Operating Frequencies .......................................................................................... 48
6.2 Output Power....................................................................................................... 48
6.3 Activation............................................................................................................. 48
6.4 Temperature ........................................................................................................ 48
6.5 Input Power ......................................................................................................... 48
6.6 Mechanical Characteristics..................................................................................... 49
6.7 Electrical Characteristics........................................................................................ 49
6.8 Coax.................................................................................................................... 49
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6.9 Software .............................................................................................................. 49
6.10 Weights ............................................................................................................... 49
Table 4 – Weights................................................................................................. 49
6.11 Electrical Loading of Aircraft System ...................................................................... 50
Table 5 - Electrical Loading of Aircraft System ........................................................ 50
6.12 ME406 Series DO-160D Environmental Qualification Form....................................... 58
Table 6 – Environmental Qualification .................................................................... 58
7. Glossary ............................................................................................................... 59
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ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600
Table of Figures
Figure 1 – ME406 Installed View ........................................................................................... 4
Figure 2 – ELT Front View..................................................................................................... 6
Figure 3 – Mounting Hole Diagram for Artex 110 Series and Narco ELT ................................ 11
Figure 4 – Mounting Hole Diagram for Artex 200 Series ........................................................ 12
Figure 5 – Mounting Hole Diagram for Pointer...................................................................... 13
Figure 6 – Antenna Ground Plane........................................................................................ 14
Figure 7 – Remote Switch Placard ....................................................................................... 17
Figure 8 – ELT Connector (Front View of ELT)...................................................................... 21
Figure 9 – Remote Switch Wiring ........................................................................................ 22
Figure 10 – Wiring Diagram: Metal Airframe ........................................................................ 23
Figure 11 – Wiring Diagram: Metal Airframe ........................................................................ 23
Figure 12 – Wiring Diagram: Composite Airframe ................................................................. 24
Figure 13 – Wiring Diagram: Composite Airframe ................................................................. 24
Figure 14 – ME406HM Helicopter Installation ....................................................................... 29
Figure 15 – Spare Battery Pack Label .................................................................................. 39
Figure 16 – ELT Battery Installation/Removal Exploded View ................................................ 40
Figure 17 – Sample Battery Pack Labels .............................................................................. 40
Figure 18 – Battery Pack 452-6499...................................................................................... 51
Figure 19 – Audio Indicator (“buzzer”) 452-6505.................................................................. 52
Figure 20 – Remote Switch 345-6196-04 ............................................................................. 53
Figure 21 – Whip Antenna 110-773 ..................................................................................... 54
Figure 22 – Rod Antenna 110-338....................................................................................... 55
Figure 23 – Mounting Tray (452-3034) ................................................................................ 56
Figure 24 – ME406 Series Outline Drawing .......................................................................... 57
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ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600
1. Introduction, Description and Operation
1.1 Basic Information
This manual describes the operation, installation and maintenance of the Artex models ME406
and ME406HM emergency locator transmitters (ELTs). The information is provided to ensure
initial and continued airworthiness. Information presented in this manual is accurate at time of
printing, but is subject to change. Refer to the Artex web site at www.artex.net for the latest
information and any updates to this manual.
Web links provided in this manual were accurate at time of printing but may be subject to
change.
Artex reserves the right to add approved components to the ELT installation system including
but not limited to antennas, remote switches and coaxial cables. These changes are approved
as “minor changes” pursuant to FAR 21, Subpart O for TSO holders.
Regulatory references are aimed at FAA and EASA requirements. Consult your national aviation
authority for requirements if you are located outside of a US or EASA member state.
This edition contains information specific to installations in Canada.
1.2 Application
This manual constitutes supporting data/documentation for installation.
See section 3.1 of this manual (FAA Form 337) for a more detailed explanation of required
documentation.
Canadian users must follow the requirements of Canadian Aviation Regulations Part V, CAR
551.104. Other countries may have different requirements.
The conditions and tests required for TSO approval of this article are minimum performance
standards. It is the responsibility of those installing this article either on or within a specific type
or class of aircraft to determine that the aircraft installation conditions are within the standards
applicable to the TSO article including the integrated non-TSO function. TSO articles must have
separate approval for installation in an aircraft. The article may be installed only if performed
under 14 CFR part 43 or the applicable airworthiness requirements.
The ME406 or ME406HM ELT described in this manual was designed, tested and certified as a
complete system including the following components:
•ELT Transmitter w/ integral battery
•ELT Mounting Tray
•ELT Antenna
•ELT Remote Switch
Only Artex approved system components may be used for a TSO approved system.
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1.3 Description
The ME406 and the ME406HM are type AF (automatic fixed) beacons.
The ME406HM also features an additional 5 axis G-switch module that allows the ELT to be
activated in any of six axes. These 5 auxiliary “G” switches are a “non-TSO function” as
described in FAA Notice 8150.3. This “non-TSO” function has the following characteristics:
1. The additional 5 auxiliary “G” switches provide crash sensing in the axes other than
“forward” at a nominal 12 “G” threshold which may be encountered with rotor aircraft.
There is no effect on any other performance specifications, software, hardware,
environmental, or qualification levels.
2. There are no additional interface requirements for the non-TSO function.
3. There are no additional installation and operating instructions or limitations, or any
additional instructions for continued airworthiness (ICA), for the non-TSO function.
4. Artex has determined that there are no additional failure modes or hazards introduced
by use of the non-TSO function.
Inputs and outputs are protected against electrostatic discharge (ESD) and connections to +28V
or ground. If a terminal is inadvertently misconnected or a wire shorted, the ME406 will operate
normally after the condition has been corrected. The RF output is through a single BNC
connector.
All functions of the ME406 or ME406HM are under microprocessor control. A self-test routine
checks ELT operation and installation, then presents the results as visual and auditory ‘error
codes’ to aid in troubleshooting and to indicate status. Software is approved per the
requirements of RTCA/DO-178B for Level D software.
The battery pack consists of two D-size, lithium cells mounted in a cover assembly and is field
replaceable. Rated life is 6 years or one hour of use, which ever comes first, as specified by FAR
91.207(c).
Installation kits are available containing all major components needed to install the beacon.
1.4 Certification
The ME406 (P/N 453-6603) and ME406HM (P/N 453-6604) are certified to the following:
•TSO C126
•TSO C91a in the 121.5/406 MHz configuration as referenced in TSO-C126, paragraph
(e)
•FAR Part 91 – mandatory automatic ELT requirements
•ETSO 2C126
•Transport Canada
•Industry Canada (IC:121.5B-ME406AF)
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•COSPAS-SARSAT T.001 and T.007
•47 CFR Part 87 (FCC requirements)
Note: Per FCC regulations 47 CFR § 2.902, the ELT is tested per “Verification” method,
the FCC does not issue certificates for ELTs. The FCC identifier grantee code for
Artex is H4K.
1.5 Programming
The ME406 or ME406HM is pre-programmed at the factory using a short message format. The
following User Protocols are supported:
•Serial Number
•Tail Number
•24-Bit Aircraft Address
•Aircraft Operator Designator/Serial Number
The ME406 does not currently support long message format or Location Protocols. For a
complete discussion of ELT programming protocols please see COSPAS-SARSAT documents
G.005 and T.001 available at www.cospas-sarsat.org.
The United States accepts the above listed protocols. For use outside of the US, contact your
local civil aviation authority for accepted or required programming protocols.
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Figure 1 – ME406 Installed View
1.6 Operation
In the event of a crash, the ME406 or ME406HM activates automatically (automatic fixed “AF”
configuration), and transmits the standard swept tone on 121.5 MHz lasting until battery power
is gone. This 121.5 MHz signal is mainly used to pinpoint the beacon during search and rescue
operations.
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ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600
In addition, for the first 24 hours of operation, a 406 MHz signal is transmitting at 50-second
intervals. This transmission lasts 440 ms and contains identification data programmed into the
beacon and is received by COSPAS-SARSAT satellites. The transmitted data is referenced in a
database (maintained by the national authority responsible for ELT registration) and used to
identify the beacon and owner.
1.6.1 Accuracy
Doppler positioning is employed using both 121.5 MHz and 406 MHz signals. Position accuracy
of the 121.5 MHz signal is within an area of approximately 15-20 km radius about the
transmitter. Due to the better signal integrity of the 406 MHz, its location accuracy is within a 3
km radius.
1.6.2 Switch Operation
In a crash, an acceleration activated crash sensor (G-switch) turns the ELT ‘ON’ automatically
when the ELT experiences a change in velocity (or deceleration) of 4.5 fps ±0.5 fps. Activation
is also accomplished by means of the cockpit mounted remote switch or the switch on the ELT.
To deactivate the ELT set either switch to the ‘ON’ position, then back to ‘ARM’.
The ELT does not have an ‘OFF’ position. Instead, a jumper between two pins on the front D-
sub connector must be in place for the G-switch to activate the unit. The jumper is installed on
the mating half of the connector so that when the connector is installed, the beacon is armed.
This allows the beacon to be handled or shipped without ‘nuisance’ activation (front connector
removed).
NOTE: The ELT can still be manually activated using the local switch on the front of the
ELT. Care should be taken when transporting or shipping the ELT to not move
the switch or allow packing material to become lodged such as to toggle the
switch.
In the ME406HM, activation is also accomplished by any of the 5 auxiliary “G” switches at a
nominal 12 “G” level.
1.6.3 Self-Test mode
Upon turn-off, the ELT automatically enters a self-test mode that transmits a 406 MHz test
coded transmission that monitors certain system functions before returning to the ‘ARM’ mode.
The transmission is ignored by any satellite that receives this signal, but the ELT requires it to
check output power and correct frequency. If the ELT is left activated for approximately 50
seconds or greater, a distress signal is generated that is accepted by the satellites.
In addition to 121.5 and 406 MHz signal integrity, other operating parameters are checked
during the self-test. Error codes are then generated if other problems are found. The error
codes are displayed by a series of “blinks” of the ELT LED, remote LED and audio indicator. See
paragraph 4.4.9,
Installed Transmitter Test , for more details and a description of the error
codes.
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NOTE: Any time the ELT is activated, it is transmitting a 121.5 MHz distress signal.
Therefore, all activations of the ELT should be kept to a minimum. Local or
national regulations may limit testing of the ELT or impose special requirements
or conditions to perform testing. For the “Self-Test,” Artex recommends the ELT
be “ON” for no more than 5 seconds. Testing should occur during the first 5
minutes after the hour.
Figure 2 – ELT Front View
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2. Installation for the United States
2.1 Introduction to Installation
Installations must be made by qualified personnel in accordance with FAA regulations.
Duplicating a previous installation may not be acceptable. Refer to the following:
•FAA – Advisory Circular (AC) 43.13 (Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices
– Aircraft Alterations), specifically, Chapters 1 through 3, 11 and 13.
Found at www.faa.gov, or specifically:
http://www.airweb.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgAdvisoryCircular.nsf
/0/E533BB05389C90E486256A54006E47B2?OpenDocument
•TSO C126 paragraph D Requirements:
“The condi ions and tests required for TSO approval o this article are minimum
performance standards. It is the respons bility of those desiring to instal this
article on a specific type or class of aircraf to determine that the aircraft
installation conditions are within the TSO standards. The artic e may be
installed only if further evaluation by the applicant documents an acceptable
installation and it is approved by the administrator.”
tf
i l
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Found at www.faa.gov/certification/aircraft/
•RTCA DO-182 recommends:
“All ELT system components which must survive a crash intact,…should be
attached to the airframe in such a manner that the attachment system can
support a 100g load…in the plus and minus directions of the three principal
axes of the aircraft.”
RTCA documents may be obtained from:
RTCA, Inc.
1828 L Street, NW
Suite 805
Washington, DC 20036
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web site: www.rtca.org
E-mail: [email protected]
NOTE 1: Installation in a pressurized aircraft constitutes a major modification. Consult the
Department of Transportation Regional Officer before proceeding.
NOTE 2: Aircraft manufacturers may also have guidance on ELT installation; refer to and
follow any applicable Type Approval or STC data for your aircraft. If located
outside of the US, follow all applicable regulations for your national authority.
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ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES, INC. 570-1600
2.2 Parts List
Installation kits offered for the ME406 include the necessary ELT-related components. The
table below lists typical options. Parts can be ordered separately. Additional parts may also be
available. Contact Artex at 1-800-547-8901 for details, pricing and availability.
Item Option / Notes P/N
ME406 453-6603 (standard model)
ELT w/ battery pack ME406HM 453-6604 (helicopter model)
Battery Pack Kit, see Battery Replacement
section of this manual 455-0012
Mounting tray One option available 452-3034
Wire whip (15”) 110-773 rev B (Figure 21,
supersedes 110-773 rev A)
Antenna
Rod 110-338 (Figure 22)
Antenna cable, coaxial, BNC
to BNC
6’ (Other lengths available
upon request) 611-6013-04
ELT Installation Kit for use
with standard cock-pit remote
switch
Mounting hardware &
Connector kit 455-7423
Switch only 345-6196-04 (Figures 9 & 20)
Standard Model Cockpit
Remote Switch Switch Installation kit 455-6196
Audio indicator One option available 452-6505 (Figure 19)
Manual Latest version available for
download at www.artex.net 570-1600
Current measurement adapter Available to aid Canadian
maintenance requirements 500-0057
D-subminiature connector –
15-pin, receptacle
For:
- harness plug replacement
- G-switch loop test fixture
150-1130
Table 1 – Parts List
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Additional items required. In addition to the kit, the following are examples of parts and
tools that may be required, but are not provided:
•Miscellaneous tools: Drill, Phillips screwdriver (#2 bit), center punch, wire stripper,
wrenches for aircraft disassembly/assembly
•Soldering iron & solder
•Metal & fabricating tools/equipment to fabricate ELT and audio indicator mounts
•1/2 A slow-blow fuse and holder (or comparable circuit breaker) for cockpit remote
indicator
•Shielded cable for remote switch harness
•Harness securing fasteners / materials
•Miscellaneous hookup wire – 22 AWG (typical)
•Molex connector pin crimp tool P/N HTR1719C (generic P/N 11-01-0008) or
equivalent
•Terminal extraction tool – Molex P/N 11-03-0002 or equivalent
•Electronics grade RTV for sealing connector pins
•Tools to install antenna, ELT
•Mounting brackets
2.3 Mount ELT
Three separate mounting-hole patterns are provided so that, if the ME406 or ME406HM is
replacing an existing ELT indicated on the list below, the original mounting holes can be used.
Remove the old ELT holder or tray and install the ME406 mounting tray in its place. Use the 8-
32 X 5/8” Phillips, pan-head screws, nuts and flat washers provided. You may provide your
own hardware so long as the correct size and type is used. Mounting screws are English 8-32
or M4 x length as required. Stainless steel hardware is recommended. Use hardware
conforming to an accepted standard such as AN or Mil-Spec.
Compatible patterns include:
•Artex 100/110, G406, C406 and B406 series and Narco ELT-910, ELT-10
•Artex ELT-200 series
•Pointer model ELT 3000-series
If this is a new installation or if the current installation is unacceptable, find a location per the
following:
•RTCA suggests the aft section of the fuselage. Statistically, this is least likely to
receive damage in a crash. It is also near the antenna connection, minimizing cable
length between the transmitter and antenna.
•Maintain access for maintenance.
•If possible, avoid locating the ELT where it will be subjected to chemical fluids such
as deicing compounds, cleaning fluids, etc. Over time, these chemicals may attack
the plastic and metal components.
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The mounting location must conform to the requirements of RTCA DO-204 and AC 43.13. DO-
204 Sec 3.1.8 states:
“The ELT shall be mounted to primary aircraft load carrying structures such as
trusses, bulkheads longerons, spars, o floor beams (not aircraf skin). The
mounts shall have a maximum static local deflection no greater than 2.5 mm
(0.1 in.) when a force of 450 Newtons (100 lbs) is applied to the mount in the
most flexible direction. Deflection measurements shall be made with reference
to another part of the airframe not less than 0.3 meters (1-foot) nor more than
1.0 m (three feet) from the mounting location.”
, r t
Mount the ELT so that the longitudinal axis of the ELT (the axis extending through the longest
dimension) is aligned with that of the aircraft within 10º. The ELT mount can be rotated about
the longitudinal axis, i.e., the ELT can be mounted on the floor, walls or overhead, so long as it
‘points’ to the front of the aircraft.
Using the template provided, mark and drill four mounting holes using a #19 (0.1660”/ 4.2mm)
drill bit. Install the mounting tray. Artex suggests using the outermost mounting hole-pattern
on the template for minimum flexure of the mounting tray. Use the 8-32 X 5/8” Phillips, pan-
head screws, nuts and flat washers provided.
Refer to paragraph 2.10 (page 28) for specific information regarding helicopter installations.
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Figure 3 – Mounting Hole Diagram for Artex 110
Series and Narco ELT
NOTE: DRAWING IS NOT TO SCALE. DO NOT USE AS A TEMPLATE FOR
DRILLING HOLES.
Metric Dimensions 50.8mm X 139.5mm
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Figure 4 – Mounting Hole Diagram for Artex 200 Series
NOTE: DRAWING IS NOT IS SCALE – DO NOT USE AS A TEMPLATE FOR
DRILLING HOLES
Metric Dimensions 46.4mm X 74.8mm
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