Flash Technology Vanguard Red FTS 371 SMART User manual

Flash Technology, 332 Nichol Mill Lane, Franklin, TN 37067
flashtechnology.com
1.615.503.2000 | 1.800.821.5825
Vanguard® Red FTS 371 SMART
Medium Intensity Red LED Obstruction Lighting System
Reference Manual
Part Number F7913800

FTS 371 SMART USER MANUAL
Flash Technology, LLC Revision 4 –9/7/2021 2
FRONT MATTER
ABSTRACT
This manual contains information and instructions for installing, operating and maintaining the Vanguard Red FTS
371 SMART system components.
COPYRIGHT
©2021, Flash Technology, LLC. All rights reserved.
Reproduction or use of any portion of this manual is prohibited without express written permission from Flash
Technology and/or its licenser.
TRADEMARK ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Flash Technology® and Vanguard® are registered trademarks of SPX Corporation.
All trademarks and product names mentioned are properties of their respective companies, and are recognized
and acknowledged as such by Flash Technology.
APPLICABLE SPECIFICATIONS
The equipment included in this system meets or exceeds FAA AC 150/5345-43J requirements for the FAA Type L-
864, L-885, L-810 and L-810(F) obstruction lights. This equipment can accommodate system configurations that
meet the FAA AC/7460-1M, FAA AC/7460-1L and FAA AC/7460-1K standards for marker configurations.
The equipment included in this system meets or exceeds requirements for Transport Canada CAR621.19 types CL-
864, CL-885, and CL-810.
The equipment included in this system meets or exceeds requirements for ICAO Annex 14 Sixth Edition for
Medium-intensity obstacle lights Types B and C, as well as Low-intensity obstacle light Type B.
DISCLAIMER
While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this manual is complete, accurate and up-to-
date, Flash Technology assumes no liability for damages resulting from any errors or omissions in this manual, or
from the use of the information contained herein. Flash Technology reserves the right to revise this manual
without obligation to notify any person or organization of the revision.
In no event will Flash Technology be liable for direct, indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages arising
out of the use of or the inability to use this manual.
WARRANTY
Under normal operating conditions, Flash Technology warrants all controller and LED lighting components for 5
years.
PARTS REPLACEMENT
The use of parts or components in this equipment that are not manufactured or supplied by Flash Technology
voids the warranty and invalidates the third party testing laboratory certification which ensures compliance with
FAA Advisory Circulars 150/5345-43J, 150/5345-53D and Engineering Brief No. 67D. The certification is valid as
long as the system is maintained in accordance with FAA guidelines (FR doc. 04-13718 filed 6-16-04).

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PERSONNEL HAZARD WARNING
DANGEROUS VOLTAGES
Dangerous line voltages reside in certain locations in this equipment. Also, this equipment may generate
dangerous voltages. Although Flash Technology has incorporated every practical safety precaution, exercise
extreme caution at all times when you expose circuits and components, and when you operate, maintain or service
this equipment.
AVOID TOUCHING LIVE CIRCUITS
Avoid touching any component or any part of the circuitry while the equipment is operating. Do not change
components or make adjustments inside the equipment with power on.
DO NOT DEPEND ON INTERLOCKS
Never depend on interlocks alone to remove unsafe voltages. Always check circuits with a voltmeter after turning
the circuit breakers off. Under no circumstances remove or alter the wiring or interlock switches.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Front Matter ..........................................................................................................................................................2
Abstract .............................................................................................................................................................2
Copyright ...........................................................................................................................................................2
Trademark Acknowledgements ..........................................................................................................................2
Applicable Specifications....................................................................................................................................2
Disclaimer..........................................................................................................................................................2
Warranty ...........................................................................................................................................................2
Parts Replacement.............................................................................................................................................2
Personnel Hazard Warning.................................................................................................................................3
List of Figures.........................................................................................................................................................6
List of Tables ..........................................................................................................................................................6
Section 1 –Introduction and Specifications.............................................................................................................8
Regulatory Compliance and Certifications ......................................................................................................8
System Specifications.........................................................................................................................................9
Controller: FTS 371 FTC SMART AC, FTS 371 FTC SMART DC, FTS 371 FTS SMART DC (-) 24/48V ......................9
Flashhead/Beacon: FTS 371 FH AC, FTS 371 FH DC 24V, FTS 371 FH DC 48V ....................................................9
Markers: MKR 371 / MKR 372 IR Series ........................................................................................................ 10
Markers: MKR 371 OL2 / MKR 372 IR OL2 Series........................................................................................... 10
Section 2 –Outline, Mounting and Installation Instructions .................................................................................. 11
Unpacking........................................................................................................................................................ 11
Tools................................................................................................................................................................ 11
Controller Installation and Grounding............................................................................................................... 11
L-864 Flashhead/Beacon Installation and Grounding ........................................................................................12
OL2 Installation and Wiring for A0 Towers........................................................................................................ 12
Marker Installation and Wiring......................................................................................................................... 13
Lightning Protection.........................................................................................................................................13
System Wiring.................................................................................................................................................. 13
Securing the Cable (2-3-4 Tape Method)...........................................................................................................14
AM “Hot” Tower Wiring ................................................................................................................................... 14
Flashhead/Beacon Wiring................................................................................................................................. 14
Controller Wiring ............................................................................................................................................. 15
Input power connections ............................................................................................................................. 15

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Beacon and Marker Connections.................................................................................................................. 15
Dry Contact Monitoring and Photodiode Connections .................................................................................. 16
Radar and Primary/Secondary Connections.................................................................................................. 16
Catenary Operation...................................................................................................................................... 17
GPS Synchronization .................................................................................................................................... 17
RS-485 Modbus RTU Communication ........................................................................................................... 18
Installation Checklists....................................................................................................................................... 19
Checkout Procedure......................................................................................................................................... 19
Section 3 –Maintenance Instructions................................................................................................................... 38
Safety............................................................................................................................................................... 38
Maintenance................................................................................................................................................ 38
Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................................... 38
Component Removal and Replacement............................................................................................................38
FTS 371 FTC SMART Controller .....................................................................................................................38
FTS 371 FH AC (L-864 LED)............................................................................................................................ 39
Firmware Upgrades.......................................................................................................................................... 39
Preparing the USB Drive............................................................................................................................... 39
Upgrading Firmware .................................................................................................................................... 39
Downgrading Firmware................................................................................................................................ 40
Additional Notes.......................................................................................................................................... 40
Section 4 - Operating Instructions......................................................................................................................... 41
Controller......................................................................................................................................................... 41
Manual Override Option...................................................................................................................................41
Tower Configurations....................................................................................................................................... 41
Controller Configuration Switch Definitions...................................................................................................... 41
Marker # Configuration Switch.........................................................................................................................42
Alarm Indicators............................................................................................................................................... 42
Flashhead/Beacon LED Indicators..................................................................................................................... 44
Flashhead/Beacon Switch Bank ........................................................................................................................ 44
Flashhead/Beacon Switch Definitions ...............................................................................................................44
Major Troubleshooting Symptoms.................................................................................................................... 45
Section 5 –Customer Support .............................................................................................................................. 46
Contact Information......................................................................................................................................... 46
Ordering Parts.................................................................................................................................................. 46

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RMA Policy....................................................................................................................................................... 46
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 –Controller FTS 371 SMART Poly Enclosure Mounting and Outline.......................................................... 22
Figure 2 –Controller FTS 371 SMART Aluminum Enclosure Mounting and Outline................................................. 23
Figure 3 –Marker MKR 371 / MKR 372 IR series mounting and outline view ......................................................... 24
Figure 4 –OL2 mounting and outline view............................................................................................................ 25
Figure 5 –Flashhead/Beacon FTS 371 FH mounting and outline view.................................................................... 26
Figure 6 –Photodiode PHD 516 mounting and outline view..................................................................................27
Figure 7 –Controller FTS 371 FTC SMART AC Connection Diagram ........................................................................ 28
Figure 8 –Flashhead/Beacon FTS 371 FH AC Connection Diagram.........................................................................29
Figure 9 –FTS 371 SMART AC Typical FAA Type A0 Installation Wiring ............................................................... 30
Figure 10 –FTS 371 SMART AC Typical FAA Type A1 Installation Wiring................................................................. 31
Figure 11 –FTS 371 Typical A1 Tower View........................................................................................................... 32
Figure 12 –Controller FTS 371 SMART DC Connection Diagram............................................................................. 33
Figure 13 –Controller FTS 371 SMART DC (-) Connection Diagram ........................................................................34
Figure 14 –Flashhead/Beacon FTS 371 FH DC Connection Diagram.......................................................................35
Figure 15 –FTS 371 SMART DC Typical FAA Type A0 Installation Wiring ................................................................ 36
Figure 16 –FTS 371 SMART DC Typical FAA Type A1 Installation Wiring ................................................................ 37
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1.1 –System and Component Model Combinations.......................................................................................8
Table 1.2 –Controller Specifications.......................................................................................................................9
Table 1.3 –Beacon Specifications ...........................................................................................................................9
Table 1.4 –Single Marker Specifications ............................................................................................................... 10
Table 1.5 –OL2 Marker Specifications .................................................................................................................. 10
Table 2.1 –2-3-4 Tape Method............................................................................................................................. 14
Table 2.2 –System Installation Checklist............................................................................................................... 19
Table 2.3 –Before Applying Power Checklist......................................................................................................... 19
Table 4.1 –Controller Configuration Switch Definitions.........................................................................................41
Table 4.2 –Alarms Indicator Names and Descriptions ........................................................................................... 42
Table 4.3 –Beacon LED Indicators Descriptions.....................................................................................................44
Table 4.4 –Beacon Switch Position Descriptions................................................................................................... 44

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Table 4.5 –Troubleshooting Symptoms and Resolutions....................................................................................... 45
Table 5.1 –Replacement Parts.............................................................................................................................. 46

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SECTION 1 –INTRODUCTION AND SPECIFICATIONS
The Vanguard® Red FTS 371 SMART is comprised of
An FTS 371 FTC SMART (AC or DC) series controller;
Zero to eight MKR 371 L810 / MKR 372 IR series low intensity red LED obstruction lights (Marker); and
Zero to two FTS 371 FH (AC) or zero to one FTS 371 FH (DC 24V, DC 48V) L864 medium intensity red LED
obstruction lights (FH/beacon).
System and component model combinations are provided in the table below. All models are available with a GPS
option.
The FTS 371 FTC SMART AC and SMART DC Controllers may be used with incoming power having the negative leg
grounded and are available in either polycarbonate or aluminum enclosure. The isolated (-) 24/48V controller may
be used with incoming power having either the positive or negative leg grounded and are available only with the
aluminum enclosure.
The FTS 371 SMART system is designed to meet FAA, ICAO and Transport Canada regulations and to be utilized for
their corresponding valid tower lighting configurations.
Table 1.1 –System and Component Model Combinations
System
Controller
Beacon
Markers
FTS 371 SMART AC
FTS 371 FTC SMART AC
FTS 371 FH AC IR (0 to 2)
MKR 371 (0 to 8)
MKR 372 IR (0 to 8)
FTS 371 SMART DC 24V
FTS 371 FTC SMART DC
FTS 371 FH DC 24V IR (0 to 1)
MKR 371 (0 to 8)
MKR 372 IR (0 to 8)
FTS 371 SMART DC 48V
FTS 371 FTC SMART DC
FTS 371 FH DC 48V IR (0 to 1)
MKR 371 (0 to 8)
MKR 372 IR (0 to 8)
FTS 371 SMART DC (-)
24/48V
FTS 371 FTC SMART DC (-)
24/48V
FTS 371 FH DC 48V IR (0 to 1)
MKR 371 (0 to 8)
MKR 372 IR (0 to 8)
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE AND CERTIFICATIONS
•Compliant to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) AC 150/5345-43J
•Compliant to Canadian Aviation Regulations (CAR) Standard 621
•Compliant to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Aerodromes, Annex 14, Volume 1, Eighth
Edition, dated July 2018 (Medium Intensity, Type B Obstacle Light –Red)

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SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS
CONTROLLER: FTS 371 FTC SMART AC, FTS 371 FTC SMART DC, FTS 371 FTS SMART DC (-) 24/48V
Table 1.2 –Controller Specifications
Parameter
Specification
Physical Dimensions
Polycarbonate Enclosure
Aluminum Enclosure
10” x 8” x 6” (254 mm x 203.2mm x 155.4 mm)
16.1" x 10.5" x 4.91" (408.9 mm x 266.7 mm x 124.7 mm)
Weight
Polycarbonate Enclosure
Aluminum Enclosure
5.6 lbs. (2.54 kg)
9.5 lbs. (4.31 kg)
Operating Temperature Range
-40 to +55 degrees Celsius
Input Voltage Range
FTS 371 FTC SMART AC
FTS 371 FTC SMART DC
FTS 371 FTC SMART DC (-) 24/48V
100 –240VAC Nominal; 85-265 VAC at 50/60 Hz
12 –48 VDC +/- 10% (12VDC kit for marker-only {OL2}
configuration)
24 –48 VDC +/- 10% (21.6 –52.8V)
Power Consumption
FTS 371 FTC SMART AC
FTS 371 FTC SMART DC
3.8 Watts
1.3 Watts
Flash Rate Options (Flashes Per Minute)
Steady Burn / 20 / 30 / 40 / 60
Alarm Relay Contact Rating
5 Amp @ 120V AC / 5 Amp @ 24V DC, Isolated contacts
Protection Rating
IP65, NEMA 4X
FLASHHEAD/BEACON: FTS 371 FH AC, FTS 371 FH DC 24V, FTS 371 FH DC 48V
Table 1.3 –Beacon Specifications
Parameter
Specification
Physical Dimensions
15.75” diameter x 7.5” (400 mm diameter x 190.5 mm)
Weight
25.85 lbs. (11.7 kg)
Flash Intensity
FAA Mode: 2000 effective candela +/- 25%
ICAO Mode: 2200 effective candela +/- 25%
Operating Temperature Range
-40 to +55 degrees Celsius
Input Voltage Range
FTS 371 FH AC
FTS 371 FH DC 24V IR
FTS 371 FH DC 48V IR
85-265 VAC at 50/60 Hz
24 +/- 10% (21.6 –26.4V)
48 +/- 10% (43.2 –52.8V)
Power Consumption
Mode
Average Power
FAA, Efficient, 20 FPM
4.0 Watts
FAA, Efficient, 30 FPM
5.3 Watts
ICAO, Efficient, 20 FPM
4.4 Watts
ICAO, Steady
30 Watts
Beam Spread
Horizontal: 360 deg. / Vertical: 3 deg.
Aerodynamic Wind Area
99.125 in2
Protection Rating
IP65, NEMA 4X

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MARKERS: MKR 371 / MKR 372 IR SERIES
Table 1.4 –Single Marker Specifications
Parameter
Specification
Physical Dimensions
9.0” x 2.75” x 2.13” (228.6 x 69.9 x 54.1 mm)
Weight
1.6 lbs. (0.7 kg)
Intensity (Steady)
32.5 ECD +/- 25%
Operating Temperature Range
-40 to +55 degrees Celsius
Power Usage
Marker Type / Mode
Average Power
MKR 371 L810 / Steady
2.5 Watts
MKR 371 L810 / Flashing
0.4 Watts
MKR 372 L810 IR / Steady
6.9 Watts
MKR 372 L810 IR / Flashing
1.5 Watts
Beam Spread
Horizontal: 360 deg. / Vertical: 10 deg.
Aerodynamic Wind Area
24.75 in2
Protection Rating
IP65, NEMA 4X
MARKERS: MKR 371 OL2 / MKR 372 IR OL2 SERIES
Table 1.5 –OL2 Marker Specifications
Parameter
Specification
Physical Dimensions
11.25” x 5.0” x 8.75” (279.4 mm x 127 mm x 222.25 mm); ¾”
NPT Coupling
Weight
5.40 lbs. (2.45 kg)
Intensity (Steady)
32.5 ECD +/- 25%
Operating Temperature Range
-40 to +55 degrees Celsius
Power Usage
Marker Type / Mode
Average Power
MKR 371 L810 / Steady
5 Watts
MKR 371 L810 / Flashing
0.8 Watts
MKR 372 L810 IR / Steady
13.8 Watts
MKR 372 L810 IR / Flashing
3 Watts
Beam Spread
Horizontal: 360 deg. / Vertical: 10 deg.

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SECTION 2 –OUTLINE, MOUNTING AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
UNPACKING
Inspect shipping cartons for signs of damage before opening. Check package contents against the packing list and
inspect each item for visible damage.
Promptly report damage claims to the freight handler.
TOOLS
1/8” non-flared flat blade screw driver
Digital volt-ohm meter
#2 Phillips® head screwdriver
Wire strippers
Level
Tin Snips
Mounting hardware for controller (if not provided in the system kit)
Various drill bits (to create openings in the bottom of the controller for cable runs)
CONTROLLER INSTALLATION AND GROUNDING
Locate the FTS 371 FTC SMART controller in an area that will allow proper access to the enclosure. Ensure the
mounting location does not interfere with the quick-release latch that secures the enclosure’s door. Release the
latch to open the door for internal access.
Use the following guidelines for mounting the controller:
Ensure that adequate space exists around the equipment for access during installation, maintenance and
servicing.
Allow space for airflow around the controller. Recommended 3-4” of space allowed on each side of the
controller. Flash Technology does not furnish mounting hardware unless it is ordered as part of an
installation kit.
Flash Technology recommends using flexible conduit for all cable runs with the exception of the beacon
cable and jacketed ground wires.
Ground the controller using a 2 AWG insulated wire. Route all ground conductors down and away from
the energized equipment and ensure there are no bends less than 8 inches. If installed outdoors, bond the
system controller to the site grounding grid (via exothermic welding). If installed inside a shelter or
building, route the 2 AWG insulated ground wire to the nearest down-link and attach using a compression
fitting (c-tap).
Use the following guidelines for installing the photodiode:
Locate the photodiode where it has an unobstructed view of the polar sky (north).
It must not view direct or reflected artificial light.
Support the photodiode vertically at the top end of a vertical length of rigid conduit to prevent moisture
intrusion.
If possible, mount the photodiode in a location that will allow easy access for future testing.

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L-864 FLASHHEAD/BEACON INSTALLATION AND GROUNDING
1. Verify that the mounting surface is free of debris.
2. Align the 4 mounting holes in the base of the beacon with the holes in the tower or pedestal’s mounting
plate.
3. Leaving the hardware assemblies loose, secure the beacon with ½-inch stainless steel or galvanized
hardware (part # 5991740).
4. With the light engine secured by the two latches on the base, place a level on the beacon’s top plate and
verify that it is level in 2 directions. Note: Flash Technology’s “T”- Level (optional part # 11000013455) has
2 vials to simplify installation.
5. If the beacon is not level, add stainless steel shim material or washers (stainless steel or galvanized) as
necessary to level the beacon.
6. Tighten the hardware once the beacon is level in both directions. Fully tighten the hardware and verify
that the beacon is level. If necessary, loosen the mounting hardware and repeat Step 5 until the beacon is
level with the hardware fully tightened.
7. Connect a minimum 8 AWG grounding wire to the pre-installed grounding lug on the beacon base
exterior. Connect the other end of the wire directly to tower steel, collective buss bar or the customer’s
preferred location. Use an anti-corrosive agent on all terminal ends.
OL2 INSTALLATION AND WIRING FOR A0 TOWERS
A0 towers use a double L-810 (OL2) as the beacon. Images of various OL2 styles are shown below.
There are several options in which to mount an OL2.
1. If clean steel is available with no worry of or indication of transmitting issues from other sources, a
mounting bracket can be used in combination with a marker cable. Flash Technology provides a bracket
(F3877103 Bracket Mounting Kit OL2 Extended) that can be screwed into the bottom opening of an OL2
and mounted at the top of the tower. A mounting bracket is shown below.

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The cable is best secured using the 2,3,4 tape method described in “SECURING THE CABLE” section below.
2. The OL2 may also be secured to the tower by mounting it on a length of ¾” nipple or conduit and securing
to tower by means of 2 –3 U-bolts or beam clamps. The cable is then secured using the 2,3,4 tape
method.
MARKER INSTALLATION AND WIRING
Installation and wiring instruction concerning MKR 371 DC / MKR 372 DC IR marker fixtures are supplied with the
marker kit.
LIGHTNING PROTECTION
All Flash Technology equipment is designed to withstand severe transient over-voltages. However, install a
lightning arresting system to prevent eventual damage by lightning. Transient suppressors from line-to-line and
line-to neutral are recommended at the primary power load center.
Confirm the presence of a copper lightning rod. Ensure the rod is approx. 18” away from the L-864 red LED beacon
and 36” above the beacon for proper protection.
SYSTEM WIRING
This manual may not contain all the information about installation wiring required for your installation.
Important! If installation drawings prepared specifically for your site disagree with information provided in this
manual, the site installation drawings should take precedence. Consult any site-specific installation wiring
diagrams supplied with your equipment.
All installation wiring should have an insulation rating of 600 volts. Wire size for the lights on each wire run is
calculated from the number of lighting fixtures and the length of the wire on that run.
Ensure proper service and drip loops at each location:
Install a 5’ service loop in the flashhead cable just below the beacon and a separate 5’ service loop at the
base of the tower, near the controller
Install a 5’ service loop in the marker cable near the marker and at the base of the tower, near the
controller.
Ensure drip loops near the beacon, markers and antenna
After the wiring has been terminated ensure all cord grips at beacon, markers and controller are fully tightened
and all latches are secured to prevent moisture intrusion.
Flash Technology wiring diagrams define only minimum requirements recommended for satisfactory equipment
operation. It is the responsibility of the installer to comply with all applicable electrical codes.

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SECURING THE CABLE (2-3-4 TAPE METHOD)
Flash Technology provides the material for securing the beacon cable to a skeletal structure with the following
technique. NOTE! Always adhere to local electrical codes that could supersede this technique.
Table 2.1 –2-3-4 Tape Method
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Run the cable along 1 of the tower legs.
Wrap 2 full turns of 2-inch Scotchrap™
#50 tape (or the equivalent) around the
cable and tower leg.
Wrap 3 full turns of 1-inch
Scotchrap Filament #890 tape
over the Scotchrap #50 tape.
Wrap 4 full turns of 2-inch
Scotchrap #50 tape over the
Scotchrap Filament #890 tape.
NOTE! Ensure there is at least a 4-5 foot (1.5 meters) separation between taping sections per NEC.
FLANGE STRESS RELIEF
Secure the cable above and below each flange approximately 6 inches by performing steps 1 through 3. Allow a 1-
inch to 3-inch separation from the flange and the cable.
AM “HOT” TOWER WIRING
On AM “hot” towers, wire the beacon, markers and controller as described in this section except for the following.
On the cable between the controller and beacon, do not connect the ground conductor in the controller or the
beacon.
FLASHHEAD/BEACON WIRING
For AC powered systems, see beacon wiring in Figure 7 (page 29) and typical installation diagrams in Figure 9 (page
30) and Figure 10 (page 31). In the beacon, connect the black wire to PCB terminal L1 and white wire to L2/N.
Connect the green ground wire directly to the beacon base using the screw with integrated star washer located
near the cable entry point.
For DC powered systems, see beacon wiring in Figure 13 (page 34) and typical installation diagrams in Figure 14
(page 35) and Figure 15 (page 36). In the beacon, connect the red wire to PCB terminal DC+ and black wire to DC-.
Connect the blue ground wire directly to the beacon base using the ground terminal installed in the beacon base
located near the cable entry point.
Note: Install a 5’ service loop in the cable near the flashhead/beacon

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CONTROLLER WIRING
For AC powered systems, see the controller wiring in Figure 6 (page) and typical installation diagrams in Figure 9
(page 30) and Figure 10 (page 31).
For DC powered systems, see the controller wiring in Figure 11 (page) and typical installation diagrams in Figure 14
(page 35) and Figure 15 (page 36).
INPUT POWER CONNECTIONS
On the FTS 371 FTC SMART controller, the input
power will be connected to J1.
AC systems are not sensitive to input power phase
and have an operational voltage range of 85-265
VAC, 50/60 Hz with no modification necessary to
the input power module. The (2) 10A replaceable
input power fuses are located on F1 and F2. To
remove a fuse, disconnect power then push in and
turn counterclockwise.
On DC systems, observe polarity of input voltage
and connect positive to DC+ and negative to DC-.
There is one replaceable input power fuse located
at F1. To remove the fuse, disconnect power then
push in and turn counterclockwise.
BEACON AND MARKER CONNECTIONS
On the FTS 371 FTC SMART controller, the beacon connections are at J2 and marker connections are at J3.
For AC powered systems, up to two FTS 371 FH AC IR beacons may be connected. Connect the black wire to J2
terminal L1 and white wire to L2. Connect the green ground wire directly to the controller backplate using the
ground terminal installed near the Beacon PCB connector. Note: Some PCBs have a ground terminal (GND) on the
PCB J2 connector which is not used if the ground conductor is connected to the backplate.
FTS 371 FTC SMART AC
Beacon and Marker Connections
FTS 371 FTC SMART AC
Alternate Beacon Grounding Connection at J2
FTS 371 FTC SMART AC
Input Power Connections
FTS 371 FTC SMART DC
Input Power Connections

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For DC powered systems, one FTS 371 FH DC IR beacon may be connected. Connect the red wire to J2 terminal
DC+ and black wire to DC-. Connect the blue ground wire directly to the controller backplate using the ground
terminal installed near the beacon PCB connector.
FTS 371 FTC SMART DC
Beacon and Marker Connections
Up to eight of the MKR 371 DC / MKR 372 DC IR series marker lights may be powered from the MARKER OUTPUT
at J3. Connect the red wire to DC+, black wire to DC- and WHT/BLU wire to SENSE. Connect the bare (non-
insulated) shield wire directly to the controller backplate using the ground terminal installed near the beacon PCB
connector.
Note: The beacons or markers are powered if wired to the connectors. The configuration switches and jumpers
configure alarming.
DRY CONTACT MONITORING AND PHOTODIODE CONNECTIONS
Find the dry contact monitoring connections on J4 and J5. The FTS 371 controller allows the option to have a
BEACON, MARKER and PHOTODIODE alarm point available for external monitoring. Also included is the MODE
relay connections that allow remote notification of mode change via a dry contact.
The photodiode (PHD 516) will connect to the far right of J5. If necessary, prepare the photodiode cable by
stripping jacket and removing foil shield from black, clear and drain wires. Connect the wires to matching labels on
the PCB for proper operation (Clear to WHT, Black to BLK and drain wire to SHLD).
Dry Contact Monitoring and Photodiode Connections
RADAR AND PRIMARY/SECONDARY CONNECTIONS
The SYNC connector J7 can be used to provide either beacon inhibit control by an external RADAR input or
primary/secondary synchronization with multiple controllers. Only one of these features is available at a time.

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When the RADAR configuration switch is placed in the ON position, an external device such as a radar system may
inhibit the output of the beacon. Wire the dry contact from the external device to connector J7 terminals with IN+
and OUT+ as shown below and jumper the terminals IN- to OUT-. The fail-safe design requires a closed contact to
inhibit the output of the beacon so the beacon is on if the contact is open and off if closed.
For primary/secondary synchronization, set the RADAR configuration switch to the OFF position and wire the J7
SYNC connector to other controllers as shown below, primary OUT+ and OUT- to secondary #1 IN+ and secondary
#1 IN-, etc. Each secondary must have its secondary configuration dipswitch set to ON and its flash configuration
set to match the primary: flash type (efficiency/legacy), flash spec (FAA/ICAO) and beacon and marker
flashing/steady. Secondary units with nonmatching configuration will not flash in unison with the system. A
photodiode is connected to the primary controller only, not the secondary unit.
Note: The EXT SYNC LED is on at the beginning of SYNC pulse and off at end of SYNC pulse on both primary and
secondary. The secondary’s EXT SYNC LED will flash ON only if properly wired to primary so is a good
troubleshooting check.
CATENARY OPERATION
For catenary operation, wire the systems as shown above and set the configuration switches as in the table below.
Note that for the Middle level, both CAT T and CAT B switches should be set to OFF.
Primary (CAT TOP)
Secondary #1 (CAT MID)
Secondary #2 (CAT BOT)
SECONDARY
OFF
ON
ON
RADAR
OFF
OFF
OFF
60FPM
ON
ON
ON
CAT T
ON
OFF
OFF
CAT B
OFF
OFF
ON
GPS SYNCHRONIZATION
For GPS synchronization, the optional GPS Sync Kit must be installed including external GPS antenna mounting.
Refer to the FTS 371 GPS Sync Kit (P/N 1370285) Installation Instructions for details.
The portion outlined in red shows the location of the FTS 371 GPS OPTION PCB PN 2433000 on the controller PCB.
Primary Dry Contact
Radar Input
Primary and Secondary Synchronization
Primary
Secondary #1
Secondary #2

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GPS Configuration and Test Instructions:
1. Configure the GPS PCB:
a. For synchronization with Flash Technology products, do not install the jumper on H1 or H2.
Or install the jumper on one pin only.
b. For synchronization with Orga products, install the jumper on H1 (covering both pins).
c. For synchronization with Unimar products, install the jumper on H2 (covering both pins).
2. Apply power to the FTS 371 Controller.
3. View the LEDs on the GPS board to determine operational status.
LED Indicator
LED Description
POWER
Lit (green) if GPS board is powered
SYNC
Lit (green) when GPS Sync is achieved. May take up to 10 minutes after
power up. If not lit, check that antenna has an unobstructed view of the sky.
OPEN
Lit (red) indicates cable or antenna not connected or damaged.
SHORT
Lit (red) indicates cable or antenna is shorted and defective.
RS-485 MODBUS RTU COMMUNICATION
Advanced monitoring of the FTS 371 SMART controller is available by RS-485 Modbus RTU communication
interface available at connector J6. The FTS 371 SMART system controllers are configured to be a Modbus
secondary device. The controller includes a rotary switch on the bottom right to accommodate multiple FTS 371
SMART systems to be monitored through Modbus. This rotary switch specifies the Modbus secondary address with
values 1 through 10 (switch positions 1 to 9 address as 1 to 9 and switch position 0 addresses as 10). When
multiple FTS 371 controllers are used, they must be addressed and monitored individually. Data is not collated
from secondary units to the primary.

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See the Technical Bulletin –FTS 371 SMART Modbus Interface for detailed specification.
INSTALLATION CHECKLISTS
Table 2.2 –System Installation Checklist

All equipment has been inspected for damage

All received equipment has been verified against the packing list to ensure completeness

Site installation drawings have been consulted for placement, mounting and wiring details

A power disconnect switch or a circuit breaker has been provided

A lightning protect system is in place

Junction boxes have been ensured to drain condensation properly

Controller has been mounted and positioned to allow adequate clearance to open the cover

Controller has been mounted upright

All screws within the internal controller hardware are tight

No holes have been punched or drilled on the top of the controller enclosure

The photodiode has been located where it has an unobstructed view of the polar sky (north).

Photodiode is located where it will not view direct or reflected artificial light

Photodiode is supported directly by electrical conduit or mounted on the optional Antenna Mounting
Bracket (Kit PN 1905355).

Photodiode is not mounted underneath the controller where it could be shadowed

Photodiode installation is water tight

AM Towers Only: If the AM tower is “hot,” do NOT connect the ground wires to the beacon power
connector or the controller beacon power connector.
Table 2.3 –Before Applying Power Checklist

Examine installation drawings.

Verify incoming service voltage is the value stated on the ID plate.

Ensure the unit is wired according to the included instructions.

Check all electrical connections for tightness.

Check all terminal strip connections for tightness.

If external alarm detection circuit responds to closed contacts, ensure they are wired to the proper
contacts that close on alarm.

If external alarm detection circuit responds to open contacts, ensure they are wired to the proper
contacts that open on alarm.

Verify alarm wiring has been protected by using shielded wires. Also verify proper grounding of the
shield wire, and that the wires are ran through conduit.

Ensure the white wire of the photodiode is connected to J4 terminal labeled WHT+ and the black wire
is connected to J4 terminal labeled BLK-.
CHECKOUT PROCEDURE
LIGHTING INSPECTION
The FTS 371 FTC SMART has a built in test procedure to aid in performing lighting inspections (LI). The automated
test eliminates the need to disconnect any wires from the unit to test alarm points. The following inspection will
only test devices that the controller is configured for.

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Start the LI by pressing the white Inspection button, which is located in the bottom center of the “Configuration”
box and to the right of the MODE switch. The automated LI first tests the beacon (if configured), then the markers
(if configured) and finally the photodiode alarm. During the beacon and marker tests, the corresponding output is
turned off (beacon or marker turned Off) and the controller confirms that an alarm is properly generated (four
missed flashes are required to trigger an alarm). Then the output is turned back on (beacon or marker turned On)
and the controller confirms that the alarm is properly cleared (four good flashes are required to clear an alarm). If
no beacons or markers are configured, these steps will be skipped and only the photodiode alarm will be tested.
Important! Before attempting to perform the LI, verify that the PCB configuration switches are properly set
including that the beacon and marker switches match the number of connected beacons and markers. See the
Section 4 - Operating Instructions (page 41) for details of switch settings.
Important! During each step of the LI process described below, the technician must confirm that the ALARM LED
comes on and goes off as described. The ALARM LED for each section of the test must come ON and go OFF as
described for a successful lighting inspection.
LI Inspection Button
Alarm Indication LEDs
LIGHTING INSPECTION PROCEDURE
1. To begin, press and hold the white inspection button for 3+ seconds until the “Test in Progress” LED
begins flashing then release the button. The ‘Test in Process” LED will blink throughout the entire lighting
inspection as an indication that the LI is still underway. The LI may be cancelled at any time by pressing
the inspection button for 3+ seconds.
2. Press the white inspection button (one quick press) to activate the first alarm.
3. If beacons are configured (BCN ON/OFF configuration switch is set to ON), the following steps are
performed. If switch is set to OFF, this test is skipped.
a. Confirm Beacon Alarm - The BEACON ALARM LED will flash as the alarm is being generated
(four missed flashes required). Once the alarm is active the BEACON ALARM LED will be lit
solid. The technician must verify that the BEACON ALARM LED comes on solid.
b. Clear Beacon Alarm - To restore (clear) the alarm, press the inspection button (one quick
press). Once the alarm is cleared (four good flashes required), the BEACON ALARM LED will
be OFF. The technician must verify that the BEACON ALARM LED goes OFF.
4. Press the white inspection button (one quick press) to activate the next alarm.
5. If markers are configured (MARKER # rotary configuration switch is set to a number other than zero), the
following steps are performed. If switch is set to zero, this test is skipped.
a. Confirm Marker Alarm - The MARKER ALARM LED will flash as the alarm is being generated
(four missed flashes required). Once the alarm is active, the MARKER ALARM LED will be lit
solid. The technician must verify that the MARKER ALARM LED comes ON solid.
b. Clear Marker Alarm - To restore (clear) the alarm, press the inspection button (one quick
press). Once the alarm is cleared (four good flashes required), the MARKER ALARM LED will
be OFF. The technician must verify that the MARKER ALARM LED goes OFF.