1 ICARUS Instruments, Inc. AltAlert 3070 Pilot's Operating Handbook

ICARUS Instruments, Inc.
AltAlert 3070 Pilot's Operating Handbook
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Icarus Instruments, Inc.
7000 Carroll Avenue
Takoma Park, MD USA 20912
301 891 0600
Fax 301 891 0666
Rev 1.0 September 1995
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Table of Contents
AltAlert 3070 Pilot's Operating Handbook
Quick Start Mini-Manual 3
AltAlert's Modes
Targ (Target) 6
Baro (Barometric pressure) 7
CDI (Course deviation indicator 7
CDI (Course
deviation indicator) 7
Set 8 Dtmr (Downtimer) 11
App (Approach) 11
Fuel 13
Clk (Clock) 13
Aux (Auxiliary) 14
Alerts
(Altitude) 13
Alerts
Level-Off alert 16
Climb and Dive alerts 17
Decision Altitude alert
18
Gear/Gump alert 18
Baro alert 19
Downtimer alert 20
Fuel timer alert 20
GPS alerts 21
Error messages 22
Appendix A Special Parameter Mode 23
Appendix B 3070 Specifications 26
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Read This Two Page Mini-Manual First
Four Steps to Flying with your AltAlert
It is recommended that you try your AltAlert out on a VFR day to familiarize
yourself with its operation.
When you first turn on your AltAlert 3070, you will see the display alternate between a
dot pattern and the current revision of the software. This mode also performs a self test
of the internal circuitry. You will also hear an initial beep through your headphones or
speaker.
1. To start using your
AltAlert 3070, simply push and hold in the small switch and turn it (while pushed in)
one clockwise (CW) click. This switch (turned while pushed in) is referred to as the
mode switch. It is the key to the operation of the 3070. You will see CLK (clock)
alternating with the current time. If you want to change the time, use the two knobs to set
the correct time. The small one sets the minutes and the large one sets the hours.
2. Now turn the mode switch again. Remember to push and hold in the small switch and
turn it one click. You will now see BARO flashing alternating with 2992. Use the two
switches to enter the current pressure. If you want, you can use only the small switch, but
if the pressure is far from 2992, it will take quite a few clicks since it controls the
hundredths of inches digit.
3. Now turn the mode switch one more CW click. You will see DEST alternating with
0.0. DEST stands for Destination elevation. Enter your destinationÕs elevation using
the small switch for 100's of feet and the large switch for 1000's of feet. Round up to the
nearest 100 feet. For example, if your destination is at 2468 feet, enter 2.5 on the display.
This is for the GEAR/GUMP alert when you land. It is definitely worth the effort to
enter this altitude.
4. Now turn the mode switch one more click CW. You will see TARG alternating with
0.0. TARG stands for target altitude. Simply enter your desired initial climb altitude just
like you did for the destination elevation. It is in the same decimal point format. If you
want to climb to 4,000 feet, enter 4.0. It only takes four clicks of the big switch.
GO FLYING! You are now ready to fly with your AltAlert 3070. As you approach
your target altitude you will get a visual flashing LEVL alert and a three tone audio alert
which will probably startle you the first time. Level off at the TARGet altitude. If you
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deviate from this altitude, you will see CLMB or DIVE alerts. If you get a CLMB or
DIVE alert as you start a descent or climb, set in a new target altitude as described next.
To set in a new target altitude, just use the two switches to select the desired altitude.
Each click of the big switch is 1000 feet, with CW (clockwise) increasing the target
altitude and CCW decreasing it. The small switch works the same way in 100 foot
increments.
When you are given a new barometric pressure by ATC, turn the mode switch one click
CW. BARO will appear. Set in the new pressure using only the small knob since
pressure changes tend to be small when flying enroute. TARG mode will be selected
automatically after a few seconds.
If you want to display your altitude MSL as derived by the AltAlert 3070 from your
Mode C encoder, turn the mode switch CCW until ALT appears. The display will show
your altitude exactly as ATC sees your aircraft on their scope. This is your Mode C
altitude corrected for the local barometric pressure that you entered. It should be within
100 or 200 feet of your indicated altitude. To return to TARG mode, turn the mode
switch one click either way.
How to make the damn thing shut up: When landing and you no longer want AltAlert
3070 to generate altitude alerts, simply set in a target altitude above your current
altitude. Since you are descending, you will never reach that altitude! However as you
descend to land, you will get a GEAR/GUMP alert at 1000 feet above your destination
elevation. This is just a reminder to check your gear and will occur even if your gear is
down and locked. Or you can use this alert as a checklist reminder.
The following sections will show you how to get even more use from your AltAlert
3070. But AltAlert's basic function is to help you manage your altitude during enroute
flying and non-precision approaches. And everything you need to know to do that is in
the above paragraphs.
Remember that the AltAlert is designed to assist you in managing your altitude.
However, your pressure altimeter must be your only source of altitude information
for all phases of flight.
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Section One
AltAlert's Modes
1.0 Target Mode
You control which mode the AltAlert is in using the mode switch. The TARG (target)
mode is the default mode and will display the current target altitude. This is the altitude
that you should be flying at. When in TARG mode, you may set in a new target altitude.
The large (fat) switch will change the target altitude by 1000 feet for each click, while the
small switch will change the altitude 100 feet for each click. When you no longer want
altitude alerts as you are descending to land, set in an altitude above your current altitude.
Every time ATC assigns a new altitude, enter it immediately into the AltAlert. It takes
less than a second. The two switches are always ÒhotÓ for immediate entry of a new
target altitude as long as you are in TARG mode.
AltAlert has many other modes that are used in various phases of flight to activate other
features or to simply set in a number such as the current barometric pressure. The
various modes of the AltAlert 3070 should be thought of as being in a circle with
TARG mode being at the top. The mode switch can be turned either CW or CCW to
select the desired mode. Commonly used modes are near the TARG mode.
The mode switch is the small switch pushed and turned while holding it in.
As the mode switch is turned, you will see each mode on the display. You simply stop at
the desired mode and take further action with the small and large switches. Many of the
modes will automatically return to the TARG mode after a short time interval.
TARG
DTMR
APP
FUEL
ALT
CLK
BARO
CDI
SET
AUX
When setting in an altitude, the decimal point will flash to indicate that you can still
change it. When setting a time, the default time will flash to indicate that you can still
change it.
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Suggestion:
To use the AltAlert for altitude management during enroute flying and non-precision
approaches, only the Target mode and Baro mode are required. We suggest that you
acquaint yourself with just these two modes before exploring the other modes. This will
get you familiar with the mode switch, altitude entry, and baro entry. After your first
few flights, try some of the other modes such as the Fuel timer.
1.1 BARO Mode
The BARO mode is the
most selected mode since it is selected every time you are given a new barometric
pressure from ATC. It is located one CW click from TARG mode. After selecting
BARO mode, you may immediately enter the new pressure. You need only to use the
small switch to enter the new pressure just like setting your pressure altimeter. After a
short time, TARG mode will automatically be selected.
You must keep the barometric setting updated in the AltAlert in order for it to function
accurately. Some pilots enter a new baro setting into the AltAlert first, and then enter it
into their pressure altimeter.
1.2 CDI Mode (Select Source for Course Deviation Indicator)
The CDI mode is used to switch your CDI indicator and its flags between your
conventional NAV receiver (VOR/LOC) and your GPS receiver. By selecting the CDI
mode, you will change the GPS/NAV source from the current source to the other source.
For example, if you are now in NAV state (VOR/LOC source) and you select the CDI
mode, the 3070 will send a signal to an external switching device which will then
connect your CDI to your GPS receiver. The display will show either GPS or NAV for a
few seconds to confirm your selection and then TARG mode is automatically selected.
The front panel of the 3070 has two annunciators labeled GPS and NAV. These lamps
are driven by the external CDI switching device and are dimmed by the master avionics
dimmer. The current state of the CDI source is always illuminated by the appropriate
annunciator. The power-on default is NAV for the source of the CDI information. This
connects your VOR/LOC receiver to the CDI. If the relay box loses power, it will select
NAV source automatically. If an ILS frequency is tuned in on your VOR/LOC receiver,
the NAV source for the CDI is automatically selected.
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If you already have a CDI switch and annunciators, the CDI mode may be disabled. See
section on Special Parameters to disable CDI mode. Units are shipped from the factory
with CDI mode enabled.
1.3 SET Mode
SET mode is two CW clicks from TARG mode and is used to set the downtimer,
decision altitude, destination elevation, fuel timer, and clock. Once SET mode is
selected, use the small switch (not pushed in) to locate which item you wish to set. The
small knob acts like the mode switch in that you can turn it in either direction to get to the
sub-mode that you want. All sub-modes under SET mode will be referenced as
SET/Dtmr, SET/Da, SET/Dest, SET/Fuel, and SET/Clk. In all cases, after entering in
the desired number, TARG mode will be automatically selected.
1.3.1 SET/Dtmr (Set Downtimer)
Let's say you want to set the downtimer for timing an approach or holding pattern.. After
selecting SET mode, Dtmr appears since it is the first item in the SET mode. After a
short interval you will see 0:00 flashing or the previous time that had been set. Use the
large switch to set in the minutes and the small switch to set in the seconds. After a few
seconds, TARG mode will be selected. The downtimer will not start until you select
DTMR mode, which is one CCW click of the mode switch from TARG mode. The
downtimer will count down from a maximum of 9 minutes and 59 seconds.
Shortcut: If you want to set in 2:50 (two minutes,fifty seconds), turn the small switch
CCW to get to 50 seconds much faster than turning it CW.
1.3.2 SET/Da
Use the SET/Da mode to set in the rounded-up Decision Altitude for an ILS approach.
To set the Da , select SET mode, then select Da using the small switch. If the published
decision altitude is 1,748 feet, enter Ò1.8Ó. The DA alert will occur when you reach
1,800 feet. This is simply a reminder that the real DA is approaching. Of course, you
can set in a higher altitude such as 1,900 or 2,000 feet if you want.
The maximum altitude for DA is 9,900 feet. So forget using this mode if you are landing
at La Paz, Bolivia, altitude 13,288 feet. The APP mode (Approach mode) is used to
actually select the DA for use during an ILS approach. See APP mode below.
Shortcut: If you select APP mode without first setting in a Da, you will be prompted to
enter a Da. After entering in the Da, APP mode will be automatically selected. If you
then want to cancel APP mode because you are not yet descending on the ILS, simply
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select TARG mode. Note: Once you enter in a Da and you want to change it, you must
use the SET/Da mode described above.
1.3.3 SET/Dest
Use the SET/Dest mode if you decide to go to an airport other than your original
destination. To set the Destination elevation, select SET mode, then select Dest using the
small switch. Be sure to set in the new destinationÕs elevation so the GEAR alert will
function properly. Use the two switches to set in the new destinationÕs altitude. TARG
mode will automatically be selected after entering in your new destination elevation.
Note: the maximum altitude that you can enter is Set/Dest mode is 9,900 feet (9.9). So
forget La Paz, Bolivia as a destination; itÕs over 13,000 MSL.
1.3.4 SET/Fuel
Use SET/Fuel mode to set the long term fuel timer. To set the FUEL timer, select SET
mode, then select Fuel using the small switch.Then use the big switch to set hours and
the small switch to set minutes. The fuel timer will automatically start when you set in a
time. TARG mode will then be automatically selected.
You can view the progress of the FUEL timer by simply selecting FUEL mode at any
time. When the time has expired, you will get a flashing FUEL alert accompanied by
three pairs of beeps. The elapsed time will continue to accumulate, unless you restart the
FUEL timer by entering a new time in SET/Fuel mode, even if you want to time the
same interval again.
For example, you want to burn fuel from one tank for 45 minutes, and then you want to
switch tanks and burn fuel from this tank for 45 minutes. You would set the fuel timer to
0:45. After 45 minutes elapses you will get the Fuel alert. Then select SET/Fuel mode
and 0:45 will display (the original fuel burn time). Change the time from 0:45 to 0:46
and back to 0:45 using the small switch. This ÒnewÓ time will start the fuel timer again.
If you decide to continue to run on the original tank, the fuel timer will continue to count
up past the 0:45 when the alert occurred until you enter a new fuel time.
1.3.5 SET/Clk
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To set the clock, select SET mode, then select Clk using the small switch. The time
format is in 24 hour military format. You can set in UCT (GMT or ZULU time) instead
of local time if you wish. The large switch sets hours and the small switch sets minutes.
You can turn either switch CW or CCW to get to the number you want. This clock is run
from an internal 10 year lithium battery. It is accurate to better than one minute/month.
TARG mode will automatically be selected after setting the clock.
1.4 DTMR (Downtimer) Mode
The DTMR mode is used to start the downtimer. Simply turn the mode switch one CCW
click from TARG. If you are performing an approach that requires timing, you set in the
the published MAP (missed approach time) from the plate using the SET/Dtmr mode.
When you wish to start the downtimer, simply select DTMR mode. The time will
display as it counts down. Normally you would then select TARG mode to monitor your
minimum descent altitude. The timer will continue to run and will display flash 0:00 and
generate two pairs of beeps when the time has expired. You can visit the DTMR mode at
any time to see how much time is remaining.
Shortcut: If you select DTMR mode without first setting in a time, you will enter
SET/Dtmr mode automatically where you can set the desired time. However you must
then start the timer at the appropriate point by selecting DTMR mode.
If you are using the DTMR mode to time a repetitive event such as a holding pattern, you
can re-start the timer after it has expired to time the same activity using the previously set
time interval.
1.5 APP (Approach) Mode for ILS Approaches only
APP mode ( two CCW clicks from TARG mode) is used to generate an alert at Decision
Altitude rounded up to the nearest 100 feet or more. This DA (Decision Altitude) alert is
for use on ILS approaches only. Its purpose is to remind you that the Decision Altitude is
coming up soon. The alert occurs at the altitude entered as DA, not at a higher altitude
as when a LEVL alert is issued prior to reaching a target altitude. Of course, you can set
in any altitude above the published DA as your own DA alert.
The APP mode must not be used during a non-precision approach because the DA alert
only occurs once. You should always use the normal target mode for non-precision
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approaches to provide altitude management during all phases of the approach up to and
including the segment that has an MDA (Minimum Descent Altitude). For any nonprecision
approach, the AltAlert will warn you of any deviation from the target altitude
using the CLMB and DIVE alerts, even during level flight at MDA as you look for the
airport.
APP mode may be cancelled at any time by turning the mode switch either way one
click. TARG mode will be selected with the last set target altitude displayed. APP
mode may be re-established at any time and the previously set DA will be active.
Note: The new FAA terminology for the altitude at which you must have the runway
environment in sight during an ILS approach is called Decision Altitude, formerly called
Decision Height. Decision altitude is more descriptive since it is really an altitude above
sea level, not a height above the airport.
The normal procedure is to set the rounded-up DA in SET/Da mode prior to starting the
ILS approach. For example, if the published DA for the ILS is 1,745 feet, enter 1.8 or 1.9
as the DA. The 3070 will use this altitude when you later select APP mode. When you
are cleared for the ILS approach, you should first set your normal target altitude to the
missed approach initial climb altitude from the approach plate. Then select APP mode.
This will display the previously entered rounded-up decision altitude with a ÒDÓ in front
of the altitude as a reminder. If you set in 1.8 (1,800 feet) as DA, it will display as
ÒD1.8Ó.
Note: When you enter SET/Da mode, the altitude displayed will be the current
DESTination elevation. This prevents you from setting a DA that is below the
airport elevation. DA is Decision Altitude (MSL), not height above the airport.
When you get the DA alert, you will be above actual (published) DA and the AltAlert
will then select normal TARG mode using the previously set target as the missed
approach climb altitude. This eliminates the need to remember this important altitude
during the missed approach procedure.
Shortcut: If you select APP mode without first setting the DA, you will be able to enter
the DA and then APP mode will be automatically selected. You can exit APP mode by
selecting TARG mode at any time.
Note: When the DA alert occurs, the DA altitude will be automatically cleared. If you
do not land and you shoot another ILS approach, you must enter in a new DA. If you
change the DESTination elevation after a DA has been entered, you must also enter a
new DA.
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The AltAlertÕs main purpose is to draw your attention to the pressure altimeter.
You must use your pressure altimeter exclusively for all altitude information in all
phases of flight.
1.6 FUEL Mode
FUEL mode is used to view the elapsed time of the fuel timer. The fuel timer is started
when it is set in SET/Fuel mode. The FUEL alert occurs when the elapsed time matches
the time set in SET/Fuel mode. The FUEL timer will continue to count up until a new
time is entered in SET/Fuel mode. FUEL mode automatically returns to TARG mode
after a few seconds.
The FUEL mode may also be used as a flight time instead of a fuel timer. Simply set in
a time longer than you expect to fly in SET/Fuel mode. The fuel timer will simply count
time in hours and minutes. You may view the elapsed time in Fuel mode.
1.7 CLK Mode
The CLK (Clock) mode is used to view the current time. A Military 24 hour format is
used. A single click of the mode switch will bring you back to TARG mode. The time
may be set in the SET/Clk mode.
1.8 ALT Mode
ALT mode is used to view your encoder altitude corrected for the entered barometric
pressure. This altitude is the same as the altitude that the ATC radar system computes
and displays for the controller for your aircraft. It is likely that this altitude will not
correspond exactly to your pressure altimeter due to normal encoder/altimeter
discrepancies. If you are at the encoder transition point, you may see some flicker in
your altitude. This is normal.
If you see more than a 200 foot difference between your altimeter and the altitude
displayed in ALT mode, you should have your encoder and altimeter checked for
accuracy.
If you are flying at Flight Level 180 or higher, the ALT mode will display your altitude
in a flight level format with an ÒFÓ in front of the altitude. Flight Level 230 shows as
F230. These FL displays show pressure altitude referenced to 29.92Ó.
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A single click of the mode switch will return you to TARG mode.
If you try to set a target while in ALT mode, nothing will happen. You must be in TARG
mode to set a new target. However, any alert while in ALT mode will bring you back to
TARG mode. If your pressure altimeter should fail, you may use the ALT mode as a
coarse backup altimeter.
2.0 AUX (Auxiliary) Mode
The AUX mode is used to
set seldom changed parameters in your AltAlert's parameter memory. These parameters
may be changed temporarily (this flight only) or permanently (active when unit is
powered up). The AUX mode is normally used to change the brightness of AltAlert's
display for night flying. Since full brilliance is desired for daylight flying, the 1/2 or 1/4
setting is selected temporarily for night flight.
After selecting AUX
mode, you use the small switch to select the desired parameter. The default parameter is
Disp for Display Brightness. Then use the large switch to select the desired value for the
selected parameter. For example, after Disp shows, the large switch will select Full, 1/2,
or 1/4. After selecting the desired value, you can simply wait for TARG mode to appear
if you want to temporarily set the parameter. Or you can push in the small switch (mode
switch) and turn it for the parameter to be permanently stored.
The most frequently asked question about the AltAlert is how to permanently store the
parameters. After changing a parameter such as Home elevation, simply push in the
small switch and turn it one click either way. This will store the parameter in a memory
that will be accessed the next time the AltAlert is turned on.
The other parameters that can be changed in AUX mode are:
Loud This controls the loudness of the audio. There are seven levels plus Off. As you
select different levels, you will hear them in your headphones.
Wndw This controls the cruise deviation window. The choices are 100 or 200 feet. 200
feet is the recommended setting. If you pressure altimeter and encoder are matched
exactly, the 200 foot setting will give you a climb or dive alert at 150 feet from your
target altitude. The 100 foot setting will give the alert when you are only 50 feet off
altitude. Since most encoders have an error with respect to the altimeter, this is not a
recommended setting.
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Oset This controls the offset between the desired target altitude and the level alert. It can
be set from 100 to 1000 feet from the target. Two hundred feet works fine for most
piston aircraft.
Home This sets your home base elevation. The initial Destination altitude (DEST) will
default to this "home" value when you are returning to your home airport.
Cdbp This sets the number of beeps (1, 3, or 10) when you deviate from your target
altitude. Cdbp stands for Cruise Deviation Beeps.
E/M (English/Metric) This sets whether you enter the barometric pressure in inches or
hectopascals (formerly millibars). If you change this in flight, you must set in a new
barometric pressure after the receiving the BARO alert.
Section Two
AltAlert 3070 Alerts
Introduction
The AltAlert 3070 generates both audible and visual alerts when something happens
that needs your attention. There are alerts that relate to altitude, alerts that relate to an
elapsed time, and alerts that relate to GPS annunciators. Each category is explained
below. Some of the information in this section has already been covered in the previous
section, but is repeated here for the sake of consistency and completeness. No matter
what mode you may be in when an alert occurs, the alert will display and then TARGet
mode will be selected.
1.0 Altitude related Alerts
The AltAlert 3070's
primary purpose is to alert you just prior to reaching an assigned altitude and if you
deviate from that altitude once established. In addition, it will alert you just above
Decision Altitude on an ILS approach as well as generate a GEAR alert prior to landing.
For aircraft that fly in the flight levels, it will alert you to set the pressure altimeter when
transitioning FL180.
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1.1 Level-off Alert
The LEVL alert
accompanied by a three step tone will alert you that you are approaching the altitude you
have set in as the current target altitude. This alert can occur from 1000 to 100 feet from
the target altitude in hundred foot steps. For fast climbing piston aircraft, a setting of 300
feet gives plenty of warning to level off. For turbine aircraft 800 to 1000 feet is a better
setting. See section on AUX mode on how to change the LEVL alert offset to match
your aircraftÕs climb rate. If you have an altitude-hold autopilot, press the hold button
after the LEVL alert when you have reached your desired altitude.
Note: The LEVL alert tells you that your desired target altitude will soon be reached.
The AltAlert does not provide any alert as the target altitude is reached. If you
inadvertently go past the target altitude, you will get climb or dive alerts.
1.2 Climb and Dive Alerts
The CLMB alert will
occur if you descend below the current target altitude by either 100 or 200 feet. It is
accompanied by short beeps. You can set the number of beeps to 1, 3 or 10 in the AUX
mode using the Cdbp (Cruise deviation beeps) parameter. Three beeps seems about right
for most pilots.
The DIVE alert will
occur if you climb above the current target altitude by either 100 or 200 feet. It is
accompanied by short beeps. The number of beeps is the same as for the CLMB alert.
You may also get a
CLMB or DIVE alert after you have received the LEVL alert, but prior to reaching your
target. This is just a friendly reminder to continue your climb or descent toward the
target. If you inadvertently continue past the target altitude, you will get a CLMB or
DIVE alert until you get back to the target altitude. These alerts will continue about
every ten seconds until you have reached the target altitude.
When you are descending for a landing and want the AltAlert to remain quiet, simply set
in a target altitude above your current altitude. This will prevent any LEVL alerts and
CLMB/DIVE alerts.
Note: If you get CLMB or DIVE alerts and you are level at the proper altitude as shown
on your pressure altimeter, there are two possible causes: The barometric pressure is set
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differently on your altimeter and the AltAlert or there is a discrepancy between your
encoder and your altimeter. You should have your encoder and altimeter checked for
accuracy. The ALT mode will provide more information about the correlation between
your altimeter and encoder.
1.3 Decision Altitude Alert
The AltAlert 3070 has
an alert on an ILS approach that occurs as you reach DA (Decision Altitude) rounded up
to nearest 100 feet or higher. The flashing DA alert accompanied by three beeps will
occur as you reach the altitude set in the SET/Da mode. The DA alert will occur at this
altitude, not an altitude above it as with the LEVL alert which occurs prior to reaching
your target altitude. The DA alert occurs only once. The DA can be entered well before
commencing the approach.
To set the DA, select SET mode. Then select Da using the small switch. Set in the DA
using the big switch for 1000's of feet and the small switch for 100's of feet. Always
round up the DA to the nearest 100 feet or higher.
Just prior to entering APP mode, you should enter the missed approach initial climb
altitude as the targe altitude. As you pass through the DA, the TARG mode will be
automatically selected using the previously entered missed approach altitude.
If you have not set in a DA when you first enter APP mode, you will be prompted to
enter in the DA. After you enter it, the AltAlert 3070 will immediately go into APP
mode.
When you are in APP mode, the decision altitude is prefixed with a D. For example, if
the DA is set to 1,700 feet, it will display as ÒD1.7Ó. This is to distinguish the decision
target altitude from a normal target altitude.
1.4 GEAR/GUMP Alert
The flashing GEAR alert
occurs as you descend to between 500 and 1000 feet above your DESTination airport
elevation and is accompanied by three sets of stepped beeps. The audio is louder than the
normal setting. You can set the actual elevation (500 to 1000 feet in 100 foot steps) above
the destination airport (called the Gear altitude) in the AUX mode. The GEAR alert
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message can be set to GUMP if you prefer. You can also configure the GEAR alert to be
completely disabled. See section on Special Parameters to change the Gear altitude or
gear message.
WARNING!
To arm the GEAR alert, you must at sometime during the flight climb at least 100 feet
above the altitude of the destination airport plus the Gear altitude. For example, if the
destination elevation is 2400 feet and the Gear altitude is 1000 feet, you must climb to at
least 3500 feet during some portion of the flight.
If you descend and receive the GEAR alert, but do not intend to land (assuming some
low level sight seeing or a missed approach), you must climb to at least the destination
elevation plus the Gear altitude plus 100 feet to rearm the GEAR alert.
A low flight around the pattern will not arm the GEAR alert. You should always use
your normal check list to assure that all pre-landing checks have been made. The
AltAlert will not prevent a gear-up landing and is not intended as a replacement for
the checklist that is in your aircraftÕs operating handbook.
If you change your destination during flight, you must set in a new DESTination
elevation in the SET/Dest mode. Otherwise, the GEAR/GUMP alert may not occur if
the new destination is higher than the original.
1.5 Barometric Setting Alert
The BARO alert occurs as you transition 17,800 feet. If you are climbing you should set
your pressure altimeter to 29.92. The AltAlert 3070 will use 29.92 as its reference
automatically.
If you are descending, you should set your pressure altimeter to the current barometric
pressure. The AltAlert 3070 will automatically start using the barometric pressure last
entered in the BARO mode. You should enter the current barometric pressure when
cleared to descend below FL180. ATC gives this pressure when this clearance is issued.
The BARO alert will also occur if you change the units for barometric pressure from
inches to millibars or millibars to inches. When this unit change is made, the pressure
will be defaulted to 29.92Ó or 1013Hpa.
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2.0 Time Related Alerts
The AltAlert 3070 has
two internal timers in addition to its time of day clock. The downtimer (DMTR) is used
to time approaches, holding patterns, or any other activity that is less than 10 minutes.
The downtimer has one second resolution. The FUEL timer is used to time events that
range up to 9 hours 59 minutes, such as switching fuel tanks, elapsed flight time, or time
to next waypoint on long legs.
2.1 Downtimer Alert
When using the downtimer, you must first set the desired time in the SET/Dtmr
mode. Select SET mode, then select Dtmr using the small switch. Then use the big
switch to set minutes and then the small switch to set seconds. The range is 9 minutes 59
seconds to one second.
Once a time has been set, you start the timer by selecting DMTR mode. This is one
CCW click from the TARG mode. The time will display as it counts down toward 0:00.
You can select TARG mode (or any other mode) after selecting DTMR mode. You can
check on the progress of the timer by re-selecting DTMR mode. You will see 0:00
flashing and two pairs of beeps when the time reaches zero. If you want to restart the
downtimer using the same time interval, simply re-enter DTMR mode.
Note: If you select DTMR mode without first setting a time, you will be prompted to
enter a time. Then you must re-enter DTMR mode at the appropriate time to start the
timer going.
2.2 FUEL Timer Alert
The AltAlert 3070 has a timer to help remind you to switch tanks or any other
event that can range from one minute to 9 hours 59 minutes. This mode can also be
used as a flight timer.
To set the FUEL timer, select SET mode, then select Fuel using the small switch. Then
use the big switch to set hours and the small switch to set minutes. The FUEL timer will
start counting up as soon as the SET/Fuel mode is exited.
You can view the progress of the FUEL timer by simply selecting FUEL mode at any
time. When the time has expired, you will get a flashing FUEL alert accompanied by
three pairs of beeps. The elapsed time will continue to accumulate, unless you restart the
FUEL timer by entering a new time in SET/Fuel mode, even if you want to time the
same interval again.
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For example, you want to burn fuel from one tank for 45 minutes, and then you want to
switch tanks and burn fuel from this tank for 45 minutes. You would set the fuel timer to
0:45. After 45 minutes elapses you will get the Fuel alert. Then select SET/Fuel mode
and 0:45 will display (the original fuel burn time). Change the time from 0:45 to 0:46
and back to 0:45 using the small switch. This ÒnewÓ time will start the fuel timer again.
If you decide to continue to run on the original tank, the fuel timer will continue to count
up past the 0:45 when the alert occurred until you enter a new fuel time.
3.0 GPS Alerts
The 3070 has four annunciator lights for use with GPS receivers. These lights are
driven by the GPS receiver and come on during various phases of an approach. The
waypoint annunciator signal is available on all GPS and LORAN receivers. This
annunciator labelled WPT on the face of the 3070.
The other annunciators are labelled APR (approach), HLD (hold), and MSG (message).
Whenever any of these lights turns on, the 3070 can provide a visual flashing GPS alert
along with a distinctive two step tone. The alert will flash for a few seconds with the
abbreviation for the GPS alert: MSG for Message, WPT for Waypoint, HLD for Hold,
and APR for Approach. This alert is used as an adjunct to the annunciator lights to draw
your attention to the current GPS condition. Immediately after the GPS alert, the 3070
will revert to TARG mode.
The Special Parameter mode is used to configure the 3070 GPS alerts so that they occur
only when specific annunciators come on. Some of the annunciator signals (like MSG)
can be rather annoying because of their frequent occurence. The 3070 allows you to
generate a GPS alert (audio and flashing message) for the signals that you specify.
In all cases, the actual annunciator light will illuminate when the GPS receiver activates
that signal. See AUX mode for information on how to configure the GPS alerts. The
factory default is that only the Waypoint signal will trigger an alert.
The brightness of the four GPS annunciators is controlled by your master avionics
dimmer.
Note: If your aircraft already has visual GPS annunciators, these may be wired to the
AltAlert 3070 to provide the additional visual and audio alerts provided by the 3070.
4.0 Error Messages
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If you see Eerr on the display, the AltAlert is getting invalid Mode C altitude data from
your encoder. Check to see that your transponder is on, since the transponder must be on
for the AltAlert to function. Some encoders have a warmup time during which there is
no valid output and the Eerr message will appear until the encoder is at operating
temperature.
If you see SERR, the power-on self test has found an internal fault. The 3070 must be
serviced.
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Appendix A
Special Parameter Mode
1.0 Special Parameters
There are six parameters that can be set in the Special Parameter mode. These are
changed very seldom so they are ÒhiddenÓ behind the E/M parameter. Some of these
parameters related to the 3070/GPS interface and are set by your installer. Three of
these parameters are meant to be set by the pilot using the instrument.These include the
gear alert message, the gear alert altitude, and the GPS annunciator alerts. The special
parameters are:
Gear alert message: Gear (GEAR - GUMP - or none)
Gear Alert Altitude: Galt (500 to 1000 feet in 100 foot steps above
DESTination elevation)
Serial Format: Sfmt (Format of the serial altitude data that goes to the GPS
receiver:TRIM, NSTR, APLO, and PABP).
Reference pressure for serial altitude: Salt (BARC for corrected altitude and BARP
for pressure altitude) Applies to TRIM, NSTR, and APLO formats only. BARC setting
provides corrected altitude to GPS receiver eliminating need to enter baro pressure into
GPS receiver.
GPS Alert: Gpsa determines which of the four GPS annunciators will generate a GPS
alert. Any combination of the four lines representing Waypoint, Hold, Approach, and
Message may be selected. A capital letter means that signal will cause an alert. There
are 16 combinations available.
CDI switching mode: Cdi (On to enable CDI mode, Off to disable)
These six parameters are set at GEAR, 1.0 (1000 feet) , TRIM, BARP, Wham, and On
respectively when the unit is shipped from the factory.
1.1 Entering Special Parameter Mode
Select AUX mode.
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Use small switch to select E/M (English/Metric units for BARO mode) Wait a few
seconds until Gear appears.
The big switch will select GEAR, GUMP, or OFF for the gear alert.
Turn the small switch one CW click and Galt will appear for Gear alert altitude. Use the
large switch to select an altitude from 500 to 1000 feet above your destination airport.
This displays as 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9 and 1.0.
Turn the small switch again one CW click. Sfmt for Serial Format will appear. Use the
large switch to select between TRIM, NSTR, APLO, and PABP setting. TRIM selects
the Trimble and Garmin format at 9600 baud. NSTR selects the Northstar format at 2400
baud. APLO selects the IIMorrow Apollo format at 1200 baud. PABP is for GPS
receivers that can use the pressure altitude and barometric pressure format. This setting is
made by your installer.
Turn the small switch one more click CW and Salt will appear to select the pressure
reference for the GPS serial altitude. The large knob will select BARC for
barometrically corrected altitude and BARP for pressure altitude (29.92). If BARC is
selected, there is no need to set the barometric pressure on the GPS receiver since the
AltAlert supplied altitude will automatically be corrected for local barometric pressure as
already entered on the 3070. The Salt setting has no effect if PABP is selected as the
format.
Turn the small switch one more click and Gpsa (GPS alert) will appear to select which
annunciators will generate a signal specific GPS alert when they illuminate. There are
sixteen combinations of the four lines representing Waypoint, Hold, Approach, and
Message. The default is Wham where the capital W says to generate an alert for the
waypoint signal. As the large knob is turned, additional capital letters appear in varying
combinations. If, for example, you want an GPS alert on the waypoint and approach
signals, you would select WhAm. This will generate a GPS alert when either the
Waypoint or Approach signals come on, illuminating the respective annunciators and
providing a visual GPS alert and audio alert.
Turn the small switch one more click and Cdi will appear. Turn the small switch to
select On or Off for the CDI mode. Since some aircraft will already have a switch for
NAV/GPS switching for the CDI, disabling the CDI mode will eliminates a nonfunctional
mode on the 3070.
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1.2 Leaving Special Parameter Mode
When you have finished setting these special parameters, push in the small switch and
turn it either way while holding it in. This will store the parameters permanently and put
you back in target mode.
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Appendix B
Specifications for 3070
Target Altitude Range: zero to 62,700 feet in 100 foot steps
Level Off alert: 100 to 1000 feet from target altitude in 100 foot steps
Cruise Deviation Alert: 100 or 200 feet from target altitude
Gear Alert: 500 to 1000 feet above destination in 100 foot steps
Decision Altitude Alert: Occurs at DA as set by pilot up to 9,900 feet
Displayable altitude: -1,200 to 62,700 feet corrected by baro pressure
Barometric Pressure Range: 28.00 to 31.99Ó Hg or 960 to 1109 Hpa
Baro Alert: Occurs while transitioning FL180
Home elevation: 0 to 9,900 feet in 100 foot steps
Downtimer range: 1 second to 9 minutes 59 seconds
Fuel timer Range: 1 minute to 9 hours 59 minutes
Clock Display: 24 hour military format (ten year lithium battery)
Display Brightness: three levels, pilot controlled
Audio Levels: 7 plus off (140mw into 500 ohms)
Number of beeps for cruise deviation alert: 1,3, or 10 beeps
Encoder maximum altitude: 62,700 feet (using D4 bit)
Encoder compatibility: All modern encoders (must not use pulsed strobe)
GPS Annunciators: WPT, APR, HLD, and MSG (14v or 28v lamps)
CDI Annunciators: NAV and GPS (14v or 28V lamps)
GPS Annunciators dimming: Use aircraft avionics dimming bus (14 or 28v)
GPS/NAV annunciator dimming: Use aircraft avionics dimming bus or day/night output
on CDI relay box if available
Annunciator power: 28 v @ 48 ma for each lamp or 14v @ 60 ma
Serial Altitude Data Formats: Trimble, Northstar, Garmin, and Apollo
Serial Altitude Reference: Pressure altitude or baro corrected altitude
Sonalert Output: Signal to drive external Sonalert
CDI output: For CDI switching box, Low for GPS, High for NAV
Power Requirements 11 to 30 volts at 100 ma (not including annunciators)
Size: 2.3Ó x 2.3Ó x 6.5Ó behind panel, fits 2.25Ó instrument hole, #6 screws
Weight: 14 oz
Operating temperature: -20C to +55C
Connectors on rear: One DB-15 male and one DB-15 female
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