~

~
~ -
Electromagnetic Compatibility
~ Tests of 1030/1090 MHz
Waveform Environment to

~
I, Second Generation VORTAC
I
~ Ralph J. Yost

~
... ~
~J.~.~,
, '~~~lil ','-'1

~
!('I(7 oJ. ~- 1994

~C9frERLI'?RNlr
.~
September 1987

DOTIFAA/CT-TN87/15
ClTYMl.~
"'_
•
1
~ Document is on file at the Technical Center
Library, Atlantic City Airport, N.J. 08405

~
\·1..

~
0
U,S. Depanmenl of Transportation
Federal Avkrtlon AdmInIstration
Technical Center
Atlantic City Airport, N.J. 08405

~ m
 NOTICE
This do~ument is di.aeainated under the sponsorship of
the Department of Transportation in the intereat of
information ex~h.nle. The United States Government
assumes no liability for the contents or use thereof.

The United States Government doe. not endorse products

or manufacturers. Trade or manufacturer's names appear
herein solely because they are conaidered esaential to
the object of this report.
 Technical k.,.rt DocuIHntatioft 'age
1. Roport No. 2. Gov.r"lIlo"t Acco••ion No. 3. R.ci,i...t'. Cotolo. No.

DOT/FAA/CT-TN87/15
4. Titl. 0"16 Subtit'. 5. R....rt /)ot.
Seotembe'r 1987
ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY TESTS OF 1030/1090 MHz 6. P.,f....i". O'....izoli." C.d.
WAVEFORM ENVIRONMENT TO SECOND GENERATION VORTAC
a. P.rl....i". Or....izO'io.. R.,.rt No.
7. Author'.l

Ralph J. Yost DOT/FAAJCT-TN87 I 15

9. Porformin. Or,.. i ••'io" N_. MeI.Adelr... 10. W.,k Unit No. (TRAIS)
Federal Aviation Administration
Technical Center 11. Controct or G'ant N•.
Atlantic City International Airport, New Jersey 08405 F1804B
13. Ty,••f R.po" ond P.,i.e1 Cov.r.d
12. • .... o'in' ""...c, N_. anel "del,...
U.S. Department of Transportation Technical Note
Federal Aviation Administration
Technical Center 14. Spo"••rin. A".ncy C.el.
Atlantic City International Airport New Jersev 08405
15. S""'.lIl"""y Not..

16. Ahtroct

Data were collected relative to the tactical air navigation (TACAN)/distance measuring
equipment (DME) beacon ground system to determine the TACAN/DME receiver guardbands
required to accommodate Mode S, Traf fie Alert and Collision Avoidance System
(TCAS), and the Air Traffic Control Radar Beacon System (ATCRBS) signal waveforms.
Specifically, this report addresses the impact of Mode S/TCAS waveforms at
1030 megahertz (MHz) and ATCRBS/Mode S waveforms at 1090 MHz on the victim TACAN/DME
second generation VORTAC (SGV) ground system. Electromagnetic compatibility (EMe)
testing on the victim SGV has not previously been performed.

It was determined that X-mode operation of the SGV requires a frequency guard band of
at least 3 MHz from 1030 MHz or at least 6 MHz from 1090 MHz. Further investigation
of the performance of the SGV in Y-mode is recommended prior to Y-mode frequency
assignments by the Federal Aviation Administration.

17, Koy Word. 18. Di.trillu,l... Stot_ _t

Second Generation VORTAC (SGV) Document is on file at the Technical
VORTAC Center Library, Atlantic City
TACAN International Airport, NJ 08405
Distance Measuring Equipment (DME)
19. Soeu,ity Clo.. i'. (of tIIi. ,eporr) 20. Secu,ity Clo..if. (.f thi. p...) 21. N•••• p .... 22. Prie.

Unclassified Unclassified 5~
Fo"" DOT F 1700.7 (1-72) Rop,.4uctl.... f c• ..,I.tocl , . . . .uthorl~ocI
."
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY v

INTRODUCTION 1 -
-

Purpose 1
Background 1

DESCRIPTION OF EQUIPMENT 1

ATCRBS General Description 1

Mode S 4
Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System 5
TACAN!DME System Overview 6
Second Generation VORTAC DME Receiver 7

SPECIAL TEST EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION 11

ATCRBS!Mode S Fruit Generator, 1090-MHz Environment 11

Mode S!TCAS Waveform Generator, 1030-MHz Environment 11

DISCUSSION 16

Method of Approach 16
Test Conditions 23
Performance Parameters 24
Data Collection Flow 24

TEST RESULTS AND ANALYSIS 25

Effects Test Results, l090-MHz Environment 25

Effects Test Results, l030-MHz Environment 45

SUMMARY 45

CONCLUSIONS 51

REFERENCES 51

iii
 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

Figure Page

1 ATCRBS/Mode S All-Call Interrogations 2

2 ATCRBS Reply Format 3

3 Mode S Interrogation 4
4 Mode S Reply Format 5

5 Frequency Assignment Chart for the TACAN/DME Frequencies 7

6 TACAN Receiver Circuits Functional Block Diagram 9

7 Block Diagram Fruit Generator 12

8 Block Diagram ATCRBS Fruit Reply Generator 13

9 Block Diagram Mode S Fruit Reply Generator 15

10 1030-MHz Environment Simulator 20

11 Hardware Implementation of 83 TCAS-Aircraft 21

12 1030/1090 MHz Environment to SGV EMC Test Configuration 22

13 Second Generation VORTAC TACAN EMC Effects from 27

1090-MHz Waveforms

14 Reply Efficiency at Receiver Sensitivity 39

15 Second Generation VORTAC TACAN EMC Effects from 46

1030-MHz Waveforms

LIST OF TABLES

Table Page

1 Mode S Message Distribution 14

2 Mode S/TCAS Waveform Generator TCAS Output 17

3 Maximum Mode S Sensor Interrogation Rates 19

U.S. National Standard Defined

4 Data Output Sheet 26

iv
 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

For the purpose of electromagnetic compatibility testing, beacon performance is

best characterized by reply efficiency. The data show that when l09O-MHz Mode S
fruit (up to lk) was injected into the second generation VORTAC (SGV) beacon
receiver, the reply efficiency was noticeably degraded until the frequency
separation between the tact ical air navigation (TACAN) receiver and the Mode S -
fruit was at least 3 MHz. At delta F=3 MHz, the effect on beacon reply efficiency
from l090-MHz Mode S fruit was negligible.

When up to 40k of l09O-MHz Air Traffic Control Radar Beacon System (ATCRBS) fruit
was injected into the beacon receiver, the data show that reply efficiency was
comparable to the baseline tests when the frequency separation between the ATCRBS
fruit and the beacon receiver was at least 6 MHz. When the fruit rate was lower,
reply efficiency was not degraded.

Results of the l030-MHz tests indicate that beacon reply efficiency is minimally
affected even at delta F=O MHz. However, it was at delta F=3 MHz that reply
efficiency performance degradation was negligible in the presence of l030-MHz
waveforms.

v
 INTRODUCTION

PURPOSE.

The purpose of this effort was to collect data from which frequency guardband
recommendations could be made for tactical air navigation (TACAN)/distance
measuring equipment (DME) beacon ground system receivers. These guardbands are
required to accommodate Mode S, Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System
(TCAS), and the Air Traff'ic Control Radar Beacon System (ATCRBS) signal waveforms.
Specifically, this report addresses the impact of Mode S/TCAS waveforms at
1030 megahertz (MHz) and ATCRBS/Mode S waveforms at 1090 MHz on the TACAN/DME
rece iverof the second generation very high frequency omnidirect ional range (VOR)
TACAN (VORTAC) ground system.

BACKGROUND.

The Federal Aviat ion Administration (FAA) plans to deploy the Mode S system as
a replacement for the present ATCRBS and anticipates the deployment of TeAS in the
near future. Both systems operate at the same frequencies as the present ATCRBS,
i.e., 1030 MHz uplink and 1090 MHz downlink.

The current frequency separation between ATCRBS transmissions and the common
TACAN/DME civil/military channels provides some degree of isolation. Because
the Mode S system signals use long interrogation and reply signals, phase shift-
keying modulation techniques and high chip transmission ra~es, the effect of
these characteristics on TACAN/DME operation need to be investigated. It is
also necessary to investigate the effect of TCAS 1030 MHz pulses on TACAN/DME.
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing on the victim second generation VORTAC
(SGV) has not previously been performed.

DESCRIPTION OF EQUIPMENT

ATCRBS GENERAL DESCRIPTION.

The ATCRBS is a cooperative system which consists of a ground-based rotating

directional antenna, interrogator/receiver, signal processing equipment, and active
aircraft transponders. In operation, an interrogation pulse-group is transmitted
from the directional antenna and triggers each airborne transponder located in the
directional main beam as the antenna rotates or scans by the aircraft. Measurement
of the signal round-trip transmit time (the interrogation and reply) determines the
range (rho), and the mean direction. of the interrogator antenna during aircraft
replies determines the azimuth (theta) of the replying aircraft.

The ground-based interrogations are rigidly controlled radio frequency (RF) pulse
groups (code trains) transmitted by the ground equipment (on 1030 MHz) to
interrogate all aircraft within the area of coverage. Upon interrogation, the
aircraft transponder transmits a coded pulse train reply on a different frequency
(1090 MHz). This reply contains the aircraft identity selected by the pilot or,
when the aircraft is properly equipped, the aircraft aIt itude. The ground-based

1
equipment can then automatically decode the information and determine the aircraft
range, azimuth, identity, and altitude. Discrete aircraft emergency codes are also
provided in the ATCRBS.

ATCRBS GROUND INTERROGATION. The basic interrogation consists of pulse pairs

(PI and P3) which are transmitted at a repetition rate of several hundred pairs
per second by the rotating directional antenna. These pulses are nominally
of equal amplitude and are separated by time intervals dependent on the mode
of interrogation (see figure 1). The primary modes of interest are mode 3/A
(identity) and mode C (altitude). Other modes, such as mode 4, are not used in
the civil air traffic control (ATC) system and will not be considered. The time
interval (between PI and P3 in mode 3/A) is 8 microseconds (~sec). The aircraft
transponder decodes this time interval as an "identity" interrogation and responds
with the aircraft beacon code selected by the pilot. A time interval of 21 ~sec
between Pi and P3 is decoded as an altitude interrogation (mode C) which requests
the transponder to reply with the aircraft's barometric altitude.

_ _ _ _ { ModI A:
Mod~ C.

INTERROGATION

SLS CONTROL
---.Jr-,
Pl:.. r:-1
I Pz 1 . _
TRANSMISSION
~
O.8~sec

FIGURE 1. ATCRBS/MODE S ALL-CALL INTERROGATIONS

2
ATCRBS AIRBORNE REPLY. Upon proper interrogation, the airborne transponder
generates and transmits a reply pulse train encoded with either the aircraft's
identity or pressure altitude. depending on the mode of interrogation. The reply
consists of two framing pulses (Fl and F2) spaced 20.3 l-lsec apart; twelve data
pulses and one special purpose pulse position (X pulse), all spaced in increments
of 1.45 usec from the first framing pulse; and one special position identification
(SPI) pulse spaced 4.35 l!sec after the F2 framing pulse. The reply pulse train is
shown in figure 2 and is 20.3 l-lsec in duration between Fl and F2 for either mode
of interrogation.

In the case of mode 3/A interrogations aircraft identity is encoded in the ABC D
pulses (figure 2) providing a capability of 4,096 discrete codes. For Mode C, the
aircraft alt itude is encoded (gray code) in these same ABC D pulses, providing
altitude capability from -1000 feet to +126,700 feet in lOo-foot increments.

The X pulse position indicated in the reply in figure 2 is used exclusively by the
military in this country. The SPI pulse is the "ident" pulse transmitted upon
request of the air traffic controller in mode 3/A only. This results in special
indications on the air traffic controller's display which identifies the particular
aircraft responding to the ident request. (See references 1 to 4 for more detailed
information pertaining to ATCRBS operation. performance, and requirements.)

111..."'..'1
CI
, r"'
Al Cz
. ,. .
r· , r~" r-, r-,
)(

,. . . ., r·., ,.-, r~, f'-" ,.... r-' lL SPI

r-"\
rl
~-,

, I t I I I I I' 'I • I I I i I I I I 1 f f

- .. , I I I II •
---L--'---'--'-_-'--L--A.
I
I " I I • I • I " I I I I I I
-J....-_..L........l._.-'--'--_....... _J..._ --A..--&...--......L......L._~-L.. ---J..- L
; I I'
.. .-L_..... - - - ' - - ' - - . .
t
~
1
__

I I ~~ 1~"'---i
o ,~~ 2.9 ~.O IU 1O.1~ t5.9~ t7 4 fl.e, 20.3

TlM( 1,..1

FIGURE 2. ATCRBS REPLY FORMAT

3
MODE S.

Mode S is a discrete addressing air traffic surveillance system that provides

improved surveillance data and an integral ground-air-ground digital communications
data link. Mode S is compatible with the present ATCRBS.

Uplink interrogations are on a frequency of 1030 MHz. The interrogations are

two basic types consisting of (1) the present pulse-amplitude modulation (PAM)
mode 3/A and C ATCRBS waveforms with the addition of a P4 pulse after the normal
P3 pulse (ATCRBS/Mode S all-call, figure 1), and (2) a discrete interrogation
consisting of PAM PI and P2 pulses followed by a data field of 16.25 or 30.25 ~sec
(see figure 3). The information in the data field is in the form of different ia1
phase-shift keying (DPSK) modulation at a 4-megabit pulse-per-second data rate.

Downlink replies are at 1090 MHz. The replies are either the present PAM ATCRBS
reply waveforms or the Mode S waveforms. The ATCRBS replies are the normal 12-bit
reply field; the Mode S replies consist of a PAM 4-pulse preamble followed by a
data field of 56 or 112 ~sec. The data in the data field are in the pulse position
modulation (PPM) format at a l-megabit-per-second data rate.

1'H-16I!1~.

_ _ _ _ _ PRE4MBLE _ _ _ _ _ _.-+1... DATA BLOCK

1 15 OR 29 ~set
05025

r'·O' 01>.,,, T' 0' 0.\ ''; 0.5! 0.1 fUec:

I
"'HERRO_G4TION PI I I P2 I D 1! i! j 1?~l :.. . . . . . .
I· O.8~c
~ I
SYNC PHASE
...............
"""'"" PHASE
OATA - BIT / / /'
REVERSAL POSITIONS
REVERSAL

FIGURE 3. MODE S INTERROGATION

4
 TRAFFIC ALERT AND COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM.

The TCAS is an airborne collision avoidance system which can operate compatibly
with ATCRBS and Mode S.

This system transmits on 1030 MHz and has the two basic types of interrogations:
(1) the present PAM mode C ATCRBS waveform with the additional P4 pulse after the
normal P3 pulse (figure 1), and (2) a Mode S interrogation consisting of PAM PI
and P2 pulses followed by a data field of 15 or 29 ~sec time duration (figure 3).
The information in the data field is in the form of DPSK modulation at a 4-megabit
pulse-per-second data rate.

Replies are received at 1090 MHz. The replies are the present PAM ATCRBS reply
waveforms and the discrete address waveforms. The ATCRBS replies are the normal
l2-bit reply field (figure 2); Mode S replies consist of a PAM 4-pulse preamble
followed by a data field of 56 or 112 I!sec (figure 4). The information in the
data field is in the PPM form at a l-megabit-per-second data rate .

.- -'- PREAMBLE DATA BLOCK --------004.1

8.0 "see 56 OR 112 llsec
Ir--,--r-,--r-,--r-'--r-.
BIT I I BIT 2 I BIT 3 I 91T 4 I I :1.\
I--r--~--r--"T-"
I BIT N I
1'l0lllollloIIIOI I 2I
I
lqoltlol
, I t I ,

I I I I I
0.0 0.5 1.0 3.5 4.:'1
TIME ("seel

NOTE: N • 56 or 1\2

o o

EXAMPLE: REPLY DATA BLOCK WAVEFORM CORRESPONDING TO 91T

SE~UENCE 0010.•• 001 SEQuENCE 0010.•.001

FIGURE 4. MODE S REPLY FORMAT

5
TACAN/DME SYSTEM OVERVIEW.

VORTAC. The primary en route navigation system used within the continental United
States is VOR/DME. The VOR (VHF omnidirect ional range) provides the azimuth
relative to the VOR ground station, while DME furnishes a measurement of distance
from the aircraft to the DME ground station. In most cases, VOR and DME are
collocated as a VOR/DME facility. VOR operates in the 108-117.95 MHz band, while
DME operates in the 960-1215 MHz band. TACAN is a combination of omnibearing and
distance-measuring functions. Because TACAN is a military system, the azimuth
portion of a TACAN facility is not widely used by nonmilitary users. The distance-
measuring function of TACAN, however, is a DME and is therefore accessible to
anyone with a DME interrogator. So that both military and civil aircraft can
navigate using the same airway network, TACAN facilities are collocated with VOR
facilities. A VOR collocated with a TACAN is classified as a VORTAC.

TACAN/DME operation requires an interrogator in the aircraft and a transponder

(beacon) on the ground. The TACAN interrogator calculates a bearing and a range
based on reference signals transmitted by the ground station. The DME interrogator
calculates only the slant range with respect to the ground station. Slant range
is obtained by interrogating the transponder which receives and decodes each
interrogation (a pulse pair with proper spacing) and then transmits a reply
(also a pulse pair with proper spacing). The interrogator receives the reply
and determines the distance, based on the time between transmission of the
interrogation and the reception of the reply (minus the transponder's fixed time
delay) .

TACAN/DME CHANNEL ASSIGNMENTS. Frequencies at I-MHz increments in the 960-1215 MHz

band are used in airborne interrogators and ground transponder equipments of the
TACAN/DME systems. TAGAN and DME frequencies are designated on aeronautical charts
by channel numbers 1-126. Figure 5 is a frequency assignment chart for the TACAN/
DME frequencies. TAGAN channels are paired with VOR or instrument landing system
(ILS) localizer frequencies in the 108-118 MHz band. This pairing arrangement
facilitates the employment of a VOR in conjunction with a TACAN/DME transponder to
provide a VORTAC facility to provide simultaneous azimuth and range information to
civil aircraft.

TACAN channels 17-59 and 70-126 are designated for use in the National Airspace
Syst em. Mos t 0 f these TACAN channe Is are used by the Federa I Aviat ion Adminis-
tration (FAA) to provide air navigation services. TACAN channels 1-16 and 60-69
are designated for the military services and are not used by civil aviation.

TAGAN channels designated X-mode use a pulse pair spacing of 12 ~sec for both the
ground-to-air (G!A) and the air-to-ground (A/G) frequencies. TACAN channels
des ignated Y-mode use a G/A pulse pair spacing of 30 \.l sec and an AiG pulse pair
spacing of 36 ~sec. Figure 5 shows which channels are assigned to military
and civil use with the corresponding G/A and A/G frequencies along with the
corresponding VORTAC/ILS very high frequency (VHF) pairs.

Figure 5 also shows that the closest A/G assigned frequency to the 1090 MHz
frequency of the ATCRBS/Mode S downlink signals is, in fact, 1090 MHz. Military
TACAN channel 66X and 66Y are assigned an A/G frequency of 1090 MHz (64X = 1088
MHz, 65X = 1089 MHz, 66X = 1090 MHz, etc.). Thus, a ground TACAN transponder
assigned to operate on 66X or 66Y would have its receiver tuned to 1090 MHz.

6
 Also note from figure 5, the closest civil A/G frequency to 1090 MHz ~s 1094 MHz.
Thus, a ground TACAN transponder assigned to operate on channel 70X or 70Y would
have its receiver tuned to 1094 MHz.

The closest A/G assigned frequency to the 1030 MHz frequency of the Mode S/TCAS
waveforms signals is, in fact, 1030 MHz. Military TACAN channel 6X and 6Y would
have its receiver tuned to 1030 MHz.

The closes t c ivi! A/G frequency to 1030 MHz is 1041 MHz. A ground TACAN
transponder assigned to operate on 17X or 17Y would have its receiver tuned to
1041 MHz.

A,elsnaent "UHary CivU Hilitary "IlHary ClvU "tlllary CivU HfUtary Hiliter! Civil

Chennel 11-16X 111-591 601-6ll 64Y-69Y 70Y-126Y 1Y-16Y 17Y-59Y 6OY-6lY 64X-6'Z 701-1261X

ciA Frequency
(11Hz) 962-971 918-1020 1021-1024 101$-1030 IOll-1081 1088-IIOl 1104-1146 1147-1150 1151-1156 1157-1213

Ale Frequency
(101):) 1025-1040 1041-IOBl 1084-1081 IOB8-109l 1094-1150 1025-1040 1041-1083 1084-1087 1088-1093 1094-1150
N_ber of
Frequencle. 16 4l 4 6 57 16 4l 4 6 57

VOIlTACIJLB
VHP Frequency 108.00-112.20 112.l5-117.95 -- JOB .05-112 .25 - 112.l0-1I1.90

FIGURE 5 . . FREQUENCY ASSIGNMENT CHART FOR THE TACAN/DME FREQUENCIES

SECOND GENERATION VORTAC DME RECEIVER.

The ground TACAN/DME transponder that was subjected to the ATCRBS/Mode S 1090-MHz
waveforms and the Mode S/TCAS 1030-MHz waveforms was the SGV TACAN. The SGV is the
major FAA TACAN ground stat ion located in the VORTACs in the National Airspace
System. Because the SGV TACAN/DME was the tested vict im, explanat ion of only the
receiver operation is sufficient for the reader to understand its operation and how
it was tested.

See figure 6 for receiver circuit overview. As shown, interrogation pulse pairs
at the correct RF are received from the TACAN or DME antenna and pass through
the antenna switch (s1), directional coupler (DCO, lowpass filter (FLU, and
preselector (FL2) to the input of the preamplifier mixer (A12). The directional
coupler, following the RF antenna switch, couples interrogation/test signals from
the monitor into the preamplifier-mixer via the lowpass filter. It also provides
transmitted signals to the monitor detectors and to the modulation controller. The
circulator (HYl) provides isolation to prevent transmitted RF energy from the power
amplifier output from passing into the receiver. The preselector FL2 rejects
unwanted, out-of-tune frequencies while allowing only on-tune RF energy to pass,
and it is tunable to the selected operating frequency of the receiver.

7
The output of the preselector is amplified and mixed with a local oscillator
signal from the frequency synthesizer to produce a 63-MHz intermediate frequency
(IF) signal. The 63-MHz output of the preamplifier-mixer is routed to the
receiver IF section. The first IF amplifier is a log amplifier that detects and
amplifies input signals to produce a wideband output 0.5 MHz) which provides an
accurate logarithmic response to each received interrogation. The log video output
of the first IF amplifier is supplied to the video processor. A second output of
the first IF amplifier is supplied to the second IF amplifier where the signal is
mixed to produce a second IF signal of 8.75 MHz. This signal is detected in a
narrow-band Ferris discriminator to produce a gating video output signal which is
also supplied to the video processor. The second IF amplifier also contains an
adjusted automatic gain reduction (AGR) circuit to control the gain of the first
IF amplifier. The AGR responds to traffic overload and cont inuous wave (CW)
rejection, and is only activated when this occurs.

The video processor references all timing and system delays to the 6-decibe1
point on the first pulse of a pulse pair. The video processor also includes
echo suppression circuits in which an echo-suppression gate is generated upon
decoding of a high-amplitude pulse pair. The signal amplitude threshold (at which
echo decoding occurs) and the gate width are set at the system facility central
processing unit (FCPU) console. The effect of this gate is to raise the decoding
threshold so that received echoes from the originally received pulse pair are not
decoded during the duration of the echo suppression gate.

In the coder/decoder, counters are used to generate the system time delay and the
reply pulse spacing. Both azimuth reference bursts and the identity pulses are
generated in the coder/decoder. The north and auxiliary azimuth reference bursts
are synchronized with the 15- and 135-hertz (Hz) triggers received from the
antenna.

The identity code is generated in the TACAN monitor and is synchronized (by a
signal from the VOR monitor) with the transmitted VOR identity code. The identity
keying envelope is applied to the coder/decoder counter circuits which generate the
1350-Hz pulse pairs and equalization pulses. Ident keying is given top priority
over other system functions. Monitor measurements of reply efficiency, squitter
rate, and receiver sensitivity are reduced to zero during ident and are thus
ignored by the monitor.

The coder/decoder circuits also contain a squitter generator. This circuit uses a
counter to control the distribution and repetition rate of the squitter. Counter
techniques maintain the transmitter pulse repetition rate due to decoded-pulse-
pairs plus squitter to be kept at the required 2700 pulse-pair-per-second rate.

The squitter and replies are added with the proper priority to the azimuth
reference bursts and the identity code signals to form the modulation pulse
train. The modulation pulse train from the coder/decoder is then supplied to the
modulation controller circuits which shape the modulation signal and control the RF
drive signal to the intermediate power amplifier.

8
 TA(.AN DME
ANTENNA ANTENNA
FROM
MONITOR
- NORTH/AUXILIARY TRIGGERS

I POWER AMPi:iFTER
REF DES PREF 3A3
- ----- -- -- ----,
VIDEO I 1-- -- --
DEAD TIME LAT(.H ENABLE
-- ~
I
-- --
1ST PULSE SOUmER REPLY PAIRS I
1J
I FAULT SIGNAL I SYSTEM DELAY;DEAD TIME
I TO TO MODULATION
DATA BUS MODULATION TRIGGER I
I w, 12, I CONTROLLER

I MOMm.'I {"" ' 12

-
ITRANSMIT
(.IR(.ULATORS PRESELE(.TOR PREAMPLIFIER- FROM ADDRESS BUS SYSTEM DELAY LATCH ENABLE 1ST PULSE REF IDENTITY GROUPS CIRCUITSi
ANTENNA DIRECTIONAL LOW PASS
SWITCH COUPLER r-- FILTER l- i-- I-- MIXER
63 MHz MONITOR PIO
,,
J
S1 OCI FLI HYl FL2 AI2 I DECODER TRANSPONDER DME,cTA('AN SELELT NORTH 'AUX GATES I
ENABLE CODER/DEC.ODER I
ANTENNA S..\IT(.H C.ONTROL + INTERFAC.E
XIV MODE SELECT A4iA6 25.0 ..S VALID DECODES
FROM MONITOR
f l
I
AS

I
-
I LOC.AL OSC.ILLATOR 163 MHzl CODEP ENABLE 125 KHz CLOC.K TO FREQUENCY
I
FROM TRANSMIT
- - - -- -- I
SYNTH€SIZER

---l
CIR\.UITS IDENTITY KEYING DEAD TIME, BLANKING GATES (TRANS'MIT
CIRCUITS)

I TRANSPONDER
--
REF DES PREF 3A2
--- ---
VALID DELODES
-- -- EQUALIZING PULSE INHIBIT 10 MHz CLOCK

400 KHz CLOCK

I
TO MODULATION
CONTROLLER
,TRANSMIT
C.IRCUITSi
I

! REL<IVER
IF
GATING VIDEO
VIDEO
PROCESSOR
AS/Ai
400 KHz CLOC.K
" ,n TIMF
I
Al0 LOG VIDEO I

I
X"f MODE SELECT

25.6 "' VALID DECC:lES I

I
I
1
t t ~ SET FIXED AUTO. GAIN REDU<-TION
I
~---
I ELHO SUPPRESSION TH'ESHuL~ SoT
REPETITION RATE LIMIT SELECT I
RELEIVER SENSITIVITY SELELT I
TRAFFIL OVERLOAD

81..1)39-04

FIGURE 6. TACAN RECEIVER CIRCUITS FUNCTIONAL BLOCK DIAGRAM

9\
 SPECIAL TEST EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION

ATCRBS/MODE S FRUIT GENERATOR, 1090-MHz ENVIRONMENT.

The ATCRBS and Mode S fruit generators were designed and fabricated at the FAA
Technical Center. Figure 7 is a block diagram of the generators combined into a
single unit.

The ATCRBS fruit generator is capable of generating fruit rates from 0 to

40,000 replies per second in 20 replies-per-second increments. The fruit generator
is capable of randomly generating eight different ATCRBS reply codes. The ATCRBS
codes are 0737, 7024, 1231, 0541, 7030, 0647, 0567, and 3022. Selection of the
desired fruit rate was via keyboard entry. Figure 8 is a block diagram of the
ATCRBS fruit reply generator.

The Mode S fruit generator is capable of generating fruit rates from 0 to

1000 replies per second in 4 replies-per-second increments. Selection of the
percentage of extended-length Mode S message replies (112 ~ sec), short Mode S
message replies (56 \lsec) , and the percentage mixture of the selected codes are
programmable. Table 1 shows the code content of the Mode S reply and the frequency
of occurrence expressed as a percent. Selection of the desired fruit rate is
via keyboard entry. Figure 9 shows a block diagram of the Mode S fruit reply
generator.

For both fruit generators, the time and amplitude distributions of the fruit
replies are randomly selected. Amplitude distributions vary from -47 to
-77 decibels above 1 milliwatt (dBm). Time distributions are appropriate for the
fruit rate selected.

The output of these generators are appropriately modulated (pulse amplitude for
ATCRBS and pulse position for Mode S). A separate variable frequency L-band RF
generator is used for each fruit generator, to provide noncoherent frequencies.

MODE S/TCAS WAVEFORM GENERATOR, 1030-MHz ENVIRONMENT.

The TeAS portion of the Mode S/TCAS generator is capable of eight whisper/shout
normal ATCRBS interrogations per second for 83 aircraft. I t can also provide a
number of Mode S discrete TCAS interrogations per second for the same 83 aircraft.

The Mode S portion of the Mode S/TCAS generator is capable of providing all
interrogations of two Mode S ground sensors. The amplitude of the interrogations
is shaped by the normal Mode S antenna .pattern. The Mode S portion provides an
interrogation rate at 100 percent of the National Standard value in the mainbeam
and 40 percent of this same value in the side and back lobes. Both Mode S sources
are des igned for a 4-second antenna rotat ion rate. The Mode S/TCAS waveform
generator is configured to simulate the signal waveforms and power and pulse
densities that would be seen at Long Beach, California, using the standard
Los Angeles model. The number of TCAS aircraft (83) represents 11 percent of the
Los Angeles mode 1 aircraft. One Mode S sensor is located 1 mile from Long Beach,
while the other is located 20 decibels down from the I-mile sensor.

11
KEYBOARD

1090 MHz
'\ II J,
FRUIT ATCRBS RF
CONTROL ... REPLY GEM , CONV . ..
_,
0 0 (VAR)

1090 MHz
=:J,
FRUIT ATCRBS RF
CONTROL ... REPLY GEN . CONY.
,
--"
1 1 (VAR)

1090 MHz
--Jt
FRUIT ATCRBS RF
I~
;-
. CONTROL ..., REPLY GEN , CONY.
2 2 I
(VAR)
CONTROL RF ...
~ RF'
LOGIC FRUIT ATCRBS RF COMBINEE Frui t
, CONTROL REPLY GEN .'I CONV. , Out
.1' ;
3
", 3 (VAR)

1090 MHz
~
MODE S
, FRUIT -' MODE S RF
CONTROL REPLY GEN CONY
r-- 1 1 (VAR)

1090 MHz
~
MODE S
FRUIT MODE S RF
CONTROL REPLY GEN CONY
2 2 (FIXED)

... II

LED LED
DISPLAY Y DISPLAY

FIGURE 7. BLOCK DIAGRAM FRUIT GENERATOR

12
 Triggers Out
INTERNAL I ') AzimuthGates
TRIGGER
CODE GENERATOR Scan Control ... I/O CONTROL
J
GENERATORk j I
o i

II'
/\ U)
DAT - 0 DAT - 7 ~t:t::
OJ;<:l

CODE CONTROL Run Length Bus .~. ~i

GEN~RAT0Rj< I ~ CARD
1
l'
FRUIT CONTROL

~atch Control Signals

-
w
CODE CONTROL
I"
I'
Keyboard Strobes
1
GENERATOR!< I j CARD
2 2 Function Bus . . ~Replies
I r 1 KEYBOARD
DISPLAY
Out

.....
I

AUTO ~ I ~ SYSTEM
UPDATE TIMING

FIGURE 8. BLOCK DIAGRAM ATCRBS FRUIT REPLY GENERATOR

.1
 TABLE 1. MODE S MESSAGE DISTRIBUTION

Mode S Contribution
Message* (%)

1. C54129854576AA 4.7 -
2. D2B76C93B7071F 4.7

3. D194F767E62E5A 4.7

4. C94EAA98114897 2.3

5. C62844CC6DIFF3 2.3

6. C94E96AE868BDB 2.3

7. 0OO63A0920BF6F 9.4

8. 04031B748EDDA2 11.7

9. CABC062IF88EC6 9.4

10. 008706C3ACD74F 4.7

II. D64987A68526F3 4.7

12. 4A1C9AF54D16D7 4.7

13. 8C18FF3562E07F 4.7

14. A74EAA9878AD9C 4.7

15. 40C4482690626C22862C89F70DC7 4.7

16. 447B3FFD507434C318BD8AB60AO 4.7

17. CC89CA44AE84296AE694EC086484 3.1

18. F3293657010488042957156F037E 3.1

19. F319431644636490462132C2DA69 4.7

20. F328411773839490299776A43006 4.7

*Message content listed in hexadecimal

14
 EXIT TRIG IN
f
Reset ( RN-O
4 ( BAO-BA-7 ATCRBS VIDEO In
(
I Load Start

~
I FRUIT KSB Add DABS Replies Out
Cye .e Start CONTROL Busy REPLY
::::: ,.2 sec I I Start GEN I Syne Out
I Reply Complete
( DABS Data
( I Field Out
(RN-19 Reset
I t
-
CLK
Sta ·t Enable ~nable Gate Reset

CYCLE POWER
COUNTER 3 LSB' s UP
CKTS
Reset
t
-
VI
CLK

Sel Reset
BOA-BA-7
SHIFT Load Start
REG ISTEIl HPX FRUIT HSB Add DABS
8 I CONTROL Busy REPLY
2 Start ..., GEN 2
Reply Complete

.250 f r
CLK

~
+8
2HHz
CLK I

FIGURE 9. BLOCK DIAGRAM MODE S FRUIT REPLY GENERATOR

,j
Table 2 shows the aircraft identification number from the Los Angeles model, the
number of Mode S interrogations per second from that aircraft, the time difference
between arrival of the Mode S information and the eight whisper/shout sequences
from the preceding aircraft on the list, and the actual power level of these
interrogations as seen at Long Beach.

Table 3 shows the maximum National Standard Mode S sensor interrogation rates.
The waveform generator provides the total number of interrogations and the
interrogations per aircraft as seen in table 2.

The 1030-MHz environment was implemented in hardware by using three simulators.

A block diagram of the environment source is shown in figure 10. Simulator 1
generates waveforms for 55 TCAS equipped aircraft. Simulator 2 generates
waveforms for 28 TCAS aircraft (total of 83) and also generates waveforms for the
Mode S sensor that represents approximately 40 percent of the National Standard
(Sensor 1). Simulator 3 is dedicated to generating waveforms of the other Mode S
sensor that represents about 60 percent of the Nat ional Standard (Sensor 2).

The method used to implement the 1030-MHz environment in hardware resulted in

splitt ing up the 83 TCAS aircraft into three portions. Each portion is switch
selectable by the operator of the simulator and any combination of switches/TCAS
aircraft can be chosen. Switch 1 enables waveforms from 29 TCAS aircraft; switch 2
enables waveforms from 26 TCAS aircraft; switch 3 enables waveforms from 28 TCAS
aircraft. These switch selections are commonly referred to as TCAS 1, TCAS 2, and
TCAS 3 by the personnel who have worked with the simulator. Figure 11 shows how
the TeAS 1, 2, and 3 are divided.

DISCUSSION

The second generation VORTAC DME located in building 196 at the FAA Technical
Center was tested. Initially, tests were conducted to insure the proper operation
and reliabi lity of the SGV in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications,
which exceed FAA specifications. The site manager in charge of the SGV is
certified by the FAA in the maintenance and operation of the VORTAC located there.

METHOD OF APPROACH.

Figure 12 shows the test configuration used. The beacon received interrogations
from the desired signal source, a Republic Corporation TACAN/DME simulator. The
desired signal source was configured to appear to the beacon as an approaching DME
equipped aircraft. This was accomplished by varying the RF level from -102 dBm to
-60 dBm in 23 steps. Each step resulted in a slightly stronger desired RF level of
interrogation. The output of the desired signal source was injected into the
antenna line of the beacon receiver while the beacon's transmitter was connected to
a dummy load. This insured that no interrogations or other unwanted RF energy
could interfere with the test and possibly cause a change in beacon receiver
performance. The beacon was interrogated 200 times per second from the desired
signal source. The number of interrogations is continuously monitored by a
digital frequency counter and recorded.

16
 TABLE 2. MODE S/TCAS WAVEFORM GENERATOR TCAS OUTPUT

Mode S Time
Aircraft Interrogation (sec) Amplitude

387 24 33.00 68 --
403 22 31.50 70
411 23 71.00 68
413 24 37.00 72
417 19 72.00 71
424 9 18.50 73
426 5 17.75 75
427 19 86.50 71
432 18 19.50 72
442 16 35.50 71
445 6 34.50 79
448 3 21.25 82
452 10 24.25 75
457 9 27.50 78
483 9 67.50 76
487 20 25.25 68
489 9 27.25 75
496 19 39.00 69
501 9 13.00 78
502 1 42.00 76
504 16 33.00 72
505 8 23.75 72
508 22 42.25 71
514 9 28.00 78
520 3 10.50 71
525 3 43.00 75
539 7 36.25 78
546 2 23.75 76
549 9 17.25 76
358 9 25.50 71
360 20 30.50 67
365 22 27.00 67
367 13 54.00 73
373 4 27.00 75
374 22 29.75 58
376 0 23.75 75
380 3 29.50 75
556 6 17.00 79
566 8 19.25 76
573 18 41. 75 71
588 12 60.75 73
592 2 21.00 73
600 8 33.25 79
602 4 24.00 72
607 6 29.75 79

17
 TABLE 2. MODE S/TCAS WAVEFORM GENERATOR TCAS OUTPUT (Cont inued)

Mode S Time
Aircraft Interrogation (sec) Amplitude

627 14 70.25 75
644 15 30.00 75
665 10 20.25 75
673 12 17.75 73
683 10 46.50 75
690 14 33.25 78
706 12 60.00 78
728 8 55.25 72
729 12 86.25 76
730 12 18.75 68
2 3 17.50 73
10 3 22.75 76
36 7 33.75 73
39 10 38.50 71
59 11 15.75 72
62 18 32.75 67
74 19 37.50 58
76 0 14.00 70
85 2 16.25 67
128 22 43.75 67
152 20 40.00 53
156 0 28.75 71
160 3 46.75 70
169 6 25.00 62
174 1 12.00 66
178 13 44.75 73
193 10 49.25 75
203 21 33.00 71
205 4 36.00 75
211 20 21. 75 71
263 6 24.75 73
264 13 15.00 72
275 24 31.25 60
279 17 55.75 71
303 0 16.75 73
168 0 3.00 0
339 14 38.25 71
342 12 43.25 68
348 17 97.50 68

18
 TABLE 3. MAXIMUM MODE S SENSOR INTERROGATION RATES
U.S. NATIONAL STANDARD DEFINED

Number of Mode S Interrogations

for Total Number of Interrogations
Scan Period
Angle Number Total (sec)

360 700 3 long 2100 4.00

+160 16 ELM* 2560
4660

90 400 3 long 1200 1.00

+40 16 ELM 640
1840

3.6 48 2 long 96 0.04

*Extended Length Message

19
 SIMULATOR II

DPSK Data ~

TCAS DPSK
LOGIC PAM Information TCAS Interrogations (RF)
MODULATOR
55 AIRCRAFr ~Amplitude Data ---to
r--

PROGRAMMABLE
cw ~

ATTENUATOR ~ultilevel
1
'----
SU~
~

RF Signal
L....--

SIMULATOR #2

TCAS LOGIC DPSK Data

28 AIRCRAFr DPSK
--------------- PAM Information
MODE S SENSOR MODULATOR TeAS/Mode S
40% NATIONAL Interrogations (RF)
STANDARD ~Amplitude Data ,...-

N
o PROGRAMMABLE .---
ATTENUATOR ~ultilevel
"'0"
CW
RF Signal To Vict im
Receiver
1
SUM
SIMULATOR 13

MODE S SENSOR DPSK Data

PAM Information DPSK

Mode 5 Interrogations (RF)
60% NATIONAL
STANDARD ~Amplitude Data

PROGRAMMABLE
- MODULATOR

CW ATTENUATOR ~ultilevel
RF Signal

FIGURE 10. 1030-MHz ENVIRONMENT SIMULATOR

 SLOTS I & 3 SLOTS 5 & 7
TCAS iF! TCAS 4F2

Simulates all Interrogations Simulates all Interrogations

for 29 Planes for 26 Planes

MS3Rl - Control 1 MIS7Rl - Control I

MS3EI Control 2 MS7El Control 2

MS3V19 - Amplitude MS7V19 - Amplitude

MSILI - Message Select MSSLI - Message Select

MSlJI PAM Timing MSSJl PAM Timing

MSlL21 - DPSK MSSL2l - DPSK

SLOTS 9 & 11
TCAS #3

Simulates all Interrogations

for 28 Planes

MSllRI Control I

MSllEI Control 2

MSllVl9 - Amplitude

MS9LI - Message Select

MS9Jl PAM Timing

MS9L21 DPSK

FIGURE 11. HARDWARE IMPLEMENTATION OF 83 TCAS AIRCRAFT

21
 HYBRID \[7
HP8568A COUPLER CIRCULATORS
SPECTRU~
HYBRID ANALYZERf" HYBRID k--c._ r« "~) I IOdB COUPLER~
COUPLER I
COUPLER
I i
I I I~on -
~'

RF \

11 ~50n RFlI1
OUT
00
I
VIDEO
ICRYSTAL~
DETECTO

OSCILLO COPE
DESIRED BEA N
BEACON SIGNAL REPLI S SGV
LOAD SOURCE DESIRED INTER-
REPUBLIC REPUBLIC ROGATIONS (VIDEO) "AND" TACAN
SIMULATOR SIMULATOR GATE
RECEIVER
\...
N I
N
(r~

I H
C/)
p::
0 HP 5334 COUNTER ~
j (04' DESIRED REPLIE~
=:>
tJ
p:: HP HP 5334 COUNTER
~ (fl. COMPUTE C/)
=:>
DESIRED INTERROGATION
Itl
co HP 5334 COUNTER
~ VALID DECODES
1030 MHz I

,
r-~
ENVIRONMENT
SOURCE
~
~
Hp 5334 COUNTER
ECHO SUPPRESSION GATE
.

---I
I I ~ Hp DVM
AGR VOLTAGE
I
L_~ 1090 MHz
ENVIRONMENl
SOURCE
I ~ HP DVM
IDENT
I
FIGURE 12. 1030/1090 MHz ENVIRONMENT TO SGV EMC TEST CONFIGURATION
The SGV was carefully checked and monitored for proper operation while tests were
being conducted. The site manager has the capability to monitor numerous system
parameters on a video data display screen. Any of the system parameters of
interest could be copied to a printer. During the testing period, records of
system performance were printed and kept in a log book.

For most of the tests, the SGV was operated on channel l22X, which resulted in its
receiver being tuned to 1146 MHz (only a limited data set was recorded with the SGV
in Y-mode, channel 53Y, because the FAA currently does not provide Y-mode channel
assignments). Since the 1090- and 1030-MHz environment sources have a variable
frequency output, it was decided to maintain the SGV receiver at 1146 MHz and
provide the required delta frequency by varying the frequency of the undesired
signal sources.

After the SGV was determined to be operating satisfactorily, a baseline test was
performed without the undesired signal source in the test configuration. This
insured test personnel that the test equipment and the SGV were operating properly
together in the test configuration. Baseline tests were repeated on a regular
bas is.

In order to isolate the replies of the beacon that resulted from the desired signal
source (referred to as desired replies), an "AND" gate oscilloscope technique was
used. A crystal detector was used to detect the RF replies of the beacon and
convert them to video pulses. The detected video replies were then applied to one
input of the "AND" gate. A video pulse pair from the des ired signal source that
was output each time it interrogates was applied to the other input of the "AND"
gate. Prior to being input to the "AND" gate, the desired interrogations were
delayed 50 l1sec in order to be coincident with the desired reply of the beacon.
This is because of the fixed 50 l1sec reply delay which is characteristic of all
TACAN/DME ground beacons operating in X-mode (Y-mode uses 56 l1sec delay).

Data collection was accomplished by using a Hewlett-Packard series 300 computer.

The computer was used to control the test equipment, collect the data samples,
and perform data storage and statistical analysis on the data. Four frequency
count ers and two d igi tal vo ltmeters were used and all commonly connect ed
on an IEEE-488 bus line. The first counter recorded the number of desired
interrogat ions, the. second recorded des ired replies (output of the "AND" gate), the
third recorded valid decodes (from the video processor of the receiver), while the
fourth counter recorded the number of echo suppression gates (located in the
coder/decoder section). One voltmeter recorded the automatic gain reduction (AGR)
voltage of the beacon receiver while the second was used to monitor the beacon
"ident" signal. The desired signal source was controlled on a separate IEEE-488
bus also connected to the same computer.

TEST CONDITIONS.

Initially, the tests were set up to determine the effect of the 1090-MHz waveforms
(ATCRBS and Mode S fruit) with no beacon load, and then tests were conducted to
determine the effects of the 1030-MHz waveforms (Mode S sensor/TCAS) with no beacon
load.

23
All data were collected with the echo suppression gate set at a threshold of
-70 dbm and set for a duration of 150 ~sec. Most of the data were collected on
channel l22X, as test time did not allow for an extensive set of Y-mode data to be
collected. Addit ionally, the FAA does not currently operate commissioned ground
beacons in Y-mode. The limited tests that were performed in Y-mode indicated a
difference in performance characteristics of the SGV, such as lower baseline reply
efficiency than that recorded in X-mode. Test time did not allow for enough
investigation of this difference.

PERFORMANCE PARAMETERS.

The following beacon performance parameters were recorded throughout the testing:

1. Gain control circuit voltages (e.g., CW rejection and interrogation overload

control) •

2. Number of desired interrogations (used to determine beacon reply efficiency).

3. Number of valid replies (used to determine beacon reply efficiency).

4. Echo suppression gates (formerly known as retriggerable blanking gates).

The measurement considered most characteristic of beacon performance is reply

efficiency. Reply efficiency is the ratio of the number of valid beacon replies to
the number of interrogations, expressed in percent.

DATA COLLECTION FLOW.

The data collection software began by first programming the desired signal
source for the appropriate configuration. The Republic simulator parameters
set were (l) main and auxiliary reference burs ts--of f, (2) automat ic pulse
spacer--o f f, (3) random mode--on, (4) channel--select, (5) select pulse
spacing--l2 ~sec, (6) squitter rate--200/second,' (7) reply efficiency--set to 0,
modulation--off, and (8) RF level--set. This sequence of commands set up the
Republic simulator to appear as an airborne DME interrogator.

Each counter was set up to allow a I-second gate sample time for each data point.
This provided for a frequency count over a I-second time period. The digital
voltmeters were also set up for I-second samples.

After the desired signal source, counters, and voltmeters were set up, execution
of the data collection loop began. Before data samples could be taken, it was
necessary to know when the SGV was transmitt ing "ident." When ident is sent, the
system performance parameters in the beacon receiver are given a low priority and
the data from them are erroneous. After ident is completed, system parameters
return to normal values. Because of the monitoring hierarchy of the SGV, it is not
possible to disable the ident. Ident is sent approximately once every 30 seconds
and lasts about 4 seconds. This leaves about a 25-second window in which data
could be collected. The data collection software would first set the desired
signal source to the appropriate RF level, then the computer would continuously
poll the ident voltmeter. When the average voltage of the ident test point rose
above 0.45 volts direct current (d.c.), ident was on; the computer would wait

24
4.5 seconds until ident was completed and then poll each counter and voltmeter and
record the data from each. Before the 1st, 13th, and 26th sampling of the data
bus, the ident loop was executed to be sure no overlap of ident and data sampling
occurred.

A total of 30 data samples were taken for each of the 23 RF levels of the desired
signal source. The 30 samples were all recorded on a 15-megabyte Winchester hard
disk along with the time, descriptive header, and mean and standard deviation of
valid decodes, echo suppression gates, AGR voltage, and reply efficiency. A data
sheet output sample generated by the data collection software can be seen in
table 4.

TEST RESULTS AND ANALYSIS

EFFECTS TEST RESULTS, 1090-MHz ENVIRONMENT.

Shown in figure 13 are plots of beacon reply efficiency under various conditions.
The plots show the change in reply efficiency as a function of desired signal
level for the various conditions. The dot ted line through the 70-percent reply
efficiency value highlights the level of reply efficiency the TACAN/DME ground
units are to provide to airborne interrogators as specified in the United States
National Standard for the VORTAC system dated June 10, 1970, paragraphs 5.2.2 and
5.2.2.1. The two paragraphs referenced essentially state that with no beacon
load present, the ground transponder (TACAN or DME) shall reply to an on-channel
interrogation which is at ~ signal level of -92 dbm or greater with a 70-percent
reply efficiency.

The legend at the top of each plot indicates the condition of the undesired signal
when the data were collected. Each plot contains three or four traces of data, the
first being baseline data of reply efficiency with no undesired signal present.
All baseline plots are shown with a solid, continuous trace. The trace consisting
of one long dash followed by two shorter dashes ( - - - - - - ) is plotted to show the
highest rate of ATCRBS fruit on that plot. The next lower ATCRBS rate data trace
is shown by a series of equally spaced dots (. .... ). The fourth and last trace
(not plotted) is shown by equal size dashes which represent the lowest ATCRBS rate
on the plot. The Mode S fruit rate was held constant for each data plot.

Figures 13a and b show the effects of ATCRBS fruit on desired reply efficiency,
with no Mode S fruit present, while delta F=O and no beacon load was present. In
examining the various ATCRBS fruit rates in these figures, note the minimal effect
that lk has, while as the fruit rate is increased to 10k, 20k, 30k, and finally
40k, reply efficiency is more noticeably affected.

Compare figures l3c and d to a and b. The only condition different in c and d is
the additional lk of Mode S fruit in combination with the ATCRBS fruit. The same
basic trend occurs, that is, reply efficiency degrades as fruit rate increases. At
the lower ATCRBS rates, however, the curves appear to be slight 1y shifted left
due to the lk of Mode S fruit. Take note of the effect on reply efficiency due to
only the Mode S fruit, shown in l3c.

25
 TABLE 4. DATA OUTPUT SHEET

Des ired Reply Efficiency Echo Gates Valid Decodes AGR Voltage
Time Level Mean Std Mean Std Mean Std Mean Std

9:26:36 -102 21.7 3.0 21 5.5 158 23 .145 0.00

9:29:05 -100 40.4 3.5 22 5.0 207 19 .145 0.00
9:30:35 -99 55.6 3.9 23 4.0 237 21 .145 0.00
9 :32:05 -98 69.1 3.1 23 5.3 265 22 .145 0.00
9:33:35 -97 78.8 3.7 23 5.6 287 22 .145 0.00
9:35:05 -96 84.9 2.7 23 5.5 299 24 .145 0.00
9:36:36 -95 86.7 3.5 23 6.2 301 23 .145 0.00
9:38:05 -94 84.8 3.3 22 4.2 299 24 .145 0.00
9:39:35 -93 87.8 3.2 22 6.5 309 19 .145 0.00
9:41:05 -92 86.7 4.5 23 6.5 303 25 .145 0.00
9:42:35 -91 86.4 3.0 23 5.7 303 20 .145 0.00
9 :44 :05 -90 87.4 3.9 24 5.3 299 29 .145 0.00
9:45:35 -89 86.1 3.3 24 3.7 303 20 .145 0.00
9:47:05 -88 85.2 3.8 22 5.3 303 18 .145 0.00
9:48:35 -87 86.4 3.1 24 4.1 306 20 .145 0.00
9:50:05 -84 86.8 2.9 26 5.0 303 18 .145 0.00
9:51:35 -80 86.4 4.1 27 5.4 307 32 .145 0.00
9 :53 :05 -76 87.0 3.2 27 4.2 302 17 .145 0.00
9:54:35 -72 87.0 3.2 38 4.4 306 23 .145 0.00
9:56:04 -70 84.6 3.3 192 15.8 296 19 .145 0.00
9:57:34 -68 86.8 3.9 195 17 .5 301 19 .145 0.00
9:59:04 -64 86.9 3.5 194 12.7 303 17 .145 0.00
0:00:34 -60 86.6 3.2 194 14.4 303 21 .145 0.00

Beacon test data collected using 1030-MHz environment generator consisting of

ATCRBS beacon, Mode S sensor, and TeAS waveforms.

Testing on SGV beacon, FAA Technical Center, January 9, 1987.

Beacon Load = None

TCAS = None
Mode S = None
Baseline = Beacon Channel: 122X (Desired Interrogation Rate = 200)

26
 - - - BASELINE """",., ATCRBS FRUIT-lI< HODE S FRUIT-NONE
- - - - ATCRBS FRUIT-10K HODE S FRUIT-NONE
100 r-- ~ --- - - - - .

90
..It.··
----....."'" "
.....- - _ _ --:..J.- ~-~. ••••• • • • • .. ..".a...:..:..~ •..:...:..:.:.:... .
~

>- Be
u ....
z
W 70
\
----------"--------------., -
H
U
H
\,
\
LL 60
LL
W
\ ',-

>-
.-J
0...
50 \ "\1
\
\
W
N
.....
~
40 \ \
\
f-
Z
W 313
\ \
U
a:::
L.J
0..
\ \
20 \

10 BEACON LOAD = NONE

13 L- I I I J I I I I J 1_ J I I I I I I I I 1 I 1. I. I I I I L I I I I '.....&. 1 I I I I J
-6e -65 -70 -75 -83 -85 -Sel -95 -10B
SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DATA FILES: BAS1224A NOLOADAO
NOLOADBI

FIGURE 13a. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM 1090-MHz WAVEFORMS

,j
 . - BASELINE •....•....• ATCRBS FRUIT-3SK MODE 5 rRUIT-NONE
- - - ATCRBS F'RUIT-40K HODE S f'RUIT-NONE ----------. ATCRBS FRUIT-20K HODE S FRUIT-NON£
lee r = - - • - i

S0
~~:~~~~~~~~~~~~L·~~··~·~~~~·- .. pr~~~-
... " _
-----_._------
>- 80 -........_------- -.......... ~~-
'
.... - ....
-~._,
u ........
"'-- ............. ..... ' ~--,
z ' ... .... , ".
w 70 --------~-~-------~.~~---
H ...... ""'- '. . ",...
........... ... ,
U
H
~-

--...........- '\

\
u- S0 ~
...... ......
'"
.
..,,
u.. ,
w "', ." ,
"',"...
\

. \,
>-
..J 50 ... ... , " \

\ , ....,,
\
0- \
N
W \
~
40
\
. \
\ , ...,,,
00

I-
Z
w , .. '\,
u
~
30 \, ..,,
w
c..
'\ '.... \,,,
20 .,
.'. \ \
\
\

\ " ' ....

Ie BEACON LOAD • NONE \.... '."
'-- -'.
0' I 1 J""" I'" J' "" I "" '" I " " ' " '" ""

-sa -65 -70 -75 -80 -85 -90 -95 -lae

SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DATA rILES: BAS1223A NOLOADA7
NOLOADA8 NOLOADA9

FIGURE 13b. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM l090-MHz WAVEFORMS
 - - - BASELINE
- RTCRIS FRUIT-UI< HODE S FRUIT-1K

9B
~ _......_:-.-•..: •• rrwrt"\-""',..-. ~ •• u • • "'~-:.-.~-:: ... ..._

... ......,-:-: ..:'-

- -__:.a..:.:. .. .._......... • • It" • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ~._~_......... ....

80 .............
>-
u
~ 70 ~--~----~~~-----~--~~~
-.,

----------------~-- ~-....
~

. ~..l-
H
U
H
l&..
"'\
,
\\-,
60
l&..
..... \, \\, ~

>-
...J
fu
50
\,, :\..:.,,\
N

'"
0::
.....
4B \,, *, \

..,,,
"\
zw ,
u 3B \, '. \
ex , '.\
w
a. 2B
\ \
"."
.. ",
'\"
10 BEACON LOAD - NONE

as" I I I" """'" "'" I" f"" 1"'««"'« I

-68 -65 -79 -75 -89 -85 -99 -95 -189
SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DATA FILES: BRS1223R NOL0RIII4
NOL0RDR5 NOL0ADR6

FIGURE 13c. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM l090-MHz WAVEFORMS

d
 - - - BASElINE .......•..• RTCRBS FRUIT-38K HODE S FRUIT-lK
- _ . - ATCRBS FRUIT...0K HODE S FRUIT-lK ----------. RTCRBS FRUIT-2BK HODE S FRUIT-lK
leB , i

90

Be -.cccr.-..r.ca:t.rJ.a:ct,Ppp:- _
---..-------..----.
>-
u
z
--.......:..
'-"..
,.....
.........:....
...
.......
.. _-.-_---
w
H
u
H
7e ---------
, -- .....
> <, ~~--'~--~----
....
I.

...... '"
'.
'-"'~ ....
---. .......
" ...
_ ....

.....
-..
"",
L.. SB ........ I. ,
....... '. "
L..
w " .... -.. -'. .'. '. " ,,,
... ,...,
>-
-'
5B
" .....
. ,
. ,
w
0
a..
w
£k:
t-
Z
4e " " . ,
I,'
'\" ... ,,,
\\".. \,,
w 3B .'. \,
\
u .,
\ ... ,,,
\
£k:
w \
a.. . , I, \
29
\ .......,,,,...
\

DELTA F'-B \

IB BEACON LOAD • NONE \... .. "" ... ,'~-­

--......... --
B
-60 -65 -78 -75 -80 -95 -90 -95 -100
SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DATA FILES; BASSlBSR NOLORDR1
NOlOADA2 NOLOADR3

FIGURE 13d. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM 1090-MHz WAVEFORMS
At delta F=3 MHz, the effect of the l090-MHz fruit environment is lessened;
Figures l3e through h illustrate how the reply efficiency curves more closely
resemble that of the baseline curve. The most noticeable effect still occurs at
the higher ATCRBS fruit rates, as can be seen by comparing e or g with f or h.
Note in particular, on figure l3e, that the plot of data representing 1k of Mode S
and NONE of ATCRBS fruit does not shift the curve to the left. These data show
that the maximum reply efficiency is slightly reduced when the desired signal
level is around -87 dBm to about -95 dBm. Even though this occurs, the point at
which this trace crosses the 70-percent reply efficiency level is nearly identical
to that of the baseline data. The maximum reply efficiency was 88 percent for the
baseline data and about 81 percent for the lk Mode S (no ATCRBS) data. Because of
this small difference, no additional Mode S fruit data were collected at frequency
separations further than delta F=3 MHz.

When delta F=6 MHz data are examined, it is clear that this frequency guardband
provides the necessary isolation to the SGV to protect it from being affected by
ATCRBS fruit. The curves shown in figures 13i and j almost fall on top of each
other, and in fact, it is difficult to distinguish any individual curve.

Figure 13k is inc luded only to illustrate that when the frequency separation is
increased further to delta F=9 MHz, there is still no effect on reply efficiency
noticed. Hence, the data indicate that if TACAN/OME ground beacon receiver channels
are separated from 1090 MHz by at least 6 MHz, their operation could be considered
unaffected by ATCRBS and/or Mode S airborne replies.

Figure 14 contains the same beacon reply efficiency data previously described, but
is presented in a different form. The bar graphs shown represent a single reply
efficiency point from the corresponding reply efficiency data curve of the same
undesired signal conditions. A definition of beacon receiver sensitivity is the
lowest desired signal level at which reply efficiency is equal to or greater
than 70 percent. The reply efficiency at this signal level is considered the
"baseline reply efficiency." When undesired signals are present, the reply
efficiency at receiver sensitivity can be compared to that of the baseline
reply efficiency, and any difference noted would indicate an effect on system
performance. For example, examine the case of delta F=O and Mode S fruit of
1k (top of 14a). The first bar to the left represents a reply efficiency of
80 percent (while no undesired signals were present) and occurred at a desired
signal level of -97 dBm. Next, when the various combinations of ATCRBS fruit and
1k of Mode S fruit were introduced, the reply efficiency of the beacon at the
desired signal level of -97 dBm resulted in the values shown.

To determine when undes ired signals have no effect on beacon reply efficiency,
simply examine the bar graph plots presented. Figure 14f shows that at delta
F=6 MHz, ATCRBS fruit rate of 40k, reply efficiency is 70 percent at receiver
sensitivity. Hence, at this point, receiver sensitivity (as defined here) remains
the same as the baseline.

31
 ---- --·0 BASELINE ... " - ATCRBS FRUIT"'! K MODE S FRUIT"'! K
----.--- ATCRBS FRUIT=10K HODE S FRUIT"'lK ----------. ATCRBS FRUIT=NONE MODE S FRUIT... ! K
100 r::--' ---- .-. ---·-0-'. -- ----- --.- --, - .--- ...-- .-.- ,--.- ~, '_.. -_._--- -"'-".- _.-,- ... - .. -_.. _.. _.----
.. _ -, - --'-.~ ,_.~.------_. ~-- ~.'.' .--
1

90 l
~--...- . --'!"'"...-.'- wc_.:.··- .. ,'- - -.-.--'--.----.,--... --. ~ "__ --~,.----~----~--.........
r- ------'- ----
~~ __ JJJ~J~_~~~~_~~~~
•••••
. . .__.. .,. . -.- __.. . . -- - --"'-'. --'-
•••• •••••• ~~r_ ___

>-
80 t ;,.."S.--=--:-.-.. ~. .~.--;-."'<..::
-_ ,.......
:':.:~.:.t=~::~,.,.::.:"......
'--..... ..,:...,
'\
\,
\
U '\.
,~
,\"
,,\
~
£- ~ ' .... \'
W I- \ \'
H
70 f--
....
-- -- _. - --- --- - --- ~ .- -- .-- .-- - --- ".- --.- -- -- . .- ..' - - --- .-- ---- ~--- .. '- --- -~ ~\ \-
'\ \\
---:.
U :-I- \ \~
\ ,'_
H
r-.t \\\ ,'
. \. ,~

1.L 60
Lt... \
~
W t- • It

>- ...r \\ ~t ,
---l 50 ! \ t I

r- \\:
n.. E
W L \ t:..
W n:: \
\", i
N

......
40 '
r
r
I·
I
z t" i
w 30 i=-
u
n::
w
n.. 20 t
t-

10 t~ DELTA F:;:3MHZ
BEACON LOAD = NONE
oE I I I Ll. J.
LJ---L._L..L ....L .. ~1-.1-l.J__ L...1._L.G1.._1_ L J_l_L_L...L._LL.J.-l.....L.L.J.--l d.l_LJ
-60 -65 -70 -75 -80 -85 --90 -95 --100
SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DATA FILES: BAS1230A NOLCADD7
NOLOADDB NOLORDD9

FIGURE 13e. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM l090-MHz WAVEFORMS

,j
 --- - BASEL I Nt: ........... ATCRBS FRUIT=301< MODE S fRUIT=ll<

---------- ATCRBS fRUIT=40K

100 r----~' -,.-------.-_..- _. .------..-.---.-.,.- .--.-. - - - - - - - . '.. - -.-. . . -- - -.- . -,-.'---·.·----l
MODE 5 FRUIT-l K ----------. ATCRBS fRUIT=20K MODE 5 fRUIT=ll<

90 ~_ _-.--__... ._ . .._--. .-..... .

>-
80 F -:-:-:-:-r"1"1:::==-:=---:::::~-:::~"--
r-
..z_ .._ •••
------~-.......----....:..:::.:-::-.::.----------
~---_:---'-------~~-- - -...._.-.--
....~ ...... ...... r- ... .................. • -'''-~''''''''''''''''''''''~
-':~~.r<.t..;::-~,,_
""--- \
\\
U t - -.~:::.~:=-:-:-, \ I
rr "',... . . ,'\ \\
Z
LJ
H
U
70 f .-- - --- _.--- _.- -- - .-- -- --- --- . - _.- -'- -- ._- -- -- --.- --'\\~~\\ -\ -! j

H . \ ' ;
1.1- "" t- \ ° '\ '

~~-.-
0

LL.. b 0 \,\',
'. \ \ \, ,I
W
\', \ \ I
r Sr::lt:J :'-
,'. "
\- '\
\
\
!
--.J '\
j

I
CL \', \ !
,W ,. \ \ .:\I
\'
IW
W
n:: 40 .- \'.
\'
\\ ')
l--
Z
W 30
\·>1 \ .'
U \'j
0:::
W
CL 20
'i
I

DELTA F=3MHZ
10 r BEACON LOAD = NONE
I
,
i
o lL...1....- J 1 I.L....L-l ! I 1 I .L-L I I I . ..l.-L.-l-L.L.L...L-L..L..1--l..-L. L.L-L_L.L.J.......J. I I-l-J

-60 -65 -70 -75 -80 -85 -90 -95 -100

SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DATA FILES: BAS1230A NOLOADD4
NOLOADDS NOLOADD6

FIGURE 13f. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM l090-MHz WAVEFORMS

,I
 - - - BRSD.INE •.....•.... RTCRBS F'RUIT-IK HODE 5 F'RUIT-IB8
- - - RTCRBS FRUIT-UI( MODE 5 FRUIT-lee ----------. ATCRBS FRUIT-NONE MODE S FRUIT-lee
lea i I

sa ______ ~_ -r"~""'L!..-· •• •••••. --~------------.-.- -- _••

>- Ba
u
z
w 7a
H
u
H
La..
La.. sa
w
>-
...J sa
Q..
w
W
~
0::: 40
.....
z
w 3a
u
0:::
W
Q..
20
DELTA (="-3 MHZ
10 BEACON LOAD • NONE
a LI , I , I , , , , I , , , ,1"", "" I" II I •• , 1"""
-60 -65 -70 -75 -BS -BS -90 -95 -100
SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DATA FILES: BAse I05A NOLOADG I
NOLOADG2 NOL0ADF'7

FIGURE 13g. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM 1090-MHz WAVEFORMS

,I
 ---IRSELIta: ••••••••••• RTCRBS FRUIT-SII< MODE S F'RIJIT-IB8
- - - ATCRIS fRlJIT-41K ttonE S FRUIT-I. - - _....- ATCRBS FRUIT-211< MODE S FRUIT-lIB
12Ua i i

>-
90

BB
.. ..---
---
...:.• • .L..a • _ -

~
••

_--_
...•.....•.••.
..........
•

, ..
........-.....
••••

~~
-----_
.....
~
• ...~.""~.,,.
. . . . . . . . .. : . : . - . . . - . . - - ...... , .. '
~:. ,,~

'~~~~
....
"'<. ,
u ":. "
z ,,~.~\.
w 79 ---------------------~~
1-1
u
1-1 ,.\.,, ,.
..... 69 .,
\,.\
u.. , .,
w .,
>- 59 \,,'...,\.,,
~
'.,,
Q.
l&J \,., ..,,
w
~ 49 \.,
VI

.....
Z
",\'.,\..\
~ 39 "0
0::
l&J
a. 20
DELTA F-3 MHZ
10 BEACON LOAD - NONE
Be •• , L""" I" " " " , " " " " " " " " I' J I

-B0 -&5 -70 -75 -B0 -BS -90 -95 -100

SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DATA rILES: MS81SSA NOL0RDf"8
NOL0RDf9 NOlOADf8

FIGURE 13h. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM l090-MHz WAVEFORMS

,i
 ---IRSELJJE ........... RTCRIS FRUIT-IK HOlE I FRUIT-NONE
- - , - RTCRIS FRUIT-11K ttOlE S f'RUJT-NONE
188 , i

98 ..... .--..--......
88
-
>-
u
z
....wu 78 ~-..-----_.--_------ ....... -~--...-- ...... ---
...
lL. 68
b
>- 58
,r
LaJ
w
0- It: 48
~
~ 38

~ 28
DALlA r-sHHZ
18 BERCON LOAD • NONE

8
-68 -65 -7B -75 -88 -85 -98 -95 -lee
SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DATA FILESI _117ft NOLOAIItI
NOLOADH2

FIGURE l3i. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM l090-MHz WAVEFORMS
 ---IfIIEI.INE •••••••••• • ATCRIS F'RUIT-3. ItODE S rRUJT-NONE
- •• - RTCRIS FRUIT-411( HODE S F'RUJT-NOM: ......._-_. flTCRIS rRUlT-2. tIOJJE S fRUIT-NONE
tBB , ,

9B
-..... ..-.-.-.-
~:.
..
88 ~,
,~.

tz ~
....
a..J
u
....
7B
----------------------~
La. 6B
~
>-
-J 58
Q.
w l&J
-..J ~
48 ""
f-

~ 3B
eJ
Q. 28
DELTA r-SHHZ
IB BEACON LOAD • NONE

B
-68 -65 -18 -15 -88 -85 -S8 -95 -18e
SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DRTA fILESr IAS1II7A NOL0ADG8
NOLOADGI NOLOADGI

FIGURE 13j. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM l090-MHz WAVEFORMS

.j
 - - - BASO..INE ••••••••••• RTCRBS FRUIT-JIK ItODE S F'RUIT-NONE
- - - ArCUS F'RUIT...IK HOlE & FlIJIT-NONE
108 I I

90
....... ~~_ ... - .....
>- 88
u
Z
....UL&J 70 -.--..-.-.._----_--._--.......-.--.-,------~-_.---.-..-_---

....
~
68

>-
...J 58
w
00 ~ 48

§ 38
eJ
Q.
28
DELTA r-SHHZ
18 BEACON LOAD • NONE
B 'T I • I , ' , , , I , , , I , ' , « , , I , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ' , , , ,

-60 -65 -78 -15 . -88 -85 -98 -95 -188

SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DfITR rILES: _187ft NOUJfUJH5
NOLOAIHi

FIGURE 13k. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM 1090-MHz WAVEFORMS
~BASELINE DELTA F- B MHZ IIIMODE 5 FRUIT=lK

88

NONE NONE lK 10K 20K 3BK 4BK

ATCRBS FRUIT RATE (replies/sec)

~BASELINE DELTA F- B MHZ IIIMODE 5 FRUIT-NONE

88

NONE NONE lK 10K 2BK 3BK 40K

ATCRBS FRUIT RATE (replies/sec)

FIGURE 14a. REPLY EFFICIENCY AT RECEIVER SENSITIVITY

39
msBASELINE DELTA F- e MHZ IIIMODE 5 FRUIT=lK

NONE NONE 1K 10K 2BK 30K 4BK

ATCRBS FRUIT RATE (replies/sec)

msBASELINE DELTA F- B MHZ IIIMODE 5 FRUIT=7SB

88~

NONE NONE lK 10K 20K 30K 4BK

ATCRBS FRUIT RATE (replies/sec)

FIGURE 14b. REPLY EFFICIENCY AT RECEIVER SENSITIVITY

40
msBASELINE DELTA F- a MHZ IIIMODE S FRUIT=4B0

NONE NONE: lK 19K 20K 39K 40K

ATCRBS FRUIT RATE (replies/sec)

msBASELINE DELTA F-a MHZ IIIMODE 5 FRUIT-t00

88

NONE NONE lK 10K 2BK 30K 40K

ATCRBS FRUIT RATE (replies/sec)

FIGURE 14c. REPLY EFFICIENCY AT RECEIVER SENSITIVITY

41
~BASELINE DELTA F- 3 MHZ IIIMODE 5 FRUIT=1K

78 :G

NONE NONE 1K 10K ,20K 30K 40K

ATCRBS FRUIT RATE (replies/sec)

~BASEL'INE DELTA F- 3 MHZ IIIMODE 5 FRUIT=750

79 :G

NONE NONE 1K 10K 20K 30K 40K

ATCRBS FRUIT RATE (replies/sec)

FIGURE 14d. REPLY EFFICIENCY AT RECEIVER SENSITIVITY

42
I§§BASELINE DELTA F- 3 MHZ IIIMODE S FRUIT=lK

78

NONE NONE lK 10K 20K 30K 40K

ATCRBS FRUIT RATE (replies/sec)

I§§BASELINE DELTA r- 3 MHZ IIIMODE S FRUIT=NONE

79

NONE NONE lK IBK 28K 30K 48K

ATCRBS FRUIT RATE (replies/sec)

FIGURE 14e. REPLY EFFICIENCY AT RECEIVER SENSITIVITY

43
~BASELINE DELTA F- 3 MHZ IIIMODE S FRUIT=lK

78 ~

NONE NONE lK 10K 20K 30K 4BK

ATCRBS FRUIT RATE (replies/sec)

~BASELINE DELTA F- 6 MHZ IIIMODE S FRUIT=NONE

8B~

NONE NONE lK 10K 20K 30K 4BK

ATCRBS FRUIT RATE (replies/sec)

FIGURE 14f. REPLY EFFICIENCY AT RECEIVER SENSITIVITY

44
Another concept used in determining EMC effects on TACAN/DME beacon receivers
employs more operational considerations than those used to examine this test
data thus far. Since TACAN and (especially) DME are distance function systems,
one might wonder how the service volume, in miles from the ground beacon, is
affected by undesired signals. This type of consideration is generally given when
evaluating airborne TACAN or DME interrogator units through the comparison of the
Acquisition Stable Operating Point (ASOP). ASOP is the minimum signal level
of the ground beacon acquired by an interrogator. ASOP can be retaken in the
presence of extraneous undesired signals. Any change in ASOP (usually expressed in
dBm) can be related to a change in distance from the ground beacon, e.g., if the
ASOP changes from -86 dBm to -76 dBm when extraneous signals are present, the
aircraft had to be closer (in distance) to the ground beacon in order to receive
the -76 dBm signal level. Hence, coverage area of the TACAN or DME system was
reduced.

The reply efficiency data of ground beacons when subjected to extraneous undesired
signals could be examined in a similar manner. At what desired signal level does
the beacon reply efficiency exceed 70 percent? Is it reduced below -92 dBm?
Can the performance of the beacon still comply with the U.S. National Aviation
Standard? If these criteria were applied to the data shown in figures 13, then at
delta F=3 MHz in the presence of 40k ATCRBS fruit and lk of Mode S fruit, the
beacon performance would be acceptable, even though a noticeable difference from
baseline performance exists at lower desired signal levels (see figure 13f).

EFFECTS TEST RESULTS, 1030-MHz ENVIRONMENT.

Figure 15 shows plots of the beacon reply efficiency under various 1030-MHz
environment conditions. The data plots show combinations of TCAS 1, 2, 3, and
Mode S Sensor 1 and Sensor 2. An examination of the data reveals that a frequency
separation guardband of at least 3 MHz is required between TACAN/DME beacon
receivers and 1030 MHz. At delta F=3 MHz, the effect on reply efficiency from the
1030-MHz environment is negligible.

SUMMARY

Beacon performance is best characterized by reply efficiency. Because the

objective of this test effort was to determine what frequency guardbands should be
applied to protect the SGV TACAN/DME from interference from 1030- and 1090-MHz
waveforms, reply efficiency was used to make that determination. The beacon reply
efficiency results of tests conducted with the undesired signals were compared
to that of baseline tests and any differences were noted. The l090-MHz undesired
signals were comprised of ATCRBS fruit up to 40k and Mode S fruit up to lk.
The 1030-MHz undesired signals were comprised of TeAS, Mode S, and ATCRBS
ground station waveforms. The undesired RF signals were injected into the
beacon receiver along with a desired signal interrogation. The tests with fruit
were conducted wi th combinations of Mode Sand ATCRBS fruit rates as we 11 as
individually (i.e., Mode S only, ATCRBS only).

45
 - - - BASELINE
- - - TCAS 112 tIODE s-sENSOR II

98
... .......• .,..
_ ~
• ~fI!~i.,;3.-.;;.... • .... .
-
--.'
,·..r·

>- B8
U
Z
W
H 78 ----..-,--.._--------------------------_.--
....lL.
U

lL. 68
W
>-
...J 50
Q.,
l&J
.p-
O'
ct: 48
t-
Z
W 38
U
ex
l&J
0. 28
DELTA F-a
18 BEACON LOAD • NONE
8' I". I '" I "'" '" I I "'" """ I I I"" I I I

-60 -65 -79 -75 -sa -85 -99 -95 -la0

SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
IIITR FILES: MSlI89B NOl0ADJ3
NOLOADJ& NOLORDJ9

FIGURE 15a. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM 1030-MHz WAVEFORMS

,I
 - - - BASELINE •...•....•• TCAS 3 HODE S-NONE
- - , - TCRS 2 HOlE s-NCH: ..------. TCAS NONE MODE s-sENSOR II
IBB • I

98
:':'1:'
r~_ ...
•••••• -~t:t: s ' ............-.-••----.-. ...
>- 88
u
z
w
....
u
7B ~------~-----,-..---------_-.-.-..

H
.....
..... 6B
w
>- sB
-'
Q..
W
.J:- ~ 48
""'"
I-
Z
w 3B
u
~
W
Q..
2B
DELTA F-B
19 BEACON LORD • NONE

B
-S0 -65 -79 -75 -89 -85 -9B -95 -lBB
SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
!fITA fILES: MS81898 NOLOADI9
NCl..OADI8 ' NOLOADJI

FIGURE ISb. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EKC EFFECTS FROM l030-MHz WAVEFORMS
 - - - BASElINE ........... TeAS 2 HOllE s-NONE
- - - TCAS I HODE s-NONE ---------- TCAS 3 HODE.s-NONE
100 • •

90
~, ----- ... .....
90
>-
u
z
W 79
H
U
H
l&. 69
l&.
W
>-
-I 50
(l.
.j::-
W
~
Q)
4B
I--
Z
W 3B
U
~
W
Q.. 20
DELTA F-3HHZ
10 BEACON LOAD - NONE

H"""""""" """" """""""'"

-60 -65 -70 -75 -sa -S5 -9a -95 -100
SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DATA FILES: BAS8113R NOL0ADI<9
NOlORDI<I NOLORDL t

FIGURE 15c. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM 1030-MHz WAVEFORMS
 - - - BASELINE ••••••..••• TCRS 1&3 HODE s-NONE

- - - TCAS 1&2 HODE S-NONE ----------- TCRS 2&3 MODE s-NONE

lBB i i

9B
•• --~_~~t2.u:::~:._::....::.:..>~- ..
>- BB
U
Z
W 78
~
U
~
La. 6B
La.
W
>-
...J SB
0-
L&J
~
.j::-
1.0 49
I-
Z
W 3B
U
0::
W
a.. 2B
DELTA F"-3HHZ
IB BEACON LOAD • NONE

-69
H "'" """"""""'" '" I ii' iii ' iii ' i i
-65 -79 -75 -80 -85 -S9 -95 -laa
SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DATA FILES: BASBll3R NOLOADK&
NOLOADI<7 NOL0ADK8

FIGURE 15d. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM l030-MHz WAVEFORMS
 - - - BASELINE •••. •. . •••. TCRS 1,2. &3 HODE s-NONE
- TCAS 1,2, l3 HODE s-sENSOR II
leB i ,

9B
.. ..
~
... • .~~,.." '-=-..L,~~'J"""""""_".a...-.-..~:.-... ..L.':..:...:..;
08 ~
>-
u
z
LtJ
H 78 -...-._-- ------------- ------------- '\
u
H
u- G8
u-
w
>-
..J 58
Q.
W
VI ~
0 48
I-
Z
w 3B
u
~
W
Q..
2B
DELTA F-3HHZ
IB BEACON LOAD - NONE

B
-60 -65 -70 -75 -89 -95 -90 -95 -100
SIGNAL LEVEL (dBm)
DATA rILES: MS8113A NOL0fUJK3
NOLORII<S

FIGURE 15e. SECOND GENERATION VORTAC TACAN EMC EFFECTS FROM l030-MHz WAVEFORMS
The data show that when 1090-MHz Mode S fruit (up to lk) was injected into the
beacon receiver, the reply efficiency of the beacon was noticeably degraded until
the frequency separation between the TACAN receiver and the Mode S fruit was at
least 3 MHz. At delta F=3 MHz, the effect on beacon reply efficiency from l090-MHz
Mode S fruit was negligible.

When up to 40k of l090-MHz ATCRBS fruit was injected into the beacon receiver, the
data show that reply efficiency was comparable to the baseline tests when the
frequency separation between the ATCRBS fruit and the beacon receiver was at least
6 MHz. When the fruit rate was lower, reply efficiency did not degrade as at
higher fruit rates.

Results of the 1030-MHz tests indicate that beacon reply efficiency is minimally
affected even at delta F=O MHz. However, it was at delta F=3 MHz that reply
efficiency performance degradation was negligible in the presence of l030-MHz
waveforms.

CONCLUSIONS

A guard band of at least 3 MHz will assure that the operation of the second
generation VORTAC (SGV) distance measuring equipment (OME) receiver will not be
affected when operating in the X-mode in the presence of 1030-MHz interference.

A guardband of at least 6 MHz is required in order to not affect OME receiver

operation in an environment of up to 40k of Air Traffic Control Radar Beacon System
(ATCRBS) 1090 MHz fruit.

Limited testing of the SGV while operating in Y-mode indicates a difference in

performance when operating in X-mode. Further investigation of this performance
difference is recommended prior to Y-mode frequency assignments by the Federal
Aviation Administration.

REFERENCES

1. The U.S. National Aviation Standard for the Mark X (SIF) Air Traffic Control
Radar Beacon System (ATCRBS) Characteristics, DOT Order 1010.51A, March 8, 1971
(appendix A).

2. The International Standard and Recommended Practices' Aeronautical

Telecommunications, Annex la, to The Convention on International civil Aviation,
Volume 1, third edition, July 1972.

3. 00-144 Minimum 0 erational Characteristics (MOC) Airborne ATC Trans onders,

Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics RTCA).

4. 00-150 Minimum Performance Standards (MPS) Airborne ATC Transponders, Radio

Technical Commission for Aeronautics (RTCA).

51
•
,
•