SUPERAWOS®
SU-2000
OPERATIONS
&
MAINTENANCE
MANUAL
September 1, 2005
For the latest updates, go to:
www.SUPERAWOS.COM
800 207 - 8999
1
CONGRATULATIONS!
You now have a SUPERAWOS, the latest thing in Automated Weather and full service Automated Unicom.
The system is quite straight-forward. It is also integrated into an online system that makes many of the
inspection and maintenance tasks easy to perform. At the site, the system actually speaks to you, providing
step-by-step instructions on how to do everything, as well as internal system checks that keep you from messing
anything up.
The system’s initial physical and electrical installation takes two cheerful fellows about a half-day.
The initial software installation, calibration and initialization, will take about one hour, maximum.
The following manual shows everything you need to know, one step at a time.
If you have any questions, feel free to call us at 800-207-8999 8-6P EST.
As life is always subject to change, please check our website www.superawos.com for the latest updates to
this, and other documents and procedures.
And now, on with the show!
David Wartofsky
Potomac Aviation Technology Corp
Potomac Airfield (VKX)
10300 Glen Way
Fort Washington, MD 20744
Tel 301 248 5720
Fax 301 248 3997
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SYSTEM DESCRIPTION...................................................................................................................................... 5
OPERATIONS ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
PANEL CONTROL.............................................................................................................................................................................7
The UPPER KNOB............................................................................................................................................................................7
The LOWER KNOB..........................................................................................................................................................................7
REMOTE CONTROL.........................................................................................................................................................................7
RECORD NOTAM............................................................................................................................................................................7
CANCEL NOTAM............................................................................................................................................................................7
SYSTEM WAKE/SLEEP ..................................................................................................................................................................7
INSTALLATION .................................................................................................................................................... 8
BEFORE GOING TO THE SUPERAWOS SITE ............................................................................................................................8
CREATE YOUR TECHNICIAN RECORD ONLINE......................................................................................................................8
DOWNLOAD AIRPORT SOFTWARE ONLINE.............................................................................................................................8
DOWNLOAD FAA FORMS ONLINE, AS REQUIRED.................................................................................................................8
INSTALLATION & SETUP...............................................................................................................................................................9
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS:..............................................................................................................................................9
INSTALL THE MAST BASE .........................................................................................................................................................11
INSTALL THE MAIN MAST .........................................................................................................................................................13
ASSEMBLE THE UPPER MAST...................................................................................................................................................14
INSTALL THE UPPER MAST .......................................................................................................................................................15
INSTALL THE SATELLITE ANTENNA .......................................................................................................................................15
INSTALL AN ALL-WEATHER COVERED AC RECEPTACLE ..................................................................................................15
ALIGN THE MAST TO MAGNETIC NORTH..............................................................................................................................16
SECURE THE ALIGNED BASE....................................................................................................................................................16
INSTALL THE VISIBILITY MAST ...............................................................................................................................................17
INSTALL ENCLOSURE MOUNTING ARMS ..............................................................................................................................18
MOUNT ENCLOSURES ONTO MAST ARMS ............................................................................................................................18
INSTALL VISIBILITY SENSOR....................................................................................................................................................19
INTER-CONNECT THE MAIN AND POWER ENCLOSURES ..................................................................................................20
INSTALL THE POWER BOX........................................................................................................................................................21
VERIFY GROUNDING STRAPS...................................................................................................................................................22
INITIAL POWER UP ......................................................................................................................................................................23
SYSTEM INITIALIZATION ...........................................................................................................................................................24
SETTING THE SUPERAWOS ALTIMETER.................................................................................................................................25
SETTING SUPERAWOS VISIBILITY ..........................................................................................................................................26
ADVISORY SENSOR INSPECTION ............................................................................................................................................28
FAA NOTIFICATION ......................................................................................................................................................................28
MAINTENANCE & PROCEDURES .................................................................................................................. 29
ALTIMETER – Required for all Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations....................................................................................29
VISIBILITY – Required for Commercial, for hire flight operations ...............................................................................................29
RADIO PERFORMANCE – Verifies CLEAR Radio Transmission & Reception...........................................................................29
APPLICABLE AWOS SYSTEM RE-VALIDATION & INSPECTIONS .....................................................................................30
FIELD-SERVICEABLE COMPONENTS & PROCEDURES .....................................................................................................32
FIELD REPLACEABLE UNITS INSIDE MAIN ENCLOSURE ..................................................................................................33
FIELD REPLACEABLE EXTERNAL SENSORS & DEVICES...................................................................................................36
3
TYPICAL SUPERAWOS INSTALLATION
4
SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
The SuperAWOS combines a set of weather sensors, a super-sensitive radio communications system, and a
computer-based artificial intelligence, packaged into a modular, easy-to-maintain, battery-powered system,
which is placed in the runway environment of any airport, providing valuable weather and communications
services to pilots.(Figure 1)
Weather Sensors - The system’s weather sensors include temperature, dewpoint, wind speed and direction,
altimeter, and visibility. Because pilots operating in low-weather are required to obtain current altimeter and
visibility from an ‘official source,’ the SuperAWOS provides ‘FAA Approved’ altimeter and visibility, meeting
all flight requirements. The system’s other advanced features remain Advisory in nature, providing valuable
safety features well beyond the scope of traditional AWOS systems.
Radio Transceiver - The system’s super-sensitive, proprietary internal radio transceiver listens to the airport’s
Unicom/CTAF frequency, able to detect communications near and far, and when appropriate, transmits
information valuable to pilots. The transceiver also incorporates extensive internal self-diagnostics that
measure and report radio and antenna performance to the system’s computer ‘Brain.’
Computer Brain – Essentially an advanced low-power computer, the system’s modular Brain gathers weather
data from the system’s various sensors and transceiver, including internal performance parameters, and
combines these with an algorithmic ‘expert’ knowledge of the particular airport and its local flight operations.
This allows the system to dynamically and continuously adapt its radio transmissions to what is currently most
relevant to flight operations at any given moment; avoiding needless interference on the airport’s otherwise
busy Unicom frequency.
Satellite Link – The system Brain uses the system’s satellite communications link to eliminate all need for landbased communications lines or ongoing expense. In addition to providing long-line weather for flight planning
over this link, the system also uses this link to report all internal performance parameters, greatly simplifying
ongoing maintenance.
System Mast – The modules mount easily onto the system’s modular mast, which incorporates frangible
couplings and additional mountings for additional future sensors, modules and evolving technologies.
Power Box – The power box encloses the system’s batteries and charger, which together recharge the batteries
at night from already-available runway-lighting AC power, for the next days’ battery-powered operation.
For access into remote monitoring, contact Potomac Aviation Technology as below.
For friendly technical support, 9A-5P EST, Call us at 800 207-8999. Most replacement parts, should they even
come up, can be shipped overnight and you will have them in hand the next day.
MAJOR SENSOR & MODULES:
PRESSURE SENSORS, SETRA 159 Swanson Rd, Boxborough, MA 01719
VISIBILITY SENSOR, BIRAL Bristol Industrial & Research, Box 2, 1Beach Rd, West, Portishead, Bristol, BS20 7JB, UK
OTHER SENSORS, DAVIS INSTRUMENT CORP. 3465 Diablo Ave. , Hayward, CA 94545, USA
5
VHF ANTENNA
BLOCK
DIAGRAM
SATELLITE ANTENNA
Visibility Mast
VISIBILITY
SENSOR
WIND
SENSOR
WX
Sensor
Interface
TEMP & DEWPOINT SENSOR
BATTERY
CHARGER
12 V
BATTERY
Powers
devices, for up
to two days
VHF
TRANSCEIVER
Collects data
from Weather
& RF sensors
controls devices
Assembles speech
Setting
Knobs
SPEAKER
SATELLITE
MODEM
OTHER
PLUG IN
PRESSURE
SENSOR
PRESSURE
SENSOR
OTHER
PLUG IN
OTHER
PLUG IN
OTHER
PLUG IN
OTHER
PLUG IN
VHF
SAT
WX
VIZ
P1
P2
P3
P4
J1
J2
J3
PWR
P5
J4
P6
J6
~12 VDC
90-160 VAC
Min 4+ Hrs/Day
GROUND ROD
BRAIN
CONTROL PANEL
SYSTEM & DATA
Converts
whatever AC
power is
available,
whenever it is
available, and
keeps battery
charged.
BATTERY
&
AC
FRANGIBLE
COUPLING
Figure 1
6
OPERATIONS
The SuperAWOS provides the airport manager a number of easy-to-use, special features. These features allow the airport manager to
adjust the system’s behavior to local preferences, such as how aggressively the system will greet inbound pilots, its relative speech
rate, to add or cancel NOTAM messages to be given with advisories, and other rather clever functions. Feel free to move the UPPER
KNOB to its LIST position, to listen to and get familiar with the system features available.
As shown in Figure 2 below, you use the UPPER KNOB to LIST or SELECT various functions; and the LOWER KNOB to then
make adjustments UP or DOWN to the function you have just selected. Within every feature, the system speaks to you, giving
detailed, step-by-step instructions, always giving you the ability to CANCEL what you were doing, should something come up.
The SuperAWOS can also be used AS a radio, either using the panel microphone and speaker, or plugging in any standard aviation
headset into the plugs on the control panel. At the panel, you can use any aviation headset to record an extra clear NOTAM message.
PANEL CONTROL
The UPPER KNOB
•
•
•
•
Lamp Enable
Radio Features
CURRENT SETTINGS - Speaks current settings.
RUN – Normal operating position
LIST – Speaks options that you may set.
SELECT – Select function when you’ve heard your choice over
the speaker.
The LOWER KNOB
•
•
•
•
UP – Increases the value being adjusted
RUN / CONFIRM – Normal operating position
DOWN – Decreases the value being adjusted
CANCEL – Cancels the selected function
Figure 2
Push to Talk
Panel Mic
REMOTE CONTROL
The SuperAWOS allows the manager, to perform other useful functions, by using a password series of clicks
over unicom (As shown in the parenthesis to the left of the functions below). The default password is two
series of eight clicks, with about a one-second pause between: (8-8-X)
RECORD NOTAM
(8-8-2)
The system tells you to ‘transmit your NOTAM,’ and then echoes your message back to you.
Figure 3
CANCEL NOTAM
(8-8-3)
The system cancels any prior NOTAM that was recorded earlier.
SYSTEM WAKE/SLEEP
(8-8-4)
The system temporarily becomes silent on unicom, such as for special events like fly-ins, automatically resuming
operation, either when next receiving this sequence, or at the system’s programmed backup time (Usually 5P local).
7
INSTALLATION
BEFORE GOING TO THE SUPERAWOS SITE
While still in the relative comfort and convenience of your home or office, you can do most of the preliminary
preparation online, before going to the SuperAWOS site.
CREATE YOUR TECHNICIAN RECORD ONLINE
www.superawos.com
Go to
to setup your file and
to obtain authorization to work on the system, to annotate system
records, and other cool stuff. If you haven’t already set yourself
up as a Technician, do so now, by following the instructions on
the site. You will need to provide some contact information, and
answer a few relevant questions. It just takes a few minutes, and
allows easy performance tracking of the entire process and
system.
DOWNLOAD AIRPORT SOFTWARE ONLINE
Unlike traditional AWOS, the SuperAWOS is also configured so
that it is specifically ‘knowledgeable’ about its specific airport,
its physical characteristics, its runways, traffic patterns, and
more. These have been configured for you, based on FAA
information and other sources. Follow the instructions provided
online in your workspace, to obtain the software and create the
required disks for airport specific installation.
If you do not have online access, or you do not have a
computer with a floppy disk drive, we will send you the
software the old fashioned way.
Contact us at 800 207 8999
REVIEW SUPERAWOS EQUIPMENT & PERFORMANCE ONLINE
In addition to weather information, each SuperAWOS sends us detailed performance messages of all critical and
non-critical performance parameters; when it is first powered up, each time thereafter, as well as nightly. At any
time, these reports can be reviewed online by authorized persons.
DOWNLOAD FAA FORMS ONLINE, AS REQUIRED
Similar to the above, go to www.superawos.com to obtain the latest FAA forms you will need. Again, follow
the instructions provided.
8
INSTALLATION & SETUP
(TWO-CHEERFUL FELLOWS, ALLOW ONE HALF-DAY)
As the Installer, you will physically and electrically install the SuperAWOS, and then power it up and leave it
on. As it powers up it will speak to you as it performs various self-tests, as well as automatically send us a
detailed message by satellite communications that all is well, (or otherwise!).
Initially the system will not be be active on the airport frequency, nor transmit any data to pilots, until the
designated ‘Field Technician’ (which may also be you) also installs the software specific to the airport, as well
as performs other initial calibrations and inspections that actually activate the SuperAWOS on the airport’s
frequency. It is VERY simple.
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS:
Tools Required – Standard wrenches, screwdrivers, a drill, to mount an electrical box the way local code
requires, and any fun way to dig a hole about three feet deep.
Physical - Install the SuperAWOS co-located within about 10-25 feet from your airport’s existing lighted
windsock. This places the SuperAWOS sensors in a location that best reflects runway conditions, and
keeps the electrical installation as simple as possible; by allowing the system’s internal batteries to recharge off the windsock’s existing nighttime AC power.
•
•
•
If your windsock is poorly placed, this is the time to relocate it! (FAA AC 150/5345-27)
Install the SuperAWOS no closer to the runway than your airport’s windsock.
If your airport does not have a lighted windsock, now is the time to install one (FAA AC 150/5345-27).
Mechanical - If your windsock folds for maintenance; make sure that when it folds it will not come crashing
down onto the SuperAWOS installation.
‘Tighten’in this document means hand-tight, plus a quarter turn.
Align Use the compass supplied with the system to align various components as directed in these
instructions. For simplicity, alignment is always TOWARD Magnetic North, as indicated on the
compass face. Setting the compass level, allow it to stabilize for a minute, making sure no nearby metal
object is affecting its reading (such as the metal watch on your wrist!)
Electrical – Follow all applicable national and local electrical codes, as may be required.
Peak AC Power Required - When the charger is pumping a full charge into a mostly depleted battery, the
load on the AC line will be less than 500 Watts. That means installing even a modest 10 amp AC feed
will be more than adequate. When under this maximum load, the AC voltage MUST still be a minimum
of 90 VAC, or during the night, the battery will not get enough charge to power the system through the
next day. If necessary, an electrician can install a standard step-up transformer to easily correct this
problem.
Pilot Controlled Lighting (PCL) - Ensure that the windsock lighting circuit, or other AC power source, is
CONTINUOUSLY POWERED ALL NIGHT. If the airport’s windsock is part of pilot-controlled lighting
(PCL), which only comes on at night for 15 minute intervals when triggered by pilots, these
9
unpredictable intermittent AC charges will not adequately fully recharge the system’s internal battery for
the full next day’s operation. Therefore, if your windsock light is pilot-controlled, then we suggest
powering the existing AC line to the windsock continuously, and moving a photo-cell out to the
windsock itself, eliminating the need to run any more AC lines.
Electrical Grounding – To discharge inevitable lightning strikes, make sure the grounding rod provided
with your SuperAWOS is installed. Install the standard grounding rod within 24” of the base of the
SuperAWOS mounting base, leaving no more than 6” visible above the ground (See photo in these
instructions). This is a warranty requirement!
ON WITH THE SHOW!
10
INSTALL THE MAST BASE
By whatever means you most enjoy, dig a 6-10 inch hole approximately 36-42 inches deep. The smaller the
diameter of the hole you dig, the more critical that it be vertical. (Figure 5)
Figure 5
Figure 4
Insert the mounting base into the hole so that its open side faces towards your electrical source (Figure 7)
Figure 6
Figure 7
Figure 8
Toward AC power source
Using the supplied compass, align two of the holes on the mast base to within +/- 10 degrees of magnetic north
(Figure 8). Fear not, the upper mast has slotted holes for precision final alignment, which will come later in
the assembly.
11
Have an electrician run standard 120 VAC power from your
windsock, or other nearby electrical source, to the mounting
base. You may either run the AC lines either up through the
base’s inside hollow channel, leaving about 36 inches of AC
line visible (Figure 9); or, install an adjacent all-weather outlet
above-ground, in accordance with applicable electrical codes.
Install the supplied 8ft copper ground rod adjacent to the base
of the system (Figure 10)
~3ft
Figure 9
Figure 10
Before backfilling around the base, check that it is still level
and alignment is still magnetic north, +/- 10 degrees (Figure 11)
Backfill and pack around the base with concrete. Backfill
INSIDE the lower mast, level with the flange (Figure 12).
Figure 11
THE BASE
IS NOW READY
TA DA!
Figure 12
12
INSTALL THE MAIN MAST
If you have not already done so, install the frangible bolts as below. (Figure 13). Tighten the bolts to the base,
with the nuts provided. Leave the top of the bolts open for now (Figure 14).
Bolts go this end up!
Figure 13
Figure 14
Lower the MAIN MAST onto the bolts WITH THE GROUNDING LUG FACING NORTH (Figure 15).
Install the nuts onto the frangible bolts just tight enough to hold the
mast, but loose enough for the mast to rotate later, for its final precision
alignment (Figure 16).
Adjustment Range
Figure 15
Figure 16
13
ASSEMBLE THE UPPER MAST
This strange assembly comes with all wires pre-pulled and labeled. Place it on a clean, dry surface for easy
assembly (Figure 17).
WIND SENSOR - Attach the wind sensor assembly onto the weather interface as shown (Figure 17).
Tighten its four nuts and bolts (Figure 18).
Figure 18
Figure 17
VHF ANTENNA - Attach the VHF antenna lead to the base of the VHF antenna.. Make sure the RF connector
is finger tight (Figure 19)
Figure 19
Figure 20
Attach the antenna to the top of the mast using the four nuts and bolts provided, finger-tight only; you will be
adding the satellite antenna assembly and grounding strap later (Figure 20).
14
INSTALL THE UPPER MAST
Carefully feed the wires trailing from
the bottom of the UPPER MAST,
into the opening at the top of the
LOWER MAST.
Then carefully lower the UPPER
MAST into the LOWER MAST,
making sure the wind sensor is
facing NORTH (Figure 22).
Figure 21
Tighten the securing bolts holding the mast in place (Figure 21).
Figure 22
Carefully pull wires out the front opening in the mast (Figure 23).
INSTALL THE SATELLITE ANTENNA
Mount the satellite antenna onto the upper antenna flange, facing
WEST, with its RF connector facing down (Figure 25).
Finger-tighten the satellite antenna’s RF connector (Figure 25).
Figure 23
Attach ground strap to any mounting bolt, and then tighten!
Install the SatCom antenna lead,
finger tighten its RF connector.
Figure 25
Figure 24
INSTALL AN ALL-WEATHER COVERED
AC RECEPTACLE
You may install a standard electrical outlet with an
all-weather cover on the SOUTH side of the MAIN
MAST, or otherwise, as required by local electrical
code (Figure 26). This will provide a simple, easy,
non-technical quick-disconnect for maintenance,
should the need arise. (Figure 27)
Figure 27
Figure 26
15
ALIGN THE MAST TO MAGNETIC NORTH
Using the compass supplied, stand back about 10-15 feet to the north of the mast (Figure 28) and align the mast
so that the wind sensor faces directly toward magnetic NORTH, by centering the wind sensor barrel against the
mast behind it (Figure 28).
Align center of
Wind Sensor
Against Mast
Behind
Figure 29
Figure 28
AIM TOWARD
MAGNETIC NORTH
SECURE THE ALIGNED BASE
After aligning wind sensor toward NORTH, fully tighten the four
frangible mounting nuts holding the base, and re-verify alignment, realigning and re-tightening as necessary (Figure 30)
Figure 30
16
INSTALL THE VISIBILITY MAST
Feed the sensor’s multi-pin connector and its ground strap into the EAST stub arm (Figure 31), and then lower
the visibility mast onto this stub arm (Figure 33). Tighten the arms two locking bolts to secure the arm
Make sure that the visibility mast will not hit anything when it swings down for maintenance!
Figure 31
Locking bolts
Figure 32
Your installed
SuperAWOS
MAST ASSEMBLY
Should look
Something
Like this!
Figure 33
17
INSTALL ENCLOSURE MOUNTING ARMS
Install the two enclosure mounting arms, by sliding
them into their respective sleeves, matching the labels
on each arm with its corresponding label on the mast
where it installs (Figure 35).
Secure the support arms into position by tightening
their securing bolts to the mast (Figure 34).
Slide
in
MOUNT ENCLOSURES ONTO MAST ARMS
The POWER BOX mounts on the SOUTH side of the
MAIN MAST (Figure 36), and the POWER BOX on the
NORTH FACE, as marked (Figure 37).
Lower each
enclosure onto its respective support arms, as labeled.
POWER BOX (Rear View)
Slide in
Figure 34
Tighten bolts
Figure 35
MAIN ENCLOSURE (Mounting, side view)
Figure 36
Figure 37
Tighten the securing bolts beneath each arm into the holes in
the bottom of each enclosure (Figure 38).
System battery(s) will be installed later
Install securing bolts
Underneath each enclosure
Figure 38
18
INSTALL VISIBILITY SENSOR
LOWER ARM - Remove the locking pins securing the visibility arm (Figure 39). The arm will not lower until
the safety collar is also un-locked. Slide the safety collar up the mast to release the mast so that it can be
lowered (Figure 40).
Carefully lower the visibility mast to a convenient position, where it will
lie roughly horizontal, supported off the ground by its support arm
(Figure 39).
Figure 39
Figure 40
INSTALL VISIBILITY SENSOR - Install the visibility sensor facing DOWN
using the bolts provided (Figure 42). Attach power; signal and ground straps
(Figure 43). They can only be connected the correct way!
Figure 41
Connect
Power and signal
Figure 42
Figure 43
Remember to attach
The ground strap to its grounding bolt!
Figure 44
If you will also be doing the initial visibility calibration, you may leave the visibility arm down for now.
Otherwise, return it to its UP position.
19
INTER-CONNECT THE MAIN AND POWER ENCLOSURES
Connect the various plugs and jacks as marked, PLUG #3 into JACK #3, etc (Figure 45). Insert each plug
into its corresponding labeled jack, and then rotate the plug’s locking collar until it clicks into position securely.
JACK #1
J1 J2
J3 J4
J5
J6
J7
J8
J9
JACK #9
Figure 46
View from Below
Figure 45
FUNCTION
PLUG & JACK #
Plug X connects to Jack X
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
To VHFAntenna Cable
To Satellite Antenna Cable
Reserved
Reserved
Weather Sensor Package
Visibility Sensor
Reserved
Reserved
To Power Box
20
INSTALL THE POWER BOX
Open the Power Box access door, and look within.
Make sure the AC and DC power switches are OFF!
Connect
BLACK to the
NEGATIVE (-)
Terminals
Connect the
yellow battery
temperature
sensor connects
to the negative
terminal as
shown.
Connect RED to
the POSITIVE
(+) Terminals
Figure 47
Install the battery(s), positive terminal OUT. (Two batteries are
for more extreme conditions).
120 VAC
To AC Outlet
Connect the battery wires as shown above (Figure 47).
Plug in the DC power cord between the Power Box and Main
Enclosure (Figure 48). Plug in the AC power cord to the power
box.
Connect the other end of the AC
power cord to the AC ‘quickdisconnect’ AC outlet (Figure
49).
Figure 48
Figure 49
21
12 VDC
To MAIN
VERIFY GROUNDING STRAPS
VERIFY CONNECTING GROUND STRAPS
FROM EACH DEVICE
TO THE GROUND LUG ON THE MAST, AND THEN ANOTHER STRAP
FROM THIS LUG TO THE GROUNDING ROD
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
VHF ANTENNA & LIGHTNING ROD
Antenna Ground Strap
WX Interface Ground Strap
Main Enclosure Box
Visibility Sensor Ground Strap
Power Enclosure
Mast Stud to Ground Rod
YOUR
SUPERAWOS IS
NOW INSTALLED
TIME TO POWER
IT ON!
Figure 50
22
INITIAL POWER UP
Once everything is hooked up, to verify full function, turn on the AC power to the outlet.
Within the POWER box, turn on AC POWER and DC POWER (Figure 51)
Figure 51
Within the MAIN ENCLOSURE, VERIFY AC POWER
is okay, as indicated by the green LED as shown below
Figure 52
Verify AC Power indicator is showing ON in the Main Enclosure
Figure 53
Figure 54
TURN IT ON!
Turn on the power switch (Figure 54). After a protective power-on delay of about 20 seconds, the system will power-up,
speaking to you as it performs various startup self-tests. When it has completed these tests, it will send a satellite message
to us with a detailed message of the system and sensors’ performance.
Relax, the system is shipped with Installation Test Software, and will not transmit on the airport unicom until the Field
Technician has installed the airport specific software, as well as calibrated its altimeter and visibility sensors.
If you will not be performing the initial calibration and setup, you’re done!
23
SYSTEM INITIALIZATION
INSTALL YOUR AIRPORT SPECIFIC SOFTWARE When it first arrives, the system first powers-up with
Installation Test Software, which performs a complete series of self-tests and diagnostics.
Software specifically for your airport is provided separately, either directly or online. For questions, call 800207-8999.
When the system is ‘rebooted’ with your airport software disks installed, it will automatically over-write the
installation test software and load your specific airport configuration and files.
a.
Insert the System disks into their respective drives on the SuperAWOS (Figure 55)
Install software
into
SuperAWOS drives
Figure 55
b. Turn OFF the SuperAWOS at its control panel
switch (Figure 56).
c. Wait about 10 seconds.
d. Turn the system back ON.
Figure 56
After a brief 20 second delay, the SuperAWOS comes back online, automatically loading your airport software
from the floppy disks, and installing it.
The system will tell you what to do each step of the way, performing a series of sensor and self-checks,
speaking to you all along the way. Simply follow the step-by-step verbal instructions the system provides.
As the system comes up, it will also automatically send us a detailed message by satellite of all of its
performance parameters.
PRETTY DARN EASY, EH?
24
SETTING THE SUPERAWOS ALTIMETER
The SUPERAWOS® will initially wake-up with its altimeter disabled, requiring initial field setting as follows:
Using any certified altimeter reference source acceptable to the FAA, as specified in Advisory Circular 91-14D
(included below), or equivalent, determine the correct current Altimeter setting for the
airport. The altimeter reference must be adjusted to the airfield elevation.
Verify the current altimeter value with the airport manager or a knowledgeable pilot.
Using the knobs on the front of the SUPERAWOS® set the SuperAWOS to the current
altimeter value (Figure 57). It is similar to setting a digital watch, one digit at a time.
Figure 57
On the CONTROL PANEL (Figure 58) move the upper FUNCTION SELECT knob to its LIST position until
you hear over the system’s speaker “SET ALTIMETER,” then rotate the knob to its SELECT position.
Figure 58
Use the lower ADJUST knob to adjust each value spoken over the speaker UP, DOWN or CONFIRM, one value
at a time. After you let the system repeat any value 3 times, it will save that value, and then automatically move
on to the next step. (It’s actually quite simple).
After you have saved the last digit, the system will say “Set Altimeter, 29.92 (or whatever) confirmed.” When
done, return both knobs to their RUN/CONFIRM positions.
ONCE SET, THE SYSTEM WILL ONLY GIVE ALTIMETER TO PILOTS WHEN IT HAS 100%
CONFIDENCE BETWEEN ITS TWO INTERNAL, CROSS-CHECKING PRESSURE SENSORS.
THE SUPERAWOS DUAL INTERNAL PRESSURE SENSORS
ARE THEREAFTER MONITORED CONTINUOUSLY
VIA SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS
25
SETTING SUPERAWOS VISIBILITY
The SUPERAWOS® will initially wake-up with its visibility ‘disabled,’
requiring initial setting / field calibration as follows. Once set, calibration
is saved, and after ten minutes, visibility is then given to pilots.
Each system is shipped with a complete kit for calibrating the sensor; used
during initial setup and subsequent revalidation (Figure 59).
Figure 59
The system gives you, simple, intuitive, step-by-step instructions to follow. As you perform the
steps, you ACKNOWLEDGE that you’ve completed the step by pressing the Push-to-Talk
(PTT button), or you CANCEL, either by selecting CANCEL, or by returning both knobs to
their RUN/CONFIRM positions.
PADDLE REF ‘EXCO” ON LABEL
Figure 60
CALIBRATION KIT – The visibility calibration kit may be found inside the MAIN
ENCLOSURE by opening its access door.
SELECT FUNCTION - On the Control Panel, move the upper FUNCTION
SELECT knob to its LIST position (Figure 61) until you hear “SET VISIBILITY,” then
rotate the knob to its SELECT position. If you miss it the first time the list will repeat.
Figure 61
If visibility is less than 5 miles, the system will tell you to try again when it is better than five miles.
VERIFY VISIBILITY PADDLE REFERENCE The system asks you to confirm the paddle number,
printed on the calibration paddle’s label, as shown above (Figure 60).
LOWER THE VISIBILITY MAST - The system will tell you to lower the
visibility mast. Remove the two safety pins securing the visibility mast.
Holding the mast, release its safety collar by moving to its unlocked position.
(Figure 62).
Carefully lower the mast until it rests approximately level, with its support
arm on the ground (Figure 63).
Figure 62
Figure 63
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INSERT VISIBILITY PADDLE – The system will tell you to insert the paddle, placing the knobbed-shaft
into the available slot on the sensor. The paddle can only fit into place one way. Tighten knob (Figure 64).
Figure 64
SYSTEM CALIBRATION As the system automatically does its tests and calibrations it will speak to you,
either confirming the setting is within tolerance and telling you to return the mast, or providing you other
instructions.
IF the system directs you to install the two foam plugs for calibration, make
sure that you insert them fully, to block all the ambient light to each sensor
(Figure 65).
RETURN MAST TO ITS UP POSITION When the system is done with its
tests, it will instruct you to return the mast to its up position, which is the
reverse of lowering.
If necessary, when advised,
insert foam plugs fully
Figure 65
THE SUPERAWOS VISIBILITY SENSOR’S
ACCURACY, TOLERANCE AND WINDOW CLEANLINESS
ARE THEREAFTER MONITORED CONTINUOUSLY
VIA SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS
27
ADVISORY SENSOR INSPECTION - Move the upper FUNCTION SELECT knob until you hear
‘INSPECTION.’ Simply follow the spoken instruction the system provides, verifying one at a time that the
advisory sensor values are reasonable: Wind speed, direction, temperature and dew point. The results are then
sent via satellite, for verification, recordation and review.
If you allow the test to repeat without acknowledging a reasonable value, by pressing push-to-talk on the panel,
the sensor error will be reported via satellite and the sensor disabled. A subsequent INSPECTION with the
sensor acknowledged as reasonable will re-activate the sensor and update the remote report.
When you are done, the system will advise you to return to normal operation by returning both the upper and
lower knobs to their RUN/CONFIRM positions.
THE SYSTEM IS NOW FULLY OPERATIONAL ON YOUR AIRPORT’S UNICOM
VERIFY COMMUNICATIONS – The system’s radio performs a fistful of internal tests, even including its
own antenna path. However, you may use any handheld radio, or any aircraft radio, to confirm and exercise the
Advisory and Radio-Check features by activating the system with the appropriate number of clicks.
FAA NOTIFICATION (Automated Forms Completion) - For information about your SUPERAWOS to be
correctly distributed, you will need to notify a few parts of the FAA. Potomac Aviation makes it easy:
ONLINE - Go to www.SuperAWOS.com and login to your airport’s area. Make the appropriate
entries as indicated for initial commissioning. Potomac Aviation will then automatically take your input
and complete the standard; required FAA forms; distributing them as required.
FAA NON-FED COORDINATOR - Contact your regional FAA “Non Federal Coordinator,” to arrange
for final FAA commissioning into the National Airspace System (NAS).
FLIGHT STANDARDS - To further expedite dissemination of your system, contact your local FSDO
and AF offices so that they may incorporate the SuperAWOS altimeter setting and visibility features into
their normal “airport surveillance” schedule. (Didn’t know they had one, did you?).
FLIGHT DATA CENTER - Contact FAA ATA-100, by phone or fax, so that the presence of your system
can migrate into all FAA and related publications, Airport Facility directories, approach charts, etc.
Federal Aviation Administration
Aeronautical Information Services, ATA-100
800 Independence Ave, S.W.
Washington, DC 20591
Tel 800 457-6656 Fax 202 267-5322
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MAINTENANCE & PROCEDURES
Every SuperAWOS communicates hourly, daily, and more, by satellite communications to one central system.
In addition to sending routine weather observations, the SuperAWOS also transmits detailed performance
information on all its critical elements. In fact, there is more detailed information within these regular
transmissions than could otherwise be obtained by a physical inspection.
To have sufficient confidence that all is well, only three elements come under inspection requirements:
ALTIMETER – Required for all Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations
The SuperAWOS transmits regular altimeter information, and also transmits additional details on the hourly
performance of BOTH of its internal, cross-checking altimeters. If there is any discrepancy, the SuperAWOS
suppresses altimeter information, and it is flagged immediately within the received satellite data. Instead of
limited to typical quarterly, or annual checks, the SuperAWOS measures and reports its altimeter cross-checks
hourly:
a. Altimeter #1 Measured Pressure
b. Altimeter #2 Measured Pressure
c. Pressure Sensor differential drift
d. Pressure Sensor Errors
VISIBILITY – Required for Commercial, for hire flight operations
The SuperAWOS employs the most sophisticated, most reliable visibility sensor available. In addition to
regular visibility reporting, rather than typical quarterly or annual checks, this sophisticated sensor
automatically detects measures and compensates, reporting by satellite, hourly:
a. Sensor Window Contamination
b. Internal Performance Drift Data - Which foretells when calibration is coming due.
c. Visibility Sensor Errors
RADIO PERFORMANCE – Verifies CLEAR Radio Transmission & Reception
The SuperAWOS employs a proprietary radio transceiver that uniquely measures and reports by satellite.
Instead of typical quarterly and annual inspections, this radio delivers complete performance reports daily:
a.
b.
c.
d.
RF Power Output at the antenna – To make sure it is actually transmitting RF energy.
Percent Modulation – To ensure that what it is transmitting is actually understandable by pilots
Antenna system VSWR – Relative efficiency of the entire RF path, including antenna loading.
System RF Noise Level – To monitor internal electromagnetic and RFI noise levels.
ADDITIONAL ADVISORY FEATURES The SuperAWOS provides additional safety features, which remain
Advisory, like the wind blowing your windsock. They are very valuable to safe flight operations, but do not
come under ergulaory constraint. These functions are also reported and monitored remotely, by the hour.
MINIMIZES INSPECTION COSTS - This unique combination of extensive internal monitoring, and remote
reporting, minimizes the need for field personnel to physically inspect the system, inspections normally based
merely on the passage of time. All essential system and cross—check information is monitored remotely, with
appropriate annotation into forms recognizable by FAA record-keeping requirements.
PROVIDES REMOTE VALIDATION - In addition, the Potomac Aviation system brings together all of the
reporting systems required for the FAA to have confidence in representing to the public that the system is
functioning correctly, and within tolerance.
29
APPLICABLE AWOS SYSTEM RE-VALIDATION & INSPECTIONS
Inspections are the basis under which the FAA is able to represent to the public with confidence that when a
SuperAWOS is commissioned as part of the National Airspace System (NAS), that it is functioning correctly,
and within tolerance.
The SuperAWOS provides nightly remote inspections of all critical functions. This capability provides vastly
enhanced reliability, increased safety, as well as greatly reduces the operational and economic burden of owning
and operating an AWOS.
QUARTERLY
FAA quarterly inspections are completed using the SuperAWOS system’s internal sensing and remote reporting
capability, with applicable FAA forms completed automatically; with additional oversight by qualified
personnel. Additional remote inspections can also be requested on demand.
Quarterly Inspections – REMOTE & ON-SITE
Altimeter
ANNUAL REVALIDATION
Annual Inspections – ON SITE
Altimeter & Visibility
1. Obtain Standard FAA Inspection Forms - Logon to the www.SuperAWOS.com site and go to the
maintenance area for your airport. Enter your inspection as described, then download and print hard copy of
the required FAA forms (Currently ‘Performance Checks,’ FAA Form 6000-8 and ‘Site Visit,’ FAA FORM
6030-1). Take these forms with you to the SuperAWOS site so that you may make appropriate notations.
2. Check for Vertical Alignment – Inspect the vertical mast to make sure that it has not shifted significantly,
such that the wind sensor may be adversely affected.
3. Inspect the Enclosure - The SUPERAWOS® is enclosed in an environmentally secure enclosure that will
withstand most outside environments for many years. The enclosure should be externally inspected for
debris, bird dropping accumulations and other aesthetic matters and cleaned as necessary. Inspect hinges
and latches for fit, function and tightness. To maximize the life of the enclosure, any exposed metal on the
enclosure should be touched up using any corrosion inhibiting paint (such as ”Rustoleum” or any similar
product).
4. Power Outlet - Check for corrosion or debris inside the all-weather cover-box of the 110 VAC outlet
powering the system. Repair/clean remove gruesome dead bugs as needed.
5. Wind Sensors - Lightly tap the wind cups and directional vane to confirm that they are turning freely. Clean
as necessary; no lubrication is required. Should the wind cups become damaged for any reason each system
is shipped with a spare set of wind cups located inside the access door. Check that the wind assembly is still
facing North. Adjust as necessary using the methods outlined under INSTALLATION.
6. Temp/Humidity Sensor - Check to make sure that the temperature/ dew point sensor housing is not
obstructed above, below, or at the sides. Wipe or brush clean as needed. Check for reasonableness.
7. Check Altimeter – As required, using the Altimeter Setting procedure spelled out in Installation, reset and
re-calibrate the SUPERAWOS®’s altimeter(s) to a certified reference source from FAA AC 91-14D using the
30
knobs on the front Control Panel. The results are then sent via satellite, for verification, recordation and
review.
8. Visibility Sensor – Visibility performance is monitored remotely. Visually check the visibility sensor’s
connections for integrity. For annual re-validation, follow the SET VISIBILITY procedures, as described in
Installation. These results are sent via satellite, for verification, recordation and review.
9. Field Inspection - Move the upper FUNCTION SELECT knob to its LIST position and perform an
INSPECTION, by simply follow the verbal instruction the system provides. This will verify the system’s
additional advisory sensor values: Wind, Temperature and Dewpoint. These results are sent via satellite, for
verification, recordation and review.
10. Confirm /Adjust Airport Settings – After completing the system self-test, the system will then start to speak
all of the airport specific configuration settings. Listen to the airport’s configuration values and adjust /
correct settings as instructed by the system over its speaker.
11. Check Sensor Values - Once the system has completed speaking its configuration settings it will then
automatically start looping through an ‘Extended Advisory,’ continuously speaking all of the sensor values
being measured. Confirm reasonable values being given, and note any discrepancies.
11. Inspection Complete - Return both knobs to their RUN/CONFIRM positions when complete.
12. Complete and Submit FAA Forms (Automated FAA Forms Completion) - Logon to the
www.SuperAWOS.com site and go to the maintenance area for your airport. Enter your inspection as
described. Potomac Aviation will then automatically produce all required FAA forms and distribute the
information as needed.
31
FIELD-SERVICEABLE COMPONENTS & PROCEDURES
There are just a few, simple, field-serviceable components to a SuperAWOS. Beyond the simplest field
serviceable items, the entire SuperAWOS system, or its major components, can also be easily removed and an
exchange installed, by following the Installation Procedures as outlined.
Serviceable components will have instructions and diagram labels attached. In addition, instructions for each
item are included within their shipping documents.
As a power saving feature, the system’s internal LED status indicators are
normally off. These indicators will illuminate for approximately 15 minutes
when any knob is moved, or by pressing the LAMP ENABLE switch.
These status indicators provide a quick and obvious way to verify that the various SuperAWOS modules are
powered and communicating correctly (Figure 66).
LED status indicators either ON or FLASHING indicate the following is operating correctly:
SERIAL TX & RX LEDS
Flashing indicates device is sending and receiving data to and
from the brain
EXAMPLE - INTERFACE MODULE
INPUT POWER LED
ON indicates unregulated power is getting to the interface
OUTPUT POWER LED
ON indicates power is coming from the device interface
REGULATOR LED
Regulated power is being given to device
(NOTE: Some devices are direct, so the LED remains off).
Figure 66
LOAD LED
Device is online drawing appropriate current from the power supply
If you have questions, please check online at www.SUPERAWOS.COM, or call 800 207-8999 for assistance.
==============
BEFORE DOING ANYTHING, FIRST POWER DOWN THE SUPERAWOS!
Open the MAIN ENCLOSURE access door. Shut the system off at the control panel ON/OFF switch.
Figure 67
32
FIELD REPLACEABLE UNITS INSIDE MAIN ENCLOSURE
EXCHANGING INTERNAL MODULES Field replaceable modules are clearly labeled; installation,
removal and replacement are both easy and obvious, requiring no special tools.
Every module is secured by a small securing knob on top and a computer-type connector (Figure 69)
Simply disconnect the module’s multi-pin connector, and un-screw the module’s securing knob, the
module will pull free. Installation of modules is the reverse of removal.
To release module:
unscrew small knob on top
Sat Com
Interface Modules
Barometers
Figure 68
EXCHANGING THE BRAIN
Open inner control panel
access door
Figure 69
Release the two small knobs
securing the brain
To remove the brain,
Slide it out
Figure 70
Figure 71
•
•
•
Figure 72
Re-Install system software (See INSTALLATION, System initialization)
Re-Calibrate Altimeter (See INSTALLATION, Set Altimeter)
Re-Calibrate Visibility (See INSTALLATION, Set Visibility)
If changing a barometer, you must RE-SET the altimeter.
See SET Altimeter. Revalidation is verified by satellite
33
EXCHANGING THE RADIO
Open inner control
Panel access door
Unplug the radio’s
side ribbon connector
Unplug the radio’s
small RF plug
Radio
Figure 73
Figure 74
Figure 75
Unplug the radio’s
lower power connector
Unscrew the knurled
nuts securing the radio
to the back
Remove the radio
Figure 76
Figure 77
•
Installation is the reverse of removal
Figure 78
Whenever the system is powered up, it will automatically reset, test, revalidate, and report the radio’s
performance over the speaker and by satellite, announcing the tests it is performing, the actions to be
taken, if any, and the results.
34
FIELD REPLACEABLE UNITS INSIDE POWER BOX
TO BE EXTRA SAFE - SHUT OFF THE AC POWER !
Either by unplugging the SuperAWOS AC cord,
Or, by shutting AC power to the site, if accessible.
UN-PLUG!
Figure 79
EXCHANGING BATTERY(S)
•
In the MAIN ENCLOSURE, turn the SuperAWOS OFF
•
In the POWER BOX, turn AC and DC switches OFF
Figure 80
Figure 81
•
•
Figure 82
Disconnect AC and DC connectors from POWER BOX.
Disconnect the leads to the battery(s).
BE CAREFUL
DO NOT TO LIVE BATTERY WIRES TOUCH!
Removal is the opposite of installation, see Installation.
Figure 83
35
FIELD REPLACEABLE EXTERNAL SENSORS &
DEVICES
EXCHANGE ANTENNAS
•
•
Remove the VHF antenna
Remove SATCOM antenna
Figure 84
Replacement is the opposite of removal. See Installation
EXCHANGE WEATHER SENSOR PACKAGE
•
Remove VHF and SATCOM antennas (Figure 84).
•
Disconnect the Weather Sensor jack beneath the unit
•
Figure 85
Remove the UPPER MAST with sensor package attached.
Replacement is the opposite of removal. See Installation.
Figure 86
EXCHANGING VISIBILITY SENSOR
•
Lower the visibility arm, for service – (See Installation)
•
Disconnect the Visibility Sensor’s ground strap and two plugs
•
Replacement is the opposite of removal. See Installation.
Figure 87
After replacing the visibility sensor,
You must re-validate the new sensor.
See Installation, SET VISIBILITY.
Revalidation verified by satellite
Figure 88
36