ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES ME406 ELT User Manual

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

ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES ME406 ELT Specifications

General

Brand	ARTEX AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES
Model	ME406 ELT
Category	Transmitter
Language	English

Summary

Introduction, Description and Operation

Basic Information

Provides an overview of the Artex ME406/ME406HM ELT's purpose, accuracy, and components.

Application

Details the manual's role in supporting ELT installation and regulatory requirements for aircraft applications.

Description

Describes the ME406/ME406HM ELTs, including their G-switch features and microprocessor control.

Certification

Lists the certifications and standards the ME406 and ME406HM ELTs comply with.

Programming

Explains the factory programming of the ELT and supported user protocols.

Operation

Covers the automatic activation, transmission, and monitoring functions of the ELT system.

Accuracy

Details the position accuracy achieved using both 121.5 MHz and 406 MHz signals.

Switch Operation

Explains how the ELT is activated and deactivated using crash sensors and remote switches.

Self-Test Mode

Describes the ELT's automatic self-test routine for verifying system functions and operation.

Installation for the United States

Introduction to Installation

Outlines FAA regulations and recommendations for qualified personnel performing ELT installations.

Parts List

Lists the typical components included in ELT installation kits and available for separate order.

Mount ELT

Provides instructions for mounting the ELT, including compatible patterns and location considerations.

Mount Antenna

Details requirements for mounting the ELT antenna, including placement and ground plane considerations.

Whip Antenna Installation

Details installation of the Whip Antenna (P/N 110-773), covering type, location, prep, and mounting.

Rod Antenna Installation

Details installation of the Rod Antenna (P/N 110-338), covering type, location, prep, and mounting.

Mount Remote Switch

Provides instructions for mounting the remote switch, including location selection and panel cutout dimensions.

Mount Audio Indicator (“buzzer”)

Details requirements and recommendations for mounting the audio indicator (buzzer) for ELT alerts.

Cable harness and Wiring

Covers recommendations for wiring, grounding, and creating drip loops for the ELT harness.

Harness Wiring – Remote switch end

Provides step-by-step instructions for wiring the harness at the remote switch end.

Harness Wiring – ELT End

Provides step-by-step instructions for wiring the harness at the ELT end.

Connect harness

Outlines the procedure for connecting the harness to the ELT and remote switch.

Connect RF Coaxial Cable

Details precautions and specifications for connecting the RF coaxial cable to the ELT and antenna.

Coax Cable Assembly (Optional)

Explains how to fabricate custom coax cable assemblies and lists recommended connectors.

Low Loss Coax Cable (Optional)

Recommends specific low-loss coax cable for installations requiring longer runs.

Transmitter Test

Outlines the procedure for performing transmitter tests, including safety precautions and timing.

Self-Test

Describes the ELT's self-test procedure, including expected results and error code indications.

Self-Test Schedule

Provides recommendations for the frequency of self-testing the ELT.

Sealing Connectors in Wet Environments

Offers optional steps for sealing connectors to prevent moisture ingress.

Helicopter installations

Provides specific mounting guidelines for installing the ELT in helicopters, considering G-switch sensitivity.

Registration

FAA Form 337

Explains the requirement and guidance for using FAA Form 337 for ELT registration.

Radio Station License - USA

Clarifies that a radio station license is not required for ELTs in the USA.

U.S.A.A Registration

Details the mandatory registration process for 406 MHz ELTs with NOAA in the United States.

Canadian Registration

Outlines the requirements for registering ELTs with the National Search and Rescue Secretariat in Canada.

Other Country Registration

Advises contacting local authorities for registration requirements in countries other than the US.

Maintenance

Periodic Maintenance for the United States

Describes the minimum annual inspection requirements for ELTs in the United States per FAA regulations.

Canadian Maintenance Requirements

Outlines Canadian maintenance requirements for ELTs, referencing CAR Part V, Chapter 571.

Regulations

Points to Canadian Aviation Regulations (CAR) Part V, Chapter 571 for ELT maintenance standards.

Performance Test

Details the mandatory performance tests required for Canadian ELT annual maintenance.

Periodic Maintenance – Other Countries

Advises users outside the US to follow local regulations for periodic maintenance.

Maintenance Steps

Outlines general steps for performing ELT maintenance procedures.

Remove ELT Connections

Details how to disconnect the ELT from its wiring and antenna.

Remove ELT

Provides instructions for physically removing the ELT from its mounting tray.

Corrosion Inspection

Describes how to inspect ELT components for signs of corrosion.

Battery Removal

Provides detailed instructions and precautions for safely removing the ELT battery pack.

Battery Replacement

Details the process and components for replacing the ELT battery pack.

G-Switch Check

Describes a procedure for testing the G-switch's response to acceleration.

Reinstall ELT

Provides instructions for reinstalling the ELT into its mounting tray and securing it.

Antenna Test

Suggests using an AM broadcast receiver to check antenna transmission.

Installed Transmitter Test (Self-Test)

Details the procedure for performing the installed transmitter self-test.

Verification of Digital Message

Explains how to verify the 406 MHz digital message transmitted by the ELT.

Verify Registration

Guides users on how to check ELT registration status and where to find information.

Logbook Entry

Instructs on making logbook entries after testing or maintenance.

Shipping Instructions

Provides guidance on safely shipping the ELT, including battery disconnection.

Troubleshooting Guide

Troubleshooting Guide

Presents common ELT symptoms, likely causes, and recommended actions for troubleshooting.

Specifications

Operating Frequencies

Lists the operating frequencies for the ELT, including modulation types.

Output Power

Specifies the output power levels for the 406 MHz and 121.5 MHz signals.

Activation

Details the activation parameters for the ELT's crash sensor (G-switch).

Temperature

Provides the storage and operational temperature ranges for the ELT.

Input Power

Specifies the input power requirements for the ELT and remote switch.

Mechanical Characteristics

Lists the vibration, shock, humidity, and crush resistance specifications for the ELT.

Electrical Characteristics

Details electrical characteristics such as spurious emissions and impedance.

Coax

Specifies the type and connectors for the coaxial cable used with the ELT.

Software

Identifies the software standard used in the ELT.

Weights

Lists the weights of the ELT components and accessories.

Electrical Loading of Aircraft System

Shows the electrical current draw of ELT components under different operating conditions.

ME406 Series DO-160D Environmental Qualification Form

Lists the environmental qualification categories and test sections for the ELT.

Glossary