CDC Vol 1, 010 IFF/SIF Fundamentals and Uses Flashcards
- What type of IFF/SIF transponders do we use today?
Mark XII
- Which IFF/SIF mode is normally assigned by a command and control authority?
Mode 2
- What is the difference between mode 3 and mode A?
Nothing. Mode 3 of the military system is identical in characteristics to mode A of the civil system
- What information is provided by mode C?
It provides barometrically-derived altitude data.
- How is mode 4 different from the other modes?
With mode 4, the interrogation and response are both encrypted. This enables operators to distinguish between friendly and potentially hostile aircraft.
- Which military modes are not used by the civil SSR?
Modes 1, 2, 4, and 5.
- List the three mode 3A emergency codes and their meaning?
- 7700 for Emergency
- 7600 for Radio Communication Failure
- 7500 for an aircraft that has hijackers on board or is suffering from unlawful interference.
- What does the indentification of postion function provide to aircrews
It enables an aircraft to distinguish its replies from other platforms by causing a distinctive indication on the interrogatior display.
- What helps improve tracking continuity when used in conjunction with radar?
IFF/SIF
What was the IFF system called that was installed during WWII?
Radar Beacon System
What does FAA call their version of IFF/SIF?
Air Traffic Control Radar Beacon System (ATCRBS)
What two systems make up the Mark XII
- IFF/SIF
- ATCRBS (Air Traffic Control Radar Beacon System)
Who controls the radar beacon systems?
- DoD
- FAA
What country developed the first series of transponders and what was it called?
- The British in 1940
- Mark I
What series of the transponder was the interrogator added?
Mark III
What does IFF systems consist of?
- Interrogators
- Transponders
- Processing equipment
- Related antenna systems
What is the primary function of IFF/SIF?
To assist in the rapid and reliable ID of friendly aircraft, ships, and platforms while supporting the tracking and control f friendly aircraft.
What modes can be used by the Mark XII?
Modes 1,2,3/A, C, and 4
What series of transponders is able to use mode 5?
Mark XIIA
What modes are military moves?
Modes 1-5
What is IFF called in the civil air traffic control environment?
Secondary Surveillance Radar (SSR)
What are the civil modes?
Modes A, C, and S
What mode is used to convey the aircraft’s mission?
Mode 1
In most Mark XIIs, how many Mode 1 reply codes are available?
32
In the Mark XIIA, how many Mode 1 reply codes are available?
4096
How many reply codes are available for Mode 2 and Mode 3?
4096
What is the function of Mode 2
Personal ID
Is Mode 2 variably or aircrew selectable?
Variably
Who typically assigns Mode 2s?
C2 Authority
What can mode 2 represent for Naval aircraft?
Aircraft’s side number
What mode is each aircraft assigned a unique address, though military platforms have the capability to change the address in use when operationally required?
Mode S
What is an enhanced feature of the Mode S system which provides automatic self-reporting of a platform’s location?
ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast)
What mode has the capability to send national origin information and a platform ID number in replies and reports?
Mode 5
What system does Mode 5 connect to in order to provide an aircraft’s Lat/Long and altitude?
Global Navigation Satellite System
NOTE: Mode 5 has a merit number that represents the accuracy of the position information.
With Mode 5, what does Mode 5 level 1 provide and what does level 2 provide?
- Level 1 provides challenge and response
- Level 2 provides reporting functionality
What two modes are encrypted?
- Mode 4
- Mode 5
When the emergency feature is selected, how does the transponder reply to each interrogation?
With four pulse groups spaced 4.35 microseconds between groups.
What function enables an aircraft’s transponder to distinguish its replies from those of other platforms (when requested), by causing a distinctive indication on the interrogator display?
I/P or Ident (IP = Identification of Position)
When selected, how long are I/P ( Identification of Position) transmitted for?
Approximately 18 seconds
Control for ground and surface transponders are very similar to airborne transponders except for?
EMERGENCY, IDENT (I/P) and Mode C may be omitted.
Why might a radar only receive an IFF/SIF signal and not a radar signal?
The IFF/SIF may be much stronger and overpower the radar signal.
What can be used in conjunction with radar to help improve tracking continuity?
IFF/SIF
