Information Systems Flashcards
1
Q
What are the components of the A320 information systems?
A
- 1 x ATSU (Air Traffic Services Unit) [accessed through the MCDU and includes ACARS]
- 2 x DCDUs (Datalink Control and Display Units)
- 2 x ATC Msg push buttons
- 1 x Datalink printer
2
Q
What is the ATSU connected to?
A
Loads! Inc:
- FMS
- CFDS
- AIDS
- Satcom
- DMCs
3
Q
What does the ATSU do?
A
“Manages uplink and downlink communications between aircraft and ground stations via satellite, VHF and HF radio”
- Can automatically send aircraft position and speed to ATC
- Can automatically send aircraft maintenance reports to an AOC
- Uses for ACARS (Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System)
4
Q
ATSU. How are aircrew made aware of an incoming ATC message?
A
- Aural chime
- Blue light “ATC MSG” on glare shield
5
Q
ATSU. What is the difference between downlink and uplink messages?
A
- Downlink = aircraft to ground (e.g ATC messages and maintenance information)
- Uplink = ground to aircraft (e.g wind data and flight plan data to insert into the FMGC)
6
Q
Which VHF is used for ACARS?
A
VHF3
7
Q
What is the CNS / ATM?
A
Communications Navigation Surveillance
Air Traffic Management
- Allows for datalink communications between the flight crews and controllers
- CNS/ATM uses ACARS networks (AIRNC and SITA)
8
Q
What does the CNS / ATM system include ?
A
- ATS Facilities Notification
- CPDLC (Controller Pilot Datalink Communications)
- ADS (Automatic Dependent Surveillance) [auto transmit position reports to ground stations]
9
Q
What does the CPDLC do?
A
- Allows exchange of text messages between flight crew and ATC via the MCDU and DCDU screens
- Messages could include clearances (speed, heading and altitudes)