TWR-850

TWR-850
Turbulence
Weather Radar System
installation manual
Collins General Aviation Division

May 1, 1995
TO: HOLDERS OF THE COLLINS TWR-850 TURBULENCE WEATHER RADAR SYSTEM

INSTALLATION MANUAL (523-0774651-00211A)
3RD EDITION HIGHLIGHTS
This new edition completely replaces the existing manual. All changes have been implemented in a manner
that retains information required to service earlier equipment models. All revisions are identified by black
bars in the margin of the page. Discard the second edition to avoid confusion at a later date.
Several changes have been implemented in this edition. Coverage of the RTA-85X strapping options has
been included, addendums 1 and 2 have been incorporated, Record of Addendums have been added.
PUBLICATIONS DEPARTMENT
1/2
(523-0774651-00311A)
3rd Edition, 1 May 1995
TWR-850
Turbulence
installation manual
This publication includes:
General Information 523-0774652

Installation 523-0774653
Operation 523-0774654
Theory of Operation 523-0774655
Maintenance 523-0774656

Rockwell International Corporation
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52498
Printed in the United States of America
©Rockwell International 1995
(TWR-850_IM_MAY_1/95)
WARNING
INFORMATION SUBJECT TO EXPORT CONTROL LAWS
This document may contain information subject to the International Traffic in Arms
Regulation (ITAR) or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR) of 1979 which
may not be exported, released, or disclosed to foreign nationals inside or outside of
the United States without first obtaining an export license. A violation of the ITAR
or EAR may be subject to a penalty of up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of
up to $1,000,000 under 22 U.S.C.2778 of the Arms Export Control Act of 1976 or
section 2410 of the Export Administration Act of 1979. Include this notice with any
reproduced portion of this document.
Caution
The material in this publication is subject to change. Before attempt-

ing any maintenance operation on the equipment covered in this
publication, verify that you have complete and up-to-date publications
by referring to the applicable Publications and Service Bulletin
Indexes.
SOFTWARE COPYRIGHT NOTICE
Copyright, 1995
All software resident in this equipment is protected by copyright.
We welcome your comments concerning this publication. Although every effort

has been made to keep it free of errors, some may occur. When reporting a
specific problem, please describe it briefly and include the publication part
number, the paragraph or figure number, and the page number.
Send your comments to: Publications Department MS 106-124

Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52498
or by Internet E-Mail to:
GENAVPUB@THOR.CCA.ROCKWELL.COM
SPECIFIC ADVISORIES FOR THE TWR-850
Warning
Electronic control systems, such as autopilots, engine controls, fuel controls, temperature sensors, etc, used
for aircraft control can be susceptible to transmissions from communications transceivers, DME’s, transpond-
ers, etc, that can interfere with aircraft operations. If such a situation occurs, discontinue transmission or
select a different frequency. If necessary, turn off the radio.
Warning
The area within the scan arc and within 0.65 metre (2 feet) of an operating TWR-850 Turbulence Weather
Radar System or an RTA-85X with WXI-711A system can be a hazardous area. Do not operate the system
in any mode other than standby (STBY) or test (TEST) when the antenna might scan over personnel within
that range. FAA Advisory Circular 20-68B provide additional details on the radiation hazards associated with
ground operation of airborne weather radar (refer to the Collins Installation Practices Manual, CPN 523-
0775254).
GENERAL ADVISORIES FOR ALL UNITS
Warning
Service personnel are to obey standard safety precautions, such as wearing safety glasses, to prevent personal
injury while installing or doing maintenance on this unit.
Warning
Use care when using sealants, solvents, and other chemical compounds. Do not expose to excessive heat or
open flame. Use only adequate ventilation. Avoid prolonged breathing of vapors and avoid prolong contact
with skin. Observe all cautions and warnings given by the manufacturer.
Warning
Remove all power to the unit before disassembling it. Disassembling the unit with power connected is
dangerous to life and may cause voltage transients that can damage the unit.
Warning
This unit may have components that contain materials (such as beryllium oxide, acids, lithium, radioactive
material, mercury, etc) that can be hazardous to your health. If the component enclosure is broken, handle
the component in accordance with OSHA requirements 29CFR 1910.100 or superseding documents to prevent
personal contact with or inhalation of hazardous materials. Since it is virtually impossible to determine which
components do or do not contain such hazardous materials, do not open or disassemble components for any
reason.
Warning
This unit exhibits a high degree of functional reliability. Nevertheless, users must know that it is not
practical to monitor for all conceivable system failures and, however unlikely, it is possible that erroneous
operation could occur without a fault indication. The pilot has the responsibility to find such an occurrence
by means of cross-checks with redundant or correlated data available in the cockpit.
Caution
Turn off power before disconnecting any unit from wiring. Disconnecting the unit without turning power off
may cause voltage transients that can damage the unit.
i
GENERAL ADVISORIES FOR ALL UNITS (cont)
Caution
This unit contains electrostatic discharge sensitive (ESDS) components and ESDS assemblies that can be
damaged by static voltages. Although most ESDS components contain internal protection circuits, good
procedures dictate careful handling of all ESDS components and ESDS assemblies.
Obey the precautions given below when moving, touching, or repairing all ESDS components and units
containing ESDS components.
a. Deenergize or remove all power, signal sources, and loads used with the unit.
b. Place the unit on a work surface that can conduct electricity (is grounded).
c. Ground the repair operator through a conductive wrist strap or other device using a 470-kΩ or 1-MΩ series
resistor to prevent operator injury.
d. Ground any tools (and soldering equipment) that will contact the unit. Contact with the operator’s hand
is a sufficient ground for hand tools that are electrically isolated.
e. All ESDS replacement components are shipped in conductive foam or tubes and must be stored in their
shipping containers until installed.
f. ESDS devices and assemblies, that are removed from a unit, must immediately be put on the conductive
work surface or in conductive containers.
g. Place repaired or disconnected circuit cards in aluminum foil or in plastic bags that have a layer of, or are
made with, conductive material.
h. Do not touch ESDS devices/assemblies or remove them from their containers until they are needed.
Failure to handle ESDS devices as described above can permanently damage them. This damage can cause
immediate or premature device failure.
ii
ROCKWELL COLLINS
INSTALLATION MANUAL
TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar System
RECORD OF TEMPORARY REVISIONS
TEMPORARY DATE DATE

PAGE NUMBER BY BY
REV NO ISSUED REMOVED
Addendum 1 sheet 1 1-6 May 12/95 Rockwell Collins
Addendum 2 2-26 Oct 17/95 Rockwell Collins
Addendum 3 2-8 Feb 10/99 Rockwell Collins
Addendum 3 5-7 Jul 22/96 Rockwell Collins
Addendum 4 2-46 May 21/99 Rockwell Collins
Addendum 5 2-35 May 24/99 Rockwell Collins
Addendum 6 sheet 1 2-12 Dec 16/99 Rockwell Collins Jan 31/01 Rockwell Collins
Addendum 6 sheet 2 2-51 Dec 16/99 Rockwell Collins
Addendum 6 sheet 3 2-53 Dec 16/99 Rockwell Collins
7 1-4 Jan 31/01 Rockwell Collins
7 2-18 Jan 31/01 Rockwell Collins Feb 8/02 Rockwell Collins
7 2-50 Jan 31/01 Rockwell Collins Aug 19/02 Rockwell Collins
7 3-16 Jan 31/01 Rockwell Collins Aug 19/02 Rockwell Collins
8 2-16 Feb 8/02 Rockwell Collins
NOTICE
INFORMATION SUBJECT TO EXPORT CONTROL LAWS
This document contains technical data that may be restricted for export under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or the Export Administration Regulations
(EAR). Violations of these export laws may be subject to fines and penalties under the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S. C. 2778).
Temporary Revision 10 RTR-1

523-0774651-0A311A Nov 14/02
ROCKWELL COLLINS
INSTALLATION MANUAL
RECORD OF TEMPORARY REVISIONS
TEMPORARY DATE DATE

PAGE NUMBER BY BY
REV NO ISSUED REMOVED
8 2-17 Feb 8/02 Rockwell Collins Aug 19/02 Rockwell Collins
8 2-18 Feb 8/02 Rockwell Collins
9 1-1 Aug 19/02 Rockwell Collins Nov 14/02 Rockwell Collins
10 1-1 Nov 14/02 Rockwell Collins
Temporary Revision 10 RTR-2

523-0774651-0A311A Nov 14/02
523-0774652-003118
TWR-850
Turbulence
General Information
Table of Contents
Paragraph Page
1.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1.1.1 General Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1.2 Purpose of Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1.3 Equipment Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1.4 Related Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1.5 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
NOTICE: This section replaces second edition dated 30 October 1992.

List of Effective Pages *The asterisk indicates pages changed, added, or deleted by the current change.
Page Issue
*Title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 May 95
*List of Effective pages . . . . . . 1 May 95
*1-1 thru 1-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 May 95
RETAIN THIS RECORD IN THE FRONT OF THE MANUAL.

Record of Revisions ON RECEIPT OF REVISIONS, INSERT REVISED PAGES IN THE MANUAL,
AND ENTER DATE INSERTED AND INITIALS.
REV REVISION INSERTION SB NUMBER REV REVISION INSERTION SB NUMBER

NO DATE DATE/BY INCLUDED NO DATE DATE/BY INCLUDED
1st Ed 22 Aug 88 None
2nd Ed 30 Oct 92 None
3rd Ed 1 May 95 None

ROCKWELL COLLINS
INSTALLATION MANUAL

INSTALLATION MANUAL (523-0774651, 3RD EDITION, DATED MAY 1/95)
TEMPORARY REVISION NO. 10

Insert facing page 1-1.
This temporary revision supersedes Temporary Revision 09.
Subject: Revised information.
Change to paragraph 1.1.1 General Description is shown below in bold text. Second column, first
paragraph, the last sentence, that begins with: It is vital…, is deleted and note is added.
NOTE:
Collins recommends the use of a “Class A” radome as defined in RTCA/DO-213 Minimum Operational
Performance Standards for Nose-Mounted Radomes. Use of a lower classification of radome, as
defined in RTCA/DO-213, degrades the performance of a radar system and is likely to result in
extraneous and inaccurate weather depictions.
Temporary Revision 10 Page 1 of 7

523-0774651-0A311A Nov 14/02
section I
general information
1.1 INTRODUCTION purposes. The RTA-852L has the base assembly

separated from the antenna/RF/drive assembly but
This publication provides system description, equip- interconnected by a cable for specialized mounting
ment specifications, installation instructions, operat- purposes (ie, Model 65 Sabreliner mounts the base
ing procedures, and information necessary for on- assembly aft of the radome bulkhead, allowing the
aircraft maintenance of the TWR-850 Turbulence antenna/RF/drive assembly to fit within a smaller
Weather Radar System. radome). The complete RTA-85X assembly (with the
exception of the RTA-852L base assembly) must be
1.1.1 General Description mounted on a forward bulkhead or radar antenna
mounting surface and enclosed by a radome. It is
The TWR-850 system is a second generation solid- vital to proper performance of any radar system that
state weather radar system. The system consists of the radome be at least 85 percent RF transparent.
two separate units: the RTA-85X Receiver/Transmit-
ter/Antenna and the WXP-850A/B Weather Radar The mechanical limits of the RTA-85X/85X tilt axis
Control Panel. Refer to Figure 1-1 for a diagram of is ± 30 degrees. The RTA calculates a stabilization
the TWR-850 system. EFIS displays are used to angle (tilt axis) as a function of antenna scan angle,
display the radar presentation. For aircraft without aircraft pitch and roll, and the manual setting of the
EFIS, the WXI-711A Weather Radar Indicator may tilt control. During aircraft maneuvers that com-
be used with the RTA-85X. The WXI-711A contains mand combinations of pitch, roll and tilt that exceed
a display and provides most of the same control the mechanical limits of the radar, the RTA software
functions as the WXP-850A/B. Refer to Figure 1-2 limits the maximum stabilization angle to ±30
for a diagram of the WXI-711A. degrees. Bit 18 of the RTA 453 serial data word is
set to a "1" when this saturated condition is detect-
The distinguishing mechanical feature of the RTA- ed.
85X unit is its 1-piece design combining the receiver,
transmitter, and antenna into a single unit. Refer The operating control functions may be provided by
to Figure 1-3 for a diagram of the major subassem- the WXP-850A (panel mount) or WXP-850B (Dzus
blies of the RTA-85X. The forward portion of this mount) Weather Radar Control Panels or by the
unit is the flat-plate antenna, which is available in WXI-711A Weather Radar Indicator that also
either 12-, 14-, or 18-inch-diameter models. The provides a display. These units are normally mount-
antenna size is the primary distinguishing feature ed in the instrument panel. The control functions for
between the RTA-852/852L (12-inch antenna), the WXP-850A/B include MODE, GAIN, TILT, and
RTA-854 (14-inch antenna), and RTA-858 (18-inch RANGE selection knobs, plus pushbuttons for
antenna) models. Directly behind the antenna and ground clutter suppression (GCS), slave mode (SLV),
attached to it is the RF assembly, consisting of the stabilization enable/disable (STB) selection. Display
transmitter and receiver. This design eliminates the hold (HLD), autotilt (AUTO), and sector scan (SEC).
need for a waveguide. The antenna and RF assem- The WXI-711A provides these same functions except
bly are mounted on the drive assembly and therefore for HLD, AUTO, SEC, and the target (TGT) mode.
scan from left to right and tilt up and down. The
drive assembly contains the motor and gears for the 1.2 PURPOSE OF EQUIPMENT
scan and tilt functions and is attached to the base
assembly on the RTA-852/854/858. The TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar System
and the RTA-85X with WXI-711A system provide
The base assembly contains the power supplies and the flight crew with a display of radar-detectable
signal processing portion of the RTA-85X unit. The precipitation within 60 degrees of the flight path. In
RTA-852, -854, and -858 use the base for mounting addition to wet precipitation detection, the systems
Revised 1 May 1995 1-1

general information 523-0774652
TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar System,

Using RTA-85X and WXP-850A
Figure 1-1
WXI-711A Weather Radar Indicator

Figure 1-2

RTA-85X Major Subassemblies

Figure 1-3
feature a turbulence detection capability which 1.4 RELATED PUBLICATIONS
alerts the crew to the location of precipitation-
related turbulent conditions. Turbulence detection Table 1-5 lists publications related to the operation
is made possible by the use of an extremely stable of the TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar System
transmitter which allows detection of very small and the WXI-711A Weather Radar Indicator.
shifts in frequency indicating a relative velocity of
the detected precipitation. The systems cannot 1.5 STORAGE
detect or display turbulence that is not precipitation
related. Users must recognize that X-band weather The RTA-85X and WXP-850A/B (or WXI-711A)
radar can detect only wet precipitation. Precipi- should be stored in the original packing materials
tation like snow and some hail, which is typically and shipping container(s). If the unit is to be stored
dry, is generally not detectable by X-band radar. for a long period of time, place the unit in an air-
tight plastic bag with sufficient desiccant to absorb
1.3 EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATIONS moisture. At no time should the ambient tempera-
ture of the storage area fall below -55 °C (-67 °F) or
Table 1-1 is a listing of the units that comprise the rise above +85 °C (+185 °F). The relative humidity
TWR-850 system. The table also shows the various should never exceed 95 percent. If the unit is stored
models available along with their individual Collins for an extended period of time, retest the unit prior
part numbers. Table 1-2 is a listing of system and to returning it to service to ensure that possible
LRU (line replaceable unit) equipment specifica- component degradation has not affected perfor-
tions. mance.

Table 1-1. Equipment Covered
EQUIPMENT PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION

RTA-852 622-8439-001 Receiver/transmitter/antenna unit with 12-inch antenna and low-speed
(50 kBd) ARINC 429 digital stabilization
RTA-852 622-8439-011 Same as -001 except with SB 12 installed, incorporates all of the mechanical
hardware, and software improvements contained in the -003 RTA (including
autotilt and target alert), except that it does not have digital stabilization
RTA-852 622-8439-002 Same as -001 except with high-speed (100 kBd) ARINC 429 digital stabilization
RTA-852 622-8439-003 Same as -002 except with SB 13 installed, autotilt and target alert function are
enabled
RTA-852L 622-9080-001 Receiver/transmitter/antenna unit with 12-inch antenna, low-speed
(50 kBd) ARINC 429 digital stabilization, and separated base assembly (The
drive assembly is fastened to a mounting bracket instead of the base assembly
to allow remote mounting of the base assembly .)
RTA-852L 622-9080-011 Same as -001 except with SB 12 installed, incorporates all of the mechanical,
electrical hardware, and software improvements contained in the -003 RTA-
852L (including autotilt and target alert), except that it does not have digital
stabilization capability
RTA-852L 622-9080-002 Same as -001 except with high-speed (100 kBd) ARINC 429 digital stabilization
RTA-852L 622-9080-003 Same as -002 except with SB 13 installed, autotilt and target alert function are
enabled
RTA-852L 622-9080-004 Same as -003 except installation kit CPN 827-3209-001 used for the Model 40/65
Sabreliner installations
RTA-854 622-8440-011 Same as -001 except with SB 12 installed, incorporates all of the mechanical,
enabled
enabled
*WXI-711A 622-9736-223 Weather radar indicator without SLV button
*WXI-711A 622-9736-224 Weather radar indicator with SLV button
WXP-850A 622-8393-001 Weather radar control panel, front panel mounting with black panel
WXP-850A 622-8393-002 Same as -001 except with gray panel
WXP-850A 622-8393-003 Same as -001 except without the SLV button
WXP-850A 622-8393-004 Same as -002 except without the SLV button
WXP-850A 622-8393-011 Same as -001 except with WXP START bit, compatible with enhances EFIS
system
system
system and does not have SLV button
*The WXI-711A is not actually a part of the TWR-850 system, but may be used in place of the WXP-850A/B for control purposes.

BUSINESS AND REGIONAL SYSTEMS
INSTALLATION MANUAL


Subject: Add equipment
Add the equipment shown in bold text below to Table 1-1, Equipment Covered.
P/O Table 1-1. Equipment Covered

RTA-852 622-8439-011 Same as -001 except with SB 12 installed, incorporates all of the mechanical
hardware, and software improvements contained in the -003 RTA (including
autotilt and target alert), except that it does not have high-speed digital
stabilization
RTA-852 622-8439-003 Same as –002 except with SB 13 installed, autotilt and target alert function are
enabled
RTA-852 622-8439-004 Same as 622-8439-003 current production status
RTA-852L 622-9080-011 Same as -001 except with SB 12 installed, incorporates all of the mechanical,
electrical hardware, and software improvements contained in the -003 RTA-852L
(including autotilt and target alert), except that it does not have high-speed digital
RTA-852L 622-9080-004 Same as –003 except installation kit CPN 827-3209-001 used for the Model
40/65 Sabreliner installations
RTA-852L 622-9080-005 Same as 622-9080-003 current production status
RTA-854 622-8440-003 Same as –002 except with SB 13 installed, autotilt and target alert function are
enabled
RTA-858 6228441-003 Same as –002 except with SB 13 installed, autotilt and target alert function are
enabled

523-0774651-07311A Jan 31/01
INSTALLATION MANUAL


Subject: Revise equipment specs
Revise Table 1-2, Equipment Specifications, as shown below with changes in bold text.
P/O Table1-2. Equipment Specifications.
CHARACTERISTICS SPECIFICATIONS
FAA TSO -C63c dated 18 August 1983
RTCA documents
RTA-85X DO-160B, DO-178A, DO-173, class 7 (with change no 1 dated 25 January 1985)
F2/BBJ/E1/XXXXXZ/AZAZAX
Temporary Revision 7 Page 2

523-0774651-07311A Jan 31/01
Table 1-1. Equipment Covered

WXP-850B 622-8394-001 Same as 622-8393-001 except for Dzus mounting, layout of front panel controls
are different due to a tailer/narrower profile
WXP-850B 622-8394-002 Same as -001 except with gray panel
WXP-850B 622-8394-003 Same as -001 except without the SLV button
WXP-850B 622-8394-004 Same as -002 except without the SLV button
WXP-850B 622-8394-011 Same as -001 except with WXP START bit, compatible with enhances EFIS
system
system
Table 1-2. Equipment Specifications.
FAA TSO -C63c dated 18 August 1983
RTCA documents
RTA-85X DO-160B, DO-178A, DO-173, class 7 (with change no 1 dated 25 January 1985)
F2/BB/JN/E1/XXXXXZ/BZ/AZAZA
WXP-850A/B DO-160A, DO-178A, DO-173, D1/A/PKS/XXXXXXAAAAA
WXI-711A DO-160A, DO-178A, DO-173, A2/A/ALS/XXXXXXAAAAA
Maintenance requirements On condition
Data bus format
Data from RTA to WXP/WXI ARINC 453
Data from WXP/WXI to RTA ARINC 429
RTA-85X
Size Refer to Figure 2-9 in the Installation section of this manual for dimensions and radome
considerations for the RTA-85X (including the RTA-852L).
Weight
RTA-852 9.14 kg (20.1 lb)
RTA-852L (-001, -002, -003 9.77 kg (21.5 lb)
status)
RTA-852L (-004 status) 10.0 kg (22.0 lb)
RTA-854 9.23 kg (20.3 lb)
RTA-858 10.73 kg (23.6 lb)

Antenna plate dimensions
*RTA-852 315.4-mm (12.42-in) max dia.

*RTA-854 355.6-mm (14-in) max dia.
*RTA-858 468-8-mm (18.46-in) max dia.
* Use of the term "diameter" (dia.) is not intended to imply that all of these antenna plates are round. Only the 14-inch plate
has a mostly rounded edge. The 12 and 18-inch plates have no rounded edges. For these, diameter should be understood as
double the distance from the center plate to the point on the outer edge which is at maximum distance from the center; ie., the
radius required to circumscribe the plate. It should be further understood that these dimensions are only part of the factors
involved in calculating the 3-dimensional (swept) volume required for antenna pitch and scan movement as shown on the
Antenna outline and Mounting Dimensions diagram in the installation section.
Power requirements
27.5 V dc
Standby 2.7 A max
Operate 3.1 A max
115 V ac, 400 Hz 10 mA max, or
or
26 V ac, 400 Hz 2.3 mA max
(for analog stabilization only)
Transmitted output
Power 24 Watts nominal
Frequency X-band (9343.85 ±1.8 MHz transmit and 9338.84 ±1.8 MHz preheat)
Pulse length 1.7 (MAP only), 2.4, 4.8, 9.6, 19.2, or 28.8 µs
Pulse repetition rate
5, 10, 25, or 50 nmi 1461 to 2209 Hz
100, 200, or 300 nmi 252 to 390 Hz
Duty factor 0.0015 to 0.03
Receiver characteristics
If bandwidth 470, 167, 83, 42 kHz
First if 406 MHz
Second if 33.8 MHz
MDS -128 dBm nominal
STC Dynamic: Optimized for range and pulse width
Stabilization
Analog 2-wire gyro synchri 50 or 200 mV/°
Digital **Low-speed (50 kBd) or high-speed (100 kBd) ARINC 429
Scan rate 27°/second, approx 14 scans/min (120°), approx 4.9 seconds/scan
**High-speed (100 kBd) ARINC 429 not available with -001 and -011 status units.

ROCKWELL COLLINS
INSTALLATION MANUAL


Table 1-2 is revised with changes shown below in bold text. Specifications for 70% radome
transmissitivity have been deleted. The entire antenna characteristics section of Table 1-2 should
appear as follows.
Antenna 12 inch 14 inch 18 inch
Beam width 8° 7° 6°
Gain 27.5 dB 28.9 dB 30.5 dB
RTCA/DO-213 Class A Radome Transmissivity
Performance index:* 222.57 223.97 228.57
Avoidance range:* 342 nmi 361 nmi 429 nmi

523-0774651-0A311A Nov 14/02
Antenna 12 inch 14 inch 18 inch
Beam width 8° 7° 6°
Gain 27.5 dB 28.9 dB 30.5 dB
70% radome transmissivity
Performance index: * 220.57 221.97 226.57
Avoidance range: * 316 nmi 334 nmi 398 nmi
Performance index: * 222.57 223.97 228.57

Avoidance range: * 342 nmi 361 nmi 429 nmi
WXI-711A
Size Refer to Figure 2-14 in the Installation section of this manual for additional dimensions.
Height 172.97 mm (6.81 in)
Width 158.75 mm (6.25 in)
Length 355.6 mm (14.00 in)
Weight 6.63 kg (14.7 lb)
Power requirements:
115 Vac, 400 Hz 38 mA max
Cooling Convection
Selectable modes PWR (power, latching push on/push off)
STBY (standby)
TEST (self-test)
MAP (ground mapping)
WX (normal weather)
WX+T (weather with turbulence detection)
TURB (turbulence only, 15 second timeout)
Special features GCS (ground clutter suppression, 15 second timeout)
SLV (slave)(not present on -223 status)
STAB (stabilization enable/disable, latching push on/push off)
INT (intensity control of display)
MKR (range marker brightness control)
Gain control Cal (calibrated - normal gain)
+1, +2, +3 (Three steps of increased gain (6 dB/step))
-1, -2, -3 (Three steps of decreased gain (6 dB/step))
Tilt control -15° to +15°
(-15° to -5° in 0.50° increments)
(-5° to +5° in 0.25° increments)
(+5° to +15° in 0.50° increments)
Selectable ranges 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 300 nmi
* Calculations are based on zero waveguide loss.

WXP-850A/B
Size WXP-850A WXP-850B
Height
Body 35.2 mm (1.39 in) 44.5 mm (1.75 in)
Bezel 37.6 mm (1.48 in) 47.6 mm (1.88 in)
Width
Body 156.5 mm (6.16 in) 127.0 mm (5.0 in)
Bezel 158.8 mm (6.25 in) 146.0 mm (5.75 in)
Length
Body 176.1 mm (6.93 in) 165.1 mm (6.50 in)
Rear connector depth 5.08 mm (0.20 in) 5.08 mm (0.20 in)
Front panel depth 32.0 mm (1.26 in) 32.0 mm (1.26 in)
Overall 213.1 mm (8.39 in) 202.2 mm (7.96 in)
Weight 0.86 kg (1.9 lb) 0.86 kg (1.9 lb)
Mounting Front panel mounted Dzus mounted
Power requirements
27.5 V dc 0.5 A max
Lighting
27.5 V dc 0.35 A, or
5 V ac/dc 1.5 A
Cooling Convection
Selectable modes OFF
STBY (standby)
TEST (self-test)
TGT (target alert)
WX (normal weather)
TURB (turbulence only)
Special features GCS (ground clutter suppression, latching push on/push off)
SLV (slave)(not present on some systems, latching push on/push off)
STB (stabilization enable/disable, latching push on/push off)
HLD (display hold-freeze)
SEC (sector scan)
AUTO (automatic tilt correction)
In-flight stabilization alignment (installation option)

Table 1-3. DO-160A Environmental Qualifications.
WXI-711A
DO-160A environmental categories A2/A/ALS/XXXXXXAAAAA
Temp and Altitude
Temperature
Operating -15 to +70 °C (+5 to +158 °F)
Storage -55 to +85 °C (-67 to +185 °F)
Altitude Cat A2: Certified for installation in a partially controlled tem-
perature and pressurized location in an aircraft where
pressures are no lower than an altitude equivalent of
4600 m (15 000 ft) msl.
Humidity Cat A: Certified for a Standard Humidity Environment.
Shock
Operational 6 g/11 ms
Crash safety 15 g/11ms
Vibration Cat A: Certified for panel, console, or vibration isolated equip-
ment rack mounting in a fixed wing turbojet or turbo-
fan aircraft.
Cat L: Certified for fuselage mounting in a multi-engine pis-
ton or turboprop fixed wing aircraft over 5700 kg
(12 500 lb).
Cat S: Certified for panel, console, or vibration isolated equip-
ment rack mounting in piston or turboprop fixed wing
aircraft.
Explosion proofness Cat X: (no test required). Certified for installation in aircraft locations where the
probability of an explosive atmosphere existing is so low that it can be disregarded.
Waterproofness Cat X: (no test required). Certified for installation in locations not subject to falling water
(including condensation), rain water, or sprayed water.
Fluids susceptibility Cat X: (no test required). Certified for installation in locations not exposed to fluid
contamination from fuel, hydraulic fluids, oil, solvents, etc.
Sand and dust Cat X: (no test required). Certified for installation in locations not subject to blowing
sand and dust.
Fungus resistance Cat X: Fungus resistance test not performed.
Salt spray Cat X: Salt spray test not performed.
Magnetic effect Cat A: Unit causes a 1° deflection of an uncompensated com-
pass at a distance between 0.3 m (1.0 ft) and 1.0 m
(3.3 ft).
Power input Cat A: Certified for use on aircraft electrical systems where
primary power is from constant frequency ac genera-
tors and the dc system is from a transformer-rectifier.
Voltage spike Cat A: Certified for installation in systems where a high de-
gree of voltage spike protection is required.
Audio frequency susceptibility Cat A: Certified for use on aircraft electrical systems where
Induced signal susceptibility Cat A: Certified for operation in systems where interference-
free operation is desired.
RF susceptibility Cat A: Certified for operation in systems where interference-
Electromagnetic interference Cat A: Certified for operation in systems where interference-

WXP-850A/B
DO-160A environmental categories D1/A/PKS/XXXXXXAAAAA
Temp and Altitude
Temperature
Operating -20 to +55 °C (-4 to +131 °F)
Storage -55 to +85 °C (-67 to +185 °F)
Altitude Cat D1: Certified for installation in a non-pressurized but con-
trolled temperature location in an aircraft that is oper-
ated at altitudes up to 15 200 m (50 000 ft) msl.
Humidity Cat A: Certified for a Standard Humidity Environment.
Shock
Crash safety 15 g/11ms
Vibration Cat P: Certified for panel, console, or vibration isolated equip-
ment rack mounting in a piston or turbine rotary wing
aircraft.
Cat K: Certified for panel, console, or vibration isolated equip-
ment rack mounting in a fixed wing turbojet or turbo-
fan aircraft.
Cat S: Certified for panel, console, or vibration isolated equip-
ment rack mounting in piston or turboprop fixed wing
aircraft.
Explosion proofness Cat X: (no test required). Certified for installation in aircraft locations where the
probability of an explosive atmosphere existing is so low that it can be disregarded.
Waterproofness Cat X: (no test required). Certified for installation in locations not subject to falling water
Fluids susceptibility Cat X: (no test required). Certified for installation in locations not exposed to fluid
sand and dust.
Magnetic effect Cat A: Unit causes a 1° deflection of an uncompensated com-
pass at a distance between 0.3 m (1.0 ft) and 1.0 m
(3.3 ft).
Power input Cat A: Certified for use on aircraft electrical systems where
Voltage spike Cat A: Certified for installation in systems where a high de-
gree of voltage spike protection is required.
Audio frequency susceptibility Cat A: Certified for use on aircraft electrical systems where
Induced signal susceptibility Cat A: Certified for operation in systems where interference-
RF susceptibility Cat A: Certified for operation in systems where interference-
Electromagnetic interference Cat A: Certified for operation in systems where interference-

Selectable modes OFF
STBY (standby)
TEST (self-test)
TGT (target alert)
WX (normal weather)
TURB (turbulence only)
Special features GCS (ground clutter suppression, latching push on/push off)
SLV (slave)(not present on some systems, latching push on/push off)
STB (stabilization enable/disable, latching push on/push off)
HLD (display hold-freeze)
SEC (sector scan)
AUTO (automatic tilt correction)
In-flight stabilization alignment (installation option)
Table 1-4. DO-160B Environmental Qualifications.
RTA-85X
DO-160B environmental categories F2/BB/JN/E1/XXXXXZ/BZ/AZAZA
Temp and Altitude
Temperature
Operating -55 to +70 °C (-67 to +158 °F),
Storage -55 to +85 °C (-67 to +185 °F)
Altitude Cat F2: Certified for installation in a nonpressurized and noncontrolled temperature
location in an aircraft that is operated at altitudes up to 16 800 m (55 000 ft)
msl.
Temperature variation Cat B: Certified for installation in a controlled or noncontrolled temperature location in
the aircraft.
Humidity Cat B: Certified for a Severe Humidity Environment - Level I.
Shock
Crash safety 15 g/11 ms
Vibration Cat J: Certified for fuselage mounting in a fixed wing turbojet or turbofan aircraft.
Cat N: Certified for equipment rack mounting in a piston or turbine rotary wing
aircraft.
Explosion proofness Cat E1: Certified for installation in a location where an explosive atmosphere may occur
as a result of leakage or spillage.
Waterproofness Cat X (no test required). Certified for installation in locations not subject to falling water
Fluids susceptibility Cat X (no test required). Certified for installation in locations not exposed to fluid
sand and dust.

Table 1-4. DO-160B Environmental Qualifications.
Magnetic effect Cat Z: Unit causes a 1° deflection of an uncompensated compass at a distance less than
0.3 m (1.0 ft).
Power input Cat B: Certified for use on aircraft electrical systems where primary power is from
engine driven alternator/rectifiers or dc generator where a significant capacity
battery is floating on the dc bus at all times.
Cat Z: Certified for use on aircraft electrical systems not applicable to any other
category. For example, a dc system from a variable range generator where a
small capacity or no battery is floating on the dc bus.
Table 1-5. Related Publications.
PUBLICATION COLLINS PART NUMBER

TWR-850 Turbulence Radar System Pilot’s Guide 523-0774879
RTA-84X/85X Receiver-Transmitter Antenna Repair Manual 523-0774785
WXP-840A/840B/850A/850B Weather Radar Panel Repair Manual 523-0774779
WXI-711 Indicator Component Maintenance Manual 523-0773309
WXI-711 Indicator Illustrated Parts Catalog 523-0774814
WXI-711A Indicator Component Maintenance Manual (Supplement) 523-0776965
WMT-701X/702X RT Mount and WMI-701 Mounting Base Component Maintenance 523-0770474
Manual (mounting base information for the WXI-711A)
WMT-701C/702C RT Mount and WMI-701 Mounting Base Component Maintenance 523-0770475
Manual (mounting base information for the WXI-711A)
Collins Installation Practices Manual 523-0775254

523-0774653-004118
4th Edition, 1 May 1995
TWR-850
Turbulence
Installation
Paragraph Page
Paragraph Page
2.3.5 WXI-711A Weather Radar Indicator
2.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.3.5.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.1.1 TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar
2.3.5.2 Strapping Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
System Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2.3.5.3 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.1.2 EFIS System Compatibility . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2.3.6 WXP-850( ) Weather Radar Panel
2.1.3 Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.3.6.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.2 Unpacking and Inspection of
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
2.3.6.3 Lighting Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.3.6.4 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.3 Installation Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
2.3.7 Aircraft Radome Considerations . . . . . . 2-17
2.3.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
2.4 Postinstallation Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19
2.3.2 Preparation, Installation, and Replacement
2.4.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19
of Mating Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
2.4.1.1 Cross-side Switching . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19
2.3.3 Cable and Wiring Harness Installation . . 2-9
2.4.1.2 Radar Antenna Operation . . . . . . . . . 2-19
2.3.4 RTA-85X Receiver/Transmitter/
2.4.1.3 Test Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
Antenna Installation and Alignment . . . 2-10
2.3.4.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
2.5 In-Flight Stabilization Alignment
Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33
2.3.4.3 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
2.3.4.4 Mechanical Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
2.5.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33
2.5.2 Alignment Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33
2.5.3 Detailed In-Flight Alignment Procedures 2-34
2.5.4 Abbreviated In-Flight Alignment
Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34
NOTICE: This section replaces third edition dated 30 October 1992.

Page Issue
*Title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 May 95
*2-1 thru 2-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 May 95
*2-61 thru 2-66 added . . . . . . . 1 May 95


1st Ed 25 Feb 87 None
2nd Ed 22 Aug 88 None
3rd Ed 30 Oct 92 None
4th Ed 1 May 95 None

section II
installation
2.1 GENERAL EFIS: (Not used with the WXI-711A.) Elec-
tronic Flight Instrument System.
This section contains information necessary for This refers to the generation of cock-
proper installation of the TWR-850 Turbulence pit instruments utilizing crt displays.
Weather Radar System. The title page at the front
of this section provides an index of the section. MFD: MultiFunction Display. This refers to
the EFIS display, that normally is
situated in the center portion of the
2.1.1 TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar
instrument panel for good visibility
System Definition by both the pilot and copilot.
The TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar System ND: Navigation Display. This refers to
consists of one RTA-85X Receiver/Transmitter/ that part of the EFIS that takes the
Antenna unit and one or two WXP-850A or WXP- place of the conventional HSI (Hori-
850B unit(s). For aircraft without EFIS, one or two zontal Situation Indicator).
WXI-711A unit(s) may be substituted for the WXP
unit(s). The WXI-711A is not part of the TWR-850
Display: The general term "display" is used in
system, but provides most of the same control
the following paragraphs when refer-
functions as the WXP while also providing a display.
ring to an MFD, ND, or to the display
Table 2-1 gives a listing of the various models of each
on the WXI-711A. Specific references
unit available and the distinguishing features of
to either the MFD, ND, or WXI-711A
each. Throughout this section, the nomenclature
display are made where applicable.
RTA or RTA-85X should be understood as referring
to any of the RTA units listed in Table 0 (RTA-852,
RTA-852L, RTA-854, or RTA-858). The nomencla- MODE: This refers to the specific operating
ture WXP, WXP-850( ) or WXP-850A/B should be state of the systems. The states are:
understood as referring to any one of the weather OFF, STBY, TEST, TGT, MAP, WX,
radar panels listed in Table 2-1. The nomenclature WX+T, and TURB. (TGT is not avai-
WXI should be understood as referring to any one of lable with the WXI-711A.)
the weather radar indicators listed in Table 2-1.
STBY: This refers to the STandBY mode of
the system. ln STBY mode, power is
2.1.2 EFIS System Compatibility
applied to the RTA-85X but transmis-
sion is inhibited and the antenna is
The TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar System is positioned to boresight (0° azimuth
compatible with the latest design in Collins Elec- and 0° tilt). Also, the normal range
tronic Flight Instrument Systems (EFIS). Table 0 mark(s) is displayed along with the
lists the Collins EFIS that are totally compatible STBY annunciation and the display
with the TWR-850 system. For details on the of weather is inhibited.
compatibility of other EFIS, contact your local
Collins General Aviation Division representative or TEST: This refers to the self-TEST mode of
refer to the current Collins Price Book. the systems. In this mode, TEST is
displayed and a simulated target
2.1.3 Glossary return is used to create a rainbow-
like pattern of colors on the display.
This paragraph provides a glossary of terms and This verifies the system's ability to
display weather target information.
definitions common to the TWR-850 system and to
the RTA-85X with WXI-711A system.

installation 523-0774653
Table 0. TWR-850 System Options Available.
EQUIPMENT COLLINS DISTINGUISHING FEATURE(S)
PART NUMBER
RTA-852 622-8439-001 12-inch antenna flat plate, low-speed ARINC (50 kBd)
RTA-852 622-8439-011 12-inch antenna flat plate, low-speed ARINC (50 kBd), SB 12 installed
RTA-852 622-8439-002 12-inch antenna flat plate, high-speed ARINC (100 kBd)
RTA-852 622-8439-003 12-inch antenna flat plate, high-speed ARINC (100 kBd), SB 13 installed
RTA-852L 622-9080-001 12-inch antenna flat plate, low-speed ARINC (50 kBd), separated base assembly
with mounting bracket for drive assembly
RTA-852L 622-9080-011 12-inch antenna flat plate, low-speed ARINC (50 kBd), SB 12 installed, separated
base assembly with mounting bracket for drive assembly
RTA-852L 622-9080-002 12-inch antenna flat plate, high-speed ARINC (100 kBd), separated base assembly
with mounting bracket for drive assembly
RTA-852L 622-9080-003 12-inch antenna flat plate, high-speed ARINC (100 kBd), SB 13 installed, separated
base assembly with mounting bracket for drive assembly
RTA-852L 622-9080-004 12-inch antenna flat plate, high-speed ARINC (100 kBd), SB 13 installed, separated
base assembly (Use installation kit CPN 827-3209-001 for Model 65 Sabreliner
installations.)
*WXI-711A 622-9736-223 Controls plus indicator without dual capability
*WXI-711A 622-9736-224 Controls plus indicator with dual capability
WXP-850A 622-8393-001 Panel mount, black, dual capability
WXP-850A 622-8393-002 Panel mount, gray, dual capability
WXP-850A 622-8393-003 Panel mount, black
WXP-850A 622-8393-004 Panel mount, gray
WXP-850A 622-8393-011 Panel mount, black, dual capability, WXP START bit
WXP-850A 622-8393-012 Panel mount, gray, dual capability, WXP START bit
WXP-850A 622-8393-013 Panel mount, black, WXP START bit
WXP-850A 622-8393-014 Panel mount, gray, WXP START bit
WXP-850B 622-8394-001 Dzus mount, black, dual capability
WXP-850B 622-8394-002 Dzus mount, gray, dual capability
WXP-850B 622-8394-003 Dzus mount, black
WXP-850B 622-8394-004 Dzus mount, gray
WXP-850B 622-8394-011 Dzus mount, black, dual capability, WXP START bit
WXP-850B 622-8394-012 Dzus mount, gray, dual capability, WXP START bit
WXP-850B 622-8394-013 Dzus mount, black, WXP START bit
WXP-850B 622-8394-014 Dzus mount, gray, WXP START bit
Installation kits Refer to Table 0.
*The WXI-711A is not actually a part of the TWR-850 system, but may be used in place of the WXP-850A/B for control purposes.

INSTALLATION MANUAL


Subject: Add equipment
Add the equipment shown in bold text below to Table 2-1, TWR-850 System Options Available.
P/O Table 2-1. TWR-850 System Options Available.
COLLINS
EQUIPMENT DISTINGUISHING FEATURE(S)
PART NUMBER
12-inch antenna flat plate, high-speed ARINC (100 kBd), SB 13 installed,

RTA-852L 622-9080-004 separated base assembly (Use installation kit CPN 827-3209-001 for Model
65 Sabreliner installations.)

523-0774651-07311A Jan 31/01
Table 0. TWR-850 and EFIS Compatibility Table.

EFIS SYSTEM DPU/MPU EFIS COLLINS WXP-850A/B COMPATIBLE
PART NUMBER COLLINS PART NUMBER

EFIS-85A(1) DPU-85A (with SB 41) 622-7244-002 All CPN's
MPU-85A (with SB 41) 622-7250-002
EFIS-86A(1) DPU-86A (with SB 41) 622-7247-002 All CPN's
MPU-86A (with SB 41) 622-7253-002
EFIS-85B(2/12) DPU-85G (with SB 25 and 35) 622-7448-002 All CPN's
MPU-85G (with SB 25 and 35) 622-7454-002
EFIS-86B(2/12) DPU-86G (with SB 25 and 35) 622-7710-002 All CPN's
MPU-86G (with SB 25 and 35) 622-7715-002
EFIS-85B(4/14) DPU-85N/MPU-85N All CPN's All CPN's
EFIS-86B(4/14) DPU-86N/MPU-86N All CPN's All CPN's
EFIS-85C(4/14) DPU-85R/MPU-85R All CPN's All CPN's
EFIS-86C(4/14) DPU-86R/MPU-86R All CPN's All CPN's
EFIS-86D(2) DPU-86K (with SB 43) 622-7713-003 All CPN's
MPU-86K (with SB 43) 622-7718-003
EFIS-85E(4/14) DPU-85S 622-9283-001 All CPN's
622-9283-002 All CPN's
622-9283-003 622-9304-01X, 622-9305-01X
MPU-85S 622-9284-001 All CPN's
622-9284-002 All CPN's
622-9284-003 622-9304-01X, 622-9305-01X
EFIS-86E(4/14) DPU-86S 622-9285-001 All CPN's
622-9285-002 All CPN's
622-9285-003 622-9304-01X, 622-9305-01X
MPU-86S 622-9286-001 All CPN's
622-9286-002 All CPN's
622-9286-003 622-9304-01X, 622-9305-01X
TGT: (Not available with the WXI-711A.) bulence target are detected, the dis-
This refers to the TarGeT alert fea- play alternates between TRB and
ture of the TWR-850 system. When TGT.
TGT is selected, the system continues
to transmit and process target infor- PAC: This refers to the Path Attenuation
mation, but the display of weather or Correction feature of the system. The
ground return information is inhib- purpose of PAC is to compensate for
ited. In this mode, TGT is shown on the radar beam absorption as it
the display. If a radar alert target (a penetrates a given precipitation cell.
radar target of sufficient intensity to This overcomes the tendency in non-
cause a red level display) is detected compensated radar to underdisplay
within a range of 7 to 200 nmi and the true level of a precipitation cell
15° to the left or right of straight simply because the energy is ab-
ahead, TGT flashes to alert the crew sorbed as it penetrates the cell. The
to the possibility of severe weather system uses the PAC feature to com-
conditions ahead. If an area of tur- pensate for this attenuation and to
bulence is detected within a range of maintain the correct display of the
7 to 50 nmi and 15° to the left or right storm intensity. PAC is active to
of straight ahead, TRB (TuRBulence) approximately 65 nmi, and any cells
is flashed in place of TGT. If both a beyond this range are uncompensat-
radar alert target and a tur- ed and should be avoided. The PAC

feature is automatically enabled cell would be displayed at one or
whenever the WX or WX+T modes more levels of intensity higher than
are selected and the selected range is at greater distances (when not beam-
not 5- or 10-nmi. The PAC circuits filling). STC uses a complex software
are disabled in any of the following algorithm to display a given rainfall
conditions: when the 5- or 10-nmi
rate as the same color throughout the
ranges are selected (in any mode);
entire operating range.
when MAP mode is selected; or when
the GAIN control is in any position
except CAL. Beam Width: Antenna beam width is normally ex-
pressed as the angle between the
PAC Alert: When radar targets are of sufficient 3-dB points of the radiation pattern.
magnitude (intensity and depth) to This is approximately 6° for the
exhaust the full range of attenuation 18-inch, 7.3° for the 14-inch, and 8°
correction, a condition known as PAC for the 12-inch antenna.
Alert exists. PAC Alert highlights
those sectors of uncertainty which MAP: This refers to the ground MAP mode
are masked by intervening beam of the system. It is annunciated by
absorption. The bearing toward the word MAP on the display. In
these areas is shown by a yellow PAC MAP mode, the characteristics of the
Alert bar (arc) at the perimeter of the system are optimized for ground
radar display. The pilot can then mapping. In addition to ground tar-
recognize that, from his present posi- gets, the range arc(s) is displayed
tion, any precipitation in the sector and, on the MFD, the 1/2 range an-
between the displayed weather and nunciator is displayed. This mode is
the yellow bar may be underdisplay- typically used for detection and dis-
ed and should be avoided. play of prominent and familiar
ground features as an aid to naviga-
tion. PAC, GCS, and the turbulence
detection features are automatically
Note
disabled in MAP mode. It is for this
reason that MAP should not be used
-
as a weather detection mode.
The PAC feature is intended for wea
ther detection modes only. Using a WX: This refers to the normal weather
weather detection mode and down- (WX) detection mode of the system.
ward antenna tilt to produce a On the display, "WX" is annunciated
ground map will probably produce an and weather targets are displayed in
inaccurate display. The PAC circuit green, yellow, red, and magenta. The
will incorrectly detect the return PAC feature is automatically enabled
signals from ground targets as in- in WX mode.
tense storm targets and try to com-
pensate for the attenuated signal, WX+T This refers to the weather-plus-Tur-
resulting in the yellow PAC Alert bulence (WX+T) detection mode of
band appearing at the perimeter of the system. In this mode, the system
the display. In MAP mode, the PAC displays detected rainfall the same as
and PAC Alert features are automat- in WX mode, but in addition, it dis-
ically disabled. plays those areas of the storm that
contain detectable areas of turbu-
STC: This refers to the Sensitivity Time lence. These areas are displayed as
Control feature. This feature is need- magenta areas on the display(s).
ed to compensate for the dramatic Turbulence detection is provided only
increase in return signal strength in range selections of 50 or less. If a
that occurs when a given storm cell range above 50 is selected with the
becomes beam-filling. At that point, WX+T mode selection, the system
the energy reflected increases so
abruptly that without STC, a given

defaults to WX mode and normal the radar system unusable.
weather information is displayed.
HLD: (Not available with the WXI-711A.)
TURB This refers to the TURBulence-only This refers to the HoLD feature,
mode of the system. On the WXP sometimes called freeze. This feature
this MODE switch position is spring- is selected and deselected by
loaded, and therefore must be man- depressing the HLD button on the
ually held in this position. On the WXP-850A/B. In HLD, the normal
WXI, TURB mode is selected by pres- display update is disabled so that a
sing a momentary switch, and turbu- given display situation can be studied
lence detection remains for approxi- more closely, undisturbed by any
mately 15 seconds before returning to subsequent display update. HLD
the WX+T mode. In the TURB mode, automatically cancels with any
only those areas containing detect- change of MODE, RANGE, GAIN,
able turbulence are displayed; all GCS, and SLV.
other weather display is removed. As
in WX+T mode, TURB is disabled for TILT: This refers to the feature that allows
selected ranges beyond 50. If a range the pilot or copilot to set the antenna
greater than 50 is selected with the beam above (cw) or below (ccw) hori-
TURB mode selection, only normal zontal. In level flight and MAP
weather information is displayed and mode, for example, the pilot typically
"WX" is annunciated. points the antenna down for ground
mapping by adjusting the TILT con-
GCS: This refers to Ground Clutter Sup- trol ccw.
pression. When this feature is select-
ed, those radar returns that appear AUTO: (Not available with the WXI-711A.)
as ground clutter are suppressed. This refers to the AUTO-tilt feature.
This feature eases the ability to dis- When this feature is selected, the
cern rainfall when viewed in the system automatically adjusts anten-
presence of ground returns. With the na tilt to maintain the ratio of
WXI-711A, the GCS feature remains tilt/range that was established just
on for approximately 15 seconds after before AUTO was selected. This
the GCS button is released. reduces the amount of tilt readjust
that may be needed in order to main-
SLV: This refers to the SLaVe feature. tain the same ground return thresh-
This feature has application only in old when a new range is selected or
dual WXP or WXI installations. In when the aircraft changes altitude.
SLV, on-side display is determined by
the cross-side WXP/WXI control. RANGE: This refers to the selected maximum
range to be displayed. Typically, the
STB: (STAB on the WXI-711A.) This refers ND has one range arc and one range
to STaBilization and specifically to annunciation at the 1/2 range posi-
the use of an attitude reference tion. The MFD has two range arcs
signal to maintain a constant anten- and corresponding range annuncia-
na scan attitude, unaffected by air- tion, one at mid range and another at
craft pitch and roll movement. When max range. The max range annunci-
STB (or STAB) is deselected, the ation may not appear on some earlier
attitude reference input signals are MFDs. On others the max range ring
effectively disconnected from the is replaced by the compass arc. More
antenna and USTB (UnSTaBilized) is recent MFDs display the max range
annunciated on the display. This has ring. The WXI has 3, 4, or 5 range
application in those situations where arcs depending on the range selected.
an attitude reference failure has oc- Below the range annunciation on the
curred that would otherwise render WXI is an annunciation of

the distance between range arcs. CAL: This refers to the CALibrated posi-
tion of the GAIN control switch. CAL
SEC: (Not available with the WXI-711A.) is the only position in which the sys-
This refers to the SECtor scan fea- tem display colors accurately present
ture. This feature is selected and the detected rainfall rate (Z-level) for
deselected by pressing the SEC all range selections. It is anticipated
switch, that is concentric with the that the system is operated most of
RANGE switch. When this feature is the time with the GAIN control in the
selected, the left and right scan swing CAL position and that the other
is reduced from the normal ±60° from GAIN positions are used only occa-
straight ahead to ±30°. This provides sionally. To avoid misinterpretation,
the benefit of an increased display the system should never be left oper-
update rate where the dynamics of ating unattended with the GAIN
the radar target require a more rapid switch in a position other than CAL,
radar observation. especially in flight.
GAIN: This refers to the GAIN control fea- 2.2 UNPACKING AND INSPECTION OF
ture of the system. This allows the EQUIPMENT
adjustment of the system sensitivity
to varying target return intensities. Carefully unpack the equipment from the shipping
For example, adjusting the GAIN container. Visually inspect the equipment for ship-
control to a negative (-) position pro- ping damage such as damaged wiring, loose parts,
gressively eliminates the weaker and, on the RTA-85X, a bent or damaged antenna
targets from the display, allowing a plate. Also check the RTA-85X for packing material
more definitive study of the most in the drive assembly gear train. Check the shipping
intense weather radar targets. These container against the invoice for proper content;
selections are annunciated by G-1, account for each item on the invoice. Be sure to
G-2, and G-3 on the ND or MFD and inspect all packing material so as not to inadvertent-
by -1, -2, and -3 on the WXI. Adjust- ly discard any necessary parts or attaching materi-
ing the GAIN control to a positive (+) als.
position has the effect of increasing
the system sensitivity by appropriat- The RTA-852L is shipped as a single unit. Remove
ing sensitivity factors from other fea- the four temporary mounting screws that attach the
tures. For example: within the STC drive assembly to the base assembly prior to final
range, the normal receiver sensitivity installation. The cable that connects the base
reduction for STC is partially or assembly to the RF assembly must not be discon-
wholly canceled in order to effect an nected at any time during unpacking or installation.
increase in receiver sensitivity. At Care should be taken to avoid stressing this cable
ranges beyond STC, the various rain- during unpacking and installation.
fall rate threshold levels are reduced
or narrowed to give the appearance of Before installation, the equipment should be tested
an increase in sensitivity. These per the fault isolation procedures. Refer to Table 5-4
selections are annunciated by G+1, in the maintenance section of this manual for the
G+2, and G+3 on the ND or MFD and fault isolation procedure for the WXP-850/A/B and to
by +1, +2, and +3 on the WXI. In all Table 5-5 for the fault isolation procedure for the
cases, the selection of any GAIN RTA-85X. Refer to Figure 106 in the WXI-711
switch position other than CAL (CA- Indicator Component Maintenance Manual for the
Librated) results in an uncalibrated fault isolation procedure for the WXI-711A.
situation where a given display color
may no longer be indicative of the All claims for shipping damage should be filed with
same rainfall rate as when in the the transportation company involved. Replace the
CAL position. packing materials in the original shipping container
and save it for use if claims for damage are to be filed
or, if no defects are detected, for future use,

such as storage or reshipment. to Table 2-6 for the components of solder-type
mating connectors.
2.3 INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Observe the following instructions while installing
2.3.1 General the wires into the connector assemblies:
This paragraph contains installation instructions a. Be sure to thread all wires through the connector
and other data necessary for the installation of the hood assembly first, so the hood can be installed
TWR-850 and the RTA-85X with WXI-711A systems. on the back of the connector after all wires have
been connected.
Table 2-3 gives an outline of the paragraph, along b. The connecting wire must be crimped into the
with a listing of the tables and figures applicable to contact so the crimped portion of the contact can
each subparagraph. enter the connector shell and provide a positive
lock.
The installation procedures must be performed as c. Use the crimping tool (CPN 372-8102-010) to
prescribed to ensure proper operation and perfor- crimp each wire into a contact. Use the insertion
mance of the system. Deviation from these instruc- tool (CPN 371-8445-010) to insert the contact
tions can result in reduced performance or damage into the proper hole in the connector, and press
to the equipment. in until the lock clicks into place.
d. After inserting each contact, pull gently on the
A mockup or detailed drawing of the planned instal- wire to be sure that it is securely locked. Each
lation, prepared in advance, frequently aids in wire should be capable of withstanding a
improving the installation by optimizing cable straight-out pull of about 1.4 kg (3 lb).
lengths and determining the amount and type of e. If it is necessary to remove a contact, use the
hardware needed. insertion/extraction tool to unlock the contact.
Then pull the contact out of the connector from
2.3.2 Preparation, Installation, and the rear (wire side). If the wire has come loose
Replacement of Mating Connectors from the contact because of crimp failure, use the
tool to unlock the contact. Then, using a small
stiff pin or piece of wire, push out the contact by
The installation and removal of mating connectors
inserting the pin or wire into the pin socket and
may require special tools, such as the crimping and
pushing the contact out the rear of the shell.
insertion/extraction tools listed in Table 2-4. In
f. Slide the hood assembly (Figure 2-3) forward
using these tools for the assembly and repair of
onto the connector shell and secure with screws
connectors, follow the procedure described below and
as shown. Install the lock assembly.
refer to Figures 2-2 and 2-3. Mating connectors for
g. Install the keying plug on WXP-850( ) J2 pin 5.
the TWR-850 installation may be either crimp-type
or solder-type connectors. Refer to Table 2-5 for the
contents of the crimp-type connector kits, and refer
Table 2-3. Contents of Installation Paragraph.

SUBPARAGRAPH SUBPARAGRAPH TITLE APPLICABLE DIAGRAMS
NUMBER
2.3 INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
2.3.2 Preparation, Installation, and Replacement of Mating Tables 2-4 thru 2-6
Connectors Figures 2-2 and 2-3
2.3.3 Cabling and Wiring Harness Installation Figures 2-2 thru 2-8
2.3.4 RTA-85X Receiver/Transmitter/Antenna Installation and Tables 2-4 thru 2-11
Alignment Figures 2-1 thru 2-6 and 2-9 thru 2-13
2.3.5 WXI-711A Weather Radar Indicator Installation Tables 2-6 and 2-12
Figures 2-5, 2-8, and 2-14
2.3.6 WXP-850( ) Weather Radar Panel Installation Tables 2-4 thru 2-6 and 2-13
Figures 2-2, 2-3, 2-4, 2-7, 2-15, and 2-16
2.3.7 Aircraft Radome Considerations Figure 2-9

Table 2-4. Special Installation Tools and Hardware.

DESCRIPTION MANUFACTURER AND COLLINS
TYPE NUMBER PART NUMBER
RTA-85X installation kits Refer to Tables 2-7 and 2-8
RTA-852L installation kit (for Model 65 Sabreliner) 827-3209-001
Crimping tool Mil M22520/2-01 359-8102-010
Crimping tool positioners Mil M22520/2-02 359-8102-020
Mil M22520/2-08 359-8102-080
Insertion/extraction tool Cannon, CIET-20HDB 371-8445-010
or
AMP, 91066-4 370-8053-020
Alignment bar Refer to Figure 2-12 687-9729-001
RTA-85X mounting screws (qty 4) 1/4-inch shaft dia., length as required Not available from Collins
General Aviation Division
Hexhead wrench Not available from Collins
For RTA-85X mounting 3/16 inch or as required General Aviation Division
For WXP-850A locking screws 3/32 inch or as required
Electronic inclinometer (for antenna alignment) Schaevitz Sensing Systems, Inc. Not available from Collins
21640 North 14th Avenue General Aviation Division
Phoenix, AZ 85027-2839
AngleStar Digital Protractor
Table 2-5. Contents of Crimp Type Mating Connector Kits.

ITEM COLLINS QUANTITY IN CONNECTOR KIT
PART NUMBER
687-9726- 687-9727-
003 002 (alternate) 003 002 (alternate)
RTA-85X (P1)
Shell assembly 371-0213-040 1
Lock assembly 371-0040-010 1 1
Hood 371-0186-000 1 1
or
Hood (not supplied) 371-0147-000 1 1
Contacts, socket* 371-0213-110 37
Contacts, socket** 371-0946-040 37
WXP-850( ) (P1)
Hood 371-0185-000 1 1
or
*Use insertion/extraction tool CPN 371-8445-010 and crimping tool CPN 359-8102-010 with positioner CPN 359-8102-080.
**Use insertion/extraction tool CPN 371-8445-010 and crimping tool CPN 359-8102-010 with positioner CPN 359-8102-020.

ADDENDUM 3
TO
COLLINS TWR-850 TURBULENCE WEATHER RADAR SYSTEM

INSTALLATION MANUAL
PART NUMBER 523-0774651-00311A, 3RD EDITION, DATED 1 MAY 1995
Insert this addendum sheet facing page 2-8

th
of the Installation Section 4 Edition, dated 1 May 1995.
This addendum corrects Table 2-5, Contents of Crimp Type Mating Connector Kits. Connector Hood CPNs
371-0147-000 and 371-0146-000 are not supplied with the connector kits.
Changes are shown in bold text.
P/O Table 2-5. Contents of Crimp Type Mating Connector Kits.
QUANTITY IN CONNECTOR KIT

COLLINS
ITEM 687-9726- 687-9727-
PART NUMBER
RTA-85X (P1)
Hood 371-0186-000 1 1
or
Hood (not supplied) 371-0147-000 - -
WXP-850( ) (P1)
Hood 371-0185-000 1 1
or
Hood (not supplied) 371-0146-000 - -
Addendum 3
10 Feb 1999 Sheet 1 of 1
523-0774653-034118 (Facing Page 2-8)
Table 2-5. Contents of Crimp Type Mating Connector Kits.
ITEM COLLINS QUANTITY IN CONNECTOR KIT
PART NUMBER
687-9726- 687-9727-
RTA-85X (P1)
WXP-850( ) (P2)
Hood 371-0186-000 1 1
or
Key kit 629-8381-001 1 1
Table 2-6. Solder Type Mating Connectors.

ITEM CONNECTOR COLLINS PART NUMBER QUANTITY REQUIRED/
INSTALLATION
RTA-85X
Connector assembly P1 371-0222-000 1
Hood assembly 371-0186-000 1
or
Lock assembly 371-0040-010 1
WXI-711A
WXP-850( )
or
or
Key kit 629-8381-001 1
2.3.3 Cable and Wiring Harness Installation for the TWR-850 system and for the stabilization
sources. Refer to the applicable EFIS system
Figure 2-4 is the interconnect wiring diagram for the installation manual for similar data for the EFIS
TWR-850 system; Figure 2-5 is the interconnect system components. (There is no detailed circuit
wiring diagram for the RTA-85X and WXI-711A; information for the WXI-711A provided in this
Figures 2-6, 2-7 and 2-8 show the pin functions and manual. Refer to the WXI-711A Component Mainte-
numbering schemes for the mating connectors. nance Manual CPN 523-0773309 for detailed circuit
Figure 2-18 gives input/output circuit information information.)

A number of strapping options are provided. These to Tables 2-7A, 2-7B and 2-8 for mounting
are shown and described on the interconnect dia- hardware required. For RTA-852/854/858
grams, paragraph 2.3.4.2, and Tables 2-9, 2-10, 2-12, installations, it is assumed that the antenna
and 2-13. mounting surface will align the antenna
properly in the yaw direction without
During the preparation and installation of the shimming. For RTA-852L installations, it is as-
interconnecting cabling/harness, observe the follow- sumed that the antenna mounting surface will
ing precautions and instructions: align the antenna precisely on all axes (pitch,
roll, and yaw) without shimming.
a. Be sure that all parts of the aircraft electrical b. The aircraft radome must allow a minimum
system, such as generators and ignition systems, transmissivity of 85 percent. Refer to para-
are properly bonded and shielded to reduce the graph 2.3.7 for additional discussion regarding
likelihood of interference. the aircraft radome.
b. Be sure to observe the wire length requirements
between the RTA-85X and the two WXP/WXI 2.3.4.2 Strapping Options
units in a dual WXP or WXI installation. Refer
to Figures 2-4 and 2-5. The high data rate Refer to Tables 2-9 and 2-10 for the RTA-85X
between these units causes the interconnect strapping options.
cables to acquire the characteristics of an RF
transmission line. Therefore, equal or near Note
equal cable lengths can result in signal cancella-
tion due to standing-wave interference. The RTA has two distinct configurations that are
c. Keep the harness away from high-current or selected by grounding or not grounding designated
high-energy cables. connector pins. The RTA has seven discrete strap
d. Leave slack in the cables to allow for normal inputs (#0 through #6, Strap #7 is a spare and thus
flexing due to vibration or installation/removal. not read) that are read by the control processor
e. Provide adequate protective wrapping and when the system initializes. Configuration data is
clamping at locations where rubbing can occur. applied to the CPU data bus in two 4-bit nibbles
f. Shields on all shielded wires must be connected through multiplexer U3. Mode A or B selection is
as shown on the interconnect diagrams. made via the appropriate strapping of connector
g. After installation of the harness and before pins 28 through 35. Mode A is entered when any
installation of the equipment, check by actual strap is installed (pin shorted) and Mode B is en-
application of power, if possible, that the aircraft tered when all straps are removed (pin left open).
power is applied only to the pins specified and Mode B is used for bench testing, the power to the
does not appear on others, especially signal lines. transmitter is off. Standby and Sector Mode are af-
h. All interconnect wires should be marked in fected as follows;
accordance with Aircraft Electronics Association
Wire Marking Standards (refer to Figure 2-17). Mode A configuration (any type discrete short-
ed):
2.3.4 RTA-85X Receiver/Transmitter/Antenna
Installation and Alignment Standby:
2.3.4.1 Introduction a. Dual 429 channels in non-slave mode:

Either channel selecting the standby mode will
There are two primary requirements in radar command only the selected side into a pseudo
antenna installation: standby mode. The 453 transmission for that
side will show "standby" mode but the active
a. The RTA-85X mounting surface must be as side will continue to receive updated reflectivity
perpendicular as possible to the aircraft pitch data. It is important to note that the RTA will
and roll axis. The three major axes of the RTA- continue to scan the antenna and transmit RF
85X must align with the three major aircraft energy under these conditions to service the
axes. Some correction can be accomplished by active side.
means of shims and spacers. Refer
Both 429 channels selecting the standby mode
will command the entire RTA into standby

ROCKWELL COLLINS
INSTALLATION MANUAL


Change to paragraph 2.3.4.1 Introduction.
Paragraph 2.3.4.1.b is deleted and replaced with the following note.
NOTE:

523-0774651-0A311A Nov 14/02
mode. The antenna will move to scan and tilt a. Dual 429 channels in non-slave mode: Selecting
boresight and stop moving and the transmitter the sector mode on either channel or both chan-
will cease to transmit. nels will command the RTA into sector mode.
b. Dual 429 channels in the slave mode: Selecting b. Dual 429 channel in the slave mode: Selecting
the standby mode via the master side will com- sector mode via the master side will command
mand the entire RTA into standby mode. The the RTA into sector mode.
antenna will move to scan and tilt boresights c. Single 429 channel: Selecting the sector mode
and stop moving and the transmitter will cease will command the RTA into sector mode.
to transmit.
c. Single 429 channel: Selecting the standby mode
will command the entire RTA into standby Note
mode. The antenna will move to scan and tilt
boresights and stop moving and the transmitter Strap #4 (connector pin 32) can be used to
will cease to transmit. select Mode A operation in installations
requiring all of the following features; Low
Sector scan speed digital attitude, 14-inch antenna,
instant GCS/Turb and Mode A operation.
a. Dual 429 channels in non-slave mode: Either For example, if strap #4 was not installed,
channel may command the RTA into sector this installation would be configured for
mode but not both channels. Both 429 channels Low speed digital attitude, 14-inch
selecting selector mode will command the RTA antenna, instant GCS/Turb and Mode B
out of sector mode. The antenna will return to operation.
normal 120 degree scans.
b. Dual 429 channels in the slave mode: Selecting 2.3.4.3 Installation
the sector mode via the master side will com-
mand the RTA into sector mode. Refer to Figures 2-1 and 2-9 through 2-13 for instal-
c. Single 429 channels: Selecting the sector mode lation of the RTA-85X. Due to the specialized
will command the RTA into sector mode. nature of installing the RTA-852L, specific installa-
tion of this unit is left to the discretion of the user,
Mode B (bench testing) configuration (all type (refer to Figure 2-9 Sheet 2 and 3). In this para-
discretes open): graph, the term "RTA" refers to the RTA-852/854/
854 (not to the RTA-852L).
Standby
a. Park the aircraft in a reasonably level attitude.
a. Dual 429 channels in non-slave mode: Selecting
the standby mode on either channel or both Note
channels will command the entire RTA into
standby mode. The antenna will move to scan -
It is not required that the aircraft be lev
and tilt boresight and stop moving and the eled. The objective is to have the aircraft
transmitter will cease to transmit. well within the limits of the inclinometer,
b. Dual 429 channels in the slave mode: Selecting which is a gravity device and accurate up to
the standby mode via the master side will 19.99° from horizontal. All four edge
command the entire RTA into standby mode. surfaces of the inclinometer are calibrated
The antenna will move to scan and tilt so that measurements can be made with
boresights and stop moving and the transmitter the display window in its most horizontal
will cease to transmit. position.
c. Single 429 channel: Selecting the standby mode b. Refer to Figure 10. Measure the aircraft roll
will command the entire RTA into standby attitude using the electronic inclinometer refer-
mode. The antenna will move to scan and tilt enced in Table 2-4. Record the value measured.
boresight and stop moving and the transmitter c. Measure the aircraft pitch attitude using the
will cease to transmit. inclinometer, and record the value. The roll
and pitch attitude values are needed later in
this procedure and in the following alignment
procedure.
Sector scan d. If mounting holes are satisfactorily predrilled,

skip to step m below. Otherwise, select the surface) is not perpendicular to the aircraft pitch
center location for the RTA mounting hole attitude, some type of adapter is needed to provide
pattern. Refer to Figure 2-9 or 2-11 for hole a perpendicular mounting surface.
pattern dimensions. Be sure to consider the e. Refer to Figure 2-9 or 2-11 for dimensions.
contour of the radome in selecting the antenna Measuring from the selected center location,
location. locate and drill one of the upper mounting
holes, either left or right.
Note Note
The antenna scans to a maximum of 62° Tap holes in bulkhead or use fixed
left and right and tilts to a maximum of 32° position fasteners to secure the RTA to the
up and down. Within those limits the cone aircraft bulkhead. The use of floating
of .radar beam illumination must be clear of fasteners will cause errors in antenna
any material or fixtures that can be alignment.
non-transparent to the RF energy or in any f. As shown in Figures 2-1 and 2-13, use one
way distort the beam. This includes such mounting screw (not supplied), one flat washer,
things as recognition lights. Further, the and one lockwasher (supplied in mounting
shape of the radome, as well as any other hardware kit), and attach the alignment bar to
items in the vicinity of the antenna, must one of the upper mounting holes (refer to Fig-
not mechanically interfere with the free ure 2-10). Use the socket-head
movement of the antenna. If the bulkhead
(or mounting
Table 2-7A. Contents of RTA-85X (except RTA-852L) Mounting Hardware Installation Kit (CPN 687-9728-001).
ITEM COLLINS PART NUMBER QUANTITY IN KIT
Flat washers 310-0740-600 4
Lockwashers 310-0288-000 4
Alignment shims
Roll attitude
0.25° 687-9725-001 1
0.50° 687-9725-002 1
0.75° (gray) 687-9725-003 1
1.00° 687-9725-004 1
Pitch attitude
0.25° 687-9715-001, -002 2
0.50° 687-9715-003, -004 2
0.75° 687-9715-005, -006 2
1.00° 687-9715-007, -008 2
2.00° 687-9715-009, -010 2
4.00° 687-9715-011, -012 2
8.00° 687-9715-013, -014 2
Installation tag 523-0775-545 2
Adhesive 005-2520-010 AR
Note: Mounting screws and hexagon socket head not supplied in any kit; refer to Table 2-8 and select length of mounting screws
required; quantity 4 required for each RTA-85X.
Table 2-7B. Contents of RTA-852L Mounting Hardware Installation Kit (CPN 827-3209-001).
Mounting plate 827-3208-001 1
Screw, 0.250-28 x 0.87 SKTHD 324-1506-000 4

INSTALLATION MANUAL


This temporary revision supersedes sheet 1 of Addendum 6.
Subject: Revise table
In Table 2-7A, reprinted below, the installation kit CPN has been changed in the table caption and
the item “Adhesive” has been deleted.
Table 2-7A. Contents of RTA-85X (except RTA-852L) Mounting Hardware Installation Kit (CPN 687-9728-002).

Flat washers 310-0740-600 4
Lockwashers 310-0288-000 4
Alignment shims
Roll attitude
0.25° 687-9725-001 1
0.50° 687-9725-002 1
0.75° (gray) 687-9725-003 1
1.00° 687-9725-004 1
Pitch attitude
0.25° 687-9715-001, -002 2
0.50° 687-9715-003, -004 2
0.75° 687-9715-005, -006 2
1.00° 687-9715-007, -008 2
2.00° 687-9715-009, -010 2
4.00° 687-9715-011, -012 2
8.00° 687-9715-013, -014 2
Installation tag 523-0775-545 2
ΝΟΤΕ: Mounting screws and hexagon socket head not supplied in any kit; refer to Table 2-8 and select length of mounting
screws required; quantity 4 required for each RTA-85X.

523-0774651-07311A Jan 31/01
INSTALLATION MANUAL


Subject: Revise table
Add information to Table 2-7B for the RTA-852L Mounting Hardware Installation Kit, CPN 827-3209-
002.
Table 2-7B. Contents of RTA-852L Mounting Hardware Installation Kit (CPN 827-3209-001/-002)
QUANTITY IN KIT
ITEM COLLINS PART NUMBER
827-3209-001 827-3209-002
Screw, 0.250-28 x 0.87 SKTHD 324-1506-000 4 4
Nut, 0.250-28 SLF LKG 333-1303-000 4 4
Flat washer 310-0740-600 4 4
Screw, 0.190-32 x 0.75 PNH 343-0003-000 3 3
Nut, 0.190-32 SLF LKG 333-1302-000 3 3
Flat washer 310-0779-080 3 3
Cable clamp – R7 150-0708-060 2 2
Cable clamp – R5 150-0708-040 1 1
Cable tie 435-0002-010 2 2
Instruction envelope 520-8360-303 1 1

523-0774651-07311A Jan 31/01
Table 2-7B. Contents of RTA-852L Mounting Hardware Installation Kit (CPN 827-3209-001).
Nut, 0.250-28 SLF LKG 333-1303-000 4
Flat washer 310-0740-600 4
Screw, 0.190-32 x 0.75 PNH 343-0003-000 3
Nut, 0.190-32 SLF LKG 333-1302-000 3
Flat washer 310-0779-080 3
Cable clamp - R7 150-0708-060 2
Cable clamp - R5 150-0708-040 1
Cable tie 435-0002-010 2
Instruction envelope 520-8360-303 1
Table 2-8. Mounting Screws.

COLLINS PART NUMBER * SUPPLIER PART NUMBER THICKNESS-THREAD, LENGTH
324-2634-000 MS16997-57 1/4-20UNC, 3/8 in
324-2635-000 MS16997-58 1/4-20UNC, 1/2 in
324-2636-000 MS16997-59 1/4-20UNC, 5/8 in
324-2637-000 MS16997-60 1/4-20UNC, 3/4 in
324-2638-000 MS16997-61 1/4-20UNC, 7/8 in
324-2639-000 MS16997-62 1/4-20UNC, 1 in
324-2640-000 MS16997-63 1/4-20UNC, 1/4 in
324-2641-000 MS16997-64 1/4-20UNC, 1 1/2 in
324-2642-000 MS16997-65 1/4-20UNC, 1 3/4 in
324-2643-000 MS16997-66 1/4-20UNC, 2 in
324-2644-000 MS16997-67 1/4-20UNC, 2 1/4 in
324-2645-000 MS16997-68 1/4-20UNC, 2 1/2 in
324-2646-000 MS16997-69 1/4-20UNC, 2 3/4 in
324-2647-000 MS16997-70 1/4-20UNC, 3 in
*Available from The Bristol Co., Waterbury, Connecticut.
Table 2-9. RTA-85X Attitude Data Strapping Options.

STRAP FUNCTION MATING SELECTION
CONNECTOR PINS
STRAPPED UNSTRAPPED
Digital/analog attitude P1-30 to P1-12 Analog Digital
With digital attitude selected P1-31 to P1-12 *ARINC 429, 100 kBd ARINC 429, 50 kBd
With analog attitude selected P1-31 to P1-12 50 mV/° 200 mV/°
Instant GCS/TURB (TWR-850 only) P1-34 to P1-12 Enabled Disabled
**400-Hz attitude ref: 26 or 115 V ac P1-32 to P1-12 26 V ac 115 V ac
Mode A or B Mode A Mode B ***
*High speed (100 kBd) ARINC 429 not available with -001 or -011 status units.
**Attitude reference is not required when digital data is used.
***Mode B can only be entered if all straps are left open.
Table 2-10. RTA-85X Strapping for Flat Plate Size.

FLAT PLATE SIZE MATING CONNECTOR STRAPPING TO P1-12
P1-28 P1-29
12 inches Strap Open
14 inches Open Open
18 inches Open Strap

wrench to tighten the screw enough to support 2.3.4.4 Mechanical Alignment
the weight of the bar and inclinometer, but yet
allow the free end to be manually adjusted up Introduction
or down.
g. With the electronic inclinometer resting on the This paragraph provides instructions on the me-
alignment bar, adjust the bar by moving its free chanical alignment of the RTA-852/854/858. It is
end up or down so the inclinometer indicates an assumed that the RTA-852L antenna mounting
angle as close as possible to the aircraft roll surface will align the antenna properly without
attitude measured in step b. shimming, and instructions on the mechanical
alignment of this unit are not necessary. In this
paragraph, the term "RTA" refers to the RTA-
Note 852/854/858 assembly.
In order to properly perform the mechanical align-
The objective is to locate the second upper ment of the RTA, it is necessary to have the aircraft
mounting hole so that a center line drawn in a reasonably level attitude. A precise measure-
through the two upper mounting holes is ment of the pitch and roll attitude is used as a
within 0.25° of the measured aircraft roll reference in making the following adjustments.
attitude. Shims are provided in the instal- The objective of this procedure is:
lation kit to correct for errors up to 1°. How-
ever, accuracy in locating this second hole a. To mechanically align the RTA assembly so
can eliminate the need for these shims. that, when the antenna is at 0° tilt, the radar
flat plate is parallel within 0.25° of the aircraft
h. Mark the second hole location using a center pitch attitude, measured vertically. See Figure
punch in the countersunk hole. Remove incli- 2-1.
nometer and alignment bar and drill this hole.
i. Install two socket-head mounting screws (not
supplied) with washers and lockwashers from Note
the installation kit in the two upper mounting
holes. Leave about 1/2-inch of space between If alignment shims are used to
the mounting surface and the flat washer for compensate for a nonvertical mounting
the RTA mounting pads. surface, it is important to check that the
j. Install the RTA onto the two socket-head resulting forward displacement of the RTA
mounting screws. Be sure the washers are be- does not result in interference between the
tween the screw head and the mounting pad. radome and the antenna flat plate motion.
Tighten the screws enough to hold the unit
securely against the mounting surface. b. To mechanically align the RTA so that the
k. Swing the flat plate to the left or right to facili- horizontal scan plane is parallel within 0.25° of
tate access to the lower mounting holes. Mark the aircraft roll attitude. This ensures that roll
the two lower screw locations. Locate these compensation is symmetrical; see view C of
holes in the center of the mounting slot of the Figure 2-10.
lower mounting pads to allow equal adjustment
in either direction, if needed.
l. Loosen the two upper screws and remove the Note
RTA. Drill the two lower holes.
A potential for misalignment is
m. Install the RTA onto the two upper screws, and
suggested in view B of Figure 2-10. In this
then install the two lower screws and tighten
condition,the mounting surface is
all four screws to a snug fit.
horizontally misaligned with respect to the
n. Locate and provide the necessary cable rest-
aircraft center line so that the antenna
raints for the interconnecting cable.
faces to the left or right of dead ahead. This
o. Connect the electrical mating connector to con-
causes a target to appear on the screen at
nector J1. Engage and lock the lock assembly.
the wrong azimuth. At installation, this
p. Do not install the aircraft radome until after
error is hard to detect. Fortunately,
the antenna alignment procedure is completed.
however, the error tends to become
insignificant at 0close-in ranges.

INSTALLATION MANUAL


Subject: Revise text
At the end of paragraph g, change the installation kit CPN to 687-9728-002.

523-0774651-07311A Jan 31/01
Procedure screws (studs) flush with the mounting surface.
Place the electronic inclinometer on the top
a. If this procedure is a continuation of the previ- surface of the alignment bar as shown in Figure
ous installation procedure, use the same dimen- 2-1.
sions recorded in paragraph 2.3.4.3, steps b and g. Record the reading on the inclinometer. Sub-
c. Otherwise, return to paragraph 2.3.4.3, tract the aircraft roll attitude measured in
measure the pitch and roll attitude, and record paragraph 2.3.4.3 step b from this reading.
them for use in this procedure. This is the scan plane rotational error that will
b. Ensure that the stabilization system is off or be removed by means of a shim selected from
that the roll and pitch inputs to the radar sys- the installation kit, CPN 687-9728-001.
tem are at null. h. If the scan plane error is more than 1.25°, the
c. Turn radar power on and select STBY on the mounting holes were improperly located. If
WXP/WXI. The antenna should stop at bore- they can be relocated, this action should be
sight (zero pitch and zero scan). taken. Otherwise, install the 1° shim supplied
d. Use the electronic inclinometer to ensure that in the installation kit. The remaining scan
the flat plate is at 90° ±0.25° with respect to the plane error cannot be mechanically removed.
aircraft pitch attitude measured in paragraph The TWR-850 in-flight stabilization alignment
2.3.4.3 step c. procedures can be used to remove up to one
additional degree of error. Refer to Tables 2-16,
Note 2-17, and 2-18 for in-flight stabilization
alignment procedures.
By placing the side of the electronic i. If the scan plane error is less than 0.13°, no
inclinometer against the flat plate surface, shims are needed and this alignment procedure
the angle can be measured directly. Refer is complete for this installation.
to Figure 2-1. Be sure to place the edge of j. If the scan plane error is more than 0.13° but
the inclinometer between the vertical rows less than 1.25°, select the shim closest to the
of solder tabs on the flat plate surface, and angle measured.
try to make all measurements at approxi- k. Manually tip the inclinometer slightly to deter-
mately the same place on the flat plate. The mine the direction of rotation needed to bring
reading should be within 0.25° of the pitch the reading to within 0.25° of the roll attitude.
attitude. l. If ccw rotation is needed, remove the upper
right-hand screw and install the selected shim
Caution on it. If cw rotation is needed, remove the upper
left-hand screw and install the selected shim on
- it.
If shims are necessary for pitch align
ment, they must be placed under both the m. Place the alignment bar on top of the necessary
upper and lower mounting pads as shown shims that are slid onto the mounting screws.
in Figure 2-1. Placing the shims under the The inclinometer reading must be within 0.25
upper pads only, for example, will result in degrees of the roll attitude. Reinstall the RTA
a gap between the lower pads and the with the selected shim(s) in place . Be sure the
mounting surface. This gap must be filled shim(s) is properly seated within the mounting
by a shim of complementary thickness, hole. Tighten all four screws.
otherwise the force applied by the lower n. Recheck the alignment by repeating the proce-
mounting screws can break the pad. dure starting at step b of this paragraph.
e. If shims are necessary to remove pitch error, Select different shims if required.
turn radar power off and install the shims o. When the alignment procedure is completed
under the upper and lower mounting pads to and satisfactory shims have been selected for
correct for proper alignment. Refer to Table 2- installation, bond all selected shims to the
11 and Figure 2-1. airframe radar antenna mounting surface.
f. Remove RTA from mount. Install upper mount- Refer to the instructions shown in Figure 1. Be
ing screws to the point that they are secure but sure to use about the same amount of adhesive
there is enough room to put the alignment bar on all shims to minimize the misaligning effect
across the threaded part of the screw. Place the of the adhesive. Be sure, also, to use a
alignment bar across the threaded surface of
the upper two mounting

minimum amount of bonding material and the lever slides over the mounting bracket pin on the
remove excess to avoid bonding the RTA or the bottom of the WXI. Turn the lever to the far left to
mounting screws to the mounting surface or to lock the WXI onto the mounting base.
the shims.
p. Collins General Aviation Division recommends 2.3.6 WXP-850( ) Weather Radar Panel
that a record be made of the type/size of shims Installation
installed in a particular aircraft. Figure 2-1
shows the tag that is supplied as part of the 2.3.6.1 Introduction
shim kit (CPN 687-9728-001). This tag is to be
completed and appropriately secured near the Mount the WXP-850A/B(s) in the aircraft instrument
radar installation. Do not affix it to the RTA. panel in a convenient location for easy access by the
operator(s). Refer to Figure 2-15 or 2-16 for outline
2.3.5 WXI-711A Weather Radar Indicator and mounting dimensions and connector informa-
Installation tion. The WXP-850A is front panel mounted. The
WXP-850B requires Dzus fasteners.
2.3.5.1 Introduction
2.3.6.2 Strapping Options
The WMI-701 Mounting Base is the recommended
mount for the WXI-711A. Refer to the WMT-701X/ Table 2-13 describes the strapping options for the
702X RT Mount and WMI-701 Mounting Base WXP-850( ).
component maintenance manual (CPN 523-0770474)
or to the WMT-701C/702C RT Mount and WMI-701 2.3.6.3 Lighting Selection
Mounting Base component maintenance manual
(CPN 523-0770475) for more information on the For 28-V dc lighting, connect the lighting source to
mounting base. Mount the WXI-711A(s) in the P2-2 and connect jumper between mating connector
aircraft instrument panel in a convenient location for pins P2-1 and P2-22. For 5-V ac/dc lighting, connect
easy access by the operator(s). Refer to Figure the lighting source to P2-1 and leave P2-2 open.
Error! Bookmark not defined. for outline and
mounting dimensions and connector information for 2.3.6.4 Installation
the WXI-711A.
If the WXP-850( ) is to be installed in an IMT-85
2.3.5.2 Strapping Options mounting tray, refer to the appropriate EFIS instal-
lation manual for installation details. Otherwise,
Table 2-12 describes the strapping options for the refer to Figure 2-15 or 2-16 for the outline and
WXI-711A. mounting dimensions.
2.3.5.3 Installation
Warning
Warning
Be sure to open the circuit breaker
Be sure to open the circuit breaker before before connecting the equipment to the
connecting the equipment to the aircraft aircraft harness. Check for complete
harness. Check for complete connector mat- connector mating before applying power.
ing before applying power.
Connect the aircraft harness mating connectors to
Connect the aircraft harness mating connector to the WXP-850( ) rear connectors Jl and J2 as required.
WMI-701 Mounting Base. Insert the WMI-701 Insert the unit into its proper location. Secure the
mounting base into its proper location and secure it WXP-850A with four integral turnlock fasteners.
to the equipment rack. Turn the lever on the Use a 3/32-inch hexkey drive to tighten the fasten-
mounting base to the far right. Slide the WXI-711A ers. Secure the WXP-850B by tightening the Dzus
onto the mounting base and align the guide pins on fasteners. Clearance is required on the rear surfaces
the mounting base into the holes provided on the of the panel for the turnlock fasteners.
WXI-711A at the bottom corners of the front panel.
Turn the lever on the mounting base so the slot in

INSTALLATION MANUAL


Subject: Revise text.
In paragraph p, change the shim kit CPN to 687-9728-002.

523-0774651-08311A Feb 8/02
ROCKWELL COLLINS
INSTALLATION MANUAL


Paragraph 2.3.7 is revised to read:
In Table 2-11 note, change the shim kit CPN to 687-9728-002.

523-0774651-0A311A Nov 14/02
2.3.7 Aircraft Radome Considerations
The average one-way transmission should not be less

than 90 percent for any continuous scan of the
antenna relative to the radome. The minimum
transmissivity at any point should not be less than
85 percent throughout the window area of the basic
radome, including any installed rain erosion protec-
tion. (The window area is that portion of the radome
that is illuminated by the antenna as the antenna is
tilted and rotated in azimuth to its mechanical
limits.)
Table 2-11. Pitch Alignment Correction Shim Selection Guide.

ANTENNA PITCH UPPER SHIMS FOR ANTENNA PITCH DOWN LOWER SHIMS FOR ANTENNA PITCH DOWN
OR LOWER SHIMS FOR OR UPPER SHIMS FOR
CORRECTION
NEEDED ANTENNA PITCH UP ANTENNA PITCH UP
DEGREE(S) THICKNESS COLLINS THICKNESS COLLINS
(INCH) PART NUMBER (INCH) PART NUMBER

0.25 0.045 687-9715-001 0.021 687-9715-002
0.50 0.089 687-9715-003 0.042 687-9715-004
0.75 0.134 687-9715-005 0.063 687-9715-006
1.00 0.178 687-9715-007 0.084 687-9715-008
2.00 0.356 687-9715-009 0.168 687-9715-010
4.00 0.713 687-9715-011 0.336 687-9715-012
8.00 1.433 687-9715-013 0.674 687-9715-014
Note: Two of each shim are supplied in kit CPN 687-9728-001. Values are approximately linear and combinations can be selected for
correction values not specifically listed (eg, for a correction of 3.75°, add shim thickness listed for 2.0°, 1.0°, and 0.75°.
Table 2-12. WXI-711A Strapping Options.

CONNECTOR PINS
STRAPPED UNSTRAPPED
*Dual WXI-711A P1-21 to P1-17 Right side Left side
*Leave P1-21 open for single WXI-711A installations.
Table 2-13. WXP-850( ) Strapping Options.

CONNECTOR PINS
STRAPPED UNSTRAPPED
*Dual WXP-850( ) P2-29 to P2-12 Right side Left side
Enable in-flight stabilization calibration P2-28 to P2-12 Enabled Disabled
Instant GCS and TURB P2-34 to P2-12 Enabled Normal
*Leave P2-29 open for single WXP-850( ) installations.

Pitch and Roll Attitude Alignment Diagram

Figure 2-1

INSTALLATION MANUAL


Insert facing page 2-18
This temporary revision supersedes Temporary Revision 07
Subject: Revise illustration.
Change kit part number in Figure 2-1, Notes 1 and 4. Remove CPN in Note 3.
002
-002

523-0774651-08311A Feb 8/02
ROCKWELL COLLINS
INSTALLATION MANUAL


Subject: Revised information. Latest change is shown with black bar in margin.
Change to paragraph 2.3.7 Aircraft Radome Considerations (cont) is shown below in bold text.
First column, first paragraph is changed to:
“The addition of lightning protection devices and trim finishes should not degrade the transmission efficiency by more than
3 percent. Average radome paint causes a loss of about 3.5 to 5 percent in transmissivity. Rubber or Mylar® boots,
when properly installed, present about 5 percent loss. If a boot is used, it must be adequately sealed to prevent moisture
accumulation between the boot and the radome surface. Plastic boots usually present a loss of 20 to 50 percent, which
makes them totally unacceptable. These examples, outlining potential impact of lightning protection devices and
trim finishes on transmissivity, are for information only and are cautions to the installer. These are not additional
allowances allowed on top of the transmissivity requirements stated in the previous paragraph. Collins
recommends the use of a “Class A” radome as defined in RTCA/DO-213. The classes of radomes as defined in
this document are for a fully finished and installed radome.”

523-0774651-0A311A Nov 14/02
The addition of lightning protection devices and trim range. Turning the transmitter on while
finishes should not degrade the transmission effi- inside the hangar is not advisable. FAA
ciency by more than 3 percent. Average radome Advisory Circular 20-68B provides addi-
paint causes a loss of about 3.5 to 5 percent in tional details on the radiation hazards
transmissivity. Rubber or Mylar® boots, when associated with ground operation of air-
properly installed, present about 5-percent loss. If a borne weather radar (refer to the Collins
boot is used, it must be adequately sealed to prevent Installation Practices Manual CPN 523-
moisture accumulation between the boot and the 0775254).
radome surface. Plastic boots usually present a loss
of 20 to 50 percent, which makes them totally Only authorized and qualified personnel should be
unacceptable. allowed to operate the TWR-850 Turbulence
Weather Radar System or the RTA-85X with WXI-
If there is reason to question the radome transmissi-- 711A system. The postinstallation test procedures
vity, it should be checked by a reputable radome are provided in Tables 0 and 0. In those cases
authority such as Cair Radomes, Plastics and Syn- where a test failure can be caused by more than one
thetics Division of Norton Company, Akron, Ohio. LRU, the MOST PROBABLE CAUSE OF
FAILURE column lists the line replaceable units in
The antenna scans up to a maximum of 62° to the the order of the greatest likelihood of failure.
left and right and 32° tilt up and tilt down (half for
manual tilt adjust and half for stabilization). Within 2.4.1.1 Cross-side Switching
those limits, the cone of radar beam illumination
must be clear of any material or fixtures that can be In aircraft with EFIS, typically the MFD and the
non-transparent to the RF energy or in any way left side ND are controlled by the pilot's (left) side
distort the beam. This includes such things as controls (DCP-85 or DSP-85). In aircraft without
recognition lights. Further, the shape of the radome, EFIS, typically the left WXI is controlled by the
as well as any other items in the vicinity of the pilot's side. If cross-side control switching is pro-
antenna, must not interfere with the mechanical vided, it is assumed that the operator is familiar
movement of the antenna. Figure 2-9 defines the with that system's operation. No attempt is made
minimum space required by the units. If shims in this procedure to guide the operator in that
and/or special mounting adapters are used that regard. Further, it is also assumed that in dual
effectively move the unit forward from the antenna WXP or WXI installations, the left side radar dis-
mounting surface, these added dimensions must be plays are controlled by the pilot's WXP/WXI, while
taken into consideration for determining whether the right side display is controlled by the right side
adequate clearance is provided. WXP/ WXI.
Users should be guided by FAA Advisory Circular 2.4.1.2 Radar Antenna Operation
43-14, dated 24 February 1977, Maintenance of
Weather Radomes, in the Collins Installation Prac- If this is your first exposure to the TWR-850 Tu-
tices Manual (CPN 523-0775254). rbulence Weather Radar System or the RTA-85X
with WXI-711A system, you will notice antenna
2.4 POSTINSTALLATION TEST operation somewhat different from other systems.
This paragraph describes that operation. There are
2.4.1 Introduction three distinct operational features that you may
see:
Warning a. Altitude Determination
The area within the scan arc and within At the scan turn-around point for every third
0.65 metre (2 feet) of an operating TWR-850 scan sweep, the antenna automatically changes
Turbulence Weather Radar System or RTA- its tilt to two specific downward tilt angles. In
85X with WXI-711A system can be a the TWR-850 system, this allows the system to
hazardous area. Do not operate the sys- establish an in-flight altitude reference that is
tems in any mode other than standby used in the AUTOtilt and Target Alert features.
(STBY) or test (TEST) when the antenna (AUTOtilt and Target Alert are not
might scan over personnel within that

available with the WXI-711A.) Depending on c. Rectangular Scan Pattern
where the TILT control(s) is set, it can be ob-
served that the antenna tilts up or down at A rectangular scan pattern can be seen if either
these scan turn-around points. of the following conditions are present: the
TWR-850 system is in Target Alert mode, or
b. Automatic Tilt Calibration dual WXP/WXI controls are used and the TILT
control settings are not identical. If the TILT
At the scan turn-around point, an automatic tilt control settings are not identical, the antenna
calibration procedure will be performed if the alternates between the two different TILT
antenna boresight position (tilt-zero) was not commands for each sweep, resulting in the
crossed during the last five antenna scans. If rectangular scan pattern.
the turn-around point calibration procedure is
performed, the radar mechanically moves the 2.4.1.3 Test Procedures
antenna until the tilt boresight is found (tilt
boresight is established by means of an optical Postinstallation test procedures for the TWR-850
sensor built into the tilt mechanism). If tilt system are provided in Table 2-14. Postinstallation
boresight is crossed during a normal antenna test procedures for the RTA-85X with WXI-711A
scan, the system is calibrated on that crossing system are provided in Table 2-15.
and the turn-around point calibration is not
executed. It is possible that, under some condi-
tions of tilt setting and/or antenna stabilization,
the turn-around point calibration will be totally
absent from the antenna operation.
Table 2-14. TWR-850 Postinstallation Test Procedures.
TEST MANUAL PROCEDURE TEST RESULT MOST PROBABLE
NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
Warning
The relatively low power output of the TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar System makes it reasonably safe to operate
indoors. However it is not recommended, and operators should take necessary and reasonable precautions to ensure that
personnel and equipment especially sensitive to microwave radiation are not exposed. Be guided by FAA Advisory Circular
20-68B (refer to the Collins Installation Practices Manual, CPN 523-0775254).
1.0 Initialization
Make the following selections.
On WXP-850A/B (both sides if dual):
MODE - OFF
GCS - out (off)
STB - out (off)
GAIN - CAL
TILT - center (0)
AUTO - in (off)
HLD - not selected
SEC - not selected
RANGE - 5
Aircraft power - on
Select RDR on the MFD or place the ND in a format that allows weather to be displayed

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
Note
The colors of weather radar mode annunciators, arc format, and map format depend on the type of EFIS display being used.
Refer to the appropriate EFIS manual for annunciator, arc format, and map format colors.
Note
In dual installations, perform this procedure first from the left side WXP-850A/B. At the start of the
procedure, press the SLV switch in (on) on the right side WXP and out (off) on the left side WXP. During the course
of the procedure, the right side display should be identical to that of the left side except that the mode annunciation
will be preceded by an "X" (eg, XWX, XMAP, etc). During the course of the procedure, it is wise to glance over to the
right side display occasionally to ensure that the displays agree. When this procedure for the left side is completed,
it must be repeated for the right side.
Note
A portion of the tests in this table can be performed inside the hanger. However, test operators must be
careful to operate the system only in OFF, STBY, or TEST mode for tests inside the hangar.
2.0 Standby Test
On WXP-850A/B, left side, set MODE to One range arc with (2.5) at right end of EFIS, WXP, RTA
STBY. range arc, airplane symbol at bottom center,
compass sector, and STBY annunciator
appear, and there is no display updating.
3.0 Range Annunciator
On WXP-850A/B, set RANGE as follows: On MFD or ND, range annunciator RTA, WXP
indicates the following:
RANGE FULL HALF
5 5 2.5
10 10 5
25 25 12.5
50 50 25
100 100 50
200 200 100
300 300 150
4.0 Self-Test
On WXP-850A/B, set RANGE to 25 and On MFD or ND, antenna scans, test pattern RTA, WXP
MODE to TEST. 120°, six color bands outward beyond black
around apex: green, yellow, red, magenta,
red/magenta, and yellow (red/magenta
alternates colors each scan sweep). Refer to
Figure 3-2 in the operation section.
5.0 Hold Test
Set RANGE to 10 or 50 and then back to 25. Test pattern erases and then begins to rede- WXP, RTA
velop.
Before pattern is complete, press HLD (only Test pattern development stops and annun- WXP, RTA
once). ciator alternates between HOLD and TEST.
Press HLD again. Test pattern resumes development and WXP, RTA
annunciator is constant TEST.

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
6.0 TILT Control Test Note
If the radome is installed, antenna operation cannot be observed. Unless it can be removed easily, you may skip this
test in favor of the outside-of-hanger tests, where the display is used to determine tilt operation.
On WXP-850A/B, set MODE to TEST and RTA, WXP
RANGE to 25.
Adjust TILT cw from center. Antenna tilts up and a positive tilt angle is RTA, WXP
displayed on MFD or ND, +15° max.
Adjust TILT ccw from center. Antenna tilts down and a negative tilt angle RTA, WXP
is displayed on MFD or ND, -15° max.
Set MODE to STBY. Antenna stops at boresight. RTA, WXP
7.0 SLV Function Test Note
This test number applies only to installations with dual WXP-850A/B controls.
Note
Up to this point, all annunciations on the right side should have been in agreement with those on
the left side except that the mode annunciation on the right side was preceded by an "X".
Right Side Test
Press SLV switch to the out (off) position on Mode annunciation on the left side display EFIS, WXP
right side WXP-850A/B, and press SLV is preceded by an "X".
switch in (on) on left side WXP.
Repeat all tests, starting with test 2.0, using
right side WXP-850A/B.
Double SLV Default Test
Press SLV switch in (on) on right side WXP- All displays show that system is in standby EFIS, WXP, RTA
850A/B (both sides in slave condition). and antenna parks at center scan.
Set MODE on left side WXP-850A/B to All displays show that system remains in EFIS, WXP
TEST. standby (no TEST pattern displayed).
Press SLV switch out (off) on the left side Mode annunciation on the right side display EFIS, WXP
WXP. is preceded by an "X".
8.0 STB Control Test Note
In this step, a stabilization source input is required. There are three possible methods to supply this input:
1. Install the gyro on a tilt table and introduce the necessary input by tilting the gyro.
2. Use the flight-line test fixture shown in Figures 5-3 and 5-4 in the maintenance section, and patch a simulated
roll/pitch signal into the RTA-85X.
3. On an AHS-85( ) equipped installation, actuate the STIM mode to supply one or more of the simulated pitch/roll
input signals.
Note
There should be no need to make an accurate measurement of this function. The objective is to
ascertain that the system responds to a roll and pitch input.

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
8.1 Inside Hanger STB Control Test With Radome Removed
On WXP, press STB switch in (on) and set Antenna scans. RTA, WXP
MODE to TEST and TILT to 0 (center).
Using one of the methods described in test Antenna pitches up by amount of input. RTA, WXP
8.0, apply 4° to 8° of pitch-down input.
On WXP, press STB switch out Antenna scans horizontally and USTB is RTA, WXP
(stabilization off). displayed.
Set pitch input to zero (null). There is no change in antenna scan motion. RTA, WXP
Press STB switch in (stabilization on). USTB is not displayed. RTA, WXP
Apply 4° to 8° of roll right input (right wing Antenna tilts up when scan is to right of RTA, WXP
down). center and down when scan is to left.
On WXP, press STB switch out (stabilization Antenna returns to horizontal scan with no RTA, WXP
off). tilt motion and USTB is displayed.
Set roll input to zero (null). There is no change in antenna scan motion. RTA, WXP
Press STB switch in (stabilization on). USTB is not displayed. RTA, WXP
Note
This completes the in-hanger procedures for installations with a single WXP-850A/B.
8.2 Outside Hanger STB Control Test With Radome Installed
Note
In the next test number, the aircraft must be outside the hanger. You should situate the aircraft so
that the radar has a clear view, extending ideally for several miles, and a reasonable horizontal angle of
60° to 120°.
Warning
In the next test number, the transmitter is turned on. Be certain that no personnel or combustible
materials are within the ±60° hazardous area and a few feet from the front of the aircraft. Be guided by
FAA Advisory Circular 20-68B (refer to the Collins Installation Practices Manual, CPN 523-0775254).
On WXP-850A/B, set MODE to WX, RANGE WX and appropriate range are displayed. RTA, WXP, stabilization
to 10 or 25, and press STB switch in (stabili- USTB is not displayed, and GCS is not system
zation on). Be sure GCS is not selected. displayed.
Adjust TILT so that ground return is shown RTA, WXP, stabilization
at or near max distance. system
Using one of the methods described in test Ground return disappears or moves away RTA, WXP, stabilization
8.0, apply 4° to 8° of pitch-down input. from apex (antenna tilts up). system
Press STB switch out (stabilization off). Ground return moves back to earlier RTA, WXP, stabilization
position and USTB is displayed. system
Press STB switch in (stabilization on). Ground return position does not change and RTA, WXP, stabilization
USTB is not displayed. system
Apply 4° to 8° of pitch-up input. Ground return moves closer to apex of RTA, WXP, stabilization
display. system
Set pitch input to zero (null). Ground return moves back to earlier RTA, WXP, stabilization
position. system
Apply 4° to 8° of roll-right input (right wing Ground return moves away or disappears on RTA, WXP, stabilization
down). right side of display and moves closer on system
left.
On WXP-850A/B, press STB switch out (sta- Ground return moves back to earlier posi- RTA, WXP, stabilization
bilization off). tion and USTB is displayed. system
Set roll input to zero (null), and press STB Ground return remains and USTB is not RTA, WXP, stabilization
switch in (stabilization on). displayed. system

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
9.0 Target Alert Function Test Note
In this test number, an equal and opposite deviation can indicate that the antenna is not aimed correctly along the
longitudinal (roll) axis of the aircraft (view B in Figure Error! Bookmark not defined.). To correct this condition,
shim either the left or right side of the antenna, using the same shim thickness for both the upper and lower
mounting tabs, to shift the aim of the antenna toward the right or left side respectively. If the error is not equal, it
can indicate pitch misalignment of the antenna (view D of Figure Error! Bookmark not defined.). Too much tilt at
both scan angles can indicate that the antenna is rotated; that is, the antenna scan plane is not parallel to the wings
of the aircraft. This requires rotation of the antenna to compensate.
Set MODE to TGT. Antenna sweeps and a boxed TGT appears RTA, WXP
in upper right corner of display.
No weather or ground clutter is displayed. RTA, WXP
Note
If a radar target such as a fairly intense rain cloud is visible at a distance of at least 7 miles and within 15° of straight ahead, it
may cause the annunciator to flash. If such a radar target is not available in the area, it may not be possible to make a
reasonable test of the target alert function. Similarly, a storm system within 50 nmi containing precipitation and precipitation-
related turbulence can cause the annunciator to flash alternately from TGT to TRB.
10.0 MAP Mode Function Test
Set MODE to MAP. Antenna sweeps and MAP is displayed. RTA, WXP
TGT from previous step disappears. RTA, WXP
Range mark changes color. RTA, WXP
Ground targets appear. RTA, WXP
Select different range. Ground targets become less pronounced RTA, WXP
with greater ranges and tend to disappear
into vertex at ranges of 200 and 300.
Press HLD. Mode annunciator alternates between MAP RTA, WXP
and HOLD.
Press HLD again. Annunciator resumes a constant MAP RTA, WXP
display.
11.0 WX Mode Function Test
On WXP-850A/B, set RANGE to 10 and Antenna sweeps. WXP, RTA
MODE to WX.
In addition to possible targets, display(s) WXP, RTA
show range mark and WX mode annuncia-
tor.
Note
If a distant target such as a rain cloud or terrain feature is evident, adjust TILT control on WXP-850A/B for the best (largest)
display of that target. Otherwise, adjust tilt for a reasonable ground target display.
11.0 On WXP-850A/B, set RANGE to 10 and Targets may be displayed in green, yellow, WXP, RTA
(Cont) MODE to WX. red, and magenta.
On WXP-850A/B, set RANGE to 25, 50, 100, Target(s) shift position on display according WXP, RTA
etc. to range selected.
Note
Any target visible at 10 nmi will disappear into the vertex when the 100 or greater range is selected.
Press HLD. MODE annunciator alternates between WX WXP, RTA
and HLD.
Press HLD again. Annunciator resumes a constant WX WXP, RTA
display.

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
12.0 WX+T Function Test
On WXP-850A/B, select any RANGE from 5 WX+T is annunciated. WXP, RTA
to 50 and set MODE to WX+T.
Note
If a relatively severe storm happens to be within 50 nmi and is radar observable, it is possible that a portion of it contains
turbulence. In that case, the display should show some magenta areas.
Select any RANGE from 100 to 300. WX is annunciated and normal weather
information is displayed.
13.0 AUTO Tilt Function Test Note
The AUTO tilt function cannot be tested easily and reliably while the aircraft is on the ground.
On WXP-850A/B, pull outward on AUTO Tilt angle is now shown prefixed with an "A" WXP, RTA
knob and adjust TILT. (eg, A+10.0, A-2.5, etc).
Push in AUTO knob. Tilt angle is not prefixed with an "A". WXP, RTA
14.0 PAC and PAC Alert Functions Test Note
The PAC and PAC Alert functions cannot be tested easily and reliably while the aircraft is on the ground.
15.0 GAIN Function Test
Set GAIN selector to first click ccw from Size of target(s) decreases. WXP, RTA
horizontal.
G-1 is displayed. Any contour area should WXP, RTA
decrease in size.
Set GAIN selector to second and then to At each step, target size and intensity level WXP, RTA
third click ccw from horizontal. decreases.
G-2 or G-3 is displayed. WXP, RTA
Set GAIN selector to first, second, and third At each step, target size and intensity level WXP, RTA
click cw from horizontal. increases.
G+1, G+2, or G+3 is displayed. WXP, RTA
Note
Each click of the GAIN adjustment from CAL to -3 effectively decreases the gain by about 6 dB (approximately one color level).
Each click of the GAIN adjustment in the positive (+) direction has the effect of increasing the receiver gain by that same
amount. The CAL position of the GAIN switch is the only gain selection in which a given rainfall rate (Z-level) will be displayed
at the proper display color for all ranges.
15.0 Set GAIN selector to CAL. G+0 or CAL may be annunciated. WXP, RTA
(Cont)
16.0 TURBulence (Only) Function Test
On WXP-850A/B, select any RANGE from 5 All weather and ground target display WXP, RTA
to 50. Hold MODE switch in the TURB disappears. (If strapped for Instant GCS/
position (spring loaded). TURB on the WXP and RTA, this is instan-
taneous. Otherwise, weather and ground
display disappear during normal sweep.)
TURB is annunciated. WXP, RTA
Note
If any portion of a severe rain cloud within 50 nmi was showing magenta areas of turbulence in test 12.0, only those areas will
be displayed in TURB mode.

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
16.0 Release MODE switch. MODE returns to WX+T and weather and WXP, RTA
(Cont) ground target display reappears.
Select any RANGE from 100 to 300. WX is annunciated. WXP, RTA
Hold MODE switch in the TURB position. WX remains annunciated. WXP, RTA
Release MODE switch (return to WX+T WX remains annunciated. WXP, RTA
MODE).
Select any RANGE from 5 to 50. WX+T is annunciated. WXP, RTA
17.0 GCS Function Test
On WXP-850A/B, set MODE to WX or WX+T. WX or WX+T is annunciated. WXP, RTA
Press in GCS switch. GCS is annunciated. WXP, RTA
Number of ground targets is noticeably WXP, RTA
reduced. (If strapped for Instant GCS/
TURB on the WXP and RTA, this is instan-
taneous. Otherwise, ground targets are
reduced during a normal sweep.)
Release GCS switch. Ground target display reappears. GCS is WXP, RTA
not annunciated.
Press in GCS switch. GCS is annunciated. WXP, RTA
On WXP, select any other MODE or RANGE. GCS annunciation disappears with MODE WXP, RTA
or RANGE change.
Note
This completes the tests for installations with a single WXP-850A/B control. For dual systems, repeat tests 9.0 through 17.0
using the right side control. Press SLV switch in (on) on the left side WXP, and press SLV switch out (off) on the right side
WXP. During the course of the procedures, note that the left side display agrees with that of the right side except that the mode
annunciation on the left side is preceded by an "X" (for cross-side) on the left side display. All annunciators are the proper color
according to the type of EFIS installed.
Table 2-15. RTA-85X with WXI-711A Postinstallation Test Procedures.

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
Warning
The relatively low power output of the RTA-85X makes it reasonably safe to operate indoors. However it is not recommended,
and operators should take necessary and reasonable precautions to ensure that personnel and equipment especially sensitive to
microwave radiation are not exposed. Be guided by FAA Advisory Circular 20-68B (refer to the Collins Installation Practices
Manual, CPN 523-0775254).
1.0 Initialization
Aircraft power - on
On WXI-711A (both sides if dual): Note the following displays:
Power - press PWR in (on) Range arcs and annunciators appear.
GAIN - full cw (set for CAL) CAL displayed in bottom left corner.
TILT - center (set for 0) 0 (TILT) displayed in bottom right corner.
STAB - press to the out position USTB at right edge of bottom range arc.
Range - 5 5 range arcs with 5/1 in upper right corner.

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
1.0 Mode - press STBY STBY in upper left corner.
(Cont) (Below STBY should be 3 color bars: green,
yellow, and red from left to right.)
Note
If any other annunciations appear on the WXI, refer to Figure 3-6 and Table 3-3 in the operation section of this manual for the
location of the message slots and for the cause of the annunciation.
Adjust INT (intensity) for legible screen. Screen intensity of all annunciations and
markers increases when INT is rotated cw
and decreases when rotated ccw.
Adjust MKR (marker) for range mark Intensity of range marks increases when
intensity MKR is rotated cw and decreases when
rotated ccw.
Note
In dual installations, perform this procedure first from the left side WXI-711A. At the start of the procedure, depress the SLV
switch (-224 only) on the right side WXI-711A. During the course of the procedure, the right side display should be identical to
that of the left side, and it is wise to glance over to the right side display occasionally to ensure that the displays agree. When
this procedure for the left side is completed, it must be repeated for the right side.
Note
A portion of the tests in this table can be performed inside the hanger. However, test operators must be
careful to operate the system only in STBY or TEST mode for tests inside the hangar.
2.0 Standby Test
On the left side WXI press STBY. The STBY annunciator appears, any targets WXI, RTA
displayed disappear, and there is no
updating of the display.
On WXI, set range to 5, 10, 25, and 50 nmi Five range arcs are displayed. In the upper RTA, WXI
by pressing the appropriate range button. right corner 5/1, 10/2, 25/5, 50/10 is annun-
ciated for each range respectively. (See note
below.)
Set range to 100 and 200 nmi by pressing the Four range arcs are displayed. In the upper RTA, WXI
appropriate range button. right corner 100/25, 200/50 is annunciated
for each range respectively.
Set range to 300 nmi by pressing the 300 Three range arcs are displayed. In the up- RTA, WXI
range button. per right corner 300/100 is annunciated.
Note
Under each range annunciator in the upper right corner of the display a number that represents the distance between range
arcs. For example, if a range of 25 nmi is selected, five range arcs are displayed and 25/5 is annunciated. The bottom arc is at 5
nmi, the second is at 10 nmi, the third is at 15 nmi, the fourth is at 20 nmi, and the outer arc is at 25 nmi from the apex.
4.0 Self-Test
On WXI, set range to 25 and press TEST. On display, antenna scans, test pattern RTA, WXI
120°, six color bands outward beyond black
red/magenta, and yellow (red/magenta alter-
nates colors each scan sweep). Refer to Fig-
ure 3-4 in the operation section.

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
Note
If the radome is installed, antenna operation cannot be observed. Unless it can be removed easily, you may skip this test in
favor of the outside-of-hanger tests, where the display is used to determine tilt operation.
5.0 TILT Control Test
On WXI, set range to 25 and press TEST. RTA, WXI
Adjust TILT cw from center. Antenna tilts up and a positive tilt angle is RTA, WXI
displayed with an arrow pointed up (eg,
3.75↑), +15° max.
Adjust TILT ccw from center. Antenna tilts down and a negative tilt angle RTA, WXI
is displayed with an arrow pointed down
(eg, 6.5↓), -15° max.
Press STBY. Antenna stops at boresight. RTA, WXI
6.0 SLV Function Test Note
This test number applies only to installations with dual WXI-711A controls.
Note
Up to this test number, all annunciations on the right side should have been in agreement with those on
the left side.
Right Side Test
Set left side WXI to slave mode and right SLV is annunciated where the color bars WXI
side WXI to non-slave mode (press SLV were on left side WXI (below mode annun-
switches on both WXIs). ciation). The letters of SLV are the same
colors as the color bars were. SLV is not
annunciated on the right side WXI.
the right side WXI.
Set both WXIs to slave mode (press SLV Both displays show that system is in stand- WXI, RTA
switch on right side WXI). by and antenna parks at center scan. SLV
is annunciated on right side WXI where the
color bars were.
Press TEST on left side WXI. Both displays show that system remains in WXI
standby (no TEST pattern displayed).
Set left side WXI to non-slave mode and right System is not in standby, SLV is annunci- WXI
side WXI to slave mode (press SLV switch on ated on the right side WXI, and SLV is not
left side WXI). annunciated on the left side WXI.
7.0 STAB Control Test Note
In this test number, a stabilization source input is required. There are three possible methods to supply this input:
2. Use the flight-line test fixture shown in Figures 5-3 and 5-4 in the maintenance section, and patch a simulated
roll/pitch signal into the RTA-85X.
3. On an AHS-85( ) equipped installation, actuate the STIM mode to supply one or more of the simulated pitch/roll
input signals
Note
There should be no need to make an accurate measurement of this function. The objective is to ascertain
that the system responds to a roll and pitch input.

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
7.1 Inside Hanger STAB Control Test With Radome Removed
On WXI, set TILT to 0 (center), press TEST, Antenna scans and USTB is not displayed. RTA, WXI
and press STAB switch in (stabilization on).
Using one of the methods described in test Antenna pitches up by amount of input. RTA, WXI
On WXI, press STAB switch out (stabiliza- Antenna scans horizontally and USTB is RTA, WXI
tion off). displayed.
Set pitch input to zero (null). There is no change in antenna scan motion. RTA, WXI
Press STAB switch in (stabilization on). USTB is not displayed. RTA, WXI
Apply 4° to 8° of roll right input (right wing Antenna tilts up when scan is to right of RTA, WXI
On WXI, press STAB switch out (stabiliza- Antenna returns to horizontal scan with no RTA, WXI
tion off). tilt motion and USTB is displayed.
Set roll input to zero (null). There is no change in antenna scan motion. RTA, WXI
Press STAB switch in (stabilization on). USTB is not displayed. RTA, WXI
Note
This completes the in-hanger procedures for installations with a single WXI-711A.
7.2 Outside Hanger STAB Control Test With Radome Installed
Note
In the next test number, the aircraft must be outside the hanger. You should situate the aircraft so
that the radar has a clear view, extending ideally for several miles, and a reasonable horizontal angle of
60° to 120°.
Warning
In the next test number, the transmitter is turned on. Be certain that no personnel or combustible
materials are within the ±60° hazardous area and a few feet from the front of the aircraft. Be guided by
FAA Advisory Circular 20-68B (refer to the Collins Installation Practices Manual, CPN 523-0775254).
On WXI, set range to 10 or 25, press WX, and WX and appropriate range are displayed. RTA, WXI, stabilization
press STAB switch in. Be sure GCS is not USTB is not displayed, and GCS is not system
selected. displayed.
Adjust TILT so that ground return is shown RTA, WXI, stabilization
at or near max distance. system
Using one of the methods described in test Ground return disappears or moves away RTA, WXI, stabilization
7.0, apply 4° to 8° of pitch-down input. from apex (antenna tilts up). system
Press STAB switch out (stabilization off). Ground return moves back to earlier RTA, WXI, stabilization
position and USTB is displayed. system
Press STAB switch in (stabilization on). Ground return position does not change and RTA, WXI, stabilization
USTB is not displayed. system
Apply 4° to 8° of pitch-up input. Ground return moves closer to apex of RTA, WXI, stabilization
display. system
Set pitch input to zero (null). Ground return moves back to earlier RTA, WXI, stabilization
position. system
Apply 4° to 8° of roll-right input (right wing Ground return moves away or disappears on RTA, WXI, stabilization
down). right side of display and moves closer on system
left.
Press STAB switch out (stabilization off). Ground return moves back to earlier posi- RTA, WXI, stabilization
tion and USTB is displayed. system
Set roll input to zero (null), and press STAB Ground return remains and USTB is not RTA, WXI, stabilization
switch in (stabilization on). displayed. system

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
On WXI, press MAP. Antenna sweeps and MAP is annunciated. RTA, WXI
Ground targets appear. RTA, WXI
Select different range. Ground targets become less pronounced RTA, WXI
Note
In the next test number, an equal and opposite deviation can indicate that the antenna is not aimed correctly along the
longitudinal (roll) axis of the aircraft (view B in Figure Error! Bookmark not defined.). To correct this condition, shim either
the left or right side of the antenna, using the same shim thickness for both the upper and lower mounting tabs, to shift the aim
of the antenna toward the right or left side respectively. If the error is not equal, it can indicate pitch misalignment of the
antenna (view D of Figure Error! Bookmark not defined.). Too much tilt at both scan angles can indicate that the antenna is
rotated; that is, the antenna scan plane is not parallel to the wings of the aircraft. This requires rotation of the antenna to
compensate.
On WXI, set range to 10 and press WX. Antenna sweeps. WXI, RTA
In addition to possible targets, display(s) WXI, RTA
show range marks and WX is annunciated.
Note
If a distant target such as a rain cloud or terrain feature is evident, adjust TILT control on WXI-711A for the best (largest)
On WXI, set range to 25, 50, 100, etc. Target(s) shift position on display according WXI, RTA
to range selected.
Note
Select any range from 5 to 50. Press WX+T. WX+T is annunciated. WXI, RTA
Note
Select any range from 100 to 300. WX is annunciated and normal weather WXI, RTA
information is displayed.
Set GAIN selector to -1. CAL display is replaced with -1. Size of WXI, RTA
target(s) and intensity level decreases.
Set GAIN selector to -2 and then to -3. Target size and intensity level decreases at WXI, RTA
each step. -2 or -3 is displayed.
Set GAIN selector to +1, +2, and then to +3. Target size and intensity level increases at WXI, RTA
each step. +1, +2, or +3 is displayed.

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
Note
Each GAIN adjustment in the negative direction (-1, -2, -3) effectively decreases the gain by about 6 dB (approximately one color
level). Each adjustment in the positive direction (+1, +2, +3) has the effect of increasing the receiver gain by that same amount.
CAL is the only gain selection in which a given rainfall rate (Z-level) is displayed at the proper display color for all ranges.
12.0 Set GAIN selector to both CAL positions Verify CAL is annunciated in both positions. WXI, RTA
(Cont) (center and full cw positions).
On WXI, press WX and select any range from Weather and ground target display appears WXI, RTA
5 to 50. and WX is annunciated.
Press the TURB button. All weather and ground target display WXI, RTA
disappears and TURB is annunciated.
Mode changes to WX+T after approximately WXI, RTA
15 seconds, and weather and ground target
display reappears.
Note
Select any range from 100 to 300. WX is annunciated. WXI, RTA
Press TURB button. WX remains annunciated. WXI, RTA
On WXI, press WX or WX+T. WX or WX+T are annunciated. WXI, RTA
Press GCS switch. GCS is annunciated at the left edge of the WXI, RTA
bottom range arc.
Number of ground targets is noticeably WXI, RTA
reduced.
After approximately 15 seconds, GCS is not WXI, RTA
annunciated and ground targets reappear.
Press GCS switch, and within 15 seconds, GCS annunciation disappears with mode or WXI, RTA
select a different mode or range. range change.
Note
This completes the tests for installations with a single WXI-711A control. For dual systems (both WXIs -224 status), repeat tests
8.0 through 14.0 using the right side control. Set the left side WXI to slave mode and the right side WXI to non-slave mode
(press SLV switch on both WXIs). During the course of the procedures, note that the left side display agrees with that of the
right side.

2.5 IN-FLIGHT STABILIZATION version that can be used to gain familiarity with the
ALIGNMENT PROCEDURES process. For those experienced in the process,
paragraph 2.5.4 is an abbreviated version that
2.5.1 Introduction requires less reading during the actual procedure.
The in-flight stabilization alignment procedures do 2.5.2 Alignment Controls

not apply to the WXI-711A. The in-flight stabiliza-
tion alignment procedures typically do not need to be All the controls used for this procedure are on the
performed on the TWR-850 system if the following WXP-850A/B control panel. These are described in
two conditions are otherwise satisfied: the following paragraphs:
1. The RTA-85X is installed such that the installa- a. Stabilization Alignment Mode Activate Button
tion is well within the requirements of para-
This is a recessed black pushbutton located at
graph 0, Mechanical Alignment, and,
the bottom center of the WXP-850A/B control.
2. The installation uses a digital horizontal refer-
Use this button to activate or deactivate the
ence system like the AHS-85/85E Attitude
stabilization alignment mode. Refer to Figure
Heading System.
3-1 in the operation section if necessary. Use a
small probe, similar to a ballpoint pen, to press
In all cases it is not intended that installers should
in on the button. Do not use a lead pencil. Lead
make a special flight with the single mission of
residue can cause damage to the unit. When the
performing these radar system alignment proce-
stabilization alignment mode is activated, TRIM
dures. Rather, if the procedures are needed, install-
is annunciated on the EFIS display. When one
ers should integrate them into other aircraft check-
of the adjustment parameters is selected by
out flight operations.
means of the MODE switch, the selected param-
In those segments of the alignment procedure where eter is annunciated in place of TRIM. After one
straight and level flight is required, it is best to use or more of the parameters have been satisfacto-
heading or manual flight mode. The deviation in rily adjusted and stored in temporary memory by
beam centering that is normal in VOR and RNAV means of the HLD switch (see paragraph d),
modes can detract from the desired precision. pressing in on the recessed button enters the
parameters into permanent nonvolatile memory.
These stabilization alignment procedures are to be
performed in flight. The procedures calibrate the b. MODE Switch
TWR-850 system to the specific aircraft, and espe-
cially to the vertical reference system, by compensat- The MODE switch is used to select the parame-
ing for the remaining mounting errors. The proce- ter to be adjusted, and the TILT control is used
dures utilize an alignment mode, built into the to adjust that parameter. The switch positions
RTA-85X, to introduce certain offsets into the and the parameters thus selected are summa-
antenna roll and pitch attitude control functions. rized in Table 2-16.
These are stored in nonvolatile memory, and there-
c. TILT Control Knob
fore, if done correctly, need be performed only once
for a given equipment complement. If any part of The TILT control knob is used to adjust the
the installation affecting the stabilization system is alignment parameter selected by means of the
changed or replaced, the process must be repeated MODE switch. The amount of adjustment
for that equipment. introduced becomes the electrical offset that is
used by the radar stabilization function.
In some installations, the stabilization alignment
feature may not be enabled. This procedure cannot d. HLD (Hold) Switch
be performed unless a strap is connected between
the WXP-850A/B mating connector pins P2-28 and The HLD switch is used to store the adjusted
P2-12. value of the parameter into temporary radar
memory during the alignment process. There
The in-flight stabilization alignment procedures are
are three adjustment parameters: roll offset,
provided in paragraphs 2.5.3 (Table 2-17) and in
pitch offset, and stabilization gain. Each of
2.5.4 (Table 2-18). The first is a more detailed

these is adjusted separately and must be entered 2.5.4 Abbreviated In-Flight Alignment
into temporary memory before the next parame- Procedures
ter is selected.
2.5.3 Detailed In-Flight Alignment The abbreviated in-flight alignment procedures are
Procedures provided in Table 2-18.
The detailed alignment procedures are provided in

Table 2-17.
Table 2-16. MODE Switch Functions for In-Flight Alignment Parameters.
MODE SWITCH POSITION STABILIZATION ALIGNMENT MODE
WX+T Selects roll offset for adjustment.
WX Selects pitch offset for adjustment.
MAP Select stabilization gain for adjustment.
STBY Discards any adjusted parameters, restores all alignment parameters stored in permanent memory,
cancels alignment mode, and resumes normal operation.
TGT or TURB Activates normal MAP mode to allow viewing of any radar target(s) using the currently adjusted
alignment parameters not yet entered into memory.
OFF, then any mode Regarding stabilization alignment, selecting OFF has the same effect as selecting STBY. Pulling the
primary power circuit breaker also has the same effect.
Table 2-17. Detailed In-Flight Stabilization Alignment Procedures.

STEP PROCEDURE DESIRED RESULT/DISPLAY
NO.
1 Before takeoff, be sure that stabilization alignment mode is enabled by a strap
between WXP-850A/B mating connector pins P2-28 and P2-12.
2 Before takeoff, position WXP-850A/B MODE switch to STBY and RANGE
switch to 50.
3 Complete all ground procedures for TWR-850 system installation and prepare
aircraft for flight.
Note
You may want to delay the following step until immediately before starting the alignment procedures (step 10.0). This allows
the full compass rose format to be used during takeoff and climbout.
4 For EFIS installations with an MFD, push PWR and RDR buttons.
For EFIS installations without an MFD, place ND in a sector format that

allows radar display.
5 After takeoff, select MAP MODE.
6 Climb to normal cruise altitude and trim aircraft.
7 Wait about 5 minutes, with no roll or pitch changes, for attitude reference
system to stabilize. Use heading or manual flight mode.
8 If not already set, select MAP MODE.
9 Adjust TILT and RANGE. Depending on cruise altitude, select range that Adjust so that near edge of ground
gives best half-range ground clutter ring with least downward tilt. clutter ring is aligned with EFIS half-
range arc.

Table 2-17. Detailed In-Flight Stabilization Alignment Procedures.
STEP
PROCEDURE DESIRED RESULT/DISPLAY
NO.
10 If not already done in step 4.0:
For EFIS installations with an MFD, push PWR and RDR buttons.
For EFIS installations without an MFD, place ND in a sector format that
allows radar display.
Note
In the following test numer, the stabilization alignment mode is activated by using a probe to depress the recessed
switch. Do not use a lead pencil. Lead residue can cause damage to the mechanical switches and can cause short
circuits.
11 Activate alignment mode by depressing recessed black button at bottom
center of WXP-850A/B control panel.
Note
During the course of this procedure, STBY can be used at any time to erase any adjusted parameters and return to the
value stored in permanent memory. For new installations, the stored values may be zero for all parameters.
12 Select WX+T MODE. This selects roll offset for adjustment.
13 Adjust TILT. Adjust for best left/right symmetry of
ground return display.
14 Press HLD momentarily. This stores adjusted value in tempo-
rary memory.
15 Select WX MODE. This selects pitch offset for adjustment.
16 Adjust TILT. Adjust so that near edge of display is
at a constant distance display arc.
rary memory.
18 Select MAP MODE. This selects stabilization gain for ad-
justment.
19 Place aircraft into, and maintain, a bank angle of 10° to 15°, either left or
right.
Note
Prolonged flight at a constant bank angle can cause precession in some gyro systems. Therefore, this attitude should
not be maintained for more than a few minutes. Additionally, after resuming straight and level flight, it is wise to wait
a few minutes for the gyro system to be corrected.
20 Adjust TILT. Adjust for best left/right symmetry of
rary memory.
22 Return aircraft to and trim for straight and level flight.
23 At this point you may select MODE TGT or TURB (MODE switch is spring View display for left/right symmetry.
loaded in TURB position) and any desired RANGE to view any radar target
display before storing adjusted parameters in permanent memory.
24 If for any reason you want to readjust a parameter, select MODE switch
position corresponding to desired parameter and readjust TILT as neces-
sary. Press HLD to store adjusted value in temporary memory.
25 If for any reason you want to restart procedure, select STBY to discard any
adjusted values and return to step 8.0.
26 If you are satisfied that the adjustments are the best that can be obtained,
press recessed button to store adjusted values in permanent memory and
exit stabilization alignment mode.

ADDENDUM 5
TO

INSTALLATION MANUAL
PART NUMBER 523-0774651-00311A, 3RD EDITION, DATED 30 APRIL 1995

of the Installation Section (523-0774653-004118)
Table 2-19 contains an In-Flight Stabilization Alignment Procedure for AMS-5000 Equipped Beechjet 400A.
Table 2-19. In-Flight Stabilization Alignment Procedure for AMS-5000 Equipped Beechjet 400A
STEP
NO
1 Fly to cruise altitude (15k to 30k feet). Fly in HDG or ROLL mode for wings level
flight over known level terrain.
2 Select RANGE 50 and MAP mode.
3 Enter the STAB TRIM mode by pressing the STABILIZATION TRIM line key on CDU
Radar page 2.
Enter WXSETUP in the scratchpad and press the ENTER PASSWORD line key. The STAB TRIM page should now be
displayed on the CDU.
Note
Leaving the STAB TRIM page for any
reason, such as going to a TUN page, will
end the STAB TRIM without saving any
settings and the process must be started
over.
4 Adjust TILT for ground returns at about 25 miles.
5 Press the ROLL OFFSET line key to display the ROLL OFFSET page.
Adjust the TILT knob for an equal amount of ground returns on the left and right
sides of the display.
Press TEMPORARY CAPTURE line key when satisfied.
6 Press the PITCH OFFSET line key to display the PITCH OFFSET page. Set for best arc shape, not egg-shaped or
flat. The picture should stay the same with
Adjust the TILT knob for returns in the center and returns on the left/right to be equal the aircraft nose up or down.
distance.
Press TEMPORARY CAPTURE line key when satisfied.
7 Use ½ BANK to set up and maintain a 10° to 15° bank angle.
8 Press the ROLL GAIN line key to display the ROLL GAIN page.
Adjust the TILT knob for equal amount of ground returns on the left and right sides
of the display.
Press the TEMPORARY CAPTURE line key when satisfied.
9 Repeat any adjustments as necessary.
Press the CAPTURE line key to permanently store the new settings or press the
CANCEL line key to exit the STAB TRIM mode without saving.
10 Observe the radar display in normal flight for proper stabilization. Repeat the above
adjustments as necessary.
Addendum 5
23 May 1999 Sheet 1 of 1
523-0774651-05311A (Facing Page 2-35)
Table 2-18. Abbreviated In-Flight Stabilization Alignment Procedures.
STEP
NO
1 After arriving at cruise altitude, trim aircraft for straight and level flight.
Use heading or manual flight for straight and level flight.
2 Select RANGE 50 and MAP MODE.
3 Adjust TILT. Adjust for ground return at
about 25 nmi.
4 Press recessed button. This activates alignment mode.
5 Select WX+T, adjust TILT, and press HLD to save. Adjust for left/right symmetry
of display.
6 Select WX, adjust TILT, and press HLD to save. Adjust for uniform distance to
display edge.
7 Set up and maintain a constant aircraft bank altitude of about 10° to 15°.
8 Select MAP, adjust TILT, and press HLD to save. Adjust for left/right symmetry
of display.
9 Trim aircraft for straight and level flight.
10 Repeat as necessary:
a. Return to step 5.0; 6.0; or 7.0 and 8.0. Readjust selected parameter.
or
b. Select STBY and go back to step 2.0. This discards all adjusted val-
ues and restores permanently
stored values. Start test again.
11 Press recessed button. This stores adjusted values in
permanent memory and exits
alignment mode.

Use of Crimp and Insertion Tools

Figure 2-2

NOTE: REFER TO TABLE 2-5 FOR THE COLLINS PART NUMBERS OF THE PARTS SHOWN IN THIS FIGURE.
RTA-85X and WXP-850( ) Mating Connector Assembly

Figure 2-3


Interconnect Wiring Diagram
Figure 2-4 (Sheet 1 of 4)


Figure 2-4 (Sheet 2)





RTA-85X with WXI-711A,








RTA-85X Receiver/Transmitter/Antenna, Connector J1 Pin Assignments

Figure 2-6

ADDENDUM 4
TO

INSTALLATION MANUAL
PART NUMBER 523-0774651-00311A, 3RD EDITION, DATED 30 APRIL 1995

In Figure 2-6, the description for pin 31 of the RTA-85X mating connector does not completely show the functions
provided on this pin for attitude input.
The description for pin 31 should read as follows:
31 ARINC 429 12.5 kBd / 100 kBd DIGITAL OR

50 mV/DEGREE / 200 mV/DEGREE
ANALOG ATTITUDE INPUT
The line over the description indicates that the pin is connected to pin 12, PROGRAM COMMON.
Addendum 4
20 May 1999 Sheet 1 of 1
523-0774651-04311A (Facing Page 2-46)
WXP-850( ) Weather Radar Panel, Connector J1 Pin Assignments


WXP-850( ) Weather Radar Panel, Connector J2 Pin Assignments


WXI-711A Weather Radar Indicator, Connector J1 Pin Assignments

Figure 2-8

RTA-85X Receiver/Transmitter/Antenna,
Outline and Mounting Diagram

ROCKWELL COLLINS
INSTALLATION MANUAL


This temporary revision supersedes Temporary Revision No. 09.
Subject: The illustration below includes the latest updates and replaces the illustration shown in Figure 2-9 (Sheet 1 of 4).
002

523-0774651-0A311A Nov 14/02
ADDENDUM 6
TO
INSTALLATION MANUAL

This addendum adds information for the RTA-852L, Collins part numbers 622-9080-005 and –006.
Figure 2-9 (Sheet 2) has the following chart located in note 3 changed.
EQUIPMENT APPROX DIMENSIONS
WEIGHT DIM A DIM B DIM C D E DIM F DIM G DIM H DIM J DIK K
TYPE NO COLLINS PN LBS MAX MAX MAX RADIUS RADIUS MAX MAX MAX MAX MAX
RTA-852L 622-9080-001,2 19.7 7.568 4.756 5.964 6.80 6.46 2.925 0.600 1.200 1.700 CLEARANCE FOR
0.250-28 SCH
RTA-852L 622-9080-003 18.2 7.568 4.756 5.464 6.80 6.46 2.925 0.600 1.200 1.700 SCREWS
RTA-852L 622-9080-004 18.7 7.793 4.981 5.689 6.80 6.46 Not applicable
RTA-852L 622-9080-005 20.0 7.568 4.756 5.964 6.80 6.46 3.430 0.750 1.500 1.805 0.250-28 THREADED
HOLES
RTA-852L 622-9080-006 20.5 7.793 4.981 5.689 6.80 6.46 Not applicable
Note 7 is changed to read:
7 THE BASE AND PEDESTAL ARE

SHIPPED AS A SINGLE UNIT.
REMOVE FOUR TEMPORARY
MOUNTING SCREWS AND
INSTALL PEDESTAL WITH SABRE
MOUNTING KIT CPN 827-3209-002.
The unit pedestal mounting dimensions,

shown on the right hand side of Figure 2-9,
are changed to have fixed dimensions
replaced by references to the chart above.
Dimensions F, G, H, J & K do not apply to the
-004 & -006 statuses.
Addendum 6
16 Dec 1999 Sheet 2 of 3
523-0774651-06311A (Facing Page 2-51)
RTA-85X Receiver/Transmitter/Antenna,
Outline and Mounting Diagram

RTA-852L CPN 622-9080-004,

Outline and Mounting Dimensions

ADDENDUM 6
TO
INSTALLATION MANUAL

This page provides information to cover the new installation kit, 827-3209-002 and to show new mounting holes
for the RTA-852L 622-9080-006 status unit. Hole locations are approximate.
ITEM NUMBER
DESCRIPTION PART NUMBER
827-3209-001 827-3209-002
Screw, 0.250-28 x 0.87 SKTHD 324-1506-000 2 2
Nut, 0.250-28 SLF LKG 333-1303-000 3 3
Flat washer 310-0740-600 4 4
Screw, 0.190-32 x 0.75 PNH 343-0003-000 5 5
Nut, 0.190-32 SLF LKG 333-1302-000 6 6
Flat washer 310-0779-080 7 7
Cable clamp – R7 150-0708-060 8 8
Cable clamp – R5 150-0708-040 9 9
Cable tie 435-0002-010 10 10
Instruction envelope 520-8360-303 11 11
Addendum 6
16 Dec 1999 Sheet 3 of 3
523-0774651-06311A (Facing Page 2-53)
ITEM PART DESCRIPTION

NUMBER NUMBER
11 520-8360-303 Envelope, Instruction
10 435-0002-010 Cable Tie
9 150-0708-060 Clamp, Cable-R5
8 150-0708-060 Clamp, Cable-R7
7 310-0779-080 Washer, Flat
6 333-1302-000 Nut, 0.190-32 SLF LKG
5 343-0003-000 Screw, 0.190-32 x 0.15 PNH
4 310-0740-600 Washer, Flat
3 333-1303-000 Nut, 0.250-28 x 0.87 SKTHD
2 324-1506-000 Screw, 0.250-28 x 0.87

SKTHD
1 827-3208-001 Plate, Mounting
RTA-852L CPN 622-9080-004,


RTA-85X Antenna to Aircraft Axis Alignment Diagram

Figure 2-10

RTA-85X Mounting Hole Pattern Diagram

Figure 2-11
RTA-85X Mounting Hole Alignment Bar

Figure 2-12

Use of Alignment Bar Diagram

Figure 2-13

WXI-711A Weather Radar Indicator,






WXP-850A Weather Radar Panel,

Figure 2-15

WXP-850B Weather Radar Panel,

Figure 2-16

Wire Marking Standard

Figure 2-17

TWR-850 System Input/Output Circuits








523-0774654-003118
TWR-850
Turbulence
Operation
Table of Contents
Paragraph Page
3.1 Weather Radar System Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

3.1.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.1.2 MODE Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.1
3.1.2.1 OFF (WXP-850A/B) and PWR (WXI-711A) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3.1.2.2 STBY (Standby) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3.1.2.3 Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3.1.2.4 TGT (TarGet Alert) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
3.1.2.5 MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
3.1.2.6 WX (Weather Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
3.1.2.7 WX+T (Weather Plus Turbulence) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
3.1.2.8 TURB (TURBulence Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3.1.3 GAIN Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3.1.4 TILT Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
3.1.5 Range Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
3.1.6 GCS (Ground Clutter Suppression) Pushbutton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
3.1.7 SLV (Slave) Pushbutton (Not present on some systems) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
3.1.8 STB (Stabilization) Pushbutton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
3.1.9 HLD (HoLD) Pushbutton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
3.1.10 AUTO (AUTOtilt) Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
3.1.11 SEC (SECtor) Pushbutton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
3.1.12 Fault Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
3.1.13 Other Operation Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
3.1.13.1 Precipitation and Turbulence Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
3.1.13.2 Signal Strength at the Target and Propagation Attenuation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
3.1.13.3 Range Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14
3.1.13.4 Antenna Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
3.1.13.5 Aircraft Radomes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16

Page Issue
*Title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 May 95
*3-1 thru 3-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 May 95
*3-20 Blank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 May 95
RETAIN THIS RECORD IN THE FRONT OF THE MANUAL. ON RECEIPT OF

Record of Revisions REVISIONS, INSERT REVISED PAGES IN THE MANUAL, AND ENTER DATE
INSERTED AND INITIALS.


section III
operation
3.1 WEATHER RADAR SYSTEM The WXI-711A Weather Radar Indicator provides
OPERATION most of the same functions as the WXP, while also
providing a display for aircraft installations without
This section provides information for a basic under- EFIS.
standing of the TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar
System. Information is also provided for the opera- The TWR-850 system provides the following display
tion of the RTA-85X using the WXI-711A for control and performance features:
and display.
a. A 4-color weather and turbulence display: green,
Figure 3-1 shows the TWR-850 Turbulence Weather yellow, red, and magenta, plus the black screen
Radar System operating controls. All operating itself.
controls for the TWR-850 Turbulence Weather b. PAC (Path Attenuation Correction), with a PAC
Radar System are located on the WXP-850A or Alert arc appearing in yellow at the perimeter of
WXP-850B Weather Radar Panel. The installation the display.
can feature either one or two WXP-850A/B panels. c. GCS (Ground Clutter Suppression).
This optional dual control capability allows the pilot d. SLV (Slave) switching for use when two indica-
and copilot to individually select the TWR-850 tors (such as both ND’s or MFD and an ND) and
system operating mode, range, tilt, etc, for display two WXP-850A/B controls are installed.
on their respective ND’s (Navigation Displays). e. AUTO (AUTOtilt).
f. Sector scan.
The WXI-711A is not a part of the TWR-850 system, g. In-flight stabilization/alignment mode (installa-
but in installations that do not use EFIS, the RTA- tion option).
85X may be used with one or two WXIs providing
the controls and display functions. As with the The WXI-711A provides these same features with
WXP, the optional dual WXI control capability the exception of AUTO(tilt), sector scan, and in-
allows the pilot and copilot to individually select the flight stabilization. The following paragraphs de-
operating mode, range, tilt, etc, for display. The WXI scribe the WXP-850A/B and WXI-711A operating
provide most of the same controls as the WXP. Refer controls.
to Figure 3-4 for the location of the controls. On the Note
WXI, only the PWR and STAB buttons are push
on/off switches. All other buttons (mode, range, SLV, With the TWR-850 system, the colors of
and GCS) are momentary switches. The GAIN, weather radar mode annunciators, arc for-
TILT, MKR, and INT controls are continuous pots. mat, and map format depend on the type of
EFIS display being used. Refer to the appro-
3.1.1 Introduction priate EFIS manual for annunciator, arc
format, and map format colors.
The WXP-850A/B Weather Radar Panel provides the
data processing, mode control, range selection, and 3.1.2 MODE Control
other system operating controls for the TWR-850
Turbulence Weather Radar System. Weather radar The WXP MODE control is a rotary switch used to
information from the WXP-850A/B is displayed on select the various operating modes of the TWR-850
the MFD (MultiFunction Display; refer to Figure system. The mode is selected on the WXI by press-
3-2) or the ND’s (Navigation Displays) which are ing the appropriate momentary switch. The modes
part of the Collins EFIS (Electronic Flight Instru- and their operation are as follows (Refer to Figure 3-
ment System). 1):

operation 523-0774654
WXP-850A/B Control Functions

Figure 3-1
3.1.2.1 OFF (WXP-850A/B) and PWR (WXI-711A) 3.1.2.3 TEST
OFF mode on the WXP-850A/B removes power from TEST mode initiates the radar and display color
the RTA-85X Receiver/Transmitter/Antenna. OFF self-test function and causes the self-test display to
will be displayed on the MFD. OFF does not remove appear. Any range can be selected for the self-test
power from the WXP-850A/B control. PWR on the function. TEST is annunciated on the MFD or on
WXI-711A removes power from the WXI and from the WXI-711A. The transmitter is disabled in the
the RTA-85X. TEST mode, but antenna scan and tilt functions are
enabled. This allows ground personnel to visually
3.1.2.2 STBY (Standby) inspect the antenna for proper scan and tilt opera-
tion without the concern of radiation hazard.
In STBY mode, power is applied to the RTA-85X
Receiver/Transmitter/Antenna with a short (approxi- The radar self-test display is graphically described
mately 3-second) initialization period. During the in Figure 3-2 for the MFD and in Figure 3-4 for
initialization process, the RTA drives its antenna to WXI. The display consist of six colored arcs evenly
the boresight position (0 degree azimuth and 0 spaced across the full sector of the display. Each arc
degree tilt). The antenna will remain in this position verifies the system’s ability to display the precipita-
as long as STBY is selected. The Weather display, tion intensity level or other display that is normally
radar transmitter, and after initialization, antenna represented by that color. On the WXI display, three
scan drive circuits, are inhibited whenever STBY is color bars under the mode annunciator also verify
selected. STBY is annunciated on the MFD, ND or that the display colors are operational.
WXI. The functionability of the STBY mode is also
effected by strapping options. See paragraph 2.3.4.2 Refer to Figures 3-2 and 3-4. The display of the self-
for more information. test function is as follows: at the apex, occupying a
range approximately equal to two of the color bands,

INSTALLATION MANUAL


Subject: Revise text in paragraph 3.1.2.4.a. Change is in bold text.
a. When red or magenta weather targets are detected within the entire range. (Rainfall rates
greater than 0.5 in/hr or 12.7 mm/hr.)

523-0774651-07311A Jan 31/01
are two arcs of black which represent no detectable precipitation and turbulence are both detected
moisture. Progressing outward, the colored arcs within the target alert windows, the flashing annun-
proceed as green, yellow, red, magenta, a ring that ciation alternates between "TGT" and TRB", but at
alternates between red and magenta, and finally, an a faster rate of flashing.
outer band of yellow. The green band represents the
first level of precipitation. The first band of yellow This flashing annunciation indicates to the pilot
represents the second level of precipitation intensity, that areas of severe precipitation and/or turbulence
while the outer band represents PAC Alert. Red is have been detected. When this occurs, the pilot
used for the third level of intensity, and magenta is should select one of the WXP-850A/B weather and/or
used for the most intense precipitation level and for turbulence detection modes (WX, WX+T, or TURB)
turbulence. and adjust the tilt as required. RDR should be
selected on the MFD, or the ND’s should be placed
3.1.2.4 TGT (TarGeT Alert) in a format that allows weather to be displayed.
Momentarily holding the MODE switch in the TURB
TGT is not available with the WXI-711A. The TGT position will display only turbulence which has been
mode on the WXP-850A/B permits detectable weath- detected, and other returns are removed from the
er targets (precipitation or precipitation-related display.
turbulence) to be detected and annunciated without
the targets themselves appearing on the weather The ability of target alert to automatically control
radar display. This mode is normally used when the position of the antenna beam is possible because
other data (eg, checklists, remote data, etc) is being of the radar’s capability to determine the aircraft’s
displayed on the MFD. AGL (Above Ground Level) altitude. To determine
the aircraft’s AGL, the radar beam automatically
When TGT mode is selected, the radar transmitter dips into the "ground" at the end of every third
is energized, the antenna begins to scan, and the antenna scan. The resulting return is used to calcu-
TWR-850 automatically selects the range and tilt late aircraft altitude AGL. This dipping of the
required (the pilot has no control of range and tilt in antenna beam does not affect the weather radar
TGT mode). A box with the letters "TGT" inscribed display, and therefore is not noticed by the pilot.
appears non-flashing to the right of the lubber line Over large bodies of water, the radar’s ability to
at the left end of the half-range arc on the MFD. calculate the aircraft’s altitude AGL is reduced or
eliminated due to the low reflectivity of such
TGT mode automatically evaluates two target surfaces. Under these condition, the target alert
"windows" (refer to Figure 3-3) to provide search circuits choose a tilt setting of zero degrees. This tilt
coverage from 7- to 200-nmi range (50 nmi maxi- setting is maintained until the radar beam begins to
mum range for turbulence detection) and +/- 15 see "land" again.
degrees of dead ahead, regardless of the range Note
selected on the WXP. The target alert mode notifies
the pilot of the following two weather phenomena: The TGT mode should only be used after the
integrity of the stabilization source has been
a. When red or magenta weather targets are verified and the antenna alignment check has
detected within the entire range. (Rainfall rates been successfully performed. Failure to do so
greater than 0.2 in/hr or 5.1 mm/hr.) may result in false target alarms and/or missing
b. When areas of precipitation-related turbulence targets. Refer to the In-Flight Stabilization
are detected within the 50 nmi window. (Wind Alignment Procedures in Table 2-17 and 2-18 in
velocity shifts in excess of 16.40 ft/sec or 5 the installation section of this manual.
m/sec.)
3.1.2.5 MAP
A flashing box with the letters "TGT" inscribed
appears to the right of the digital heading readout Selecting MAP mode places the system in the
at the top of the MFD if either of the preceding terrain-mapping mode. MAP mode automatically
target conditions are detected within the target disables the PAC Alert and GCS features so that
alert window. A flashing box with the letters "TRB" cities, rivers, lakes, or other prominent geographic
inscribed appear when an area of turbulence is features may be displayed. MAP mode is most
detected within the target alert window. If areas of effective when one of the shorter ranges is selected

and the antenna is tilted down. MAP format, range and try to compensate for the attenuated signal,
annunciators, and ground targets will be displayed. resulting in the yellow PAC Alert arc appearing
"MAP" is annunciated at the left end of the half- at the perimeter of the display. In MAP mode,
range arc on the MFD or in the upper left corner of the PAC Alert feature is automatically disabled.
the WXI display.
3.1.2.7 WX+T (Weather Plus Turbulence)
3.1.2.6 WX (Weather only)
WX+T mode is the same as WX mode except that,
Selecting WX mode allows the system to operate in along with weather detection, precipitation-related
the weather detection mode. Detectable weather is turbulence is detected and displayed in the 5-, 10-,
colored coded; the black screen represents no detect- 25-, and 50-nmi range positions. (Turbulence cannot
able moisture, while detectable weather above the be detected at ranges greater than 50 nmi.) Detect-
minimum display threshold appears as one of four able weather is color coded; black represents no
colors: green, yellow, red or magenta (in the order of detectable moisture, while detectable weather
least reflective to most reflective). Refer to Table 3-1 appears as one of four colors: green, yellow, red, or
for a reflectivity chart that shows the relationship magenta (least reflective through turbulence).
between reflectivity levels, precipitation rates and Reflectivity levels (represented by Z1, Z2, etc) are
display colors. "WX" is annunciated at the left end used to relate precipitation rate to return signal
of the half-range arc on the MFD or in the upper left strength. Table 3-1 shows the relationship between
on the WXI. reflectivity levels, precipitation rates, and display
colors.
With WX mode selected, the PAC (Path Attenuation
Correction) feature is automatically enabled. The In WX+T mode and with the range selected to one of
purpose of PAC is to compensate for the radar beam the turbulence-related positions (5, 10, 25, or 50),
absorption as it penetrates a given precipitation cell. the weather radar indicator will display detected
This overcomes the tendency in non-compensated turbulence along with the weather detection. Detect-
radar to underestimate the true image of a precipi- ed turbulence will be displayed in magenta and will
tation cell simply because the energy is absorbed as consist of precipitation areas where horizontal wind
it penetrates the cell. When radar targets are of velocity shifts in excess of 16.40 feet per second (5
sufficient magnitude (intensity and depth) to metres per second) are detected. For reference, the
exhaust the full range of attenuation correction, a US National Weather Service defines light turbu-
condition known as PAC Alert exists. PAC Alert lence as 0 to 19 feet per second (0 to 5.79 metres per
highlights those sectors of uncertainty which are second) and moderate turbulence as 19 to 35 feet per
masked by intervening beam absorption. The bear- second (5.70 to 10.67 metres per second). "WX+T" is
ing towards these areas is shown by a yellow arc annunciated at the left end of the range arc on the
(bar) at the perimeter of the radar display (refer to MFD or in the upper left corner of the WXI unless
Figure 3-5). The yellow PAC Alert arc will appear the 100-, 200-, 300-nmi range is selected. If the
when the system can no longer detect a Z4 (red WX+T mode is selected along with a range of 100-,
level) target at a range where Z3 (yellow level) 200-, or 300-nmi, "WX" is annunciated instead of
targets would normally be detected without inter- "WX+T", and the system remains in weather-only
vening weather. The pilot can then recognize that, mode.
from his present position, any precipitation in the Note
sector between the display weather and the yellow
PAC Alert arc may be underestimated and should be Doppler turbulence detection techniques rely on
avoided. the presence of at least light precipitation. The
Note TWR-850 system and the RTA-85X with WXI-
711A system are not capable of detecting clear
The PAC feature is intended for weather detec- air turbulence.
tion modes only. Using a weather detection
mode and downward tilt to produce a ground
map will probably produce a display which
makes correct interpretation more difficult. The
PAC circuit may interpret the return signals
from ground targets as intense storm targets


Typical Self-Test Display Pattern
Figure 3-2
Target Alert Windows

Figure 3-3


Typical Self-Test Display Pattern
Figure 3-4
3.1.2.8 TURB (TURBulence Only) If the strap is not used, weather display is removed
at the normal antenna sweep rate in TURB mode.
Selecting TURB mode removes all weather radar
targets from the display except for areas of detect- 3.1.3 GAIN Control
able precipitation-related turbulence that appears in
magenta. On the WXP, this position of the MODE The GAIN Control is used for manual gain control
switch is spring loaded (eg, the operator must hold of the radar receiver. On the WXP, this control is a
MODE switch in the TURB position). Releasing the 7-position switch. On the WXI, it is a continuous pot
MODE switch on the WXP returns it to the WX+T with a detent in the cw position. When placed in the
position and restores the full weather radar display. CAL position, gain is preset to a value that allows
On the WXI, TURB mode is selected by pressing a the radar receiver to calibrate its operation to the
momentary switch, and after releasing the switch reflectivity chart shown in Table 3-1. There are two
turbulence detection remains for approximately 15 CAL positions on the WXI: at the detent position of
seconds before automatically returning to the WX+T the control (far cw position) and between the -1 and
mode. +1 settings. The detent position is the preferred
setting.
TURB mode is useful for closely analyzing areas of
turbulence that have been detected while in the To aid the pilot in making correct weather judge-
WX+T mode. By removing the green, yellow, red, ments, the GAIN Control may be adjusted to higher
and magenta precipitation targets from the display, or lower gain settings. The higher settings (+1, +2,
the areas of turbulence can be observed alone. +3) may be chosen to identify the lightest level of
Turbulence detection is possible only in the 5-, 10-, precipitation, while the lower settings (-1, -2, -3)
25-, and 50-nmi range positions. Range selections of may be chosen to allow a more in-depth study of
100, 200, and 300 keep the system in WX (weather the most intense weather targets.
only) mode if TURB is selected. With the TURB
selection, "TRB" is annunciated at the left end of the Each of the minus settings (-1, -2, -3) reduces receiv-
half-range arc on the MFD, or "TURB" is annunciat- er sensitivity below that of the CAL setting by
ed in the upper left corner of the WXI. A special approximately 6 dB, or one color level, per setting.
strap may be installed for the TWR-850 to enable This results in a total reduction of approximately
instant removal of weather display in TURB mode. three color levels when in the -3 position. Each of

the plus settings (+1, +2, +3) increases the system indicating negative or position tilt (eg, 10.7 ↑, 5.3 ↓,
sensitivity through a combination of lengthening the etc).
transmitted pulse width and increasing receiver
gain. The effective gain increase can be as much as 3.1.5 Range Control
one color level when the target is close (within
approximately 65 nmi). The effective gain is less The range control is used to select the maximum
than one color level at longer ranges (beyond ap- display range. On the WXP-850A/B, the RANGE
proximately 65 nmi). control is a rotary switch, and on the WXI-711A,
range is selected by the appropriate momentary
The GAIN control can be used in the MAP, WX, switch. Turbulence (TURB or WX+T modes) can only
WX+T, and TURB modes. The display color of a be detected on the 5-, 10-, 25-, and 50-nmi ranges.
target depends on the GAIN setting currently being (This is shown on the WXP-850A/B RANGE control
used. With the GAIN control in the CAL position, all markings.) With the EFIS system, all of the
detectable targets are shown in green, yellow, red selectable ranges provide one half-range arc in the
and magenta in WX and WX+T modes, and in cyan, center of the MFD and ND (if weather radar is
green, yellow, and magenta in MAP mode (least selected on the ND’s control panel along with a
effective to most reflective). selector format), with half-scale range annunciation
at the right end of the range arc. Full range annun-
The selected GAIN is annunciated in the upper left ciation may appear at the right of the dashed full-
on the MFD or in the lower left corner of the WXI. range arc on the MFD. On the WXI-711A, each
In the CAL position, G+0 may be annunciated on range is divided into several range arcs. The range
the MFD. The PAC feature is enabled only when the and the distance each range arc represents is
GAIN control is set to the CAL position. annunciated in the upper right corner of the display.
The ranges 5, 10, 25, and 50 nmi contain 5 range
Caution arcs; ranges 100 and 200 contain 4 arcs; and 300
range contains 3 range arcs. For example, if a range
Although proper use of the GAIN control can of 50 nmi is selected, 50/10 is annunciated on the
provide added knowledge of the targets being display. This represents the range selected (50) and
displayed, the pilot should always return the the distance between range arcs. (From the apex,
GAIN control to the CAL position when finished arcs are at 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 nmi).
analyzing the display. Failure to do so may
result in missing may result in missing signifi- Extending outward from the apex of the display is
cant targets at any range when operating in one a blanked range area. The size of the blanked range
of the minus settings (-1, -2, -3). area equals one eighth of the selected range. The
pilot should remember that the area between the
3.1.4 TILT Control apex and perimeter of the blanked range will not
display any targets. The selectable ranges, range arc
annunciations, and blanked ranges are shown in
The radar antenna is fully stabilized to compensate Table 3-2.
for aircraft pitch, and roll attitude changes. The Caution
TILT control allows adjusting the vertical aim of the
radar antenna from approximately 15 degrees up The pilot is reminded to always keep the display
from horizontal. When stabilization is on, the combi- blanking range in mind during and after aircraft
nation control range is from 30 degrees down to 30 maneuvers in the presence of potential severe
degrees up. (TILT functions when the antenna is weather. If one of the longer ranges is selected
stabilized as well as when it is unstabilized.) during and after aircraft maneuvers, it would be
possible to allow weather targets to slip within
Tilt adjust resolution is 0.25 degrees when the TILT the blanking range and therefore not be dis-
control is between +5 degrees and-5 degrees, and is played. The shortest practical range should be
0.5 degrees outside the +/-5 degree window. The momentarily selected both during and following
hundredth’s digit is rounded off, and the tilt is aircraft maneuvers to ensure radar display of
displayed at the left end of the half-range arc on the close-in weather that may be within the blank-
MFD (eg, +10.7, -5.3, etc). On the WXI, the tilt is ing range.
displayed in the bottom right corner with an arrow

3.1.6 GCS (Ground Clutter Suppression) Note

Pushbutton
If the antenna is tilted down too much and GCS
The ground clutter suppression feature is enabled by is turned on, a phenomenon known as a "GCS
pressing the GCS button so that the function is on. wedge" may occur. This wedge is displayed as
This is a latching push-on/push-off switch on the a black area (an area showing no return) located
WXP (button in to enable) and a momentary switch approximately 10 degrees of dead ahead, and
on the WXI. When selected, "GCS" is annunciated having the same depth as the area of
on the MFD or at the left end of the bottom range groundreturn that was being painted prior to
arc on the WXI. GCS is operable only in the WX and turning GCS on. To eliminate this wedge, simply
WX+T modes. When selected, GCS reduces the turn GCS off, or raise the angle until the wedge
intensity of ground returns so that most of them disappears.
disappear from the display, allowing better defini-
tion of precipitation returns. With the WXI-711A, 3.1.7 SLV (Slave) Pushbutton (Not present on
GCS is enabled for approximately 15 seconds, after some systems)
which normal operation is restored. Any mode or
range change on the WXP/WXI automatically The slave mode is enabled by pressing the SLV
cancels GCS. At system power-up, GCS is not button so that the feature is selected. On the WXP-
selected. GCS should only be used to help differenti- 85X, this button is a latching push-on/push-off and
ate weather returns from ground returns (clutter). on the WXI-711A it is a momentary switch. The SLV
A special strap may be installed for the TWR-850 to mode is used only in those installations that have
enable the instant removal of ground return display. dual WXP or WXI controls. In SLV operable sys-
If the strap is not installed, ground return display is tems, pressing the SLV button on one control selects
removed at the normal antenna sweep rate. the slave mode and causes the display on that side
to display the mode, range, TILT, and GAIN select-
ed by the other control in this installation. (With
EFIS,
PAC Alert, MFD Radar Display

Figure 3-5

INSTALLATION MANUAL


Subject: Revise Table 3-1 with changes shown in bold text.

Table 3-1. Reflectivity Chart.
PRECIPITATION RATE
COLOR
in/hr mm/hr
Less than 0.03 Less than 0.8 Back (No display)

0.03 to 0.15 0.8 to 3.8 Green
0.15 to 0.5 3.8 to 12.7 Yellow
0.5 to 2.0 12.7 to 50.8 Red
Greater than 2.0 Greater than 50.8 Magenta
Greater than 0.02 with turbulence greater Greater than 0.5 with turbulencegreater than Magenta (in WX+T orTURB
than 16.4 ft/s 5.0 m/s mode)

523-0774651-07311A Jan 31/01
Table 3-1. Reflectivity Chart.
PRECIPITATION RATE
COLOR
in/hr mm/hr
Less than 0.03 Less than 0.8 Back (No display)
0.03 to 0.07 0.8 to 1.8 Green
0.07 to 0.20 1.8 to 5.1 Yellow
0.20 to 0.52 5.1 to 13.2 Red
Greater than 0.52 Greater than 13.2 Magenta
Greater than 0.02 with turbulence Greater than 0.5 with turbulence Magenta (in WX+T or
greater than 16.4 ft/s greater than 5.0 m/s TURB mode)
Table 3-2. Selectable Ranges and Annunciation.
SELECTED RANGE, MFD HALF-RANGE *MFD FULL-RANGE ANNUNCIATION BLANKED

nmi (MAXIMUM) ARC ARC ON WXI RANGE, nmi
ANNUNCIATION ANNUNCIATION
5 2.5 5 5/1 0.6
10 5 10 10/2 1.2
25 12.5 25 25/5 3.1
50 25 50 50/10 6.3
100 50 100 100/25 12.5
200 100 200 200/50 25.0
300 150 300 300/100 37.5
* Full scale range may not be annunciated on some MFDs
weather radar must be selected on the ND’s control tion on the displays is updated twice as fast as
panel along with a sector format). System control is when operating in the split (unslaved) mode.
then accomplished by the WXP/WXI without SLV When in split mode, the radar updates one of
selected. Selecting SLV on both controls places the the displays on the left-to-right sweep of the
system in the standby mode, and on the MFD and antenna, and then updates the second display
the ND, the alternating words "STBY-FAULT- on the right-to-left sweep of the antenna. In the
STBY-FAULT" are annunciated. At this point, slaved condition, both displays are updated
deselecting the slave mode on one of the controls simultaneously.
returns the system to slaved operation with the
selected operating mode of this control restored. 3.1.8 STB (Stabilization) Pushbutton
Deselecting the slave mode on both controls returns
the system tonormal, split mode operation. While The stabilization button enables or disables the
operating in slave mode with EFIS, every mode radar antenna pitch and roll stabilization circuits.
annunciation is preceded by and "X" on the slaved The control is a latching push-on/push-off STB
side as a reminder that the cross-side WXP is button on the WXP-850A/B, and STAB button on the
controlling the radar display. There is no change in WXI. Stabilization is normally enabled (button in).
mode annunciation on the WXI; only the SLV The stabilization feature can be disabled when a
annunciator indicates slave condition. The SLV failure in the horizontal and/or vertical reference
annunciation on the WXI is displayed where the system causes the radar system to become unusable.
color bars normally are (beneath the mode annunci- In a dual installation, turning stabilization off on
ation). The letters of SLV are the same colors as the either control turns off stabilization for the system.
color bars (i, the "S" is green, the "L" is yellow, and The stabilization button on the same control that
the "V" is red). disabled stabilization must be enabled again to turn
Note stabilization back on. If the stabilization is disabled
on both controls, they both must be enabled again to
During slave operation, the weather presenta- turn stabilization back on.

When stabilization is not selected, "USTB" autotilt feature and returns the antenna to the
(unstabilized) is annunciated on the MFD or at the setting of the manual TILT control. The normal
right edge of the bottom range arc on the WXI. If procedure for using autotilt is as follows:
stabilization is selected., there is no stabilization-
related annunciation. If an attitude fault is detected a. Select WX or MAP mode and the maximum
by the RTA-85X, a flashing "USTB" is annunciated range desired.
on the ND, or a flashing "ATT" is annunciated on b. Adjust the TILT control so that a light band of
the WXI. ground return is visible at the outer perimeter
of the display.
If stabilization is on and the RTA-85X reaches c. Engage AUTOtilt.
saturation limits due to unusual attitude maneuvers
(greater than +/-45 degree pitch or roll), "SAT" is When autotilt is on and a different range is selected
annunciated in this position of the WXI display or the aircraft changes altitude, the RTA-85X
(right edge of the bottom range arc). automatically tilts the antenna to maintain the
same relationship between beam deflection and
3.1.9 HLD (HoLD) Pushbutton display. Altitude information is internally derived.
Pushing the AUTO switch back in turns off the
HLD is not available with the WXI-711A. Pressing autotilt feature.
the non-latching HLD button on the WXP-850A/B
(located concentric with the GAIN control) inter- Autotilt is annunciated on the MFD with an "A"
rupts updating of the weather display on the MFD preceding the tilt angle (eg, A +10.7, A -5.3, etc).
so that a given display can be studied more closely. The tilt adjust resolution is the same as with the
Updating is resumed when the HLD button is TILT control (refer to paragraph 3.1.4).
pressed again;when a MODE, RANGE, GAIN, GCS,
SLV, or SEC change occurs; or when power to the
system is cycled (turned off and then turned on 3.1.11 SEC (SECtor) Pushbutton
again). The system powers up with HLD mode not
selected. When HLD is deselected, the radar re- SEC is not available with the WXI-711A. The sector
sumes display updating from the current antenna scan switch is a non-latching momentary switch
scan position. located concentric with the RANGE control on the
WXP-850A/B. Sector scan is selected by pressing in
In HLD mode the weather radar annunciator in the on the SEC switch. When SEC is selected, the
upper left corner of the MFD and at the left end of antenna azimuth scan angle is reduced from +/-60
the range mark on the ND alternates between degrees on either side of the aircraft’s nose to +/-30
HOLD and the previously selected mode (eg, HOLD- degrees. With the antenna scan angle reduced by 50
WX-HOLD-WX, etc). The alternating words serve to percent , the weather radar display update rate is
remind the pilot that the system is in the HLD doubled. This feature can be effectively used for a
mode and the weather radar display is not being more careful study of dynamic conditions, like a
updated. more effectively be used for a more careful study of
dynamic conditions, like turbulence, where the
3.1.10 AUTO (AUTOtilt) Switch increased update can be beneficial.
AUTOtilt is not available with the WXI-711A. In a dual WXP-850A/B installation, either panel can
Autotilt is selected by pulling outward on the select or cancel the reduced sector scan function for
AUTO switch (located concentric with the TILT the TWR-850 system. The system powers up with
control) on the WXP-850A/B. Autotilt is designed to SEC mode not selected. SEC mode is displayed by
reduce pilot workload by automatically adjusting the decreasing the range arc from the normal 120
current displayed tilt setting following altitude or degrees to the reduced sector scan arc of 60 degrees
selected range changes. In effect, autotilt reduces on the display. The functionability of the SEC mode
the number of times manual tilt adjustment is is also effected by strapping options. See section
required. When autotilt is enabled, manual tilt 2.3.4.2 for more information.
commands from the TILT control remain operation-
al. Pushing the AUTO switch back in turns off the 3.1.12 Fault Monitor

The fault monitoring function built into the TWR- The systems can also detect and display areas of
850 system has priority over any selected mode. The turbulence in the 5- to 50-nmi range when WX+T or
word FAULT is annunciated and alternates between TURB mode is selected. The doppler turbulence
FAULT and the selected mode annunciation (eg, detection techniques used in the systems relies on
FAULT-WX-FAULT-WX, etc) if a fault is detected the presence of at least light precipitation. It is
anywhere in the system. If the fault is in the form important to note that the systems are not capable
of an interrupted communication link between the of detecting clear air turbulence. Detected turbu-
RTA-85X and the WXP-850A/B, then the word lence is shown in magenta and consists of areas of
FAULT appears non-flashing. Transient fault precipitation where horizontal wind velocity shifts in
conditions can be cleared by selecting STBY mode excess of 16.4 feet per second (5 metres per second
and the returning the mode control to any other or about 11 mph) are detected. (For reference, wind
operational selection. If this method does not clear velocity shifts of 0 to 9 feet per second (0 to 5.79
the fault, then the system should be turned off and metres per second) are defined as light turbulence
some type of repair action performed. by the National Weather Service.) The systems
cannot detect dry air turbulence.
The fault monitoring system of the WXI-711A with
the RTA-85X uses several message slots to annunci- Areas of detected turbulence will also be displayed
ate the fault on the display. Refer to Figure 3-6 for in magenta if WX+T or TURB mode is selected and
the location of these message slots and to Table 3-3 the range control is positioned to the 5-, 10-, 25-, or
for the messages in these slots. 50-nmi range. If WX+T mode is selected and a radar
display level 2 is being painted, selecting TURB
Caution mode removes weather radar targets from the
display except for areas of turbulence which appear
The TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar Sys- in magenta. n the WXP, this position of the MODE
tem and the RTA-85X with WXI-711A system switch is spring loaded (eg, the MODE switch must
have been designed to exhibit a very high degree be held in the TURB position). Releasing the MODE
of functional integrity. Nevertheless, the pilot switch on the WXP returns it to the WX+T position
must recognize that it is not practical to provide and restores it to the WX+T position and restores
monitoring for all failure conditions. However the full weather radar display. On the WXI, TURB
unlikely, it is possible that erroneous operations mode is selected by pressing a momentary switch,
could occur without a fault indication. It is and turbulence detection remains for approximately
therefore the responsibility of the pilot and/or 15 seconds before returning to the WX+T mode.
copilot to detect such an occurrence by continu- TURB mode is useful for closely analyzing areas of
ally assessing the reasonableness of the dis- turbulence that have been detected while in the
played information and by monitoring returns WX+T mode. By removing the green, yellow, red,
from known weather or terrain and cross-check- and magenta precipitation targets from the display,
ing the displayed data against other sources of the areas of turbulence can be more easily identi-
weather information, such as radio broadcasting fied.
stations, other pilots, and visual sights. It is important to note that when the GAIN control
is in the CAL position and magenta is being dis-
3.1.13 Other Operational Considerations played, it cannot be determined from the display
alone if the magenta area is a VIP level 3, 4, 5, or 6
3.1.13.1 Precipitation and Turbulence storm. If the information is necessary, it must be
Detection acquired during preflight or from Flight Watch
when enroute. If WX or WX+T mode is selected and
The TWR-850 system and the RTA-85X with WXI- the display shows areas of magenta, it can be deter-
711A system have been designed to accurately mined if the magenta areas is due to heavy rainfall
detect and display rainfall and precipitation-related or if it is detected turbulence. If TURB mode is
turbulence. While it is not uncommon for a weather selected and magenta targets remain on the display,
radar system to detect and display solid or dry then those targets are areas of detected turbulence.
objects, weather radar should never be used for that
purpose.

WXI-711A Message Slots

Figure 3-5
Table 3-3. WXI-711A Messages..

SLOT MESSAGE COLOR MESSAGES THAT CAN BE DISPLAYED
NUMBER TYPE
0 Line legend Cyan Slot 0 occupies the entire bottom line of the display and is used for diagnostic
purposes only. When slot 0 is used, message slots 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 are
not used.
1 Mode Cyan STBY, WX, MAP, TURB, TEST, WX+T.
2 Alert Yellow FAIL (flashes) displayed if there is a bus, RT, antenna, or control fault (see
fault message slots 7, 8, and 9).
3* Not used.
4 Range Cyan 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, 300.
5 Color bar/ slave See message Either a color bar of green, yellow, red, or "SLV". If "SLV" is displayed, the
column "S" is green, the "L" is yellow, and the "V" is red.
6 Range mark Cyan 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100 (respective with ranges in slot 4).
interval

Table 3-3. WXI-711A Messages..
SLOT MESSAGE COLOR MESSAGES THAT CAN BE DISPLAYED
NUMBER TYPE
7* Fault 1 Yellow or cyan Either blank or one of the following: (highest priority to lowest)
T/R (cyan) - indicates 453 bus failure
T/R (yellow) - indicates transmit/receiver failure
ANT (yellow - indicates antenna failure
CTL (yellow) - indicates control failure
8* Fault 2 Yellow Either blank or one of the following: (see note below)
ANT - indicates transmit/receive and antenna faults
CTL - indicates transmit/receive and control faults
or
CTL - indicates antenna and control faults
9* Fault 3 Yellow Either blank or CTL. CTL indicates transmit/receive, antenna, and control
faults.
10* Fault 4 Not used
11 Gain Cyan -3 (control full CCW), -2, -1, CAL (control center), +1, +2, +3 (control full CW).
12 Target indent Cyan GCS or blank.
13 Not used.
14 Stabilization Cyan Either blank or one of the following: USTB (if stabilization off), ATT (flashes
if stabilization on and an attitude input failure is detected), or SAT
(stabilization on and stabilization reaches saturation limits due to unusual
attitude maneuvers).
15 Tilt Cyan Tilt angle is displayed in 0.25° increments from -5° to +5° and in 0.5°
increments from -15° to -5° and from +5° to 15°. Arrow to right of the tilt
angle indicates either positive (↑) tilt or negative (↓) tilt. (ie, 4.25° of negative
tilt is displayed as 4.25° ↓)
16* Not used.
* Indicates weather data occupies this area of the display when not displaying messages.
Notes on using Fault 1, 2, and 3 messages slots (slots 7, 8, and 9 respectively): If there is only one fault in the system, that fault
indication will appear in the Fault 1 slot. If two faults are present in the system, the higher priority fault will appear in the Fault 1
slot, and the other fault will appear in the Fault 2 slot. (The possible combinations for Fault 1 and 2 slots are: T/R - ANT; T/R -
CTL; ANT - CTL.) If there are three faults in the system, Fault 1, 2, and 3 slots respectively will display: T/R - ANT - CTL. (A cyan
T/R in fault slot 1 will always be accompanied by no other faults shown in faults slots 2 and 3, due to a bus failure not allowing any
other fault condition to be acknowledged.)
If no targets are being displayed after selecting 3.1.13.2 Signal Strength at the Target and
TURB mode, then the targets that were being Propagation Attenuation
painted in the WX+T mode are due to heavy
rainfall. However VIP level 3, 4, 5, or 6 storms can Limitations that must be understood involve factors
be hazardous, and the pilot is cautioned that flight affecting the transmitted radar signal strength at
near these areas can be hazardous and should be the target. A number of easily identifiable factors
avoided. can be considered:
a. Propagation attenuation
b. Beam width
Note c. Transmitter output power
Proper use of the GAIN control allows the d. Radome transmissivity
experienced pilot to estimate rainfall rates by
reducing the gain. Targets still being displayed As the transmitted radar beam radiates through the
in a reduced gain condition would imply that atmosphere, it gradually weakens. This loss of signal
severe turbulence, hail, and/or very heavy rain- strength is called propagation attenuation and is due
fall are likely.

primarily to distance and intervening atmospheric target.
conditions. The second factor, beam width involves
the degree to which the transmitted energy is Attenuation due to distance is a function of basic
concentrated into a beam. The specifications for physics as well as the design of the weather radar
beam width generally relate to the angle which antenna (beam width). The same condition that
encloses the power level between 50 and 100 cause the transmitted energy to be attenuated
percent of the peak power level of the beam. This also affect the reflected (returning) energy. As a
third factor, transmitter output, power, addresses rule of thumb, doubling the distance to the target
the integrity of the transmitter. Obviously, if reduces the strength of the signal by a factor of
insufficient energy is available at the radiating 16. All airborne weather radars have a maximum
antenna, insufficient energy will be available at the range for detecting any returns from a storm that
target and the performance of the radar system will contains just 21.5 mm (approximately 1/2
be degraded. The fourth item, radome inch)/hour rainfall. That distance is known as the
transmissivity (or transmission efficiency), has "avoidance range" and is a performance index that
become an increasingly important issue with the results when certain standard conditions
more modern radar systems. The output power of (specified by ARINC characteristic no 564-1) are
modern radar systems has been significantly applied to the radar system performance
decreased compared to earlier systems. For characteristics. Other factors, such as a poorly
example, a typical weather radar system available designed radome or one that has been subjected to
about mid-century featured a power output of poor maintenance care, will measurably degrade
several hundred kilowatts,. The RTA-85X output is the theoretical avoidance range of the airborne
a nominal 24 watts. This dramatic reduction in weather radar system.
output power demands a compensating increase in
overall performance efficiency, largely in the form The avoidance range of the RTA-852 is 340 nmi
of increased receiver sensitivity and sophisticated (based on no waveguide loss) with its 12-inch flat-
signal processing. plate antenna. This means that if the system were
capable of displaying a storm at a distance of 340
A good analogy of weather radar operation is that of nmi, the radar would detect a minimum (green)
operating a flashlight on a dark night. First, consider return from a storm at 340 nmi that has a VIP level
beam focus; the sharper the focus of the flashlight 3 rainfall rate of 12.5 mm/hour, provided the radar
beam, the greater the distance at which an object is searching through dry air and a good radome.
can be seen and the more detail is observable in the
illuminated object. The reason for this is that the For example, consider a level 3 storm with a rainfall
light energy is concentrated into a narrower cross- rate of 12.5 mm/hour. If the storm was at a distance
sectional area and therefore a greater concentration of 340 nmi and the system was capable of displaying
of energy is available at the target to be reflected it, a level 1 (green) radar display would be shown, a
back to the observer. In radar, technology has yet to full two levels less than the true intensity level. The
achieve good narrow beam concentration in a small RTA-85X uses STC (sensitivity time control) to
antenna reflector. Hence, it is true today that the compensate somewhat for this condition. Obviously,
larger the reflector, the narrower the beam, and the there is a practical limit as to the amount of correc-
narrower the beam the better the radar perfor- tion that can be applied. The limit is an optimized
mance. It is also true that the larger reflector offers function of the mode and maximum range selected.
improved return signal reception. In the case of the
flashlight analogy, however, your eye is able to 3.1.13.3 Range Compensation
distinguish the position of an object even if it is on
the fringe of the flashlight beam. This part of the As previously discussed, attenuation due to distance
analogy does not hold true in radar. Radar is not reduces the strength of radar signals. As the aircraft
able to detect, with precision, that the reflected approaches a storm, this type of attenuation rapidly
energy being detected may have reflected from an decreases, thus increasing signal strength and giving
object on the fringe of the radar beam and hence is the appearance on the displays of rapid intensifica-
being diminished in its prominence because it is tion of the target. At ranges of approximately 65 nmi
positioned outside the area of greatest energy (with a 12- or 14-inch antenna) or 75 nmi (with an
concentration. In a radar display, all detected objects 18-inch antenna), the RTA-85X compensates for this
are assumed to be at the center of the beam. This can problem by its sensitivity time control (STC) circuit.
result in a slight exaggeration in the size of a As the aircraft approaches a storm, the returns on

the display will grow in intensity due to lessened precipitation cell. This overcomes the tendency in
attenuation right up too 65-or 75-nmi STC boundary. non-compensated radar to underestimate the true
From the STC boundary inward, the display pro- image of a precipitation cell simply because the
vides a justified image that allows accurate assess- radar energy is attenuated as it penetrates
ment (assuming attenuation due to precipitation is atmospheric conditions ahead of the object cell.
taken into account). For most radars, targets beyond When these radar targets are of sufficient magni-
the STC boundary will not be properly displayed tude (intensity and depth) to use up the full range
according to the standard relationship between of attenuation correction, a condition known as
return level and rainfall intensity. However, the "PAC Alert" exist. PAC Alert informs the pilot
systems provide range-adjusted thresholds to help when the radar encounters a target having rainfall
compensate for this relationship at ranges beyond 65 rates heavy enough to attenuate the beam to an
or 75 nmi. extent that targets behind it may be hidden. PAC
Alert highlights these areas of uncertainty, which
Pilots are well advised to remember that any return are masked by intervening areas of rainfall, by
from a storm at a significant distance usually placing a yellow PAC Alert arc at the outer
indicates extremely high rates of rainfall and, as perimeter of the radar range being displayed and
shown in the REMARKS column of Table 3-4, located along the perimeter with respect to the
moderate to severe turbulence can be expected. bearing toward these areas. The pilot can then
These areas of rainfall should be avoided. As the recognize that, from his present position, any
aircraft approaches a target, the decrease in range precipitation in the area between the displayed
causes the target display intensity to increase. This target(s) and the yellow PAC Alert arc(s) is
intensification may be the result of decreasing range undetectable and should be avoided.
and not necessarily target intensification.
The second type of attenuation that can reduce the Note

performance of any X-band airborne weather radar In addition to the PAC Alert feature, proper
system is attenuation due to intervening precipita- adjustment of the TILT control allows the pilot
tion. Moisture, and especially rainfall, deflects to "see" radar shadows, thus avoiding the mis-
radar signals. This has the effect of reducing the take of trying to fly through a thin spot that is
energy level available at a more distant target and actually the heart of the storm. This
thus can be seen as signal path attenuation. The adjustment procedure is located in the
amount of attenuation due to precipitation depends operation section of the pilot's handbook.
entirely on the rainfall rate. For example, a system
using an RTA-852, with an avoidance range of 340 The important thing to remember about attenuation
nmi in dry air, may be unable to detect a VIP level due to precipitation is that the radar energy may not
5 or 6 storm even at 125 nmi if there is intervening be able to penetrate a given precipitation cell with
rainfall. enough remaining to give an accurate assessment of
There are instances where wide bands of moderate any additional cell(s) that may be hidden beyond a
rainfall or narrower bands of heavy rainfall can heavy rainfall cell. Of course, it is also possible that a
attenuate the transmitted energy to an extent given single cell can be of sufficient depth and/or
where it can no longer detect rainfall beyond a intensity that the radar is unable to detect its full
certain point. This can result in a display that depth. Even with PAC Alert, the pilot is cautioned
would seem to indicate no rainfall beyond that never to assume that an area behind heavy rainfall
point when in fact it is not known whether there is is clear of precipitation because the radar is showing
rainfall or not simply because there is no "visibility" a level 0 (black) return and/or the yellow PAC Alert
beyond that point. These blind areas are caused by arc is not being displayed.
the inability of the radar energy to penetrate the
intervening precipitation. 3.1.13.4 Antenna Size
As an aid in the detection and avoidance of these The RTA-85X is available with an 18-, 14-, or 12-inch
potentially hazardous blind areas, the systems flat-plate, phased-array antenna. In most cases, the
provide a PAC (Path Attenuation Correction) fea- area available within the radome of the aircraft
ture. The purpose of PAC is to compensate for the determine which antenna can be used. Collins
radar beam attenuation as it penetrates a given General Aviation Division recommends installing the
largest possible antenna that will fit into the space

available. The larger the antenna, the narrower the tems compensates somewhat for this by comparing
beam width, and the better the overall system the data received to that of a theoretical average.
performance. The result of this comparison is used to adjust the
processing of that data and provide a more uniform
Figure 3-7 shows the beam width relationship and consistent display as the average cell transitions
between the 18-, 14-, and 12-inch antennas.(The from being less-than to more-than beam filling.
beam width angle shown on the drawing is not to Obviously, not every cell fits this model exactly.
scale bur the dimensions shown are correct.) Therefore, it is not uncommon for a given cell to
The commonly held concept of radar beam shape is appear to increase and/or decrease in intensity at
that the beam is a very narrow and parallel beam various distances.
(pencil beam). Note that the beam of energy radiat-
ing from the antenna is actually cone-shaped. The 3.1.13.5 Aircraft Radomes
diagram also shows that the larger the diameter of
the antenna, the narrower the beam width. The Although not part of the TWR-850 system or the
narrower beam width improves the ability of the RTA-85X with WXI-711A system, the radome con-
radar system to detect targets at the longer ranges, tributes significantly to overall system
minimizes beam width distortion, and improves performance. A poorly designed, constructed,
detail on the display. repaired, or maintained radome can blind the radar
antenna, resulting in poor transmission and
The radar system performance at lower altitudes is reception of signals. There are many instances
also improved when a larger antenna (narrower where the crew will squawk the radar as inoperable
beam width) is used. Figure 3-7 shows that a radar or weak when the problem is actually the radome.
system with a 12-inch antenna and at 40,000 ft and
0 degree tilt angle would probably show ground The average one-way transmission of a properly
targets at less than 100 nmi. With an 18-inch designed and maintained aircraft radome should
reflector and at the same altitude, the ground not be less than 90 percent for any continuous scan
return would probably not appear until well over of the antenna relative to the radome. The
100 nmi. The narrower beam allows a more direct minimum transmissivity at any point should not be
observation at the lower and mid-sections of a less than 85 percent throughout the window area of
storm cell and reduces the display clutter caused by the basic radome, including any installed rain
ground targets. erosion protection. (The window area is that portion
of the radome which is illuminated by the antenna
The airborne weather radar system measures the as the antenna is tilted and rotated in azimuth to
intensity of the precipitation in a storm cell by the its mechanical limits). Transmissivity, or
amount of signal reflected back from the target. transmission efficiency, is the ratio of the amount
therefore, all other factors being equal, radar sys- of power transmitted through the radome to the
tems with different sized antennas may not agree on amount of power that would be transmitted with
the intensity of a given cell. This is caused by the the radome removed.
different level of energy available at a given cell
location simply because it is spread over a larger The addition of lighting protection devices and trim
area (in the case of the smaller antenna sizes). Note finishes should not degrade the transmission
the beam width at 50 nmi for the 18-, 14, and 12-inch efficiency more than 3 percent. When properly
antennas in Figure 3-7. At 50 nmi, the 18-inch applied, radome paint causes a loss of about 3.5 to 5
antenna produces a beam having a circular diameter percent in transmissivity. Rubber boots, when
of approximately 5.3 nmi. At the same distance, the properly installed, present about a 5-percent loss. If
14-inch antenna has a beam approximately 6.4 nmi a boot is used, it must be adequately sealed to
in diameter, and the 12-inch antenna produces a prevent moisture accumulation between the boot
beam approximately 7.0 nmi in diameter. At this and the radome surface. Plastic boots usually
point, it is appropriate to introduce a phenomenon present a loss of 20 to 50 percent, which makes
that is evidenced when a given radar target them totally unacceptable.
transmissions from being less-than to more-than
beam filling. This is illustrated in Figure 3-8. If a A radome not meeting the above requirements will
given cell which is less than beam filling has a cause a reduction in weather radar detection and
reflectivity of R, that same cell, having grown to be definition. If there is reason to question the
beam filling, displays a reflectivity of R4. The sys-

ROCKWELL COLLINS
INSTALLATION MANUAL


Change to paragraph 3.1.13.4 Antenna Size (cont) is shown below in bold text. First column,
second paragraph, second sentence is changed to:
“(The beam width angle shown on the drawing is not to scale but the dimensions shown are correct.)”
Changes to paragraph 3.1.13.5 Aircraft Radomes are shown below in bold text.
The following paragraph is inserted after the first paragraph in section 3.1.13.5 Aircraft Radomes.
The second paragraph in section 3.1.13.5 Aircraft Radomes is changed to read as follows:
One of the primary, but by no means the only, considerations for the definition of the radome
classifications is transmissivity. The average one-way transmission of a properly designed and maintained aircraft
radome must not be less than 90 percent for any continuous scan of the antenna relative to the radome. The minimum
transmissivity at any point must not be less than 85 percent throughout the window area of the basic radome, including
any installed rain erosion protection…

523-0774651-0A311A Nov 14/02
transmissivity of the radome, it should be checked
by a reputable radome authority, such as Cair
Radomes, Plastics and Synthetics Division of
Norton Company, Akron Ohio.
To further assist the pilot in selecting or evaluation

a radome. refer to FAA Advisory Circular 43-14,
Maintenance of Weather Radomes, in the Collins
Installation Practices Manual (CPN 523-0775254).

Radar Antenna Reflector Size Versus Beam Width

Figure 3-7

Storm Cell Reflectivity,

Beam filling Versus Non-Beam Filling
Figure 3-7

523-0774655-003118
Collins TWR-850
Turbulence
Theory of Operation
Table of Contents
Paragraph Page
4.1 Weather Radar System Theory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
4.1.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

4.1.2 Physical Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
4.2 Purpose of Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4.3 Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
4.4 System Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
4.4.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

4.4.2 Block Diagram Theory of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
4.4.3 Input and Output Circuits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Page Issue
Title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 May 95
List of Effective pages . . . . . . 1 May 95
4-1 thru 4-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 May 95
RETAIN THIS RECORD IN THE FRONT OF THE MANUAL. ON RECEIPT OF

Record of Revisions REVISIONS, INSERT REVISED PAGES IN THE MANUAL, AND ENTER DATE
INSERTED AND INITIALS.


section IV
theory of operation
4.1 WEATHER RADAR SYSTEM THEORY 4.1.2 Physical Description
4.1.1 General Refer to Figure 4-1. The TWR-850 system is a

second generation solid-state weather radar system.
This section provides an introduction to the opera- The system consist of two separate units; the RTA-
tion of the TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar 85X Receiver/Transmitter/Antenna and the WXP-
System. Also included in this section is an introduc- 850A/B Weather Radar Panel. EFIS indicators are
tion to the operation of the RTA-85X using the WXI- used to display the radar presentation.
711A for control and display purposes. The material
begins with a brief physical descriptions. This is For aircraft without EFIS, the EFIS, the RTA-85X
followed by a brief outline of the purpose of weather may be used with the WXI-711A Weather Radar
radar. The background paragraph provides peripher- Indicator for control and display purposes. Refer to
al information on weather radar in general and Figure 4-2 for an overall view of the WXI-711A. The
relates this to TWR-850 system and to the RTA-85X WXI-711A is not a part of the TWR-850 system, but
with WXI-711A system. The theory of operation is provides most of the same functions as the WXP-
contained in paragraph 4.4. Detailed circuit theory 850A/B while also providing a display.
is provided in the individual repair manuals.
RTA-85X Receiver/Transmitter/Antenna and WXP-850A/B Weather Radar Panel,

Overall View
Figure 4-1

theory of operation 523-0774655
WXI-711A Weather Radar Indicator, Overall View

Figure 4-2
The mechanical feature that distinguishes the RTA- 85X unit. The RTA-852, -854, and -858 use this base
85X unit from earlier generation weather radar assembly for mounting purposes. The RTA-852L has
designs is its 1-piece construction, combining the the base assembly separated from the anten-
receiver, transmitter, and antenna into a single unit. na/RF/drive assembly but interconnected by a cable
Refer to Figure 4-3. The forward portion if this unit for specialized mounting purposes (eg, the model 65
is the flat-plate antenna, which is available in either Sabreliner mounts the base assembly aft of the
12, 14, or 18-inch diameter models. The antenna size radome bulkhead, thus allows the antenna/RF/drive
is the primary distinguishing feature between the assembly to fit within a smaller radome). The
RTA-852 (12-inch antenna), RTA-854 (14-inch complete RTA-85X assembly (with the exception of
antenna), and RTA-858 (18-inch antenna) models. the RTA-852L base assembly) must be mounted on
Directly behind the antenna is the RF assembly, a forward bulkhead or radar antenna mounting
consisting of the transmitter and receiver. Mating surface and enclosed by a radome. It is vital to
the antenna and receiver-transmitter eliminates the proper performance of any radar system that the
need for a waveguide. The RTA (receiv- radome be at least 85 percent RF transparent.
er/transmitter/antenna) assembly is mounted on the
drive assembly and therefore swings from left to Refer to Figure 4-4. The WXP-850A (panel mount) or
right as the system scans and points up or down for WXP-850B (Dzus mount) Weather Radar Panel
tilt. The drive assembly contains the monitors and provides the operating control functions for the
mechanical system for the scan and tilt functions TWR-850 system. These units are normally mounted
and is attached to the base assembly. in the instrument panel. The WXP-850A occupies a
space about 1.5 inches high and 6.2 inches wide. The
The base assembly is cylindrical in shape, about 15 WXP-850B occupies a space about 1.88 inches high
inches in diameter and slightly less than 2 inches in by 5.75 inches wide.
depth. The base assembly contains the power
supplies and signal processing portion of the RTA-

RTA-85X Receiver/Transmitter/Antenna, Major Subassemblies

Figure 4-3
WXP-850A and WXP-850B Weather Radar Panels, Front Panel view

Figure 4-4

The WXP-850A/B control functions include MODE, 4.2 PURPOSE OF EQUIPMENT

GAIN, TILT, and RANGE selection knobs, plus
pushbuttons for ground clutter suppression (GCS), The TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar System
slave mode (SLV), and stabilization (STB) selection. and the RTA-85X with WXI-711A system provide
The WXP also supplies the final data processing the crew with a display of radar-detectable precipi-
function to format the video data as needed by the tation within 60 degrees on either side of the flight
EFIS system. path. Refer to Figure 4-5. In addition to wet pre-
cipitation detection, the systems feature a turbu-
Refer to Figure 4-2. The WXI-711A provides the lence detection capability which alerts the crew to
same control functions as previously mentioned for the location of turbulent conditions. This feature
the WXP-850A/B, however the WXI does not provide also depends on the liquid state of the precipitant.
the TarGeT mode or the features HoLD, AUTOtilt, It is made possible by the use of an extremely stable
SECtor scan, or in-flight stabilization. The WXI- transmitter which allows detection of very small
711A is normally mounted in the instrument panel shifts in frequency indicating a relative velocity of
on the WMI-701 Mounting Base. The WXI occupies the detected precipitation particles.
a space about 6.8 inches high and 6.25 inches
wide.
Precipitation Presentation on an EFIS Indicator

Figure 4-5

4.3 BACKGROUND a. Manual interface

b. Electronic control
Radar is an acronym derived from Radio Detection c. scan and tilt control
And Ranging. The technique involved is one of d. Transmitter
transmitting a burst (pulse) of energy and detecting e. Receiver
an echo reflected by a target. Because the propaga- f. Data processing
tion of a radio wave is known and fairly constant*, g. Display control
the range to the target is easily determined by mea-
suring the time between transmit and the arrival of The manual interface function consist of the manual
the echo. By using a fairly narrow beam of transmit- controls on the WXP-850A/B or WXI-711A. The elec-
ted beam of energy, the direction (aim) of the radiat- tronic control data is transmitted to the RTA-85X on
ing antenna is the direction to the target. an ARINC 429 data bus. With power applied and
WX (weather) mode selected, the appropriate data is
X-band weather radar depends on the reflective supplied to the RTA-85X, which causes the process
character of water to provide visibility of rain or wet control to enable the scan and tilt electronic and
hail. Dry precipitation generally does not provide a mechanism. This causes the RTA RF and antenna
reliable reflectivity to X-band radio wave energy. assembly to scan (ie, to physically move in a sweep-
Fog, at virtually all densities, as well as clouds, also ing motion from side to side, 60 degrees to either
do not provide a reliable echo, probably because of side of straight ahead, as shown on Figure 4-5). The
the small size of the water particles. It is for this tilt function moves the RTA assembly vertically (ie,
reason that visual sighting of cloud formations may up or down). The tilt function is both automatic (for
not appear on a weather radar display. stabilization) and manual (for pilot selectable anten-
na aiming). A total of 60 degrees of tilt deflection is
The TWR-850 and the RTA-85X with WXI-711A are available, 30 ° above and 30 ° below horizontal.
color weather radar systems (ie, various colors are About ±15° of that amount if for manual tilt and
used to differentiate between a number of target ±15° is for automatic stabilization for a combined
intensities in addition to providing other informa- maximum of ±30°. At the same time, the process
tion, such as the possible presence of turbulence). control also causes the transmit, receive, and data
There are two standards used in measuring relative processing functions to operate. The transmit func-
rainfall rate or weather intensities. The first is used tion involves the generation of the RF pulse that are
most often by industry and refers to rainfall rate in radiated by the antenna. The energy reflected back
terms of a Z-level, which is a measure of the rainfall to the antenna by the precipitant is detected in the
reflectivity. With this standard, rainfall rate is occa- receive function. The resulting video information is
sionally expressed in terms of dBZ. The second processed into a signal which identifies the direc-
standard is used by the US National Weather Ser- tion, intensity, and range of the precipitation that
vice. This standard relates rainfall rate and a mea- produced the reflected energy. This signal is sup-
sure of possible associated turbulence to a defined plied to the WXP-850A/B control panel or to the
VIP (video integrated processor) category. WXI-711A on an ARINC 453 digital data bus. The
WXP formats the signal suitable for use in the EFIS
4.4 SYSTEM OPERATION processing and display function. The WXI processes
the signal and presents a display. Thus, by synchro-
4.4.1 Introduction nizing the antenna sweep with the display, the pilot
is presented with a radar picture of the precipitation
Refer to Figure 4-6. The operation of the TWR-850 pattern along the flight path.
system and the RTA-85X with WXI-711A system can
be described in terns of the following major func-
tions:
* The propagation velocity of a radio wave is generally recognized to be 12.359 microseconds/radar mile. That
is, it takes a signal 12.359 microseconds to travel 2 nautical miles, 1 mile out and one mile back. therefore,
distance (radar miles) = time (microseconds) divided by 12.359 microseconds/radar miles.

4.4.2 Block Diagram Theory of Operation WXP-850A/B.
Refer to Figure 4-6 for a block diagram of the TWR- The WXP accepts this raw video data into an
850 system using one WXP-850A/B control panel. ARINC 453 receiver. This data contains all infor-
The desired range, mode, and other operation con- mation necessary to properly display the location
siderations are selected on the WXP. In response to and character of the radar target as well as range,
this manual selection, the CPU generates control mode. tilt, and gain annunciation parameters. Serial
data to be transmitted to the RTA-85X. This control data from the receiver is applied to FIFO storage
data is formatted in the ARINC 429 transmitter cir- and to temporary weather data storage. The FIFO
cuits of the WXP and is transmitted to the RTA on receives the control information, and, when full,
an ARINC 429 data bus. This data is received by the places parallel data onto the data bus. Weather
program control function in the RTA. The program information is transferred to temporary weather
control function in the RTA also receives informa- data storage, where it is converted by EPROM
tion from a stabilization source, such as a gyro refer- operating instructions and placed into screen mem-
ence system. The program control function is mi- ory for the video output drivers.
croprocessor controlled and, depending on the data
it receives from the WXP and the stabilization The raster timing and video output driver function
source, sends control information to the antenna generates the main control signals needed by the
scan and tilt control circuits, transmitter, receiver, EFIS display device. These include the retrace and
and data processing circuits in the RTA. clock signals. Integrated into this signal pattern is
the radar display information, including the range
The scan and tilt control circuits have a mechanical mark(s) and text information such as mode, range,
link to the antenna which sweeps the antenna hori- tilt angle, and possible pilot alert data.
zontally for scan and vertically for tilt. Horizontal
motion is a constant sweeping movement. The verti- For installations using dual WXP-850A/B control
cal movement depends on manual tilt and/or auto- panels, manual control information is supplied from
matic stabilization. The objective of an automatic both controls to the RTA-85X on separate ARINC
stabilization is to keep the antenna scan line hori- 429 busses. The RTA recognizes both controls inde-
zontal; it automatically adjusts the antenna tilt pendently. The RTA sends raw video data on a sin-
(vertical aim) as needed in response to aircraft pitch gle ARINC 453 bus that is wired in parallel to both
and roll attitude changes. The manual tilt is sup- WXP-850A/B control panels. In split mode (neither
plied by the operator and depends on the need to WXP in slave mode), the WXP on the left side ac-
observe a particular precipitation pattern at an cepts the data first. (The left/right strapping of the
antenna aim other than straight ahead. WXP-850A/B determines which WXP will receive the
data first). This data is then processed and the dis-
The transmitter function generates the energy play on the left side is updated on the left-to-right
bursts that are radiated by the antenna. These sweep of the antenna. Then, on the right-to-left
energy bursts are in the form of X-band pulses of sweep of the antenna, the WXP on the right side
various widths, depending on the mode and range accepts the data, and the display on the right side is
selected, and at a repetition rate of 208 to 324 updated.
pulses per second in weather detection modes and
1456 pulses per second in turbulence detection In slave mode, the RTA recognizes which WXP is in
mode. The energy level is a nominal 24 watts. slave mode, and accepts the control information
from the controlling (non-slaved) WXP. The video
When the radiated energy encounters a sufficient data is then sent from the RTA to both WXPs for
amount of wet precipitation (liquid water), a portion processing, and displays on both sides are updated
of the energy is reflected back to the receiver by simultaneously.
means of a special RF switching device known as a
duplexer. The receiver extracts the received signal The theory for the RTA-85X with WXI-711A system
from the other RF noise which is usually present is almost identical to the TWR-850 system. The
and supplies it to the data processing function in the primary difference is that EFIS is not used. The
form of raw (unprocessed) video data. The data raster timing and video output driver function is
processing function uses this video data to generate used for display internal to the WXI.
the ARINC 453 digital data which is supplied to the

4.4.3 Input and Output Circuits
Figure 2-18 in the installation section shows the

input/output circuits, system interface, stabilization
sources, and the affected EFIS for the RTA-85X and
WXP-850A/B. Sheet 1 of the figure begins with the
primary power inputs for the RTA-85X and WXP-
850A/B. Notice that the MODE switch in the WXP
applies the ground necessary to enable the power
supply in the RTA but does not affect its own power
supply.
For information on the input and output circuits for

the WXI-711A, refer to the WXI-711A Indicator
Component Maintenance Manual, CPN 523-
0773309.


Block Diagram
Figure 4-6

523-t0774656-003118
TWR-850
Turbulence
Maintenance
table of contents
Paragraph Page
5.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
5.2 Flight-Line Performance Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
5.2.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

5.2.1.1 Cross-Side Switching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
5.3 Flight-Line Isolation Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12
5.4 Routine and Periodic Maintenance Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
5.5 In-Flight Stabilization Alignment Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
5.5.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15

5.5.2 Alignment Controls . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
5.5.3 Detailed Alignment Procedures . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-16
5.5.4 Abbreviated Alignment Procedures ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-16

Page Issue
*Title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 May 95
*List of Effective Pages . . . . . 1 May 95
*5-1 thru 5-26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 May 95



section V
maintenance
5.1 GENERAL 5.2 FLIGHT-LINE PERFORMANCE TEST
This section contains information necessary to 5.2.1 Introduction

evaluate the performance capability of the TWR-850
Turbulence Weather Radar System and the RTA-
Warning
85X with WXI-711A system. Throughout the remain-
der of the section, the terms RTA or RTA-85X
The area within the scan arc and within
should be understood as applying to either the
0.65 metre (2 feet) of an operating TWR-850
RTA-852, RTA-854, or RTA-858. The terms WXP or
Turbulence Weather Radar System or an
WXP-850( ) should be understood as applying to
RTA-85X with WXI-711A system can be a
either the WXP-850A or the WXP-850B. The term
hazardous area. Do not operate the systems
WXI should be understood as applying to the WXI-
in any mode other than standby (STBY) or
711A. Where reference is intended to a specific
test (TEST) when the antenna might scan
model, the specific model reference will be used.
over personnel within that range. FAA
Advisory Circular 20-68B provides addition-
In performing flight-line maintenance on the sys-
al details on the radiation hazards associat-
tems it must be recognized that you are dealing with
ed with ground operation of airborne weath-
a number of aircraft systems in addition to the
er radar (refer to the Collins Installation
radar system. Those additional systems can be
Practices Manual, CPN 523-0775254).
summarized into the following.
Only authorized and qualified personnel should be
a. EFIS (Not used with the WXI-711A): This sys-
allowed to operate the TWR-850 Turbulence Weath-
tem consists of the DPU, MPU, EFD, MFD, and
er Radar System or the RTA-85X with WXI-711A
either a DSP or a DCP and CHP.
system. The flight-line performance test procedures
b. Attitude source: This system consists of the
are provided in Tables 5-1 and 5-2. In those cases
gyro, 332D-11( ), or other type attitude source
where a test failure can be caused by more than one
(eg, AHS-85( )).
LRU, the MOST PROBABLE CAUSE OF FAILURE
c. Radome: This is one of the most critical portions
column lists the line replaceable units in the order
of the airframe affecting radar performance.
of the greatest likelihood of failure.
Refer to paragraph 3.1.13.5 in the operation
section of this manual for more discussion on
5.2.1.1 Cross-Side Switching
radome requirements.
d. Aircraft wiring: After the radar system has been
In aircraft with EFIS, typically the MFD and the
successfully installed and has operated satisfac-
left side ND are controlled by the pilot’s (left) side
torily, a failure in the aircraft wiring generally
controls (DCP-85 or DSP-85). In aircraft without
appears as broken wires, loose connections,
EFIS, typically the left side WXI-711A is controlled
frayed wires causing a short circuit, etc. Inter-
by the pilot’s side. If cross-side control switching is
mittent system operation is most often caused
provided, it is assumed that the operator is familiar
by this type of failure.
with that system’s operation. No attempt is made in
this procedure to guide the operator in that regard.
The flight-line performance test is for performance
Further, it is also assumed that in dual WXP or
evaluation in the aircraft and will aid in isolating a
WXI installations the left side radar displays are
problem to a system component. Refer to Table 5-1
controlled by the pilot’s WXP/WXI, while the right
for the performance test for the TWR-850 system,
side radar display is controlled by the right side
and to Table 5-2 for the performance test for the
WXP/ WXI.
RTA-85X with WXI-711A system.

maintenance 523-0774656
Table 5-1. TWR-850 Flight-Line Performance Test Procedures.
TEST MOST PROBABLE

MANUAL PROCEDURE TEST RESULT
NO. CAUSE OF FAILURE
Warning
The relatively low power output of the TWR-850 Turbulence Weather Radar System makes it reasonably safe to operate
indoors. However it is not recommended, and operators should take necessary and reasonable precautions to ensure that
personnel and equipment especially sensitive to microwave radiation are not exposed. Be guided by FAA Advisory Circular
20-68B (refer to the Collins Installation Practices Manual, CPN 523-0775254).
1.0 Initialization
On WXP-850A/B (both sides if dual):
MODE - OFF
GCS - out (off)
STB - out (off)
GAIN - CAL
TILT - center (0)
AUTO - in (off)
HLD - not selected
SEC - not selected
RANGE - 5
Aircraft power - on
Select RDR on the MFD or place the ND in a
format that allows weather to be displayed.
Note
The colors of weather radar mode annunciators, arc format, and map format depend on the type of EFIS display being
used. Refer to the appropriate EFIS manual for annunciator, arc format, and map format colors.
Note
In dual installations, perform this procedure first from the left side WXP-850A/B. At the start of the procedure, press
the SLV switch in (on) on the right side WXP and out (off) on the left side WXP. During the course of the procedure, the
right side display should be identical to that of the left side except that the mode annunciation is preceded by an "X" (eg,
XWX, XMAP, etc). During the course of the procedure, it is wise to glance over to the right side display occasionally to
ensure that the displays agree. When this procedure for the left side is completed, it must be repeated for the right side.
Note
A portion of the tests in this table can be performed inside the hanger. However, test operators must be careful to operate
the system only in OFF, STBY, or TEST mode for tests inside the hangar.
2.0 Standby Test
On WXP-850A/B, left side, set MODE to One range arc with (2.5) at right end of EFIS, WXP, RTA
STBY. range arc, airplane symbol at bottom cen-
ter, compass sector, STBY annunciator ap-
pear, and there is no display updating.
On WXP-850A/B, set RANGE as follows: On MFD or ND, range annunciator indi- RTA, WXP
cates the following:
RANGE FULL HALF
5 5 2.5
10 10 5
25 25 12.5
50 50 25
100 100 50
200 200 100
300 300 150

TEST MOST PROBABLE

4.0 Self-Test
On WXP-850A/B, set RANGE to 25 and On MFD or ND, antenna scans, test pat- RTA, WXP
MODE to TEST. tern 120°, six color bands outward from
apex (beyond black): green, yellow, red,
magenta, red/magenta, and yellow (red/
magenta alternates colors with each scan
sweep). Refer to Figure 3-2 in the opera-
tion section of this manual.
5.0 Hold Test
Set RANGE to 10 or 50 and then back to 25. Test pattern erases and then begins to WXP, RTA
redevelop.
Before pattern is complete, press HLD (only Test pattern development stops and an-
once). nunciator alternates between HOLD and
TEST.
Press HLD again. Test pattern resumes development and
annunciator is constant TEST.
6.0 TILT Control Test Note
If the radome is installed, antenna operation cannot be observed. Unless it can be removed
easily, you may skip this test number in favor of the outside-of-hanger tests, where the display
is used to determine tilt operation.
On WXP-850A/B, set MODE to TEST and RTA, WXP
RANGE to 25.
Adjust TILT cw from center. Antenna tilts up and a positive tilt angle
is displayed on MFD or ND, +15° max.
Adjust TILT ccw from center. Antenna tilts down and a negative tilt
angle is displayed on MFD or ND, -15°
max.
Set MODE to STBY. Antenna stops at boresight.
7.0 SLV Function Test
Note
The following Test number applies only to installations with dual WXP-850A/B controls.
Note
Up to this point, all annunciations on the right side should have been in agreement with those
on the left side except that the mode annunciation on the right side was preceded by an "X".
Right Side Test
Press SLV switch to the out position (off) on Mode annunciation on the left side display
right side WXP-850A/B, and press SLV switch is preceded by and "X".
in (on) on left side WXP.
right side WXP-850A/B.
Press SLV switch in (on) on right side WXP- All displays show that system is in stand- EFIS, WXP, RTA
850A/B (both sides in slave condition). by and antenna parks at center scan.
Set MODE on left side WXP-850A/B to TEST. All displays show that system remains in EFIS, WXP
standby.
Press SLV switch out (off) on the left side Mode annunciation on the right side dis-
WXP-850A/B. play is preceded by and "X".

TEST MOST PROBABLE

8.0 STB Control Test
Note
In this step, a stabilization source input is required. There are three possible methods to
supply this input:
1. Install the gyro on a tilt table and introduce the necessary input by tilting the
gyro.
2. Use the RTA flight-line test fixture shown in Figures 5-3 and 5-4, and patch a
simulated roll/pitch signal into the RTA-85X.
3. On an AHS-85( ) equipped installation, actuate the STIM mode to supply one or
more of the simulated pitch/roll input signals.
Note
There should be no need to make an accurate measurement of this function. The objective is to
ascertain that the system responds to a roll and pitch input.
8.1 Inside Hanger STB Control Test With Radome Removed

On WXP-850A/B, set MODE to TEST and Antenna scans. RTA, WXP
TILT to 0 (center).
Using one of the methods described in test Antenna pitches up by amount of input.
On WXP-850A/B, press STB switch to the out Antenna scans horizontally and USTB is
position (stabilization off). displayed.
Set pitch input to zero (null). There is no change in antenna scan mo-
tion.
Press STB switch in (stabilization on). USTB is not displayed.
Apply 4° to 8° of roll-right input (right wing Antenna tilts up when scan is to right of
On WXP-850A/B, press STB switch out Antenna returns to horizontal scan and
(stabilization off). USTB is displayed.
Set roll input to zero (null). There is no change in antenna scan mo-
tion.
Press STB switch in (stabilization on). USTB is not displayed.
Note
This completes the in-hanger procedures for installations with a single WXP-850A/B.
8.2 Outside Hanger STB Control Test With Radome Installed
Note
In the next step, the aircraft must be outside the hangar. Situate the aircraft so that the radar has a clear
view, extending ideally for several miles, and a reasonable horizontal angle of 60° to 120°.
Warning
In the next step, the transmitter is turned on. Be certain that no personnel or combustible
materials are within the ±60° hazardous area and a few feet from the front of the aircraft. Be
guided by FAA Advisory Circular 20-68B (refer to the Collins Installation Practices Manual,
CPN 523-0775254).
On WXP-850A/B, set MODE to WX, RANGE WX and appropriate range are displayed. RTA, WXP, stabilization
to 10 or 25, and press STB switch in (stabiliz- USTB is not displayed, and GCS is not system
ation on). Be sure GCS is not selected. displayed.
Adjust TILT so that ground return is shown
at or near max distance.

TEST MOST PROBABLE

8.2 Using one of the methods described in test Ground return disappears or moves away RTA, WXP, stabilization
(Cont) 8.0, apply 4° to 8° of pitch-down input. from apex (antenna tilts up). system
Press STB switch out (stabilization off). Ground return moves back to earlier posi-
tion and USTB is displayed.
Press STB switch in (stabilization on). Ground return position does not change
and USTB is not displayed.
Apply 4° to 8° of pitch-up input. Ground return moves closer to apex of
display.
Set pitch input to zero (null). Ground return moves back to earlier posi-
tion.
Apply 4° to 8° of roll-right input (right wing Ground return moves away or disappears
down). on right side of display and moves closer
on left.
On WXP-850A/B, press STB switch out Ground return moves back to earlier posi-
(stabilization off). tion and USTB is displayed.
Set roll input to zero (null) and press STB Ground return remains and USTB is not
switch (stabilization on). displayed.
9.0 Target Alert Function Test
Set MODE to TGT. Antenna sweeps and a boxed TGT RTA, WXP
appears on display.
No weather or ground clutter is displayed.
Note
If a radar target such as a fairly intense rain cloud is visible at a distance of at least 7 miles and within
15° of straight ahead, it may cause the annunciator to flash. If such a radar target is not available in the
area, it may not be possible to make a reasonable test of the target alert function. Similarly, a storm
system within 50 nmi containing precipitation and precipitation-related turbulence can cause the
annunciator to flash alternately from TGT to TRB.
Set Mode to MAP. Antenna sweeps and MAP is displayed. RTA, WXP
TGT from previous step disappears.
Range mark changes color.
Ground targets appear.
Select different range. Ground targets become less pronounced
Press HLD. Mode annunciator alternates between
MAP and HOLD.
Press HLD again. Annunciator resumes a constant MAP dis-
play.
On WXP-850A/B, set RANGE to 10 and Antenna sweeps. WXP, RTA
MODE to WX. In addition to possible targets, display(s)
show one range mark and a WX mode an-
nunciator.

TEST MOST PROBABLE

Note
If a distant target such as a rain cloud or terrain feature is evident, adjust TILT control on WXP-850A/B
for the best (largest) display of that target. Otherwise, adjust tilt for a reasonable ground target display.
11.0 Targets are displayed in green, yellow, WXP, RTA

(Cont) red, and magenta.
On WXP-850A/B, set RANGE to 25, 50, 100, Target(s) shift position on display accord-
etc. ing to range selected.
Note
Press HLD. MODE annunciator alternates between
WX and HLD.
Press HLD again. Annunciator resumes a constant WX dis-
play.
On WXP-850A/B, select any RANGE from 5 to WX+T is annunciated. WXP, RTA
50 and set MODE to WX+T.
Note
If a relatively severe storm happens to be within 50 nmi and is radar observable, it is possible that a portion of it
contains turbulence. In that case the display should show some magenta areas.
Select any RANGE from 100 to 300. WX is annunciated.
13.0 AUTO Tilt Function Test
Note
The AUTO tilt function cannot be tested easily and reliably while the aircraft is on the ground.
AUTO Tilt Annunciator Test
On WXP-850A/B, pull outward on AUTO knob Tilt angle is now shown prefixed with an WXP, RTA
and adjust TILT. "A" (eg, A+10.0, A-2.5, etc).
Push in AUTO knob. Tilt angle is not prefixed with an "A".
14.0 PAC and PAC Alert Functions Test
Note
Set GAIN selector to first click ccw from hori- Size of target(s) decreases. WXP, RTA
zontal.
G-1 is displayed. Any contour area should
decrease in size.
Set GAIN selector to second and then to third At each step, target size and intensity
click ccw from horizontal. level decreases.
G-2 or G-3 is displayed.
Set GAIN selector to first, second, and third At each step, target size and intensity
click cw from horizontal. level increases.
G+1, G+2, or G+3 is displayed.

TEST MOST PROBABLE

Note
Each click of the GAIN adjustment from CAL to -3 effectively decreases the gain by about 6 Db (approxi-
mately one color level). Each click of the GAIN adjustment in the positive (+) direction has the effect of
increasing the receiver gain by that same amount. The CAL position of the GAIN switch is the only gain
selection in which a given rainfall rate (Z-level) will be displayed at the proper display color for all ranges.
15.0 Set GAIN selector to CAL. G+0 or CAL may be annunciated.

(Cont)
On WXP-850A/B, select any RANGE from 5 to All weather and ground target display WXP, RTA
50. Hold MODE switch in the TURB position disappears. (If strapped for Instant GCS/
(spring loaded). TURB on the WXP and RTA, this is in-
stantaneous. Otherwise, weather and
ground display disappears at normal
sweep rate.)
TURB is annunciated.
Note
If any portion of a severe rain cloud was showing magenta areas of turbulence in test 12.0, only those areas will be
displayed in TURB mode.
Release MODE switch. MODE returns to WX+T and weather and
ground target display reappears.
Select any RANGE from 100 to 300. WX is annunciated.
Hold MODE switch in the TURB position. WX remains annunciated.
Release MODE switch (return to WX+T WX remains annunciated.
MODE).
Select any RANGE from 5 to 50. WX+T is annunciated.
On WXP-850A/B, set MODE to WX or WX+T. WX or WX+T is annunciated. WXP, RTA
Press in GCS switch. GCS is annunciated.
Number of ground targets is noticeably re-
duced. (If strapped for Instant GCS/
TURB on the WXP and RTA, this is in-
stantaneous. Otherwise, ground targets
are reduced during a normal sweep.)
Release GCS switch. Ground target display reappears and GCS
is not annunciated.
Press in GCS switch. GCS is annunciated.
On WXP, select any other MODE or RANGE. GCS annunciation disappears with MODE
or RANGE change.
Note
This completes the tests for installations with a single WXP-850A/B control. For dual system, repeat tests
9.0 through 17.0, using the right side control. Press SLV in (on) on the left side WXP, and press SLV
switch out (off) on the right side WXP. During the course of the procedures, note that the left side display
agrees with that of the right side except that the mode annunciation on the left side is preceded by an "X"
(for cross-side). All annunciators are the proper color according to the type of EFIS installed.

Table 5-2. RTA-85X with WXI-711A Flight-Line Performance Test Procedures.
TEST MOST PROBABLE

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
1.0 Initialization
Aircraft power - on
On WXI-711A (both sides if dual): Note the following displays:
Power - press PWR in (on) Range arcs and annunciators appear.
GAIN - full cw (set for CAL) CAL displayed in bottom left corner.
TILT - center (set for 0) 0 (TILT) displayed in bottom right corner.
STAB - press to the out position USTB at right edge of bottom range arc.
Range - 5 5 range arcs with 5/1 in upper right corner.
Mode - press STBY STBY in upper left corner.
(Below STBY should be 3 color bars: green,
yellow, and red from left to right.)
Note
If any other annunciations appear on the WXI, refer to Figure 3-6 and Table 3-3 in the operation section of this
manual for the location of the message slots and for the cause of the annunciation.
Adjust INT (intensity) for legible Screen intensity of all annunciations and
screen. markers increases when INT is rotated cw
and decreases when rotated ccw.
Adjust MKR (marker) for range Intensity of range marks increases when
mark intensity MKR is rotated cw and decreases when
rotated ccw.
Note
In dual installations, perform this procedure first from the left side WXI-711A. At the start of the procedure, press
the SLV switch (-224 only) in (on) on the right side WXI and out (off) on the left side WXI. During the course of the
procedure, the right side display should be identical to that of the left side, and it is wise to glance over to the right
side display occasionally to ensure that the displays agree. When this procedure for the left side is completed, it must
be repeated for the right side.
Note
A portion of the tests in this table can be performed inside the hanger. However, test operators must be careful to
operate the system only in STBY or TEST mode for tests inside the hangar.
2.0 Standby Test
On the left side WXI press STBY. The STBY annunciator appears, any tar- WXI, RTA
gets displayed disappear, and there is no
updating of the display.
On WXI, set range to 5, 10, 25, and 50 nmi Five range arcs are displayed. In the upper RTA, WXI
by pressing the appropriate range button. right corner 5/1, 10/2, 25/5, 50/10 is annun-
ciated for each range respectively. (See note
below.)
Set range to 100, and 200 nmi by pressing Four range arcs are displayed. In the upper
the appropriate range button. right corner 100/25, 200/50 is annunciated
for each range respectively.
Set range to 300 nmi by pressing the 300 Three range arcs are displayed. In the up-
range button. per right corner 300/100 is annunciated.

TEST MOST PROBABLE

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
Note
Under each range annunciator in the upper right corner of the display a number that represents the distance between
range arcs. For example, if a range of 25 nmi is selected, five range arcs are displayed and 25/5 is annunciated. The
bottom arc is 5 nmi from the apex, the second is 10 nmi, the third is 15 nmi, the fourth is 20 nmi, and the outer arc
is 25 nmi from the apex.
4.0 Self-Test
On WXI, set range to 25 and press TEST. On display, antenna scans, test pattern RTA, WXI
120°, six color bands outward beyond black
red/magenta, and yellow (red/magenta
alternates colors each scan sweep). Refer
to Figure 3-4 in the operation section of
this manual.
5.0 TILT Control Test
Note
If the radome is installed, antenna operation cannot be observed. Unless it can be removed easily, you may skip this
test number in favor of the outside-of-hanger tests, where the display is used to determine tilt operation.
On WXI, set range to 25 and press TEST. RTA, WXI
Adjust TILT cw from center. Antenna tilts up and a positive tilt angle is
displayed with an arrow pointed up (eg
3.75↑), +15° max.
Adjust TILT ccw from center. Antenna tilts down and a negative tilt
angle is displayed with an arrow pointed
down (eg 6.5↓), -15° max.
Press STBY. Antenna stops at boresight.
6.0 SLV Function Test
Note
The following test number applies only to installations with dual WXI-711A controls.
Note
Up to this test number, all annunciations on the right side should have been in agreement with those on the left
side.
Right Side Test

Set left side WXI to slave mode, and right SLV is annunciated where the color bars
side WXI to non-slave mode (press SLV were on left side WXI (below mode). "SLV"
switches on both WXI controls). is a green "S", a yellow "L", and a red "V".
the right side WXI.
Set both WXIs to slave mode (press SLV Both displays show that system is in stand- WXI, RTA
switch on right side WXI). by and antenna parks at center scan.
Press TEST on left side WXI. Both displays show that system remains in WXI
standby.
Set left side WXI to non-slave mode and System is not in standby, SLV is annunci-
right side WXI to slave mode (press SLV ated on the right side WXI, and SLV is not
switch on left side WXI). annunciated on the left side WXI.

TEST MOST PROBABLE

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
7.0 STAB Control Test
Note
In this step, a stabilization source input is required. There are three possible methods to supply this input:
2. Use the flight-line test fixture shown in Figure 5-3 in the maintenance section, and patch a simulated roll/pitch
signal into the RTA-85X.
3. On an AHS-85( ) equipped installation, actuate STIM mode to supply one or more simulated pitch/roll input
signals.
Note
There should be no need to make an accurate measurement of this function. The objective is to ascertain that the
system responds to a roll and pitch input.
7.1 Inside Hanger STAB Control Test With Radome Removed
On WXI, set TILT to 0 (center), press TEST, Antenna scans and USTB is not displayed. RTA, WXI
and press STAB switch in (stabilization on).
Using one of the methods described in test Antenna pitches up by amount of input.
Apply more than 45° of pitch-down input. Antenna scans to mechanical limits and
SAT is displayed.
On WXI, press STAB switch out (stabiliza- Antenna scans horizontally and USTB is
tion off). displayed.
Set pitch input to zero (null). There is no change in antenna scan motion.
Press STAB switch in (stabilization on). USTB is not displayed.
Apply 4° to 8° of roll-right input (right wing Antenna tilts up when scan is to right of
Apply more than 45° of roll-right input. Antenna scans to mechanical limits and
SAT is displayed.
On WXI, press STAB switch out (stabiliza- Antenna returns to horizontal scan with no
tion off). tilt motion and USTB is displayed.
Set roll input to zero (null). There is no change in antenna scan motion.
Press STAB switch in (stabilization on). USTB is not displayed.
Note
This completes the in-hanger procedures for installations with a single WXI-711A.
7.2 Outside Hanger STAB Control Test With Radome Installed
Note
In the next step, the aircraft must be outside the hanger. You should situate the aircraft so that the radar has a
clear view, extending ideally for several miles, and a reasonable horizontal angle of 60° to 120°.
Warning
In the next step, the transmitter is turned on. Be certain that no personnel or combustible materials are within the
±60° hazardous area and a few feet from the front of the aircraft. Be guided by FAA Advisory Circular 20-68B (refer
to the Collins Installation Practices Manual, CPN 523-0775254).
On WXI, set range to 10 or 25, press WX, WX and appropriate range are displayed. RTA, WXI, stabilization
and press STAB switch in (stabilization on). USTB is not displayed, and GCS is not system
Be sure GCS is not selected. displayed.
Adjust TILT so that ground return is shown
at or near max distance.

TEST MOST PROBABLE

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
7.2 Using one of the methods described in test Ground return disappears or moves away RTA, WXI, stabilization
(Cont) 7.0, apply 4° to 8° of pitch-down input. from apex (antenna tilts up). system
Press STAB switch out (stabilization off). Ground return moves back to earlier
position and USTB is displayed.
Press STAB switch in (stabilization on). Ground return position does not change
and USTB is not displayed.
Apply 4° to 8° of pitch-up input. Ground return moves closer to apex of RTA, WXI, stabilization
display. system
Set pitch input to zero (null). Ground return moves back to earlier
position.
Apply 4° to 8° of roll-right input (right wing Ground return moves away or disappears
down). on right side of display and moves closer on
left.
On WXI, press STAB switch out (stabiliza- Ground return moves back to earlier posi-
tion off). tion and USTB is displayed.
Set roll input to zero (null), and press STAB Ground return remains and USTB is not
switch in (stabilization on). displayed.
On WXI, press MAP. Antenna sweeps and MAP is annunciated. RTA, WXI
Ground targets appear.
Select different range. Ground targets become less pronounced
On WXI, set range to 10 and press WX. Antenna sweeps. WXI, RTA
In addition to possible targets, display(s)
show range marks and WX is annunciated.
Note
If a distant target such as a rain cloud or terrain feature is evident, adjust TILT control on WXI-711A for the best (largest)
Targets are displayed in green, yellow, red,
and magenta.
On WXI, set range to 25, 50, 100, etc. Target(s) shift position on display according
to range selected.
Note
On WXI, select any range from 5 to 50 and WX+T is annunciated. WXI, RTA
press WX+T.
Note
Select any range from 100 to 300. WX is annunciated.
Select any range from 5 to 50. WX+T is annunciated.

TEST MOST PROBABLE

NO CAUSE OF FAILURE
Set GAIN selector to -1. CAL annunciation is replaced with -1. Size WXI, RTA
of target(s) and intensity level decreases.
Set GAIN selector to -2 and then to -3. Target size and intensity level decreases at
each step. -2 or -3 is displayed.
Set GAIN selector to +1, +2, and then to +3. Target size and intensity level increases at
each step. +1, +2, or +3 is displayed.
Set GAIN selector to both CAL positions Verify CAL is annunciated in both posi-
(center and full cw positions). tions.
On WXI, press WX and select any range Weather and ground target display appears WXI, RTA
from 5 to 50. and WX is annunciated.
Press TURB button. All weather and ground target display
disappears and TURB is annunciated.
Mode changes to WX+T after approximate-
ly 15 seconds, and weather and ground
target display reappears.
Note
Select any range from 100 to 300. WX is annunciated.
Press TURB button. WX remains annunciated.
On WXI, press WX or WX+T. WX or WX+T is annunciated. WXI, RTA
Press GCS switch. GCS is annunciated.
Number of ground targets is noticeably
reduced.
After approximately 15 seconds, GCS is not
annunciated and ground targets reappear.
Press GCS switch, and within 15 seconds, GCS annunciation disappears with mode or
select a different mode or range. range change.
Note
This completes the tests for installations with a single WXI-711A control. For dual systems, repeat tests 8.0 through 14.0
using the right side control. Set the left side WXI to slave mode and the right side WXI to non-slave mode (press SLV switch
on both WXIs). During the course of the procedures, note that the left side display agrees with that of the right side.
5.3 FLIGHT-LINE ISOLATION and are for local fabrication. The fixture in Figures
PROCEDURES 5-1 and 5-2 allows access to the input/output signals
for the WXP-850A/B. Generally, the presence of a
Table 5-3 is a list of equipment needed for the signal at a test point can be seen as an indication
flight-line fault isolation procedures for the WXP- that the source of the signal is operational. The
850A/B and the RTA-85X. Test fixtures for the procedures in Table 5-4 make use of this fixture.
WXP and RTA are shown in Figures 5-1 through 5-4

Table 5-3. Equipment Required for In-Aircraft Fault Isolation.
ITEM DESCRIPTION COMMENTS

WXP-850A/B flight-line test fixture Refer to Figures 5-1 and 5-2. For fault isolation in cockpit
RTA-85X flight-line test fixture Refer to Figures 5-3 and 5-4. For fault isolation under radome and for
input of simulated stabilization signals
Oscilloscope Tektronix 435 or equivalent For signal analysis
Digital voltmeter Any; 35 V dc max and 130 V ac max For voltage measurement
Ammeter Any; 5 A dc max For current measurement
Table 5-4. Fault Isolation Procedures at the WXP-850A/B.
PROBABLE CAUSE OF
STEP PROCEDURE DESIRED TEST RESULT
FAILED TEST
Setup Turn off aircraft power to radar system.
Remove WXP-850A/B from its normal location and connect test fixture (as shown in Figures 5-1 and 5-2)
between WXP-850A/B and aircraft wiring.
Be sure 28 V DC PWR ON/OFF switch on test fixture is set to OFF.
Connect dvm between +V and -V test jacks.
Connect an ammeter between HI-I and LO-I test jacks.
Turn on power to radar and EFIS systems.
Set WXP-850A/B MODE switch to STBY.
Power Set 28 V DC PWR ON/OFF switch to ON. REMOTE ON LED is on. Aircraft power supply or
WXP-850A/B
Note
Strapping options LED indicators may light, depending on straps installed. A lighted lamp indicates an installed strap.
You may want to compare the indication to the aircraft documentation to verify correct installation.
Input voltage Measure input voltage. +27.5 V dc, ±5 V dc Aircraft power supply
Input current Measure input current (press PUSH I 0.5 A max, 0.25 A min WXP-850A/B
switch).
Lighting voltage Connect dvm between LIGHTING TEST 28- Depends on lighting used. Lighted lamp indicates
V or 5-V test jack and COMMON test jack. voltage used
Data bus (429) Connect scope to CONTROL DATA (ARINC Look for signal activity. WXP-850A/B
429) test jacks.
Data bus (453) Connect scope to WXR DATA (ARINC 453) Look for signal activity. RTA-85X
test jacks.
WXP DATA Connect scope to WXP DATA test jacks. Look for signal activity. WXP-850A/B
WXP CLOCK Connect scope to WXP CLOCK test jacks. Look for signal activity. WXP-850A/B
RANGE MARK Connect scope to RANGE MARK test jacks. Look for signal activity. WXP-850A/B
WXR BUSY Connect scope to WXR BUSY test jacks. Look for signal activity. WXP-850A/B
WXR RETRACE Connect scope to WXR RETRACE test jacks. Look for signal activity. WXP-850A/B
WXR SHADOW Connect scope to WXR SHADOW test jacks. Look for signal activity. WXP-850A/B
WXR CONTROL Connect scope to WXR CONTROL test jacks. Look for signal activity. WXP-850A/B
Complete Remove test equipment and restore system to its normal operating configuration.

Table 5-5. Fault Isolation Procedures at the RTA-85X.
PROBABLE CAUSE OF
STEP PROCEDURE DESIRED TEST RESULT
FAILED TEST
Setup Turn off aircraft power to radar system.
Disconnect aircraft mating connector/cable from RTA-85X and connect test fixture (as shown in Figures 5-3
and 5-4) between RTA-85X and aircraft wiring.
Be sure 28 V DC PWR ON/OFF switch on test fixture is set to OFF.
Set test fixture REMOTE ON/OFF/NORMAL switch to OFF.
Connect dvm between V/I+ and V- test jacks.
Connect ammeter between V/I+ and I- test jacks.
Turn on power to radar and EFIS systems.
Set WXP-850A/B MODE switch to STBY (or press STBY on WXI-711A).
Set 28 V DC PWR ON/OFF switch to ON.
Remote on Set test fixture REMOTE ON switch to NOR- REMOTE ON LED is on. Aircraft power supply or
MAL. test fixture
Note
Some of the TYPE DISCRETES - WIRED indicators may light. Those that do light indicate the strapping options installed.
You may want to compare the indication to the aircraft documentation to verify correct installation.
Input voltage Measure input voltage. +27.5 V dc, ±5 V dc Aircraft power supply
Input current Measure input current (press PUSH I switch). 3.5 A max, 3.0 A min RTA-85X
Data bus (429) Connect scope to CONTROL DATA (ARINC Look for signal activity. WXP/WXI (no 1)
(no 1) 429 NO. 1) test jacks.
In a dual WXP/WXI installation only:
Data bus (429) Connect scope to CONTROL DATA (ARINC Look for signal activity. WXP/WXI (no 2)
(no 2) 429 NO. 2) test jacks.
Data bus (453) Connect scope to WXR DATA (ARINC 453) Look for signal activity. RTA-85X
test jacks.
TEST Set WXP-850A/B MODE switch to TEST (or Antenna scans. RTA-85X
press TEST on WXI-711A).
Proper self-test pattern on RTA-85X or
EFIS display: Eight equal WXP/WXI
bands - outward: black, black,
green, yellow, red, magenta,
red/magenta, and yellow (red/
magenta alternates color with
each cycle).
STAB tests Connect scope to STAB REF - IN test jacks. Look for an ac signal (either Stabilization system ref-
26 or 115 V ac). erence source
Connect scope to PITCH - IN test jacks. Look for an ac signal. Stabilization source
Input a pitch command from gyro source or Look for antenna response: RTA-85X
simulated source. antenna up for pitch-down,
antenna down for pitch-up.
Input a roll command from gyro source or Look for antenna response; RTA-85X
simulated source. antenna pitch changes as it
scans from side to side.
Complete Remove test equipment and restore system to its normal operating configuration.
The fixture shown in Figures 5-3 and 5-4 provides zation signals. These are not available at the WXP-
access to the input/output signals of the RTA-85X. 850A/B connector. If the complaint or fault isolation
The procedures in Table 5-5 make use of this fix- suggests a stabilization system failure, it may be
ture. This fixture also provides access to the stabili- more expedient to diagnose the failure at the RTA-

85X rather than at the gyro location. To use this need to be performed only once for a given installa-
fixture, however, it is necessary to remove the tion.
radome. Because of the difficulty in radome removal,
it is best not to remove it unless there is strong In some installations, the stabilization alignment
evidence of an RTA-85X failure. feature may not be enabled. This procedure cannot
be performed unless a strap is connected between
For fault isolation procedures for the WXI-711A, WXP-850A/B mating connector pins P2-28 and
refer to the WXI-711A Indicator Component Mainte- P2-12.
nance Manual, CPN 523-0773309.
The in-flight stabilization alignment procedures are
5.4 ROUTINE AND PERIODIC provided in paragraph 5.5.3 (Table 5-8) and in
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES paragraph 5.5.4 (Table 5-9). The first is a more
detailed version that can be used to gain familiarity
As part of each maintenance operation, the me- with the process. For those experienced in the pro-
chanical portion of the RTA-85X, primarily the scan cess, paragraph 5.5.4 is an abbreviated version that
and the tilt gears and sectors, should be inspected requires less reading during the actual procedure.
for contaminants such as dirt and/or grease buildup.
Unless the mechanism has been severely contami- 5.5.2 Alignment Controls
nated, it should not be necessary to disassemble the
unit for lubrication purposes. In most cases, if All of the controls used for this procedure are on the
contaminants are present, adequate cleaning is WXP-850A/B control panel. These are described in
possible using a small soft-bristled brush and lubri- the following paragraphs.
cant-based cleaning solution. After cleaning to
remove the contaminants, apply a small amount of a. Stabilization Alignment Mode Activate Button:
grease to the gear and sector teeth. Wipe excess
grease from the surrounding areas using a lint-free This is a recessed black pushbutton located at
cloth. After lubricating these parts, it is good the bottom center of the WXP-850A/B control.
practice to operate the unit, paying particular Use this button to activate or end the stabili-
attention to the scan and tilt mechanism and noting zation alignment mode. Refer to Figure 3-1 in
that all mechanically mating parts are lubricated the operation section if necessary. Use a small
adequately at the mating points. The scan and tilt probe, similar to a ballpoint pen, to press in on
motor bearings are lifetime lubricated and should the button. Do not use a lead pencil. Lead
not require relubrication. Table 5-6 is a listing of residue can cause damage to the unit. When the
the materials needed for this maintenance. stabilization alignment mode is activated, TRIM
is annunciated on the EFIS display. When one
5.5 IN-FLIGHT STABILIZATION of the adjustment parameters is selected by
ALIGNMENT PROCEDURES means of the MODE switch, the selected param-
eter is annunciated in place of TRIM. After one
5.5.1 Introduction or more of the parameters have been satisfacto-
rily adjusted and stored in temporary memory
The in-flight stabilization alignment procedures do by means of the HLD button (see paragraph d.),
not apply to systems using the WXI-711A. The pressing in on the recessed button enters the
stabilization alignment procedures for the TWR-850 parameters into permanent nonvolatile memory.
system are to be performed in flight. Best results for
performing the stabilization alignment procedures b. MODE Switch:
are obtained while flying over flat terrain. The
procedures calibrate the TWR-850 system to the The MODE switch is used to select the param-
specific aircraft, and especially to the vertical eter to be adjusted, and the TILT control is used
reference system, by compensating for the remaining to adjust that parameter. The switch positions
mounting errors. The procedures utilize an align- and the parameter thus selected are summa-
ment mode, built into the RTA-85X, to introduce rized in Table 5-7.
certain offsets into the antenna roll and pitch
attitude control functions. These are stored in
nonvolatile memory and, therefore, if done correctly,

Table 5-6. Materials and Tools Required for Routine/Periodic Maintenance.
MANUFACTURE AND COLLINS

ITEM DESCRIPTION
PART NUMBER PART NUMBER
Freon Fluorocarbon cleaning agent Freon TMS from: Not available
E.I Du Pont de Nemours & Co., Inc.
Freon Products Div
Wilmington, Del. 73925
or:
Genesolv DMS from:
Allied Chemical
Allied Corp.
Morristown, N.J. 70308
Grease Lubricating grease Aeroshell 7 from: 005-0810-000, 5-lb pail*
Shell Oil Co.
Houston, Tex.
Brush Soft bristled Not available
Cloth Lint-free cloth Not available
*Contact manufacturer for lesser quantities.
Table 5-7. MODE Switch In-Flight Alignment Parameters.
MODE SWITCH POSITION STABILIZATION ALIGNMENT MODE

WX+T Selects roll offset for adjustment.
WX Selects pitch offset for adjustment.
MAP Selects stabilization gain for adjustment.
STBY Discards any adjusted parameters in temporary memory, re-activates all alignment parameters
stored in permanent memory, cancels alignment mode, and resumes normal operation.
TGT or TURB Activates normal WX mode to allow viewing of any radar target(s) using currently adjusted
alignment parameters not yet entered into memory.
OFF, then any mode Regarding stabilization alignment, selecting OFF has the same effect as selecting STBY.
Pulling the primary power circuit breaker also has the same effect.
c. TILT Control Knob: temporary memory before the next parameter is

selected.
The TILT control knob is used to adjust the
alignment parameter that is selected by means 5.5.3 Detailed Alignment Procedures
of the MODE switch. The amount of adjustment
introduced becomes the electrical offset that is The detailed alignment procedures do not apply to
used by the radar stabilization function. systems using the WXI-711A. The detailed align-
ment procedures for the TWR-850 system are
d. HLD (Hold) Switch: provided in Table 5-8.
The HLD switch is used to store the adjusted 5.5.4 Abbreviated Alignment Procedures
value of the parameter into temporary radar
memory during the alignment process. There The abbreviated alignment procedures do not apply
are three adjustment parameters: roll offset, to systems using the WXI-711A. The abbreviated
pitch offset, and stabilization gain. Each of these alignment procedures for the TWR-850 system are
is adjusted separately and must be entered into provided in Table 5-9.

Table 5-8. TWR-850 Detailed In-Flight Stabilization Alignment Procedures.
STEP
NO.
1 Before takeoff, be sure that stabilization alignment mode is enabled by a strap between WXP-850A/B mating connector
pins P2-28 and P2-12.
2 Before takeoff, position WXP-850A/B MODE switch to STBY and RANGE switch to 50.
3 Complete all ground procedures for TWR-850 system installation and prepare aircraft for flight.
Note
You may want to delay the following step until immediately before starting the alignment procedures (step 10.0). This
allows the full compass rose format to be used during takeoff and climbout.
4 For EFIS installations with an MFD, push PWR and RDR buttons.
For EFIS installations without an MFD, place ND in a sector format that allows radar display.
5 After takeoff, select MAP mode.
6 Climb to normal cruise altitude and trim aircraft. Note
Best results are obtained when performing the in-flight stabilization alignment procedures while flying over flat
terrain.
7 Wait about 5 minutes, with no roll or pitch changes, for attitude reference system to stabilize. Use heading or manual
flight mode.
8 If not already set, select MAP MODE. (Be sure GCS is not selected.)
9 Adjust TILT and RANGE. Depending on cruise altitude, select range Adjust so that near edge of ground clut-
that gives best half-range ground clutter ring with least downward tilt. ter ring is aligned with EFIS half-range
arc.
10 If not already done in step 4.0:
For EFIS installations with an MFD, push PWR and RDR buttons.
For EFIS installations without an MFD, place ND in a sector format that allows radar display.
11 Activate alignment mode by depressing recessed black button at bottom center of WXP-850A/B control panel.
Note
In this test number you will activate the stabilization alignment mode by using a probe to depress the recessed switch.
Do not use a lead pencil. Lead residue can cause damage to the mechanical switches and can cause short circuits.
Note
During the course of this procedure, STBY can be used at any time to erase any adjusted parameters and return to the
value stored in permanent memory. For new installations, the stored values may be zero for all parameters.
12 Select WX+T MODE. This selects roll offset for adjustment.
13 Adjust TILT. Adjust for best left/right
symmetry of ground return display.
14 Press HLD momentarily. This stores adjusted value in temporary
memory.
15 Select WX MODE. This selects pitch offset for adjustment.
16 Adjust TILT. Adjust so that near edge of display is at
a constant distance display arc.
memory.
18 Select MAP MODE. This selects stabilization gain for adjust-

ment.

Table 5-8. TWR-850 Detailed In-Flight Stabilization Alignment Procedures.
STEP
NO.
19 Place aircraft into, and maintain, a bank angle of 10° to 15°, either left or right).
Note
Prolonged flight at a constant bank angle can cause precession in some gyro systems. Therefore, this attitude should
not be maintained for more than a few minutes. Additionally, after resuming straight and level flight, it is wise to
wait a few minutes for the gyro system to be corrected.
20 Adjust TILT. Adjust for best lest/right symmetry of
memory.
22 Return aircraft to and trim for straight and level flight.
23 At this test number, select MODE TGT or TURB (MODE switch is spring loaded in TURB position) and any desired
RANGE to view any radar target display before storing adjusted parameters in permanent memory.
24 If for any reason you want to readjust a parameter, select MODE switch position corresponding to desired parameter
and readjust TILT as necessary. Press HLD to store adjusted value in temporary memory.
25 If for any reason you want to restart procedure, select STBY to discard any adjusted values and return to test number
8.0.
26 If you are satisfied that the adjustments are the best that can be obtained, press recessed button to store adjusted
values in permanent memory and exit stabilization alignment mode.
Table 5-9. Abbreviated In-Flight Stabilization Alignment Procedures.
STEP
NO.
1 After arriving at cruise altitude, trim aircraft for straight and level flight. Use heading or manual flight for straight
and level flight.
2 Select RANGE 50 and MAP MODE.
3 Adjust TILT. Adjust for ground return at about 25 nmi.
4 Press recessed button. This activates alignment mode.
5 Select WX+T, adjust TILT, and press HLD to save. Adjust for left/right symmetry of display.
6 Select WX, adjust TILT, and press HLD to save. Adjust for uniform distance to display edge.
7 Set up and maintain a constant aircraft bank attitude of about 10° to 15°.
8 Select MAP, adjust TILT, and press HLD to save. Adjust for left/right symmetry of display.
9 Trim aircraft for straight and level flight.
10 Repeat as necessary:
a. Return to step 5.0, 6.0, or 7.0 Readjust selected parameter.
or
b. Select STBY and go back to step 2.0 Discard all adjusted values, restore perma-
nently stored values, and start test again.
11 Press recessed button. This stores adjusted values in permanent
memory and exits alignment mode.

WXP-840( )/850( ) Flight-Line Test Fixture, Panel Layout Diagram

Figure 5-1

Table 5-10. WXP-840( )/850( ) Flight-Line Test Fixture Parts List.
SYMBOL DESCRIPTION COLLINS PART NUMBER

Chassis, 4 x 6 504-1918-002
Cover, chassis, qty 2 504-1920-001
DS1 Indicator, lampholder/lens, red 262-2322-070
Bulb, 28 V 262-1883-020
Bulb, 28 V 262-1883-020
Bulb, 5 V 262-1883-000
DS4 LED, red 353-0293-040
DS5 LED, red 353-0293-040
DS6 LED, red 353-0293-040
R1 Resistor, cc, 2.7 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0764-000
R2 Resistor, cc, 2.7 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0764-000
R3 Resistor, cc, 2.7 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0764-000
S1 Switch, spdt 266-5321-150
S2 Switch, pushbutton 260-2708-000
TP1-TP30 Choose from list below
Jack, tip, white 360-0149-000
Jack, tip, red 360-0150-000
Jack, tip, black 360-0151-000
Jack, tip, brown 360-0152-000
Jack, tip, green 360-0153-000
Jack, tip, orange 360-0154-000
Jack, tip, blue 360-0155-000
Jack, tip, yellow 360-0156-000
Jack, tip, violet 360-0157-000
Jack, tip, gray 360-0158-000

WXP-840( )/850( ) Flight-Line Test Fixture, Schematic Diagram


WXP-840( )/850( ) Flight-Line Test Fixture, Schematic Diagram


RTA Flight-Line Test Fixture, Panel Layout Diagram

Figure 5-3

Table 5-11. RTA Flight-Line Test Fixture Parts List.
SYMBOL DESCRIPTION COLLINS PART NUMBER

Chassis, 4 x 6 504-1918-002
Cover, chassis, qty 2 504-1920-001
Bulb, 28 V 262-1883-002
DS2 LED, red 353-0293-040
DS3 LED, red 353-0293-040
DS4 LED, red 353-0293-040
DS5 LED, red 353-0293-040
DS6 LED, red 353-0293-040
DS7 LED, red 353-0293-040
DS8 LED, red 353-0293-040
DS9 LED, red 353-0293-040
DS10 LED, red 353-0293-040
R1 Resistor, cc, 2.7 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0764-000
R2 Resistor, cc, 2.7 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0764-000
R3 Resistor, cc, 2.7 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0764-000
R4 Resistor, cc, 2.7 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0764-000
R5 Resistor, cc, 2.7 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0764-000
R6 Resistor, cc, 2.7 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0764-000
R7 Resistor, cc, 2.7 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0764-000
R8 Resistor, cc, 2.7 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0764-000
R9 Resistor, cc, 2.7 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0764-000
R10 Resistor, cc, 10 kΩ, 10%, 1/4W 745-0785-000
S1 Switch, spdt 266-5321-150
S2 Switch, pushbutton 260-2708-000
S3 Switch, dpdt 266-5321-200
S4 Switch, dpdt 266-5321-200
S5 Switch, dpdt 266-5321-200
S6 Switch, sp3t 837-1000-100
TP1-TP24 Choose from list below
Jack, tip, white 360-0149-000
Jack, tip, red 360-0150-000
Jack, tip, black 360-0151-000
Jack, tip, brown 360-0152-000
Jack, tip, green 360-0153-000
Jack, tip, orange 360-0154-000
Jack, tip, blue 360-0155-000
Jack, tip, yellow 360-0156-000
Jack, tip, violet 360-0157-000
Jack, tip, gray 360-0158-000

RTA Flight-Line Test Fixture, Schematic Diagram


RTA Flight-Line Test Fixture, Schematic Diagram


TWR-850 - Installation Manual PDF

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TO: HOLDERS OF THE COLLINS TWR-850 TURBULENCE WEATHER RADAR SYSTEM

3RD EDITION HIGHLIGHTS

This publication includes:

General Information 523-0774652

Collins General Aviation Division

INFORMATION SUBJECT TO EXPORT CONTROL LAWS

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10 1-7 Nov 14/02 Rockwell Collins

10 2-10 Nov 14/02 Rockwell Collins

10 2-17 Nov 14/02 Rockwell Collins

10 2-19 Nov 14/02 Rockwell Collins

10 2-50 Nov 14/02 Rockwell Collins

10 3-16 Nov 14/02 Rockwell Collins

Temporary Revision 10 RTR-2

1.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

1.1.1 General Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

1.2 Purpose of Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

1.3 Equipment Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3