RADALT

Equipment Installation Manual
RA-4000/RA-4500 Radar Altimeters
EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION MANUAL
FOR
FREEFLIGHT SYSTEMS
RA-4000 AND RA-4500 RADAR ALTIMETERS
Document No. 84629
Revision J
FreeFlight Systems
3700 Interstate 35 South
Waco, TX 76706-3756 U.S.A.
1 (254) 662-0000
1 (800) 487-4662
October 7, 2010
Intentionally left blank.
LIST OF AFFECTED PAGES
Dates of Original and Change pages are:

Revision ….. A …………… October 2, 2005
Revision ….. B …………… November 21, 2005
Revision ….. C …………… September 11, 2006
Revision ….. D …………… September 20, 2007
Revision ….. E …………… August 14, 2008
Revision ….. F …………… November 21, 2008
Revision ….. G …………… March 15, 2010
Revision ….. H …………… May 13, 2010
Revision ….. J …………… October 7, 2010
Page Description Page no. Date
Title Page - October 7, 2010

List of Affected Pages A October 7, 2010
Table of Contents i – iii October 7, 2010
Introduction 1-1 – 1-3 October 7, 2010
Description 2-1 – 2-7 October 7, 2010
Electrical Interface 3-1 – 3-2 October 7, 2010
Functional Interfaces 4-1 – 4-3 October 7, 2010
Mechanical 5-1 – 5-4 October 7, 2010
Installation 6-1 – 6-8 October 7, 2010
Environmental Categories 7-1 – 7-2 October 7, 2010
P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 A

Table of Contents
1 INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................... 1-1
1.1 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS......................................................................................... 1-2
1.2 TABLE OF ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS ............................................................... 1-3
2 DESCRIPTION........................................................................................................... 2-1
2.1 OPERATIONAL MODES ............................................................................................. 2-1
2.2 SYSTEM LIMITATIONS .............................................................................................. 2-2
2.3 SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................................... 2-3
2.4 IN-FLIGHT CONDITIONS ........................................................................................... 2-4
2.5 ALTITUDE ROUNDING .............................................................................................. 2-5
2.6 COMPONENT AND ACCESSORY PART NUMBERS ...................................................... 2-6
2.7 LICENSE REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................................... 2-7
3 ELECTRICAL INTERFACE.................................................................................... 3-1
3.1 GROUND .................................................................................................................. 3-2
3.2 POWER IN ................................................................................................................ 3-2
3.3 RESET ...................................................................................................................... 3-2
3.4 STRUT INPUT ........................................................................................................... 3-2
3.5 NAV TX/RX ............................................................................................................ 3-2
3.6 NAV-BIAS ................................................................................................................ 3-2
3.7 NAV-COM ................................................................................................................ 3-2
3.8 NAV-TXA/TXB ...................................................................................................... 3-2
3.9 ARINC-TXA/TXB ................................................................................................. 3-2
3.10 ARINC SPEED SELECT .......................................................................................... 3-2
4 FUNCTIONAL INTERFACES................................................................................. 4-1
4.1 RS-232/422/485 INTERFACE ................................................................................... 4-1
4.2 ARINC 429 INTERFACE ........................................................................................... 4-3
5 MECHANICAL .......................................................................................................... 5-1
5.1 RADAR ALTIMETER MOUNTING............................................................................... 5-1
5.2 CONNECTORS ........................................................................................................... 5-1
5.3 ANTENNA MOUNTING .............................................................................................. 5-3
5.4 OPTIONAL MOUNTING TRAY ................................................................................... 5-4
6 INSTALLATION........................................................................................................ 6-1
6.1 GENERAL INFORMATION .......................................................................................... 6-1
P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 i

6.2 UNPACKING AND INSPECTING EQUIPMENT .............................................................. 6-1

6.3 EQUIPMENT LIMITATIONS ........................................................................................ 6-1
6.4 ANTENNA INSTALLATION ........................................................................................ 6-1
6.5 RADAR ALTIMETER INSTALLATION ......................................................................... 6-5
6.6 POST-INSTALLATION TESTING ................................................................................. 6-8
7 - ENVIRONMENTAL CATEGORIES .................................................................... 7-1
7.1 DO-160E TEST CATEGORIES FOR P/N 84560-0X-XXXX ....................................... 7-1
7.2 DO-160E TEST CATEGORIES FOR P/N 84560-1X-XXXX ....................................... 7-2
P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 ii

List of Figures
Figure 1-1: Radar Altimeter System Block Diagram ...................................................... 1-1
Figure 5-1: Radar Altimeter Installation Drawing........................................................... 5-2
Figure 5-2: Antenna (P/N 9-1203-115-00) Installation Drawing .................................... 5-3
Figure 5-3: Mounting Tray Installation Drawing ............................................................ 5-4
Figure 6-1: Aircraft Bottom View ................................................................................... 6-4
Figure 6-2: Antenna Orientation...................................................................................... 6-4
Figure 6-3: Typical Radar Altimeter to RAD-40 Interconnection Diagram.................... 6-6
Figure 6-4: Typical Radar Altimeter to EFIS/MFD Interconnection Diagram ............... 6-7
List of Tables
Table 2-1: System Technical Characteristics................................................................... 2-3

Table 2-2: Physical Characteristics.................................................................................. 2-4
Table 2-3: Antenna (P/N 9-1203-115-00) Physical Characteristics ................................ 2-4
Table 2-4: In-Flight Conditions ....................................................................................... 2-4
Table 2-5: Altitude Rounding .......................................................................................... 2-5
Table 2-6: Radar Altimeter .............................................................................................. 2-6
Table 2-7: Optional Installation Kit with Antennas......................................................... 2-6
Table 2-8: Optional Installation Kit without Antennas.................................................... 2-6
Table 2-9: Other Accessories........................................................................................... 2-6
Table 2-10: Optional Indicator......................................................................................... 2-7
Table 2-11: Optional Indicator Installation Kit ............................................................... 2-7
Table 2-12: Optional Cable Delay ................................................................................... 2-7
Table 3-1: Radar Altimeter Interface Pin Out.................................................................. 3-1
Table 4-1: Data Field Definition...................................................................................... 4-1
Table 4-2: Status Byte Bit Definition .............................................................................. 4-2
Table 4-3: Sample Packet at 1000’ .................................................................................. 4-2
Table 4-4: ARINC 429 Output Labels............................................................................. 4-3
Table 5-1: Connector Descriptions .................................................................................. 5-1
Table 6-1: Propagation Delay and Attenuation of the Antenna Cable ............................ 6-2
Table 6-2: Typical Antenna Cable Lengths ..................................................................... 6-2
Table 7-1: DO-160E Test Categories (P/N 84560-0X-XXXX) ...................................... 7-1
Table 7-2: DO-160E Test Categories (P/N 84560-1X-XXXX) ...................................... 7-2
P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 iii

1 Introduction
This manual contains installation data and specifications for the FreeFlight Systems RA-
4000 and RA-4500 Radar Altimeters (P/N 84560-XX-XXXX), hereafter referred to as
the radar altimeter. The radar altimeter meets the requirements for a TSO-C87 Radar
Altimeter with Precision Equipment output and the requirements for category A/L/A1/A
Radar Altimeters of ETSO-2C87 (software version 300A and above only).
The radar altimeter is designed to provide altitude above ground level (AGL) data to an
electronic flight instrument system (EFIS), an integrated Flight Management System
(FMS), or a Navigation Management System (NMS). Altitude is calculated by assessing
the round trip delay of a signal reflected from the ground.
The RA-4000 and the RA-4500 are functionally the same with the exception that the RA-
4500 contains ARINC 429 output in addition to the RS-485/422 and RS-232C output of
the RA-4000.
The system consists of three Line Replaceable Units (LRUs): the radar altimeter
Receiver/Transmitter (R/T) Unit and two antenna units (refer to section 2.6). Refer to
Figure 1-1 for a system block diagram.
I/O
Power In
Strut Switch In
Transmit RA-4000
Altitude out:
or
- Serial RS-485/422
RA-4500
- Serial RS-232C
- ARINC 429
Receive
Figure 1-1: Radar Altimeter System Block Diagram
P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 1-1

1.1 Reference Documents
Document Number Title

Environmental Conditions and Test Procedures for Airborne Equipment;
RTCA/DO-160E 29-July-97 (incorporating Change 1 dated 14-Dec-00, Change 2 dated 12-
June-01, and Change 3 dated 05-Dec-02).
Software Considerations In Airborne Systems And Equipment
RTCA/DO-178B
Certification; 1-Dec-92.
TSO-C87 AIRBORNE LOW-RANGE RADIO ALTIMETER; 1-Feb-1966.
European Technical Standard Order; Low Range Radio Altimeters,
ETSO-2C87
24.10.03
Minimum Performance Standards Airborne Low-Range Radar Altimeters;
RTCA/DO-155
1-Nov-1974.
EUROCAE/ED-30 Minimum Performance Specification for Airborne Low Range Radio
(Radar) Altimeter Equipment, March 1980 including Edition 2, June 1,
1980
ARINC 429 Mark 33 Digital Information Transfer System; May 17, 2004

1.2 Table of Acronyms & Abbreviations

The following acronyms and abbreviations are used throughout this document.
Abbreviation Definition
A Ampere
AGL Above Ground Level
BCD Binary Coded Decimal
dB Decibels
EFIS Electronic Flight Instrument System
ETSO European Technical Standard Order
EUROCAE European Organization for Civil Aviation Equipment
FAR Federal Aviation Regulations
FCC Federal Communications Commission
FFS FreeFlight Systems
FMCW Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave
FMS Flight Management System
Hz Hertz
LRU Line Replaceable Unit
LSB Least-Significant Bit
MFD Multi-Function Display
MHz Mega-Hertz
ms Milliseconds
NCD No Computed Data
NMS Navigation Management System
ns Nanoseconds
NVG Night Vision Goggles
P/N Part Number
R/T Receiver / Transmitter
RX Receive
SDI Source/Destination Indicator
SSM Sign/Status Matrix
TNC Threaded Neill-Concelman [connector]
TSO Technical Standard Order
TX Transmit
VCO Voltage-Controlled Oscillator
VDC Volts Direct Current

2 Description
A complete system consists of a radar altimeter R/T unit (P/N 84560-XX-XXXX) and
two antennas (refer to section 2.6). The radar altimeter provides AGL altitude
information from -20 feet up to 2000 feet (up to 2500 feet with software version 300A
and above) maximum via computer interface. The altitude AGL is defined as the vertical
distance from the antennas to the terrain.
The radar altimeter system utilizes a reliable solid-state voltage-controlled oscillator

(VCO) to drive its transmitter. Embedded processors precisely measure the signal delay,
calculate the altitude, and provide a simple to use computer interface.
2.1 Operational Modes

Once the unit has completed a reset, it begins outputting data at a 25 Hz rate. Data
consists of the altitude and a status byte on the RS-232/422/485 interface (refer to section
4 for a description of the protocol) and labels 164, 165, and 377 on the ARINC 429
interface. Following is a description of different modes for the unit.
2.1.1 Power On Self-Test

At power on, the system initializes operation and performs a self-test for approximately
20 seconds. In the self-test, the lock circuitry is tested and a test signal applied to the
receive circuitry. During this time, the unit reports an altitude of 40±3 feet and asserts
the “Self-Test” bit in the status byte (see section 4.1.2.1.4).
2.1.2 Altitude Zero Calibration

When the Altitude Zero Calibration mode is selected during installation, the unit
automatically calibrates the zero altitude point. This automatically compensates for
different cable lengths and different antenna installation heights above the ground that
would otherwise bias the altitude reading.
2.1.3 On Ground Operation

While on the ground, the unit is susceptible to erroneous readings caused by signals
returned from nearby buildings or personnel. Utilization of the strut input allows the unit
to ignore these erroneous signals and report zero feet. The “Strut” bit of the status byte
(see section 4.1.2.1.4) provides an indication of the input signal. With software version
300A the system forces a valid altitude output of 0 foot if the strut indicates that the
aircraft is on the ground.
2.1.4 Normal Operation

When the unit detects a locked signal and does not have a strut indication (i.e. – aircraft
in the air), it reports altitude with the “Signal” bit indicating locked. If unusual terrain,
aircraft orientation, or environmental conditions prevent a stable received signal, the
“Signal” bit of the status word indicates unlocked.

2.2 System Limitations

2.2.1 Terrain
At altitudes above 1500 feet, terrain with poor reflectivity may cause the unit to unlock.
Examples of unfavorable terrain are dry, loose soil, (e.g. - tilled farmland), or sand.
2.2.2 Excessive Pitch/Roll

An excessive pitch or roll attitude may also cause the system to unlock. This sensitivity
increases with altitude. In general, below 1500 feet a 30 degree bank is tolerated. Above
1500 feet, the aircraft should be maintained within a 20 degree bank for proper operation.
If the unit unlocks due to marginal conditions, it will automatically relock when a signal
sufficient for ranging is detected.
2.2.3 Rapid Descent

In cases of extremely rapid descent, both the response time of the system and pitch of the
aircraft may prevent normal operation. At a descent rate of 1500 feet/minute or less, the
radar altimeter system provides normal operation below 2000 feet (below 2500 feet with
software version 300A and above).
2.2.4 Response Time

When flying the radar altimeter system over rapidly changing terrain, e.g., a cliff or
ravine, the system is limited by the 100 ms maximum response time of the unit.
Note:
The radar altimeter system surveys ground directly below the aircraft, and
should not be relied on as a forward looking device.

2.3 Specifications
Specifications for the radar altimeter system are listed in Tables 2-1 through 2-3.
Table 2-1: System Technical Characteristics

Parameter Value
Type Dual antenna, FMCW
1) FFS P/N 9-1203-115-00
Compatible Antennas
2) EDO P/N DM PN19-2-1
-20 to 2000 feet (software version 200X)
Altitude Range
-20 to 2500 feet (software version 300X)
0 to 100 feet +/- 3 feet
Altitude Accuracy 100 to 500 feet +/- 3%
Above 500 feet +/- 5%
Frequency Range 100 MHz sweep 4.25 - 4.35 GHz
Sweep Frequency 100 Hz
Output Power 100 mW
20-36 VDC
Input Voltage
(Resettable internal fuse and reverse polarity protection)
Input Current 400 mA Max @ 28 VDC (steady-state)
Max. Inrush Current 7 A for 1 ms @ 28 VDC
Altitude Output, Rate 25 Hz
Altitude Latency less than 100 ms (63% of final value)
Operating Temperature -55°C to +70°C
Altitude 50,000 ft (15.2 km) per DO-160E, Cat. D2
Rain >16 mm/hr
Self-Test / Reset On system power-up
Grant T7YRA4XXX with emission designator
FCC
100MFXN
Environmental DO-160E, see section 7
TSO-C87,
Certifications ETSO-2C87 (A/L/A1/A) (version 300A and above only),
DO-178B Level C

Table 2-2: Physical Characteristics

Parameter Value
Weight 1.9 lb
Height 3.06”
Length 6.78”
(Including mounting flange)
Width 3.15”
2 each TNC antenna connectors
Connectors
1 each 22 pin circular connector
Table 2-3: Antenna (P/N 9-1203-115-00) Physical Characteristics

Parameter Value
Quantity 2
Weight 0.3 lbs (0.6 lbs total)
Dimensions 3.5" W x 3.65" L x .15" H
2.4 In-Flight Conditions

The altitude accuracy specified in section 2.3 is met under the following conditions (per
TSO-C87 and ETSO-2C87 Category L):
Table 2-4: In-Flight Conditions

Parameter Value
Horizontal Velocity 0 to 200 knots (0 to 340 ft/s or 100 m/s)
0 to 20 ft/s up to 100 ft
Vertical Velocity*
0 to 25 ft/s above 100 ft
Roll Angle 0 to ±20°
Pitch Angle 0 to ±20°
At bank angles from 20° to 30° the error
Extended Roll Angles
is less than 20% of the indicated altitude.
*Note: Any errors induced by the Doppler shift in the frequency of the returned signal due to
high vertical velocities are removed in software.

2.5 Altitude Rounding

To reduce the noise in the altitude output on the digital outputs of the radar altimeter, the
altitude is rounded depending on the current altitude reading. Table 2-5 specifies the
altitude rounding performed by the radar altimeter.
Table 2-5: Altitude Rounding

Altitude (ft) Rounded To Nearest (ft)
-20 - 119 1
120 - 199 2
200 - 499 5
500 - 999 20
1000 - 2099 50
2100+ 100
Note: The radar altimeter meets the altitude accuracy requirements of TSO-C87 and
ETSO-2C87 as stated in Table 2-1 with this rounding included.

2.6 Component and Accessory Part Numbers

Each radar altimeter unit is shipped individually, as indicated in Table 2-6. Two antennas
and associated wiring are also required for installation. Optional installation kits are
available from FreeFlight Systems, as indicated in Table 2-7 and Table 2-8.
Table 2-6: Radar Altimeter

ITEM FFS P/N QUANTITY
Radar Altimeter R/T Unit 84560-X1-XXXX (RA-4000) 1 required
or
84560-X2-XXXX (RA-4500)
Table 2-7: Optional Installation Kit with Antennas

Optional Installation Kit 84933-00 1 required
Coax Cable RG-142 B/U (30 ft) 0123-0012-00 1 per kit
Antennas (Sensor Systems S67-2002) 9-1203-115-00 2 per kit
Connector TNC 0129-0017-00 4 per kit
22 Pin connector 84443 1 per kit
Connector Backshell Strain Relief 84444 1 per kit
Table 2-8: Optional Installation Kit without Antennas

Optional Installation Kit 84933-01 1 required
Coax Cable RG-142 B/U (30 ft) 0123-0012-00 1 per kit
Connector TNC 0129-0017-00 4 per kit
22 Pin connector 84443 1 per kit
Connector Backshell Strain Relief 84444 1 per kit
Note: EDO Corporation’s Radar Altimeter Antenna (EDO P/N PN19-2-1) is also
compatible with FreeFlight Systems Radar Altimeter Units. These antennas are not sold
by FreeFlight Systems and must be purchased from the manufacturer directly or from any
EDO antenna dealer. Refer to the manufacturer’s documentation for the specifications for
these antennas.
Table 2-9: Other Accessories

System Wiring N/A As required
Circuit Breaker (3A, slow-acting) N/A 1
Mounting Tray for altimeter 84947-00 1
FreeFlight Systems also offers an optional TSO-C87 certified Radar Altimeter Indicator,
called RAD-40, for either standard installations or NVG compatible installations (Table
2-10). This indicator is not required (but may be used as alternate indication of radar
altitude) for installations where the Radar Altimeter is connected to an EFIS. For stand-

alone installations, the indicator is required. An optional installation kit for the indicator
is also available (Table 2-11).
Table 2-10: Optional Indicator

RAD-40 Radar Altimeter Display (Standard) 84939-00-XXXX 1 optional
RAD-40 Radar Altimeter Display (NVG) 84939-10-XXXX 1 optional
Table 2-11: Optional Indicator Installation Kit

Optional Installation Kit 84949-00 1 optional
Connector DB-25 Female 9-2190-188-10 1 per kit
Connector Hood with Level 9-2190-188-20 1 per kit
Mounting Screws 9-2804-068-10 1 per kit
FreeFlight Systems also offers a delay line that eliminates the need for the minimum
cable length requirement specified in section 6.4.1.
Table 2-12: Optional Cable Delay

21’ Cable Delay 85856-00 1 optional
2.7 License Requirements

As installed in the aircraft, the radar altimeter does not require an FCC operator’s license.
For information, reference FCC 47 CFR Part 87.89 Minimum operator requirements.

3 Electrical Interface
Electrical interconnection to the radar altimeter is made via 22-pin connector. Refer to
Table 3-1 for a description of the pin out.
Table 3-1: Radar Altimeter Interface Pin Out
Pin Name Function Direction Level

1 Ground Ground - Ground
2 Ground Ground - Ground
3 Power In Aircraft voltage in In 20-36 VDC
4 Power In Aircraft voltage in In 20-36 VDC
5 Reserved No connect
8 Strut Strut (active low) In Ground or open
ARINC 429 Output Speed Select:
429 Speed
10 Low Speed (default, pin open) In Ground or open
Select*
High Speed (pin to ground)
11 ARINC-TXB* Navigation Port ARINC 429 Out ARINC 429
12 ARINC-TXA* Navigation Port ARINC 429 Out ARINC 429
13 Nav-TX Navigation Port RS-232C Transmit Out RS-232C
14 Nav-RX Navigation Port RS-232C Receive In RS-232C
RS-485 100 ohm ground -
18 Nav-Bias RS-485 Ground
connection
19 Nav-Com Navigation Port Ground - Ground
20 Nav-Com Navigation Port Ground - Ground
21 Nav-TXA Navigation Port Serial RS-485/422 Out RS-485/422
22 Nav-TXB Navigation Port Serial RS-485/422 Out RS-485/422
*Only applicable to part number 84560-X2-XXXX.

3.1 Ground
Aircraft ground is connected on two pins.
3.2 Power In
Aircraft power of 20-36 VDC is connected on two pins.
3.3 Reset
This circuit is reserved for factory test purposes only. Do not connect.
3.4 Strut Input

The Strut signal is an active low input. That is, the input should be grounded when the
aircraft is on the ground.
3.5 Nav TX/RX

The Nav-TX/RX lines use RS-232C signal levels. The RS-232C Nav-TX output carries
the same data as the RS-485/422 Nav-TXA/TXB pair. The Nav-TX/RX lines are used to
initiate the Altitude Zero Calibration function. Note that it may be advantageous to route
these lines to a point which facilitates shorting them for the Altitude Zero Calibration (see
6.5.1). If this is done, care should be taken that the lines do not accidentally short during
normal flight. During normal operation after the Zero Calibration has been
accomplished, these lines should not be connected.
3.6 Nav-Bias
This pin provides a 100 ohm resistive ground connection for the RS-485 communications
circuit.
3.7 Nav-Com
These connections provide a direct ground reference, if desired.
3.8 Nav-TXA/TXB
Used as the primary data interconnect, these pins are driven by an LTC485 device.
3.9 ARINC-TXA/TXB
ARINC 429 labels 164, 165, and 377 are transmitted on this interface at a rate of 25 Hz.
Cabling should shielded twisted pair with shield grounded to aircraft and radar altimeter
chassis.
3.10 ARINC Speed Select

This pin is used to configure the unit to output low-speed (12 kbps) or high-speed (100
kbps) ARINC 429 data. If this pin is left open (default) the system will output low-speed
ARINC data. If the pin is connected to ground, the system will output high-speed ARINC
data.

4 Functional Interfaces
The FreeFlight Systems Radar Altimeter provides serial RS-232/422/485 interfaces and
an ARINC 429 interface (Part Number 84560-X2-XXXX only).
The following sections describe the protocols used.
4.1 RS-232/422/485 Interface
4.1.1 Data Rate

Data is transmitted in multi-byte packets at 56,000 baud (LSB first, 8 data bits, one start,
one stop, no parity). System altitude packets are output at a rate of 25 Hz.
4.1.2 Protocol Definition
Note:
The information in this section is intended for engineering personnel and is
not required for installation.
4.1.2.1 Packet Structure

Each packet conforms to the following structure:
Field DLE ID LEN DATA CHECKSUM DLE ETX

Content 0x10 0xDF 0x03 3 bytes 1 byte 0x10 0x03
4.1.2.1.1 DLE (Data Link Escape Character)

Fixed byte = 0x10.
4.1.2.1.2 ID (Identification)
Fixed byte = 0xDF.
4.1.2.1.3 Len (Length)

Fixed byte = 0x03.
4.1.2.1.4 Data
Three data bytes are defined as follows:
Table 4-1: Data Field Definition
Byte Definition
1 Altitude High byte of a 2-byte binary field. (Units: Feet; Range: -20 to 2500)
2 Altitude Low byte of a 2-byte binary field.
3 Status Byte (See Table 4-2)

Table 4-2: Status Byte Bit Definition
Bit High (1) Indication Low (0) Indication

0 – Altitude Ascending Descending
1 – Self Test Test in progress Normal operation
2 – Status Unit Failure Normal operation
3 – Invalid Unlocked / Invalid output Locked / Valid output
4 – Strut De-asserted (In air) Asserted (On ground)
5 – Reserved
6 – Reserved
7 – Reserved
While the unit is in self-test during the first 20 seconds after power up, bit 1 (Self Test) in
the status byte is set. In case of a system failure, such as a communications error or an out
of range temperature reading, bit 2 (Status) of the status byte is set. Bit 3 (Invalid) of the
status byte is set when the ground return is insufficiently strong to determine an accurate
aircraft altitude AGL or the altitude is above the maximum system altitude.
4.1.2.1.5 Checksum
This is the one-byte 2’s complement of the sum of all the data bytes, including the packet
ID and LEN bytes (i.e. 0xDF03). Refer to Table 4-3 for a sample packet with normal
status (descending, locked, and good status) and an altitude of 1000 feet.
Table 4-3: Sample Packet at 1000’
Byte DLE ID LEN Alt Hi Alt Lo Status Chk DLE ETX

Value 0x10 0xDF 0x03 0x03 0xE8 0x00 0x33 0x10 0x03
4.1.2.1.6 DLE (Data Link Escape Character)

Fixed byte = 0x10.
4.1.2.1.7 ETX (End Of Text Character)

Fixed data byte = 0x03.
4.1.2.2 DLE Stuffing

This protocol requires that an occurrence of the DLE (0x10) character in either the data
or checksum must be followed by another DLE character. The receiver therefore, should
remove, or “unstuff”, the second DLE character when two are received in sequence.
Note that the “unstuffing” should occur prior to calculation of the checksum.

4.2 ARINC 429 Interface

This section applies to model RA-4500 (P/N 84560-X2-XXXX) only.
4.2.1 Data Rate

All ARINC 429 labels are transmitted at either low or high speed ARINC baud rates as
configured at installation time (see section 3.10) and are transmitted at a rate of 25 Hz.
4.2.2 Protocol Definition
Note:
The information in this section is intended for engineering personnel and is
not required for installation.
4.2.2.1 Parity
The parity bit of all labels is set to odd parity.
4.2.2.2 Source/Destination Indicator (SDI)

The SDI of all labels is set to 00.
4.2.2.3 ARINC 429 Labels

The following labels are transmitted:
Table 4-4: ARINC 429 Output Labels
Label (octal) Description

164 Radio Altitude (Binary)
165 Radio Altitude (BCD)
377 Equipment ID
4.2.2.4 Sign/Status Matrix (SSM)

A SSM of “normal” (0b11) is transmitted in label 164 and a SSM of “above” (0b00) or
“below” (0b11) in 165 as long as the ground return is sufficiently strong to determine an
accurate aircraft altitude AGL and as long as the altitude is at or below the maximum
system altitude. While the unit is in self-test during the first 20 seconds after power up,
the SSM of label 164 and label 165 is set to “functional test” (0b10).
If the aircraft is above the maximum system altitude or an insufficient ground return
signal is measured, the SSM of labels 164 and 165 is set to “no computed data (NCD)”
(0b01). In case of a system failure, such as a communications error or an out of range
temperature reading, the SSM of label 164 is set to “failure” (0b00) and label 165 is not
transmitted at all.
The SSM of label 377 is always set to “normal” (0b00).

5 Mechanical
5.1 Radar Altimeter Mounting
The mounting requirements for the radar altimeter are illustrated in Figure 5-1. Mounting
information for antenna P/N 9-1203-115-00 is illustrated in Figure 5-2. Mounting
information for the optional radar altimeter mounting tray, P/N 84947-00, is illustrated in
Figure 5-3.
5.2 Connectors
Interfaces to the radar altimeter are provided through three connectors as described below
in Table 5-1.
Table 5-1: Connector Descriptions
Function Description
Aircraft This 22-pin circular connector mates with
interconnections AMPHENOL P/N 10-565995-231N.
This TNC connector mates with AMPHENOL P/N
TX Antenna
225554-6
This TNC connector mates with AMPHENOL P/N
RX Antenna
225554-6

Figure 5-1: Radar Altimeter Installation Drawing

5.3 Antenna Mounting
Refer to Figure 5-2 for mounting information for antenna P/N 9-1203-115-00. All
dimensions are specified in inches.
Figure 5-2: Antenna (P/N 9-1203-115-00) Installation Drawing

5.4 Optional Mounting Tray
Refer to Figure 5-3 for mounting information for the optional radar altimeter mounting
tray, P/N 84947-00. All dimensions are specified in inches.
Figure 5-3: Mounting Tray Installation Drawing

6 Installation
6.1 General Information
This chapter contains suggestions and factors to consider before installing a radar
altimeter into an aircraft. Adherence to the suggestions will assure satisfactory
performance from the system.
6.2 Unpacking and Inspecting Equipment

Exercise care when unpacking each unit. Make a visual inspection of each unit for
evidence of damage incurred during shipment. If a claim for damage is to be made, save
the shipping container to substantiate the claim. When all equipment and the installation
kit have been inspected, save the packing material and container in case the unit is to be
stored or reshipped. See paragraph 2.6 for equipment and optional parts supplied.
6.3 Equipment Limitations

For a compliant installation in accordance with the Technical Standard Order (TSO) and
the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), the radar altimeter installation must meet the
following requirements:
“The conditions and tests required for TSO approval of this article are minimum
performance standards. It is the responsibility of those desiring to install this
article either on or within a specific type or class of aircraft to determine that the
article, when installed, performs in accordance with the design specifications that
meet this TSO. The article may be installed only if further evaluation by the
applicant documents an acceptable installation and is approved by the
Administrator.”
The Radar altimeter must be connected to a display in a manner that yields no

additional inaccuracies and with maximum additional latency of 80 ms (TSO-C87
§2.1). Added display inaccuracies trade with latency at a rate of ±1 ft to 40 ms;
i.e., a display introducing ±1 ft of presentation error requires that the permissible
installation/display component of latency decreases from 80 ms to 40 ms.
The display connected to the radar altimeter must utilize a failure warning
indicator plainly discernible under all normal flight conditions (TSO-C87 §2.6b)
driven by the status and the invalid bit of the radar altimeter status byte (see Table
4-2).
The antenna installation must comply with the specifications in Section 6.4
Antenna Installation.
6.4 Antenna Installation

6.4.1 Antenna Cable Selection
The antenna cables must have a certain minimum and maximum length for the system to
perform accurately and comply with the TSO. The absolute minimum cable length is
limited by the required minimum signal propagation delay caused by the cable and the
antenna height above the ground when the aircraft is on the ground. The absolute
maximum cable length is limited by the maximum allowable attenuation of the signals
caused by the cable.
Table 6-1: Propagation Delay and Attenuation of the Antenna Cable

Min Total Propagation Delay Max Attenuation
(ns) (dB)
31 8.5
Table 6-2 shows typical values of propagation velocities, attenuations, and the minimum
bend radius for commonly used cable types. Consult the cable manufacturer’s
specifications for the exact values for the cables used in the installation.
Table 6-2: Typical Antenna Cable Lengths

Cable Min Total Max Total Min Bend Propagation Attenuation/100’
Length1 (ft) Length2 (ft) Radius3 (in) Velocity (c) (dB) @ 4.35 GHz
RG-142 21.0 28.8 3 69.4 % 29.5
RG-393 21.0 47.8 6 69.4 % 17.8
Note: Total length refers to the combined lengths of the TX and the RX cables.
1
The minimum cable length specified assumes that the antennas are mounted 18”
above the ground, resulting in a 3 ns return delay (The propagation delay in air is
approximately 1 ns per foot). If the manufacturer’s data indicates a different
propagation velocity than the one given in Table 6-2 the minimum cable length
must be recomputed by the installer.
2
If the manufacturer’s data indicates a different attenuation than the one given in
Table 6-2 the maximum cable length must be recomputed by the installer.
3
The manufacturer specified minimum bend radius may differ.

6.4.2 Antenna Mounting Requirements
Refer to Figure 5-2 for mounting information. For proper performance and TSO
compliance of the radar altimeter, the radar altimeter antennas must be installed
according to the following rules:
Antennas should be mounted parallel to the ground within a pitch angle of 6°

when the aircraft is in level flight.
Antennas must be mounted with the arrows pointing along the same line. See
Figure 6-1 and Figure 6-2. They should be mounted in-line although a side-by-
side configuration is also acceptable with the Sensor Systems antenna (P/N 9-
1203-115-00). The EDO antenna may only be mounted in-line.
Note: The EDO antennas may only be mounted in-line and should not be
mounted side-by-side. Only the Sensor Systems antenna may be mounted side-by-
side.
If the antennas are mounted in-line, which is the preferred configuration, the
transmit antenna should be mounted in front of the receive antenna.
The angle between the pitch of both antennas should not exceed 6°.
The antennas should be mounted such that no protrusion is visible to either

antenna within a 120-degree cone (±60 degrees) below the aircraft.
Antennas should be mounted at least 18" apart and within 40" of each other.
The antenna height above the ground when the aircraft is on the runway should be
more than the separation distance between the two antennas.
Antennas should be mounted as close to the aerodynamic center of the aircraft as

possible to reduce the effects of aircraft attitude on the altitude measurement.
The base of the antenna should be properly grounded. The maximum resistance
should be less than 0.9 Ohms.
Antennas should not be mounted closer than 3’ to a DME, transponder, ADF or

VHF antenna.
During installation, avoid locations near high heat sources or where fuel, oil or
excessive moisture may collect. Bond and shield all parts of the aircraft electrical
system such as generators and ignition systems.

Figure 6-1: Aircraft Bottom View
Figure 6-2: Antenna Orientation
Arrows may point at each other, away from each other, or the same direction.
However, they must be positioned to point along the same center line.

6.5 Radar Altimeter Installation
The radar altimeter unit installation layout is shown in Figure 5-1. Route all data and
power cables away from circuits carrying high current, pulse-transmitting equipment, 400
Hz circuits and other sources of interference. Do not route altimeter antenna cables with
ADF antenna cables.
Note: Aircraft which exhibit electrical noise on the airframe or have surfaces or
panels which are not properly bonded can cause the altimeter to attempt to
"relock" above 2000* feet AGL, thus causing erratic altitude output. Thorough
bonding of all control surfaces, gear doors, access panels, etc. should cure the
symptom, but in certain extreme circumstances, it may be necessary to install an
on/off switch to disable the unit above 2000* feet. This condition is only
noticeable above 2000* feet and does not degrade performance at lower altitudes.
*2500 feet AGL for software version 300A and above

6.5.1 Display Interconnect
6.5.1.1 RAD-40 Display

Figure 6-3 shows the typical display interconnection between the radar altimeter and the
optional FreeFlight Systems RAD-40 Radar Altimeter Display.
RAD-40
25 Pin
Conn
25
13
11
17
GND
A
B
28 VDC
22 Pin
Conn
21
22
20
3
RA-4XXX
Figure 6-3: Typical Radar Altimeter to RAD-40 Interconnection Diagram

6.5.1.2 ARINC 429 Display
Figure 6-4 shows the typical display interconnection between the RA-4500 and an
ARINC 429 EFIS or MFD.
EFIS / MFD
PWR
GND
RXA
RXB
GND
A
B
28 VDC
22 Pin
Conn
12
11
20
3
RA-4500
Figure 6-4: Typical Radar Altimeter to EFIS/MFD Interconnection Diagram

6.5.2 Altitude Zero Calibration
The radar altimeter should be calibrated to account for the antenna height above ground
when a zero foot altitude is desired. This procedure should be performed once on initial
install of the unit or after servicing the unit. Reflections due to surrounding obstacles
may cause inaccurate calibration. It is recommended to Zero the radar altimeter in an
open area away from buildings, trees, or other large reflecting surfaces to improve
accuracy.
Note: If this procedure is not performed on install, after service, or is improperly

performed, altitude output of the radar altimeter may not be correct.
1. Remove or disable the Strut input to the system.

2. Clear all obstacles from around aircraft (including personnel).
3. Turn unit on and let run for a minimum of 5 minutes to warm up.
4. Turn off unit and all aircraft power.
5. Short together RS-232C navigation port TX and RX pins.
6. Switch power on for approximately 30 seconds.
7. Switch power off and remove the short from the TX and RX lines.
8. Switch power on. After the self-test is complete, the unit should now output 0'
while on ground.
9. Test and repeat as necessary.
10. Restore the Strut input, if necessary.
6.6 Post-Installation Testing
6.6.1 Pre-Flight Check List
1. Turn on power (after starting engines).

2. Verify the unit self-tests for approximately 20 seconds (during which it displays
40±3 feet and sets the self test flag).
3. After the self-test mode, the unit should output 0 feet while the aircraft is on the
ground.
6.6.2 Final Testing
1. During takeoff observe AGL and verify that it is increasing while the aircraft is
climbing.
2. After aircraft exceeds 2000* feet AGL verify that unit indicates “unlocked”.
3. With the aircraft above 3000 feet AGL in an open area:
a. Put the aircraft into a 500-foot per minute descent.
b. The unit should lock and start outputting valid altitude by 2000* feet
AGL.
*2500 feet AGL for software version 300A and above

7 - Environmental Categories
Refer to Table 7-1 and Table 7-2 for a summary of radar altimeter test categories.
7.1 DO-160E Test Categories for P/N 84560-0X-XXXX
Table 7-1: DO-160E Test Categories (P/N 84560-0X-XXXX)
Environmental Test DO-160E Category

Section
Temperature and Altitude 4 D2
Temperature Variation 5 B
Humidity 6 B
Shock/Crash Safety 7 B
Vibration 8 S Curve C
& U2
Explosion Proofness 9 n/a
Water Proofness 10 W
Fluids Susceptibility 11 n/a
Sand and Dust 12 n/a
Fungus 13 n/a
Salt Spray 14 n/a
Magnetic Effect 15 Z
Power Input 16 B
Voltage Spike 17 A
Audio Frequency Conducted 18 B
Susceptibility – Power Inputs
Induced Signal Susceptibility 19 ZC
Radio Frequency Susceptibility 20 RR
Emission of Radio Frequency Energy 21 M
Lightning, Induced Transient 22 A2XXX
Susceptibility
Lightning Direct Effects 23 n/a
Icing 24 n/a
Electrostatic Discharge 25 A
Fire, Flammability 26 C

7.2 DO-160E Test Categories for P/N 84560-1X-XXXX
Table 7-2: DO-160E Test Categories (P/N 84560-1X-XXXX)
Environmental Test DO-160E Category

Section
Temperature and Altitude 4 D2
Temperature Variation 5 B
Humidity 6 B
Shock/Crash Safety 7 A
Vibration 8 S Curve C
& U2
Explosion Proofness 9 E
Water Proofness 10 W
Fluids Susceptibility 11 n/a
Sand and Dust 12 n/a
Fungus 13 n/a
Salt Spray 14 n/a
Magnetic Effect 15 Z
Power Input 16 B
Voltage Spike 17 A
Audio Frequency Conducted 18 B
Susceptibility – Power Inputs
Induced Signal Susceptibility 19 ZC
Radio Frequency Susceptibility 20 RR
Emission of Radio Frequency Energy 21 M
Lightning, Induced Transient 22 A2XXX
Susceptibility
Lightning Direct Effects 23 n/a
Icing 24 n/a
Electrostatic Discharge 25 A
Fire, Flammability 26 C

FreeFlight Systems
3700 Interstate 35 South
Waco, TX 76706-3756 U.S.A.
1 (254) 662-0000
1 (800) 487-4662

RADALT

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Equipment Installation Manual

RA-4000/RA-4500 Radar Altimeters

EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION MANUAL

RA-4000 AND RA-4500 RADAR ALTIMETERS

Document No. 84629

LIST OF AFFECTED PAGES

Dates of Original and Change pages are:

Page Description Page no. Date

Title Page - October 7, 2010

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 A

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 i

6.2 UNPACKING AND INSPECTING EQUIPMENT .............................................................. 6-1

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 ii

Table 2-1: System Technical Characteristics................................................................... 2-3

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 iii

Figure 1-1: Radar Altimeter System Block Diagram

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 1-1

1.1 Reference Documents

Document Number Title

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 1-2

1.2 Table of Acronyms & Abbreviations

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 1-3

The radar altimeter system utilizes a reliable solid-state voltage-controlled oscillator

2.1 Operational Modes

2.1.1 Power On Self-Test

2.1.2 Altitude Zero Calibration

2.1.3 On Ground Operation

2.1.4 Normal Operation

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 2-1

2.2 System Limitations

2.2.2 Excessive Pitch/Roll

2.2.3 Rapid Descent

2.2.4 Response Time

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 2-2

Table 2-1: System Technical Characteristics

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 2-3

Table 2-2: Physical Characteristics

Table 2-3: Antenna (P/N 9-1203-115-00) Physical Characteristics

2.4 In-Flight Conditions

Table 2-4: In-Flight Conditions

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 2-4

2.5 Altitude Rounding

Table 2-5: Altitude Rounding

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 2-5

2.6 Component and Accessory Part Numbers

Table 2-6: Radar Altimeter

Table 2-7: Optional Installation Kit with Antennas

Table 2-8: Optional Installation Kit without Antennas

Table 2-9: Other Accessories

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 2-6

Table 2-10: Optional Indicator

Table 2-11: Optional Indicator Installation Kit

Table 2-12: Optional Cable Delay

2.7 License Requirements

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 2-7

Table 3-1: Radar Altimeter Interface Pin Out

Pin Name Function Direction Level

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 3-1

3.4 Strut Input

3.5 Nav TX/RX

3.10 ARINC Speed Select

P/N 84629, Revision J October 7, 2010 3-2

The following sections describe the protocols used.

4.1 RS-232/422/485 Interface

The Radar altimeter must be connected to a display in a manner that yields no

Antennas should be mounted parallel to the ground within a pitch angle of 6°

The antennas should be mounted such that no protrusion is visible to either

Antennas should be mounted as close to the aerodynamic center of the aircraft as

Antennas should not be mounted closer than 3’ to a DME, transponder, ADF or