Radar Operation Tips

January 2014

The Honeywell ART 2000 and ART 2100 are remote mounted weather avoidance radars R/T, primarily used for weather avoidance and ground mapping functions as an aid to navigation. These are high-performance modern radar that is proven reliable. But even simple things like getting in a hurry can have a huge impact during operation.

Honeywell SA ART 2000-100

Honeywell issued Service Aid SA ART 2000-100 that describes operational methods to prevent potential problems.

When shutting down the radar system, turn the mode switch to STANDBY and then wait at least five (5) seconds before turning the switch to OFF. If the antenna does not have time to move to the center parked position, some noise and/or vibration may be noticeable when the system is turned off.

Failure to pause in the STANDBY position when turning the system off may cause the following problems if the system is rapidly turned back on:

• Radar display may be blank
• Display may paint approximately half the screen and then stop
• An ARINC 429 FAIL message may appear on the screen

Over time, observations have indicated that other problems may occur:

• Loss of AFC calibration
• Loss of detector calibration

Honeywell Installation Bulletin 374

Honeywell Installation Bulletin 374 describes some precautionary measures to prevent damage to, or degradation of, the ART 2000/2100 high power digital weather radars.

These radars are specified to have an operating VSWR of up to 2:1. To prevent loss of performance, the following precautions are recommended:

• Lightning diverter strips installed on the bottom of the radome may cause problems
• Avoid using lead or metallic flake paints on the radome
• Avoid operating the radar near steel buildings.

This last point usually occurs inside a hangar, by transmitting into a close-by hangar door. This can cause a shorted T/R limiter, which results in weak returns. The damage may not be discovered until after take-off.

Following the proper operation and installation procedures and checking for the latest Service Aids for your equipment, can give you a greater and more dependable service life for your radar.