DOC AIRBUS | AMM A320FATIMS - ROUTER - DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
1. General
The ATSU router provides Character-Oriented with a routing service and an access to the Character-Oriented ACARS sub-networks.
The following applications are available on-board:
The currently available ACARS sub-networks are:
The following applications are available on-board:
The currently available ACARS sub-networks are:
** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL The ATSU router provides Character-Oriented with a routing service and an access to the Character-Oriented ACARS sub-networks.
The following applications are available on-board:
- Hosted AOC applications
- Remote AOC applications embedded in avionics peripherals: FMGC, DMU, CFDIU.
- Aeronautical Passenger Communications (APC) in the Cabin Terminals (CPMU and DIU if installed).
The currently available ACARS sub-networks are:
- VHF
- SATCOM (optional)
- HF (optional)
The following applications are available on-board:
- Hosted ATC applications
- Hosted AOC applications
- Remote AOC applications embedded in avionics peripherals: FMGC, DMU, CFDIU.
- Aeronautical Passenger Communications (APC) in the Cabin Terminals (CPMU and DIU if installed).
The currently available ACARS sub-networks are:
- VHF
- SATCOM (optional)
- HF (optional)
- ATC traffic is sent using ATN over VDL 2.
2. System Description
The structure of the air/ground communication services is composed as follows:
The structure of the air/ground communication services is composed as follows:
A. Air/Ground Communication Structure
(1) ACARS Router
The function of the router is to:
The function of the router is to:
- dispatch downlink messages from datalink users to the appropriate sub-network, depending on the message routing policy,
- direct uplink messages to the appropriate destination (datalink user).
(2) ACARS Datalink Layer
The function of the datalink layer is to:
The function of the datalink layer is to:
- interface the router with the available air/ground datalink network VHF3 or SATCOM as specified in ARINC 618 and ARINC 750 for the VHF Data Radio (VDR) interface,
- report the status of the available datalink network to the ACARS network management layer,
- control the VHF3 mode of operation (Voice/Data).
(3) ACARS Network Management Layer
The function of the network management layer is to:
The function of the network management layer is to:
- manage and acquire parameters essential for ATSU router operation,
- give the crew the control on the air/ground datalink communication,
- indicate the status of the air/ground datalink communication,
- allow the crew to activate tests,
- manage the Human-Machine Interface (HMI) for the ACARS communication services (access to the printer, Multipurpose Control and Display Units (MCDUs) and generation of air /ground communication specific FWC alerts and warnings).
(4) ACARS On-Board Router
The function of the ACARS on-board router is to:
The function of the ACARS on-board router is to:
- transfer air/ground messages to and from remote AOC applications as specified in ARINC 619
. remote AOC applications <---> ground
. remote AOC applications <---> hosted AOC applications - route uplink air/ground messages to the appropriate Flight Management and Guidance Computer (FMGC).
(5) AOC Peripherals Interface Layer
The function of the AOC peripherals interface layer is to interface the ACARS on-board router with the peripherals (ARINC 429 Williamsburg for file transfer and ARINC 429 broadcast for data access and delivery).
The function of the AOC peripherals interface layer is to interface the ACARS on-board router with the peripherals (ARINC 429 Williamsburg for file transfer and ARINC 429 broadcast for data access and delivery).
(6) VDR/SDU/HFDR Interface Layer
The function of the VDR/SDU/HFDR interface layer is to:
The function of the VDR/SDU/HFDR interface layer is to:
- interface the ACARS datalink communication with the sub-network equipment VDR3, SATCOM SDU and HFDR1 (ARINC 429 Williamsburg for file transfer and ARINC 429 broadcast for data access and delivery),
- interface the VDR with the SATCOM SDU and the HFDR1.
B. ATSU Router Databases
(1) Router parameters software (30TX): standard DSP World map database
This software contains the standard DSP world map database which contains two tables:
This software contains the standard DSP world map database which contains two tables:
- Media configuration tables
- VHF world map.
(a) Media configuration tables
These tables give the ARINC 618 parameters for each air/ground communication media, such as timers, counters, identifiers.
There is a Satcom media configuration table and a VHF media configuration table for each service provider.
These tables give the ARINC 618 parameters for each air/ground communication media, such as timers, counters, identifiers.
There is a Satcom media configuration table and a VHF media configuration table for each service provider.
(b) VHF world map
This database contains the VHF geographic areas for each service provider.
The ATSU uses the map to know which service provider can be proposed for selection in the scan mask.
No order of priority is given in case more than one service provider cover the same area. A scan mask must be defined in order to define on which frequency it must scan first through the VHF SCAN SELECT pages.
The world map is described over rectangular zones defined by the latitude/longitude of their south/east limits.
The first zone of the world map defined is delimited by 90°N at its north border and 180°W at its west border.
The world map can contain up to 512 zones and can be presented in an array form or in graphic format.
This database contains the VHF geographic areas for each service provider.
The ATSU uses the map to know which service provider can be proposed for selection in the scan mask.
No order of priority is given in case more than one service provider cover the same area. A scan mask must be defined in order to define on which frequency it must scan first through the VHF SCAN SELECT pages.
The world map is described over rectangular zones defined by the latitude/longitude of their south/east limits.
The first zone of the world map defined is delimited by 90°N at its north border and 180°W at its west border.
The world map can contain up to 512 zones and can be presented in an array form or in graphic format.
(2) ATSU configuration sofware (21TX)
This software consists of a database containing:
This software consists of a database containing:
- routing policies definitions
- configuration elements
- downlink messages priorities.
(a) Routing policies
A routing policy lists a set of allowed media with a preference order and the conditions which lead to a change of media.
A downlink message is submitted to the ATSU router with a routing policy code. The meaning of this code is customizable for hosted AOC applications and for ARINC 619 peripherals except FMGC.
For the VHF subnetwork, a service provider can be specified.
A routing policy lists a set of allowed media with a preference order and the conditions which lead to a change of media.
A downlink message is submitted to the ATSU router with a routing policy code. The meaning of this code is customizable for hosted AOC applications and for ARINC 619 peripherals except FMGC.
For the VHF subnetwork, a service provider can be specified.
(b) Configuration elements
The configuration database contains two elements which are "software pin-programmed":
The configuration database contains two elements which are "software pin-programmed":
- HFDL option for ATC applications
- VHF3 voice/data switching by MCDU (inhibited when ATC applications loaded).
(3) Router parameters software (30TX): standard DSP World map database
This software contains the standard DSP world map database which contains two tables:
This software contains the standard DSP world map database which contains two tables:
- Media configuration tables
- VHF world map.
(a) Media configuration tables
These tables give the ARINC 618 parameters for each air/ground communication media, such as timers, counters, identifiers, VDL2 parameters.
There is a Satcom media configuration table, a VHF media configuration table and a HF media configuration table for each service provider.
These tables give the ARINC 618 parameters for each air/ground communication media, such as timers, counters, identifiers, VDL2 parameters.
There is a Satcom media configuration table, a VHF media configuration table and a HF media configuration table for each service provider.
(b) VHF world map
This database contains the VHF geographic areas for each service provider.
The ATSU uses the map to know which service provider can be proposed for selection in the scan mask.
No order of priority is given in case more than one service provider cover the same area. A scan mask must be defined in order to define on which frequency it must scan first through the VHF SCAN SELECT pages.
The world map is described over rectangular zones defined by the latitude/longitude of their south/east limits.
The first zone of the world map defined is delimited by 90°N at its north border and 180°W at its west border.
The world map can contain up to 512 zones and can be presented in an array form or in graphic format.
This database contains the VHF geographic areas for each service provider.
The ATSU uses the map to know which service provider can be proposed for selection in the scan mask.
No order of priority is given in case more than one service provider cover the same area. A scan mask must be defined in order to define on which frequency it must scan first through the VHF SCAN SELECT pages.
The world map is described over rectangular zones defined by the latitude/longitude of their south/east limits.
The first zone of the world map defined is delimited by 90°N at its north border and 180°W at its west border.
The world map can contain up to 512 zones and can be presented in an array form or in graphic format.
(4) ATSU configuration sofware (21TX)
This software consists of a database containing:
This software consists of a database containing:
- routing policies definitions
- configuration elements
- downlink messages priorities.
- VDL2 parameters.
(a) Routing policies
A routing policy lists a set of allowed media with a preference order and the conditions which lead to a change of media.
A downlink message is submitted to the ATSU router with a routing policy code. The meaning of this code is customizable for hosted AOC applications and for ARINC 619 peripherals except FMGC.
For the VHF sub-network, a service provider can be specified.
A routing policy lists a set of allowed media with a preference order and the conditions which lead to a change of media.
A downlink message is submitted to the ATSU router with a routing policy code. The meaning of this code is customizable for hosted AOC applications and for ARINC 619 peripherals except FMGC.
For the VHF sub-network, a service provider can be specified.
(b) Configuration elements
The configuration database contains two elements which are "software pin-programmed":
The configuration database contains two elements which are "software pin-programmed":
- HFDL option for ATC applications
- VHF3 voice/data switching by MCDU (inhibited when ATC applications loaded).
- VDL2 mode activation.
C. ATSU DATALINK Pages
The ATSU DATALINK menu is accessible on the MCDU menu and gives access to the COMM MENU page.
The RETURN command is always available on key 6L and enables crew to display the COMM MENU page.
The AUDIT PRINT SET OFF function is available when the audit mode was set on and enables to disable this function directly from this page without having to get access to the AUDIT page.
The ATSU DATALINK menu is accessible on the MCDU menu and gives access to the COMM MENU page.
ATIMS - Access to COMM MENU Page ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
ATIMS - Access to COMM MENU Page ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
The COMM MENU page enables access to the router pages by selection of one of the different prompts.
The RETURN command is always available on key 6L and enables crew to display the COMM MENU page.
The AUDIT PRINT SET OFF function is available when the audit mode was set on and enables to disable this function directly from this page without having to get access to the AUDIT page.
The ATSU DATALINK menu is accessible on the MCDU menu and gives access to the COMM MENU page.
The COMM MENU page enables access to the router pages by selection of one of the different prompts.
The RETURN command is always available on key 6L and enables crew to display the COMM MENU page.
The AUDIT PRINT SET OFF function is available when the audit mode was set on and enables to disable this function directly from this page without having to get access to the AUDIT page.
The ATSU DATALINK menu is accessible on the MCDU menu and gives access to the COMM MENU page.
The RETURN command is always available on key 6L and enables crew to display the COMM MENU page.
The AUDIT PRINT SET OFF function is available when the audit mode was set on and enables to disable this function directly from this page without having to get access to the AUDIT page.
The ATSU DATALINK menu is accessible on the MCDU menu and gives access to the COMM MENU page.
ATIMS - Access to COMM MENU Page ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL ATIMS - Access to COMM MENU Page ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL The RETURN command is always available on key 6L and enables crew to display the COMM MENU page.
The AUDIT PRINT SET OFF function is available when the audit mode was set on and enables to disable this function directly from this page without having to get access to the AUDIT page.
The ATSU DATALINK menu is accessible on the MCDU menu and gives access to the COMM MENU page.
The COMM MENU page enables access to the router pages by selection of one of the different prompts.
The RETURN command is always available on key 6L and enables crew to display the COMM MENU page.
The AUDIT PRINT SET OFF function is available when the audit mode was set on and enables to disable this function directly from this page without having to get access to the AUDIT page.
(1) COMM CONFIG page
The COMM CONFIG page enables the crew to enter or check:
The COMM CONFIG page enables the crew to enter or check:
- the A/C REGISTR (ARN)
- the ACARS A/L ID
- the STANDARD A/L ID
- a VHF3 scan mask.
(a) A/C Register (2L)
This page enables crew to enter or display the Aircraft Registration Number (ARN) at all times and mainly in the case where the ARN information from the CFDIU is wrong or inexistent (e.g. "F-WWAI").
This page enables crew to enter or display the Aircraft Registration Number (ARN) at all times and mainly in the case where the ARN information from the CFDIU is wrong or inexistent (e.g. "F-WWAI").
NOTE: The ARN enables the initialization of the ATSU Router Function (ARF).
(b) ACARS A/L ID (3L)
Crew enters the airline identification over two characters (e.g. "AP").
Crew enters the airline identification over two characters (e.g. "AP").
(c) STANDARD A/L ID (4L)
Crew enters the airline identification over three characters (e.g. "AIB").
Crew enters the airline identification over three characters (e.g. "AIB").
(d) VHF3 SCAN SEL (4R)
This prompt enables to access to the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page where the crew selects a list of service providers.
This prompt enables to access to the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page where the crew selects a list of service providers.
(2) COMM CONFIG page
The COMM CONFIG page enables the crew to enter or check the essential configuration parameters:
The COMM CONFIG page enables the crew to enter or check the essential configuration parameters:
- the ICAO CODE (provided by the aviation authority)
- the A/C REGISTR (Aircraft Registration Number ARN)
- the ACARS A/L ID
- the STANDARD A/L ID
- a VHF3 scan mask.
(a) ICAO CODE
It is automatically acquired from the ATC transponders.
It is displayed in octal encoding in eight characters (e.g. "16021372")..
It is automatically acquired from the ATC transponders.
It is displayed in octal encoding in eight characters (e.g. "16021372")..
(b) A/C Register (2L)
The ARN is automatically acquired from the CFDIU (e.g. "F-WWAI").
The ARN is automatically acquired from the CFDIU (e.g. "F-WWAI").
(c) ACARS A/L ID (3L)
Crew enters the airline identification over two characters (e.g. "AP").
Crew enters the airline identification over two characters (e.g. "AP").
(d) STANDARD A/L ID (4L)
Crew enters the airline identification over three characters (e.g. "AIB").
Crew enters the airline identification over three characters (e.g. "AIB").
(e) CONFIG ACTIVATE (1R)
The crew validate the parameters by pressing this key.
The crew validate the parameters by pressing this key.
(f) VHF3 SCAN SEL (4R)
This prompt enables to access to the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page where the crew selects a list of service providers.
This prompt enables to access to the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page where the crew selects a list of service providers.
(3) COMM CONFIG page
The COMM CONFIG page enables the crew to enter or check the essential configuration parameters:
The COMM CONFIG page enables the crew to enter or check the essential configuration parameters:
- the ICAO CODE (provided by the aviation authority)
- the A/C REGISTR (Aircraft Registration Number ARN)
- the ACARS A/L ID
- the STANDARD A/L ID
- a VHF3 scan mask.
(a) ICAO CODE
It is automatically acquired from the ATC transponders.
It is displayed in hexadecimal encoding in six characters (e.g. "021372")..
It is automatically acquired from the ATC transponders.
It is displayed in hexadecimal encoding in six characters (e.g. "021372")..
(b) A/C Register (2L)
The ARN is automatically acquired from the CFDIU (e.g. "F-WWAI").
The ARN is automatically acquired from the CFDIU (e.g. "F-WWAI").
(c) ACARS A/L ID (3L)
Crew enters the airline identification over two characters (e.g. "AP").
Crew enters the airline identification over two characters (e.g. "AP").
(d) STANDARD A/L ID (4L)
Crew enters the airline identification over three characters (e.g. "AIB").
Crew enters the airline identification over three characters (e.g. "AIB").
(e) CONFIG ACTIVATE (1R)
The crew validate the parameters by pressing this key.
The crew validate the parameters by pressing this key.
(f) VHF3 SCAN SEL (4R)
This prompt enables to access to the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page where the crew selects a list of service providers.
This prompt enables to access to the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page where the crew selects a list of service providers.
(4) VHF3 SCAN SELECT page
This page is used to determine the list of service providers to be scanned and their priority level corresponding to the order of selection.
The VHF3 SCAN MASK is compulsory for the router operation.
This page is used to determine the list of service providers to be scanned and their priority level corresponding to the order of selection.
The VHF3 SCAN MASK is compulsory for the router operation.
(a) SP SELECT (1L, 2L, 3L, 4L, 1R, 2R, 4R)
These prompts display all the selectable service providers in scan mask and show whether a SP is selected or not and if it is, its priority level instead of SELECT.
These prompts display all the selectable service providers in scan mask and show whether a SP is selected or not and if it is, its priority level instead of SELECT.
(b) NEW SCAN SELECT/ALL INPUTS ERASE (5L)
This command enables to display a virgin menu to prepare the entry of a new scan mask or when a scan mask is already activated, it enables to erase it.
This command enables to display a virgin menu to prepare the entry of a new scan mask or when a scan mask is already activated, it enables to erase it.
(c) SCAN MASK ACTIVATE (5R)
This command enables to store the last selection and activate the VHF SCAN MASK command.
This command enables to store the last selection and activate the VHF SCAN MASK command.
(5) VHF3 SCAN SELECT page
ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
This page is used to determine the list of service providers to be scanned and their priority level corresponding to the order of selection.
The VHF3 SCAN MASK is compulsory for the router operation.
ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL The VHF3 SCAN MASK is compulsory for the router operation.
(a) SP SELECT (1L, 2L, 3L, 4L, 1R, 2R, 4R)
These prompts display all the selectable service providers in scan mask and show whether a SP is selected or not and if it is, its priority level instead of SELECT.
These prompts display all the selectable service providers in scan mask and show whether a SP is selected or not and if it is, its priority level instead of SELECT.
(b) NEW SCAN SELECT/ACTIVE SEL DISPLAY (5L)
(c) EMPTY SCAN ACTIVATE/SCAN SEL ACTIVATE (5R)
When no scan mask is activated and no service providers are selected, the NEW SCAN SELECT and EMPTY SCAN ACTIVATE indications are displayed.
When a scan mask is already activated or at least one service provider is selected, the NEW SCAN SELECT and SCAN SEL ACTIVATE indications are displayed.
When a service provider is selected, the cyan arrow disappears and the priority number is displayed after the region name according to the order in which it was selected (#1, #2, #3...).
Pressing the line key adjacent to the SCAN SEL ACTIVATE indication validates the scan selection.
Pressing the line key adjacent to the EMPTY SCAN ACTIVATE indication inhibits the VHF datalink communication means and the EMPTY SCAN ACTIVATED: VHF3 DATA INHIBITED indication is displayed on the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page.
When no scan mask is activated and no service providers are selected, the NEW SCAN SELECT and EMPTY SCAN ACTIVATE indications are displayed.
When a scan mask is already activated or at least one service provider is selected, the NEW SCAN SELECT and SCAN SEL ACTIVATE indications are displayed.
When a service provider is selected, the cyan arrow disappears and the priority number is displayed after the region name according to the order in which it was selected (#1, #2, #3...).
Pressing the line key adjacent to the SCAN SEL ACTIVATE indication validates the scan selection.
Pressing the line key adjacent to the EMPTY SCAN ACTIVATE indication inhibits the VHF datalink communication means and the EMPTY SCAN ACTIVATED: VHF3 DATA INHIBITED indication is displayed on the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page.
(6) VHF3 DATA MODE page
ATIMS - Access to VHF3 DATA Mode, VHF3 VOICE DIRECTORY and COMPANY CALL Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
ATIMS - Access to VHF3 DATA Mode ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
The VHF3 DATA MODE page displays a menu of various regions which can be selected by the crew. Each region is associated with a DSP and a frequency.
Only DSPs entered in the scan mask are displayed on this page.
This page is not displayed if no scan mask is activated.
Pressing the line key adjacent to the DSP indication changes the VHF3 frequency.
The crew can revert to automatic mode by pressing the line key adjacent to the REVERT AUTO indication.
The first information below the title is the current mode of the VHF3:
ATIMS - Access to VHF3 DATA Mode, VHF3 VOICE DIRECTORY and COMPANY CALL Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL ATIMS - Access to VHF3 DATA Mode ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL Only DSPs entered in the scan mask are displayed on this page.
This page is not displayed if no scan mask is activated.
Pressing the line key adjacent to the DSP indication changes the VHF3 frequency.
The crew can revert to automatic mode by pressing the line key adjacent to the REVERT AUTO indication.
The first information below the title is the current mode of the VHF3:
- MANUAL is indicated when the VHF3 is logged on a frequency that was manually selected by the crew on this page.
- AUTO is indicated when the VHF3 is logged on a frequency after automatic scanning of the scan mask.
- VOICE is indicated when VHF3 is in voice mode.
- SCAN is indicated when VHF3 is currently scanning frequencies.
- AUTO DATA INHIB is indicated when the aircraft crosses an area where no DSP is available according to the scan mask.
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| DSP Label ! DSP Label ! |
| on the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page ! on the VHF3 DATA MODE page ! |
| ! when this DSP is currently used ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| SITA ! SIT-E/A ! |
| EUR/AFR ! ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| SITA ! SIT-NAM ! |
| NORTH AM ! ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| SITA ! SIT-LAM ! |
| LATIN AM ! ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| SITA ! SIT-PAC ! |
| PACIFIC ! ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| DEPV ! DEPV ! |
| BRAZIL ! ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ARINC ! ARI-EUR ! |
| EUROPE ! ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ARINC ! ARI-AM ! |
| AMERICA ! ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ARINC ! ARI-AFR ! |
| AFRICA ! ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ARINC ! ARI-KOR ! |
| KOREA ! ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ARINC ! ARI-ASI ! |
| ASIA ! ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
| AVICOM ! AVI-JAP ! |
| JAPAN ! ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------- |
(7) VHF3 VOICE DIRECTORY page
The VHF3 VOICE DIRECTORY page enables to:
The VHF3 VOICE DIRECTORY page enables to:
- display a voice frequency directory issued from AOC applications (1L to 3L and 1R to 3R)
- activate one of these frequencies on VDR3 by pressing the line key adjacent to one voice frequency (same LSK as above)
- activate the voice frequency contained in the last received COMPANY CALL message (4L)
- to switch to data mode (5R).
(8) COMM STATUS page
COMM STATUS page displays the status of the different media and the validity of the link between ATSU and FMGC1/FMGC2/DMU/CFDIU.
COMM STATUS page displays the status of the different media and the validity of the link between ATSU and FMGC1/FMGC2/DMU/CFDIU.
(a) For VHF3
One of the following indications is displayed on the first line:
One of the following indications is displayed on the first line:
- INOP if VHF3 is inoperative (out of order or breakers pulled)
- DATA if VHF3 is operative in data mode.
- VOICE if VHF3 is operative in voice mode.
- DATA INHIB when the aircraft is crossing an area where no DSP is available according to the scan mask.
- DLK AVAIL if the VHF data link is available
- DLK NOT AVAIL if the VHF data link is not available (out of range of a ground VHF station)
- DLK INOP if a fault occurs on the VHF data link
- DLK OFF if the VHF data function is off (empty scan mask).
(b) For SATCOM
One of the following indications is displayed:
One of the following indications is displayed:
- INOP if the Satcom is inoperative (out of order or breakers pulled)
- NOT INSTALLED if no Satcom is installed
- DLK AVAIL if the Satcom is operative and the Satcom data link is available
- DLK NOT AVAIL if the Satcom is operative and the Satcom data link is not available.
(c) For HFDR
One of the following indications is displayed on the first line:
One of the following indications is displayed on the first line:
- INOP if the HFDR is inoperative (out of order or breakers pulled)
- NOT INSTALLED if no HFDR system is installed
- DATA if the HFDR is operative in data mode
- VOICE if the HFDR is operative in voice mode
- DLK AVAIL if the HFDR is operative and the HFDR data link is available
- DLK NOT AVAIL if the HFDR is operative and the HFDR data link is not available.
(d) ROUTER STATUS (page 2/2)
The second COMM STATUS page displays the status of the link between ATSU and different peripherals: FMGC1, FMGC2, DMU and CFDIU:
The second COMM STATUS page displays the status of the link between ATSU and different peripherals: FMGC1, FMGC2, DMU and CFDIU:
- OK indication if the link with the peripheral is operative
- INOP indication if the link with the peripheral is not operative
- NOT INSTALLED if the peripheral is not installed.
(9) DATALINK STATUS page
DATALINK STATUS page displays the status of the different media.
DATALINK STATUS page displays the status of the different media.
(a) For VHF3
One of the following indications is displayed on the first line:
One of the following indications is displayed on the first line:
- INOP if the VDR3 is no longer operational or the link between the VDR3 and the ATSU is no longer operational.
- DLK AVAIL if VHF3 is operated in data mode and:
ATN and AOA communications are established or
only ATN communication is established or
communication is established in mode A or AOA (mode 2). - DLK NOT AVAIL if the VHF3 is operated in data mode and communication previously established (mode A, ATN + AOA, ATN or AOA) is lost.
- NO NETWORK when the aircraft is crossing an area where no DSP is available according to the scan mask.
- VOICE if the VHF3 is operated in voice mode.
- ATC/AOC if ATN and AOA communications are established
- ATC ONLY if only ATN communication is established
- AOC ONLY if communication is established in mode A or AOA (mode 2).
(b) For SATCOM
One of the following indications is displayed on the first line:
One of the following indications is displayed on the first line:
- INOP if the SDU is no longer operational
- NOT INSTALLED if the SDU is not installed
- DLK AVAIL if the SDU is operational and datalink is established through the Satcom subnetwork
- DLK NOT AVAIL if the SDU is operational and datalink is not established through the Satcom subnetwork.
(c) For HFDR
One of the following indications is displayed on the first line:
One of the following indications is displayed on the first line:
- INOP if the HFDR is inoperative (out of order or breakers pulled)
- NOT INSTALLED if no HFDR system is installed
- DLK AVAIL if the HFDR is operated in data mode and datalink is established through the HF subnetwork
- DLK NOT AVAIL if the HFDR is operated in data mode and datalink is not established through the HF subnetwork.
- VOICE if the HFDR is operative in voice mode
(d) INTERFACE STATUS
The INTERFACE STATUS page displays the status of the link between ATSU and different peripherals: FMGC1, FMGC2, DMU and CFDIU:
The INTERFACE STATUS page displays the status of the link between ATSU and different peripherals: FMGC1, FMGC2, DMU and CFDIU:
- OK indication if the link with the peripheral is operative
- INOP indication if the link with the peripheral is not operative
- NOT INSTALLED if the peripheral is not installed.
(10) MAINTENANCE page
The MAINTENANCE page gives access to the TEST, STATISTICS and AUDIT pages.
The MAINTENANCE page gives access to the TEST, STATISTICS and AUDIT pages.
(a) TEST page
This page enables to test the link between the aircraft and the ground through a specific communication means.
Pressing the line key causes the ATSU to send a downlink message to the ground and wait for the answer:
This page enables to test the link between the aircraft and the ground through a specific communication means.
Pressing the line key causes the ATSU to send a downlink message to the ground and wait for the answer:
- IN PROGRESS indication is first displayed in green instead of REQUEST
- OK (in green) or FAILED (in amber) is displayed at the end of the link test
NOTE: The result indication is displayed during 15 seconds, then the REQUEST indication is again available.
1 REQUEST VHF3 LINK (1L)
This line key enables to activate the VHF link test and to display the status of the connection between the VDR3 and the ground.
This line key enables to activate the VHF link test and to display the status of the connection between the VDR3 and the ground.
2 REQUEST SAT LINK (1R) (if SATCOM system is installed)
This line key enables to activate the Satcom link test and to display the status of the connection between the SDU1 and the ground.
This line key enables to activate the Satcom link test and to display the status of the connection between the SDU1 and the ground.
3 REQUEST HF LINK (3R) (if HFDR system is installed)
This line key enables to activate the HF link test and to display the status of the connection between the HFDR and the ground.
This line key enables to activate the HF link test and to display the status of the connection between the HFDR and the ground.
(b) STATISTICS page
This page is dedicated to the display and the printing of statistics reports on each communication means.
This page is dedicated to the display and the printing of statistics reports on each communication means.
(c) AUDIT page
AUDIT page enables automatic printing of all downlink and/or uplink datalink messages that transit through the ATSU.
By default, the AUDIT mode is deactivated (all toggles set to NO).
Specific communication means can be audited separately:
This function can be deactivated from this page or from the COMM MENU page.
AUDIT page enables automatic printing of all downlink and/or uplink datalink messages that transit through the ATSU.
By default, the AUDIT mode is deactivated (all toggles set to NO).
Specific communication means can be audited separately:
- VHF3
- SATCOM (if installed)
- HF (if installed)
- UPLINKS
- DOWNLINKS.
This function can be deactivated from this page or from the COMM MENU page.
(11) MAINTENANCE page
ATIMS - Access to MAINTENANCE Page ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
ATIMS - Access to MAINTENANCE Page ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
The MAINTENANCE page gives access to the TEST, STATISTICS and AUDIT pages.
ATIMS - Access to MAINTENANCE Page ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL ATIMS - Access to MAINTENANCE Page ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL (a) TEST page
This page enables to test the link between the aircraft and the ground through a specific communication means.
Pressing the line key causes the ATSU to send a downlink message to the ground and wait for the answer:
This page enables to test the link between the aircraft and the ground through a specific communication means.
Pressing the line key causes the ATSU to send a downlink message to the ground and wait for the answer:
- IN PROGRESS indication is first displayed in green instead of REQUEST
- OK (in green) or FAILED (in amber) is displayed at the end of the link test
NOTE: The result indication is displayed during 15 seconds, then the REQUEST indication is again available.
1 REQUEST VHF3 LINK (1L)
This line key enables to activate the VHF link test and to display the status of the connection between the VDR3 and the ground.
This line key enables to activate the VHF link test and to display the status of the connection between the VDR3 and the ground.
2 REQUEST SAT LINK (1R) (if SATCOM system is installed)
This line key enables to activate the Satcom link test and to display the status of the connection between the SDU1 and the ground.
This line key enables to activate the Satcom link test and to display the status of the connection between the SDU1 and the ground.
3 REQUEST HF LINK (3R) (if HFDR system is installed)
This line key enables to activate the HF link test and to display the status of the connection between the HFDR and the ground.
This line key enables to activate the HF link test and to display the status of the connection between the HFDR and the ground.
(b) STATISTICS page
This page is dedicated to the display and printing of statistic reports on each communication means:
If the crew enters in the STATISTICS menu during the "IN" phase, the contents displayed are those of the latest flight.
If the crew enters in the STATISTICS menu after the "OUT" phase, the contents displayed are those of the current flight.
This page is dedicated to the display and printing of statistic reports on each communication means:
- ACARS VHF STATS
- SATCOM STATS (if Satcom system is installed)
- ROUTER STATS
- HF STATS (if HFDR system is installed)
- VDL MODE 2 STATS
If the crew enters in the STATISTICS menu during the "IN" phase, the contents displayed are those of the latest flight.
If the crew enters in the STATISTICS menu after the "OUT" phase, the contents displayed are those of the current flight.
(c) AUDIT page
AUDIT page enables automatic printing of all downlink and/or uplink datalink messages that transit through the ATSU.
By default, the AUDIT mode is deactivated (all toggles set to OFF).
Specific communication means can be audited separately:
This function can be deactivated from this page or from the COMM MENU page.
AUDIT page enables automatic printing of all downlink and/or uplink datalink messages that transit through the ATSU.
By default, the AUDIT mode is deactivated (all toggles set to OFF).
Specific communication means can be audited separately:
- VHF3
- SATCOM (if installed)
- HF (if installed)
- UPLINKS
- DOWNLINKS
- VHF GND STA.
This function can be deactivated from this page or from the COMM MENU page.
3. Interface
The ATSU is interfaced with on-board peripherals. The main ones are:
The ATSU is interfaced with on-board peripherals. The main ones are:
- for hosted AOC applications:
Flight Management Guidance Computer (FMGC),
Flight Warning Compuer (FWC),
System Data Acquisition Concentrator (SDAC),
Centralized Fault Display Unit (CFDIU),
Display Management Computer (DMC),
Clock,
Landing Gear Control and Interface Unit (LGCIU),
Data Management Unit (DMU). - for remote AOC or APC applications: FMGC, CFDIU, DMU (AIDS), Cabin Terminals (Cabin Passenger Management Unit (CPMU), Digital Interface Unit (DIU))
- for datalink sub-networks access and management: communication systems VDR3, SATCOM (if installed) and HFDR (if installed)
- for system management, maintenance and configuration: FWC, SDAC, CFDIU, Data Loader (embedded or portable), LGCIU.
- for multipurpose Human Machin Interface (HMI): Radio Management Panels (RMP) Multipurpose Control and Display Unit (MCDU), Printer.
- for hosted AOC applications:
Flight Management Guidance Computer (FMGC),
Flight Warning Compuer (FWC),
System Data Acquisition Concentrator (SDAC),
Centralized Fault Display Unit (CFDIU),
Display Management Computer (DMC),
Clock,
Landing Gear Control and Interface Unit (LGCIU),
Data Management Unit (DMU). - for remote AOC or APC applications: FMGC, CFDIU, DMU (AIDS), Cabin Terminals (Cabin Passenger Management Unit (CPMU), Digital Interface Unit (DIU))
- for datalink sub-networks access and management: communication systems VDR3, SATCOM (if installed) and HFDR (if installed)
- for system management, maintenance and configuration: FWC, SDAC, CFDIU, Data Loader (embedded or portable), LGCIU, ATC transponders.
- for multipurpose Human Machin Interface (HMI): Radio Management Panels (RMP) Multipurpose Control and Display Unit (MCDU), Printer.
A. Interface with the Flight Management System
(1) Interface with the FMGCs
The FMGCs provide the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
The FMGCs provide the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
(a) Acquisition of ARINC 429 parameters
- FMGC activity label
- Flight number
- FMS communication master/slave information
- Destination airport
(b) Exchange of ARINC 619 messages
(c) Transmission by the system of status information
- ATSU validity
- Datalink status
- Voice busy
- VHF3 voice
(2) Interface with the MCDUs
The MCDUs provide the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
The MCDUs provide the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
- Possible connection with the MCDU1, MCDU2 or MCDU3 and simultaneously with up to two MCDUs.
- Human-Machine Interface provided with the MCDU system pages and scratchpad message displays.
B. Interface with the Communications Systems
(1) Interface with the VDR3
The VDR3 provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
The VDR3 provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
- VDR mode control,
- ARINC 618 data exchange,
- VHF link management,
- Error indication,
- Status reporting.
(2) Interface with the RMPs
The RMPs provide the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
The RMPs provide the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
- Remote port select to indicate a request for switching the system which controls the VDR3,
- port select information to indicate which system is controlling the VDR3.
(3) Interface with the Satcom system (if installed)
The ATSU uses the services provided by the SDU1 to communicate with the ground in data mode. The Satcom manages by itself its frequency tuning and the connection with the ground network. The ATSU does not control the mode of operation of the Satcom.
The Satcom provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
The ATSU uses the services provided by the SDU1 to communicate with the ground in data mode. The Satcom manages by itself its frequency tuning and the connection with the ground network. The ATSU does not control the mode of operation of the Satcom.
The Satcom provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
- ARINC 618 downlink and uplink message exchanges,
- SDU1 status transmission to the ATSU,
- ATSU status transmission to the SDU1 (primary source/destination, failure...).
(4) Interface with the HFDR system (if installed)
The ATSU uses the services provided by the HFDR1 to communicate with the ground in data mode.
The HFDR1 provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
The ATSU uses the services provided by the HFDR1 to communicate with the ground in data mode.
The HFDR1 provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
- ARINC 618 downlink and uplink message exchanges,
- HFDR1 status transmission to the ATSU,
- ATSU status transmission to the HFDR1 (primary source/destination, failure...).
(5) Interface with the HFDR system (if installed)
The ATSU uses the services provided by the HFDR1 to communicate with the ground in data mode.
The HFDR1 provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
The ATSU uses the services provided by the HFDR1 to communicate with the ground in data mode.
The HFDR1 provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
- ARINC 618 downlink and uplink message exchanges,
- HFDR1 status transmission to the ATSU,
- ATSU status transmission to the HFDR1 (primary source/destination, failure...).
(6) Interface with the ATC transponders
The ATSU uses for the VDL mode 2 the ICAO code (24 bit address) from the ATC transponders.
The ATSU uses for the VDL mode 2 the ICAO code (24 bit address) from the ATC transponders.
C. Interface with the Electronic Instrument System
(1) Interface with the Clock
The Clock provides the air/ground communication routing function with the UTC date and time.
The Clock provides the air/ground communication routing function with the UTC date and time.
(2) Interface with the Clock
The Clock provides the air/ground communication routing function with the UTC date and time.
The Clock provides the air/ground communication routing function with the UTC date and time.
NOTE: If the clock is not synchronized with the GPS, an interface exists with the GPSSU.
D. Interface with the Flight Warning System
The FWCs provide the air/ground communication routing function with:
The FWCs provide the air/ground communication routing function with:
- alert generation service,
- warning generation service.
NOTE: The inhibition of the warnings depending on the flight phase is performed by the FWCs.
E. Interface with the Landing Gear System
The LGCIU provides the air/ground communication routing function with the Flight/Ground information .
The LGCIU provides the air/ground communication routing function with the Flight/Ground information .
F. Interface with the On board Maintenance Systems
(1) Interface with the CFDIU
The CFDIU provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
The CFDIU provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
(a) Acquisition of ARINC 429 parameters
- Aircraft registration number
- Flight number
- Destination airport
- SDU installed/not installed
- VDR3 installed/not installed
- CFDIU activity label
- Date
- ACMS DMU installed/not installed.
(b) Exchange of ARINC 619 messages
(c) Transmission by the system of status information
- System validity
- Datalink availability (VHF,SATCOM)
(2) Interface with the printer
The printer provides the air/ground communication routing function with the transmission of printouts service:
The printer provides the air/ground communication routing function with the transmission of printouts service:
- Audit block reports,
- MCDU page print,
- Statistics report print,
- Label C1 (free text) print.
(3) Interface with the A/C Condition Monitoring System Data Management Unit (ACMS DMU)
The ACMS DMU provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
The ACMS DMU provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
(a) Acquisition of ARINC 429 parameters
- ACMS DMU activity label.
(b) Exchange of ARINC 619 messages
(c) Transmission by the system of status information
- System validity
- Datalink availability (VHF,SATCOM)
(4) Interface with the Cabin Terminal system
The Cabin Terminal system provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
The Cabin Terminal system provides the air/ground communication routing function with the following services:
(a) Acquisition of ARINC 429 parameters
- Cabin Terminal activity label.
(b) Exchange of ARINC 619 messages
(c) Transmission by the system of status information
- System validity
- Datalink availability (VHF,SATCOM)
G. ATSU Pin Programming
The System Management functions of the A/C interface software also acquire pin programming information.
The System Management functions of the A/C interface software also acquire pin programming information.
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! SOURCE ! FUNCTION ! ACTIVATION CONDITION |
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! ATSU 1 ! Enable/inhibit 8.33 KHz ! ATSU installation and |
| ! ! resolution in addition to ! activation of the VDR |
| ! ! 25 KHz resolution for VHF3 ! 8.33 kHz function on |
| ! ! voice frequencies controlled ! RMPs |
| ! ! by ATSU. ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! ATSU 1 ! Pin Programming Parity ! Odd parity |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! CFDIU ! ATSU installed ! ATSU installation |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! DMU ! DMU installed ! DMU installation |
| ! ! Used by the air/ground! |
| ! ! communication function: ! |
| ! ! acceptance by the router ! |
| ! ! of ground messages to DMU ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! CFDIU ! SDU installed ! SDU installation |
| ! ! Used by the air/ground ! |
| ! ! communication function: ! |
| ! ! enable/inhibit SATCOM menus ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! CFDIU ! HFDR1 installed ! HFDR installation |
| ! ! Used by the air/ground ! |
| ! ! communication function: ! |
| ! ! enable/inhibit HFDF menus ! |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! FWC 1 & 2 ! ATSU installed ! ATSU installation |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
4. Operation
A. Router Initialization
The air/ground communication functions and services are active when the initialization is complete: they can receive ground messages from the sub-networks and send messages to the ground.
The air/ground communication functions and services are active when the initialization is complete: they can receive ground messages from the sub-networks and send messages to the ground.
The air/ground communication functions and services are active when the initialization is complete: they can receive ground messages from the sub-networks and send messages to the ground.
The air/ground communication functions and services are active when the initialization is complete: they can receive ground messages from the sub-networks and send messages to the ground.
(1) Mandatory parameters for router initialization
On ground, as soon as the ATSU is supplied, the ATSU performs its Power-On Self Test (POST) to determine if the ATIMS is operational.
If one of these three parameters is not available, the ATSU router function becomes unavailable.
They are entered in the MCDU via the COMM CONFIG menu and the VHF3 SCAN MASK menu.
The router also needs a valid DSP world map database to communicate.
If this database is invalid or if it has not be loaded, INVALID DATABASE message is displayed on the ATSU DATALINK page when COMM MENU is selected and the ACARS STBY or COMPANY DATALINK STBY warning is displayed on the upper ECAM DU.
On ground, as soon as the ATSU is supplied, the ATSU performs its Power-On Self Test (POST) to determine if the ATIMS is operational.
NOTE: Detected failures are recorded for BITE and Trouble Shooting Data.
Once the ATSU self test is performed, the ATSU checks the presence of mandatory parameters for its operation: - a valid Airline IDentification (ACARS and STANDARD A/L ID)
- a valid Aircraft Registration Number (A/C REGISTR)
- a valid scan mask.
If one of these three parameters is not available, the ATSU router function becomes unavailable.
They are entered in the MCDU via the COMM CONFIG menu and the VHF3 SCAN MASK menu.
The router also needs a valid DSP world map database to communicate.
If this database is invalid or if it has not be loaded, INVALID DATABASE message is displayed on the ATSU DATALINK page when COMM MENU is selected and the ACARS STBY or COMPANY DATALINK STBY warning is displayed on the upper ECAM DU.
(2) Mandatory parameters for router initialization
On ground, as soon as the ATSU is supplied, the ATSU performs its Power-On Self Test (POST) to determine if the ATIMS is operational.
If one of these three parameters is not available, the ATSU router function becomes unavailable.
ATIMS - Access to COMM MENU Page ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
ATIMS - Access to COMM MENU Page ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
Once all the required parameters are entered, the crew activate the displayed configuration by pressing the key adjacent to the CONFIG ACTIVATE indication.
If one of these parameters is missing or invalid, the ACARS STBY or DATALINK ATSU FAULT + ATSU INIT FAULT warning is displayed on the upper ECAM DU.
The router also needs a valid DSP world map database to communicate.
If this database is invalid or if it has not be loaded, the INVALID DATABASE message is displayed on the MCDU when COMM MENU is selected on the ATSU DATALINK page and the ACARS STBY or DATALINK ATSU FAULT + ATSU INIT FAULT warning is displayed on the upper ECAM DU.
On ground, as soon as the ATSU is supplied, the ATSU performs its Power-On Self Test (POST) to determine if the ATIMS is operational.
NOTE: Detected failures are recorded for BITE and Trouble Shooting Data.
Once the ATSU self test is performed, the ATSU checks the presence of mandatory parameters for its operation: - a valid ICAO code for VDL mode 2 operation,
- a valid Airline IDentification (ACARS and STANDARD A/L ID),
- a valid Aircraft Registration Number (A/C REGISTR),
- a valid scan mask.
If one of these three parameters is not available, the ATSU router function becomes unavailable.
ATIMS - Access to COMM MENU Page ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL ATIMS - Access to COMM MENU Page ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL If one of these parameters is missing or invalid, the ACARS STBY or DATALINK ATSU FAULT + ATSU INIT FAULT warning is displayed on the upper ECAM DU.
The router also needs a valid DSP world map database to communicate.
If this database is invalid or if it has not be loaded, the INVALID DATABASE message is displayed on the MCDU when COMM MENU is selected on the ATSU DATALINK page and the ACARS STBY or DATALINK ATSU FAULT + ATSU INIT FAULT warning is displayed on the upper ECAM DU.
(3) Aircraft Registration Number (ARN)
The Aircraft Registration Number (ARN) is made up of seven characters.
The ARN parameter is the static address used by the air/ground communication channel when the ATSU communicates with the ground. The service providers use ARN to route messages to the aircraft.
The ATSU receives the ARN from the CFDIU.
If the received ARN is valid, so no modification is possible and the ARN is displayed in green on the COMM CONFIG page.
If the ARN is unavailable or not valid for more than 60 seconds after initialization, then the ATSU Router:
The Aircraft Registration Number (ARN) is made up of seven characters.
The ARN parameter is the static address used by the air/ground communication channel when the ATSU communicates with the ground. The service providers use ARN to route messages to the aircraft.
The ATSU receives the ARN from the CFDIU.
If the received ARN is valid, so no modification is possible and the ARN is displayed in green on the COMM CONFIG page.
If the ARN is unavailable or not valid for more than 60 seconds after initialization, then the ATSU Router:
- signals the problem to the BITE,
- sends order to the FWCs to activate the display of the left green memo ACARS STBY or the DATALINK ATSU FAULT + ATSU INIT FAULT warning on the upper ECAM DU,
- displays the ENTER A/C REGISTR message on the MCDU scratchpad.
NOTE: If the ATSU has memorized an ARN parameter from the previous flight, then the memorized ARN is displayed in cyan on the COMM CONFIG page because it is modifiable.
(4) Airline IDentification (ID)
The airline ID must be entered by the crew in the COMM CONFIG page with its two and three character codes.
The airline ID is used in the air/ground communication as aircraft addressing dynamic means.
This parameter enables to identify where the uplink messages have to be routed.
If the airline ID is not valid or unavailable, then the ATSU router:
The airline ID must be entered by the crew in the COMM CONFIG page with its two and three character codes.
The airline ID is used in the air/ground communication as aircraft addressing dynamic means.
This parameter enables to identify where the uplink messages have to be routed.
If the airline ID is not valid or unavailable, then the ATSU router:
- signals the problem to the BITE
- sends order to the FWCs to activate the display of the green left memo ACARS STBY or the DATALINK ATSU FAULT + ATSU INIT FAULT warning on the upper ECAM DU,
- displays the ENTER A/L IDENT message in the MCDU scratchpad.
(5) ICAO code
The ATSU receives the ICAO code from the ATC transponders.
The ATSU uses the ICAO code in order to communicate with the ground, because the service providers use it to route messages to the aircraft through VDL2 link.
If the received ICAO code is valid, then the ICAO code is displayed in green on the COMM CONFIG page and not modifiable.
If the ICAO code is not valid or unavailable, then the ATSU router:
The ATSU receives the ICAO code from the ATC transponders.
The ATSU uses the ICAO code in order to communicate with the ground, because the service providers use it to route messages to the aircraft through VDL2 link.
If the received ICAO code is valid, then the ICAO code is displayed in green on the COMM CONFIG page and not modifiable.
If the ICAO code is not valid or unavailable, then the ATSU router:
- signals the problem to the BITE
- sends order to the FWCs to activate the display of the green left memo ACARS STBY or the DATALINK ATSU FAULT + ATSU INIT FAULT warning on the upper ECAM DU,
- displays the ENTER ICAO code message in the MCDU scratchpad.
NOTE: Once the ICAO code becomes valid, the ATSU resets the warning on the upper ECAM DU.
If the ATSU has memorized an ICAO code from the previous flight, then the parameter is displayed in cyan on the MCDU, on the COMM CONFIG page and is modifiable.
If the ATSU has memorized an ICAO code from the previous flight, then the parameter is displayed in cyan on the MCDU, on the COMM CONFIG page and is modifiable.
(6) Aircraft Registration Number (ARN)
The Aircraft Registration Number (ARN) is made up of seven characters.
The ARN parameter is the static address used by the air/ground communication channel when the ATSU communicates with the ground. The service providers use ARN to route messages to the aircraft.
The ATSU receives the ARN from the CFDIU.
If the received ARN is valid, so no modification is possible and the ARN is displayed in green on the COMM CONFIG page.
If the ARN is unavailable or not valid for more than 60 seconds after initialization, then the ATSU Router:
The Aircraft Registration Number (ARN) is made up of seven characters.
The ARN parameter is the static address used by the air/ground communication channel when the ATSU communicates with the ground. The service providers use ARN to route messages to the aircraft.
The ATSU receives the ARN from the CFDIU.
If the received ARN is valid, so no modification is possible and the ARN is displayed in green on the COMM CONFIG page.
If the ARN is unavailable or not valid for more than 60 seconds after initialization, then the ATSU Router:
- signals the problem to the BITE,
- sends order to the FWCs to activate the display of the left green memo ACARS STBY or the DATALINK ATSU FAULT + ATSU INIT FAULT warning on the upper ECAM DU,
- displays the ENTER A/C REGISTR message on the MCDU scratchpad.
NOTE: If the ATSU has memorized an ARN parameter from the previous flight, then the memorized ARN is displayed in cyan on the COMM CONFIG page because it is modifiable.
(7) Airline IDentification (ID)
The Airline ID must be entered by the crew in the COMM CONFIG page with its two and three character codes.
The Airline ID parameter is used by the ATSU to create the Flight Id parameter, by concatenation of the Airline Id and the Flight Number parameter coming from the FMGC.
The Airline ID can be acquired automatically from the customisation file in the ATSU ROUTER PARAMETERS database. In this case, it is just displayed on MCDU, but not modifiable.
If no customisation is applied, it is possible to enter the airline ID in the COMM CONFIG page on the MCDU.
The airline ID is used in the air/ground communication as aircraft addressing dynamic means.
This parameter enables to identify where the uplink messages have to be routed.
If the airline ID is not valid or unavailable, then the ATSU router:
The Airline ID must be entered by the crew in the COMM CONFIG page with its two and three character codes.
The Airline ID parameter is used by the ATSU to create the Flight Id parameter, by concatenation of the Airline Id and the Flight Number parameter coming from the FMGC.
The Airline ID can be acquired automatically from the customisation file in the ATSU ROUTER PARAMETERS database. In this case, it is just displayed on MCDU, but not modifiable.
If no customisation is applied, it is possible to enter the airline ID in the COMM CONFIG page on the MCDU.
The airline ID is used in the air/ground communication as aircraft addressing dynamic means.
This parameter enables to identify where the uplink messages have to be routed.
If the airline ID is not valid or unavailable, then the ATSU router:
- signals the problem to the BITE
- sends order to the FWCs to activate the display of the green left memo ACARS STBY or the DATALINK ATSU FAULT + ATSU INIT FAULT warning on the upper ECAM DU,
- displays the ENTER A/L IDENT message in the MCDU scratchpad.
NOTE: Once the crew has entered the airline ID on the COMM CONFIG page, the Airline ID becomes available and the ATSU resets the warning on the upper ECAM DU.
If the ATSU has memorized an Airline ID from the previous flight, then the parameter is displayed in cyan on the MCDU, on the COMM CONFIG page and is modifiable.
If the ATSU has memorized an Airline ID from the previous flight, then the parameter is displayed in cyan on the MCDU, on the COMM CONFIG page and is modifiable.
(8) Scan mask
ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
The crew selects the VHF scan mask on the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page.
The VHF scan mask consists in an ordered list of service providers (SP) usable for VHF data communications.
The scan mask is an ordered subset of the following list of authorized SPs proposed on the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page:
The following table gives the abbreviation for each service provider and the related frequency:
If the scan mask cannot be read by the ATSU, the DEFAULT VHF SP LIST message is displayed in the MCDU scratchpad.
If the VHF scan mask is unavailable, then the ATSU:
ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL The VHF scan mask consists in an ordered list of service providers (SP) usable for VHF data communications.
The scan mask is an ordered subset of the following list of authorized SPs proposed on the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page:
| ARINC AFRICA |
| ARINC AMERICA |
| ARINC ASIA |
| ARINC EUROPE |
| ARINC KOREA |
| AVICOM |
| DEPV BRAZIL |
| SITA AFRICA |
| SITA LATIN AMERICA |
| SITA NORTH AMERICA |
| SITA PACIFIC |
| AIRBUS TEST TOULOUSE (unavailable) |
| AIRBUS TEST HAMBOURG (unavailable) |
The following table gives the abbreviation for each service provider and the related frequency:
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! ABBREVIATION ! SERVICE PROVIDER ! MCDU LABEL ! FREQUENCY ! FAMILY ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! AF ! ARINC AFRICA ! ARI-AFR ! 126.900 MHz ! ARINC ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! AM ! ARINC AMERICA ! ARI-AM ! 131.550 MHz ! ARINC ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! AS ! ARINC ASIA ! ARI-ASI ! 131.450 MHz ! ARINC ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! AE ! ARINC EUROPE ! ARI-EUR ! 136.925 MHz ! ARINC ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! AK ! ARINC KOREA ! ARI-KOR ! 131.725 MHz ! ARINC ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! AV ! AVICOM ! AVICOM ! 131.450 MHz ! SITA ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! DE ! DEPV BRAZIL ! DEPV ! 131.550 MHz ! SITA ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! SE ! SITA EUROPE ! SIT-E/A ! 131.725 MHz ! SITA ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! SL ! SITA LATIN AMERICA ! SIT-LAM ! 131.725 MHz ! SITA ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! SN ! SITA NORTH AMERICA ! SIT-NAM ! 136.850 MHz ! SITA ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ! SP ! SITA PACIFIC ! SIT-PAC ! 131.550 MHz ! SITA ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
If the scan mask cannot be read by the ATSU, the DEFAULT VHF SP LIST message is displayed in the MCDU scratchpad.
If the VHF scan mask is unavailable, then the ATSU:
- sends order to the FWCs to activate the display of the green left memo ACARS STBY or the DATALINK ATSU FAULT + ATSU INIT FAULT warning on the upper ECAM DU,
- displays the ENTER VHF3 SCAN MASK message in the MCDU scratchpad.
NOTE: Once the crew have entered the VHF3 scan mask in the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page, the scan mask becomes available. Then, the ATSU resets the warning on the upper ECAM DU.
B. ATSU Sub-Networks Management
The ACARS Router is interfaced with ACARS sub-networks and manages simultaneously all air/ground subnetworks:
The ACARS Router is interfaced with ACARS sub-networks and manages simultaneously all air/ground subnetworks:
The ATSU supports an other VHF air/ground communication medium: VDL2 mode, also called ACARS Over Aviation VHF Link Control (AOA). This medium uses VHF and its main characteristics are:
The ATSU router chooses one of these two VHF communication media depending on specific criteria.
The ACARS Router is interfaced with ACARS sub-networks and manages simultaneously all air/ground subnetworks:
- VHF through VDR3 in mode ACARS
- SATCOM through SDU1 (optional)
- HF through HFDR (optional).
The ACARS Router is interfaced with ACARS sub-networks and manages simultaneously all air/ground subnetworks:
- VHF through VDR3 in ACARS mode (mode A) or in VDL2 mode
- SATCOM through SDU1 (optional)
- HF through HFDR (optional).
The ATSU supports an other VHF air/ground communication medium: VDL2 mode, also called ACARS Over Aviation VHF Link Control (AOA). This medium uses VHF and its main characteristics are:
- new frequency, new modulation (physical layer) and access mechanism to the RF channel (MAC)
- new air/ground protocol: AVLC
- new VHF channel management procedure: VHF Management Entity (VME)
- usage of a modified ARINC 618 protocol above AVLC protocol.
The ATSU router chooses one of these two VHF communication media depending on specific criteria.
(1) VDR3 operation
The VDR3 has two modes of operation:
The VDR3 has two modes of operation:
- in VOICE mode, the interface linked to the Audio Management Unit (AMU) is activated: audio interface
- in DATA mode, the interface linked to the ATSU is activated: datalink interface.
- a digital input port A linked to the ATSU,
- a digital input port B linked to the RMPs.
(a) When it is a ground signal
The VDR3 takes into account its digital input port A and operates on the frequency transmitted by the ATSU
The VDR3 takes into account its digital input port A and operates on the frequency transmitted by the ATSU
(b) When it is in open circuit
The VDR3 takes into account its digital input port B and operates on the frequency transmitted by the RMPs.
The VDR3 takes into account its digital input port B and operates on the frequency transmitted by the RMPs.
NOTE: When the ATSU is not supplied or is faulty, the Voice/Data select and port select discretes are in open circuit:
- the VDR3 operates in VOICE mode
- the frequency is controlled by the RMPs.
(2) Voice/Data mode management
The ATSU has direct control of the VDR3 switching between Voice and Data mode.
The VDR3 default mode is Data mode.
The switching can be initiated from:
The ATSU has direct control of the VDR3 switching between Voice and Data mode.
The VDR3 default mode is Data mode.
The switching can be initiated from:
- any of the RMP by selecting ACARS in the RMP ACTIVE window for DATA mode or a frequency in the RMP ACTIVE window for Voice mode (activation of the remote port select discrete).
NOTE: The switching command is initiated when the transfer pushbutton switch located between the two displays is pressed.
- any of the MCDU through the ATSU in the VHF3 VOICE DIRECTORY and VHF3 DATA MODE menus.
NOTE: The ATSU router monitors the value of the remote port select discrete sent by the RMPs for switching request detection.
(a) When the switching is initiated from one RMP
The vocal frequency to be used is sent directly by the RMP to the digital input port B of the VDR3.
The vocal frequency to be used is sent directly by the RMP to the digital input port B of the VDR3.
(b) When the switching is initiated from one MCDU
The frequency selected on VHF3 VOICE DIRECTORY page, is sent by the ATSU to the digital input port A of the VDR3.
The specific voice frequency can be:
The frequency selected on VHF3 VOICE DIRECTORY page, is sent by the ATSU to the digital input port A of the VDR3.
The specific voice frequency can be:
- selected from the list of 6 frequencies predefined and customizable by the AOCs (1L to 3L and 1R to 3R)
- entered manually (in this case, the validity of the frequency is checked during the MCDU data entry) (5L)
- specified in the last received COMPANY CALL message (label 54 uplink) (4L)
NOTE: On reception of a COMPANY CALL message, the ATSU checks the validity of the frequency proposed in the message.
(c) If the VDR3 is in Data mode
When the switching request is received, the ATSU router checks that VDR3 has switched to Voice mode after five seconds.
When the switching request is received, the ATSU router checks that VDR3 has switched to Voice mode after five seconds.
NOTE: If the VDR3 has not switched to Voice mode, the 'VDR switch impossible' message is displayed on the MCDU scratchpad.
(d) If the VDR3 is already in Voice mode
The ATSU router determines which equipment will control the VDR3 in Voice mode according to the origin of the switching request.
The ATSU router determines which equipment will control the VDR3 in Voice mode according to the origin of the switching request.
NOTE: In both cases, the ATSU sends, to the VDR3, the order to switch to Voice mode and to operate with the frequency transmitted by the system which requires the switching.
(a) When the switching is initiated from one RMP
The data frequency corresponds to the last frequency used in DATA mode.
The data frequency corresponds to the last frequency used in DATA mode.
(b) When the switching is initiated from one MCDU
The data frequency corresponds to the last frequency used in DATA mode if no new Service Provider has been selected on VHF3 DATA MODE page.
The VHF3 DATA MODE page displays a menu of various regions which can be selected by the crew. Each region is associated with a DSP and a frequency.
Only the DSPs entered in the scan mask are displayed on this page.
The data frequency corresponds to the last frequency used in DATA mode if no new Service Provider has been selected on VHF3 DATA MODE page.
The VHF3 DATA MODE page displays a menu of various regions which can be selected by the crew. Each region is associated with a DSP and a frequency.
Only the DSPs entered in the scan mask are displayed on this page.
NOTE: In both cases, the ATSU router sends to the VDR3 the order to switch to DATA mode and to use the frequency on the digital input port A.
The ATSU router checks that the VDR3 has switched to DATA mode after five seconds. If not, the ATSU router displays the "VDR3 switch impossible" message in the MCDU scratchpad.
The ATSU router checks that the VDR3 has switched to DATA mode after five seconds. If not, the ATSU router displays the "VDR3 switch impossible" message in the MCDU scratchpad.
(5) VDR3 operation
The VDR3 has two modes of operation:
The VDR3 has two modes of operation:
- in VOICE mode, the interface linked to the Audio Management Unit (AMU) is activated: audio interface
- in DATA mode, the interface linked to the ATSU is activated: datalink interface.
- a digital input port A linked to the ATSU,
- a digital input port B linked to the RMPs.
(a) When it is a ground signal
The VDR3 takes into account its digital input port A and operates on the frequency transmitted by the ATSU
The VDR3 takes into account its digital input port A and operates on the frequency transmitted by the ATSU
(b) When it is in open circuit
The VDR3 takes into account its digital input port B and operates on the frequency transmitted by the RMPs.
The VDR3 takes into account its digital input port B and operates on the frequency transmitted by the RMPs.
NOTE: When the ATSU is not supplied or is faulty, the Voice/Data select and port select discretes are in open circuit:
- the VDR3 operates in VOICE mode
- the frequency is controlled by the RMPs.
(6) Voice/Data mode management
The ATSU has direct control of the VDR3 switching between Voice and Data mode.
The VDR3 default mode is Data mode.
The switching can be initiated from:
The ATSU has direct control of the VDR3 switching between Voice and Data mode.
The VDR3 default mode is Data mode.
The switching can be initiated from:
- any of the RMP by selecting ACARS in the RMP ACTIVE window for DATA mode or a frequency in the RMP ACTIVE window for Voice mode (activation of the remote port select discrete).
NOTE: The switching command is initiated when the transfer pushbutton switch located between the two displays is pressed.
- any of the MCDU through the ATSU in the VHF3 DATA MODE menus.
NOTE: The ATSU router monitors the value of the remote port select discrete sent by the RMPs for switching request detection.
(a) When the switching is initiated from one RMP
The vocal frequency to be used is sent directly by the RMP to the digital input port B of the VDR3.
The vocal frequency to be used is sent directly by the RMP to the digital input port B of the VDR3.
(b) If the VDR3 is in Data mode
When the switching request is received, the ATSU router checks that VDR3 has switched to Voice mode after five seconds.
When the switching request is received, the ATSU router checks that VDR3 has switched to Voice mode after five seconds.
NOTE: If the VDR3 has not switched to Voice mode, the 'VDR switch impossible' message is displayed on the MCDU scratchpad.
(c) If the VDR3 is already in Voice mode
The ATSU router determines which equipment will control the VDR3 in Voice mode according to the origin of the switching request.
The ATSU router determines which equipment will control the VDR3 in Voice mode according to the origin of the switching request.
NOTE: In both cases, the ATSU sends, to the VDR3, the order to switch to Voice mode and to operate with the frequency transmitted by the system which requires the switching.
(a) When the switching is initiated from one RMP
The data frequency corresponds to the last frequency used in DATA mode.
The data frequency corresponds to the last frequency used in DATA mode.
(b) When the switching is initiated from one MCDU
The data frequency corresponds to the last frequency used in DATA mode if no new Service Provider has been selected on VHF3 DATA MODE page.
The VHF3 DATA MODE page displays a menu of various regions which can be selected by the crew. Each region is associated with a DSP and a frequency.
Only the DSPs entered in the scan mask are displayed on this page.
The data frequency corresponds to the last frequency used in DATA mode if no new Service Provider has been selected on VHF3 DATA MODE page.
The VHF3 DATA MODE page displays a menu of various regions which can be selected by the crew. Each region is associated with a DSP and a frequency.
Only the DSPs entered in the scan mask are displayed on this page.
NOTE: In both cases, the ATSU router sends to the VDR3 the order to switch to DATA mode and to use the frequency on the digital input port A.
The ATSU router checks that the VDR3 has switched to DATA mode after five seconds. If not, the ATSU router displays the "VDR3 switch impossible" message in the MCDU scratchpad.
The ATSU router checks that the VDR3 has switched to DATA mode after five seconds. If not, the ATSU router displays the "VDR3 switch impossible" message in the MCDU scratchpad.
(9) VHF frequency control
The airline and the ATC ground centers can exchange data with the aircraft through ground networks called Service Providers.
Since all the networks are interconnected, the data can be transferred over any network.
The airline and the ATC ground centers can exchange data with the aircraft through ground networks called Service Providers.
Since all the networks are interconnected, the data can be transferred over any network.
(a) ARINC 618 acquisition methods
- Manual: a service provider region is selected on VHF3 DATA MODE page
- Scan mode: when no communication with the ground is established using the current service provider, the ATSU starts scanning the list of service providers selected in the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page and displayed in the VHF3 DATA MODE page
- Automatic scan: this mode enables, when the aircraft is leaving a given VHF zone and entering another one, to quicken the frequency acquisition process. This mode is based on the use of a VHF world map, giving a list of service providers for each area. The router retrieves the corresponding service provider from the DSP world map database.
- Remote: change of frequency on reception of an autotune uplink message.
(b) VHF SCAN MASK
The VHF scan mask selected on the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page is displayed on the VHF3 DATA MODE page where the crew selects the service provider to be scanned.
The VHF3 scan mask is compulsory for the router operation.
For all frequency acquisition methods, except autotune method, only the frequencies acceptable by the airline (DSP contracted by the airline) are used by the Router.
A specific table called "VHF scan mask" lists the service providers contracted by the airline (no frequency information stored in this table).
This table is used by the Router in manual and scan modes to scan only on the contracted service providers.
The VHF scan mask selected on the VHF3 SCAN SELECT page is displayed on the VHF3 DATA MODE page where the crew selects the service provider to be scanned.
The VHF3 scan mask is compulsory for the router operation.
For all frequency acquisition methods, except autotune method, only the frequencies acceptable by the airline (DSP contracted by the airline) are used by the Router.
A specific table called "VHF scan mask" lists the service providers contracted by the airline (no frequency information stored in this table).
This table is used by the Router in manual and scan modes to scan only on the contracted service providers.
(c) Service Providers
In manual mode, the Router scans on a specific service provider region.
The ATSU uses this information to retrieve internally the frequency.
The service providers are:
In manual mode, the Router scans on a specific service provider region.
The ATSU uses this information to retrieve internally the frequency.
The service providers are:
| --------------------------------------------------------- |
| Service Provider ATSU Name Frequency |
| --------------------------------------------------------- |
| SITA Europe/Africa SIT-E/A 131.725 MHz |
| SITA Latin America SIT-LAM 131.725 MHz |
| SITA North America SIT-NAM 136.850 MHz |
| SITA Pacific SIT-PAC 131.550 MHz |
| DEPV BRAZIL DEPV 131.550 MHz |
| AVICOM JAPAN AVICOM 131.450 MHz |
| ARINC Africa ARI-AFR 126.900 MHz |
| ARINC America ARI-AM 131.550 MHz |
| ARINC Asia ARI-ASI 131.450 MHz |
| ARINC Europe ARI-EUR 136.925 MHz |
| ARINC Korea ARI-KOR 131.725 MHz |
NOTE: The ATSU permanently reports to the crew, via the VHF3 DATA MODE page, the SP region it is operating on.
(10) VHF frequency control
The airline and the ATC ground centers can exchange data with the aircraft through ground networks called Service Providers.
Since all the networks are interconnected, the data can be transferred over any network.
The airline and the ATC ground centers can exchange data with the aircraft through ground networks called Service Providers.
Since all the networks are interconnected, the data can be transferred over any network.
(a) VHF scan mask
ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL
The VHF scan mask is an arranged authorised list of Service Providers (SP). This is a global list which includes the providers with which the airline has contracted access upon the world existing list.
The scan mask is acquired through MCDU input (standard definition) or through a customized database (customized definition).
ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL ATIMS - Access to COMM CONFIG and VHF3 SCAN SELECT Pages ** ON A/C NOT FOR ALL The scan mask is acquired through MCDU input (standard definition) or through a customized database (customized definition).
(b) Service providers
In manual mode, the ATSU scans on a specific SP. The ATSU uses this information to retrieve internally the frequency, and all ARINC 618 parameters to be used to operate correctly with the selected service provider.
This table gives the list of service providers and their related frequency:
SITA and ARINC providers support both ACARS and AOA protocols on a number of regions, but AOA protocol is not yet deployed everywhere. The service providers are programmed in the ATSU with the default AOA frequency described in the above table for the whole region they cover, to be ready when AOA is available.
The ATSU router operates by default on the ACARS protocol. This is the ground which informs the aircraft that the AOA functionality is available with a specific squitter and the ATSU switches automatically in VDL2 mode.
The default frequency used are the ones described in the above table. An alternative frequency is proposed dynamically by the SP in a specific uplink message called "AUTOTUNE".
The ATSU router permanently reports to the crew via the VHF3 DATA MODE MCDU page, the service provider it is operating on.
In manual mode, the ATSU scans on a specific SP. The ATSU uses this information to retrieve internally the frequency, and all ARINC 618 parameters to be used to operate correctly with the selected service provider.
This table gives the list of service providers and their related frequency:
| -------------------------------------------------- |
| ! SERVICE PROVIDER ! ACARS ! AOA ! |
| ! SERVICE PROVIDER ! FREQUENCY ! FREQUENCY ! |
| -------------------------------------------------- |
| ! ARINC AFRICA ! 126.900 MHz ! 136.975 MHz ! |
| -------------------------------------------------- |
| ! ARINC AMERICA ! 131.550 MHz ! 136.975 MHz ! |
| -------------------------------------------------- |
| ! ARINC ASIA ! 131.450 MHz ! 136.975 MHz ! |
| -------------------------------------------------- |
| ! ARINC EUROPE ! 136.925 MHz ! 136.975 MHz ! |
| -------------------------------------------------- |
| ! ARINC KOREA ! 131.725 MHz ! 136.975 MHz ! |
| -------------------------------------------------- |
| ! AVICOM ! 131.450 MHz ! 136.975 MHz ! |
| -------------------------------------------------- |
| ! DEPV BRAZIL ! 131.550 MHz ! 136.975 MHz ! |
| -------------------------------------------------- |
| ! SITA EUROPE ! 131.725 MHz ! 136.975 MHz ! |
| -------------------------------------------------- |
| ! SITA LATIN AMERICA ! 131.725 MHz ! 136.975 MHz ! |
| -------------------------------------------------- |
| ! SITA NORTH AMERICA ! 136.850 MHz ! 136.975 MHz ! |
| -------------------------------------------------- |
| ! SITA PACIFIC ! 131.550 MHz ! 136.975 MHz ! |
| -------------------------------------------------- |
SITA and ARINC providers support both ACARS and AOA protocols on a number of regions, but AOA protocol is not yet deployed everywhere. The service providers are programmed in the ATSU with the default AOA frequency described in the above table for the whole region they cover, to be ready when AOA is available.
The ATSU router operates by default on the ACARS protocol. This is the ground which informs the aircraft that the AOA functionality is available with a specific squitter and the ATSU switches automatically in VDL2 mode.
The default frequency used are the ones described in the above table. An alternative frequency is proposed dynamically by the SP in a specific uplink message called "AUTOTUNE".
The ATSU router permanently reports to the crew via the VHF3 DATA MODE MCDU page, the service provider it is operating on.
(c) Standard world map
This is a definition of the coverage area of all the VHF/VDL service providers. There is a single world map for both ACARS and AOA protocols.
This is a definition of the coverage area of all the VHF/VDL service providers. There is a single world map for both ACARS and AOA protocols.
(d) Operating mode
The ATSU router establishes contact with a given service provider according to the method described below.
ARINC 618 acquisition methods are applied either in ACARS mode or in VDL2 mode:
The ATSU router establishes contact with a given service provider according to the method described below.
ARINC 618 acquisition methods are applied either in ACARS mode or in VDL2 mode:
- Automatic Map-Aided (primary mode)
This mode enables the aircraft leaving a given VHF coverage zone to enter another one, to quicken the frequency acquisition process. This mode is based on the use of a "VHF world map", giving a list of service providers for each area defined in the VHF world map. The ATSU router retrieves the frequency information from the DSP world map database.
This method is based on the current aircraft position (the ATSU router determines which are the VHF datalink service providers available in the overflown region) and on the airline preferences. This is done through the scan mask applied on the providers available in the region. The ATSU selects the two prefered ones (the first one is called the main and the second one is called the backup. If the link cannot be established with the main service provider, the VHF will scan the backup service provider and go back to the main one as soon as it is available again, and so on...
1 Manual mode
A service provider region is selected in the VHF3 scan mask on the MCDU, in the VHF3 DATA MODE page.
A service provider region is selected in the VHF3 scan mask on the MCDU, in the VHF3 DATA MODE page.
2 Automatic mode
This mode is operating when the aircraft position is not available in the ATSU. When no communication with the ground is established using the current service provider, the ATSU starts scanning the list of the selected service providers
This mode is operating when the aircraft position is not available in the ATSU. When no communication with the ground is established using the current service provider, the ATSU starts scanning the list of the selected service providers
(11) Data Exchange operation
- The ATSU configures the VDR3 in ARINC 750 protocol.
- The ATSU sends ARINC 618 blocks in digital format to the VDR3 (VHF data parameters such as data frequency, aircraft addresses).
- The VDR3 adds the VHF protocol overhead and performs the modulation on the VHF signal
- The VDR3 demodulates the received VHF signal and sends the received blocks to the ATSU in digital format.
- The ATSU controls the VHF operational parameters of the VDR3 (frequency...).
(12) Uplink messages processing
The ATSU router receives messages from the VDR3, HFDR1 (if installed) and SDU (if installed).
For uplink messages, the ATSU router determines the required destination by reading a specific label and forwards the message to the correct application (hosted AOC, remote AOC, printer...).
The ATSU router receives messages from the VDR3, HFDR1 (if installed) and SDU (if installed).
For uplink messages, the ATSU router determines the required destination by reading a specific label and forwards the message to the correct application (hosted AOC, remote AOC, printer...).
(a) Uplink message labels
The uplink message labels are the following:
The uplink message labels are the following:
| SQ Message Squitter |
| :; ACARS Remote autotune |
| _DEL General response |
| 54 Voice Go-ahead or |
| COMPANY CALL |
| C1 Printer message |
NOTE: All uplink blocks other than squitters (label SQ) and whose address fields (airline ID and ARN) do not match the aircraft addresses are ignored.
Messages with label H1 are directed to the remote AOC applications.
Uplink message with label C1 is sent directly to the printer.
The ATSU generates the green left memo "ACARS CALL" or "COMPANY CALL" when the uplink message is a Voice Go-ahead message (label 54). Messages with label H1 are directed to the remote AOC applications.
Uplink message with label C1 is sent directly to the printer.
(b) Uplink message sublabels
Sublabels enable to direct the message to the appropriate peripheral:
Sublabels enable to direct the message to the appropriate peripheral:
| H1/M1 FMGC1 |
| H1/M2 FMGC2 |
| H1/CF CFDIU |
| H1/DF DMU (ACMS) |
| H1/T1 Cabin Terminal 1 |
| H1/T2 Cabin Terminal 2 |
| H1/S1 SDU1 |
| H1/H1 HFDR1 |
| H1/H2 HFDR2 |
(13) Downlink messages processing
The ATSU router routes the downlink messages according to the availability of the sub-networks and according to the datalink sub-networks selection policy applicable to the application which generates the message.
The router informs the applications of the availability of the different sub-networks.
The ATSU router routes the downlink messages according to the availability of the sub-networks and according to the datalink sub-networks selection policy applicable to the application which generates the message.
The router informs the applications of the availability of the different sub-networks.
(a) Operation for AOC downlink messages
When the router receives an AOC downlink message, it performs the following operations:
When the router receives an AOC downlink message, it performs the following operations:
- it reads the routing policy code (destination code)
- it reads the priority associated to the message
- it reads the life time of the message
- it selects the first required sub-network as given in the routing policy
- it checks the availability of this sub-network. If it is unavailable, it checks the availability of the next sub-network given in the routing policy. When no other sub-network is given in the routing policy, the message is buffered until one sub-network becomes available.
NOTE: The router is able to buffer up to 32 messages for hosted AOC applications and 2 messages for each remote AOC application.
(b) Downlink labels generated by the ATSU router
Downlink messages are routed with one of the following downlink labels:
For remote AOC application, the following labels are defined:
Downlink messages are routed with one of the following downlink labels:
| Label MEANING |
| 5P Temporary suspension |
| _DEL General response |
| HX Undelivered message |
| Q0 Link test |
| Q5 Unable to deliver message |
| Q6 Voice to data change |
| advisory |
| QX Intercept/unable to process |
| SA Media change advisory |
| F3 Generated in response |
| to label 54 uplink |
For remote AOC application, the following labels are defined:
| H1/M1 FMGC1 |
| H1/M2 FMGC2 |
| H1/CF CFDIU |
| H1/DF DMU (ACMS) |
| H1/T1 Cabin Terminal 1 |
| H1/T2 Cabin Terminal 2 |
| H1/S1 SDU1 |
| H1/H1 HFDR1 |
| H1/H2 HFDR2 |
(c) Downlink message priority
The ATSU router sends the downlink messages according to their order of priority.
The following table gives the level of priority depending on the message source:
The ATSU router sends the downlink messages according to their order of priority.
The following table gives the level of priority depending on the message source:
| 1 Protocolar messages |
| (5P, F3, Q5, QX, _DEL) |
| 2 Link establishment messages |
| (Q0) |
| 3 Message media advisory |
| (SA) |
| 4 ATC communication |
| (provision) |
| 5 Essential ACARS message |
| (Q6, HX) |
| 6 Router manager messages |
| Remote AOC messages (FMGC) |
| 7 Hosted AOC messages |
| Remote AOC messages |
| (CFDIU, SDU1, HFDR1, HFDR2) |
| 8 Remote AOC messages |
| (DMU) |
| 9 Remote APC messages |
| (Cabin Terminals) |
(d) Routing policies
A routing policy lists a set of allowed media, with a preference order and the conditions which lead to a change of medium.
A routing policy lists a set of allowed media, with a preference order and the conditions which lead to a change of medium.
1 The hosted AOC application has defined the following routing policy codes:
- "V" code for VHF media only
- "S" code for Satcom media only
- "H" code for HFDR media only
- "G" code for VHF, then HFDR, then Satcom media depending on their availability.
2 The remote AOC application has defined the following routing policy codes:
- "V" code for VHF, then HFDR, then Satcom media depending on their availability
- "S" code for Satcom, then HFDR, then VHF media depending on their availability
- "H" code for HFDR, then Satcom, then VHF media depending on their availability
- "G" code for VHF, then HFDR, then Satcom depending on their availability.
(14) Uplink messages processing
The ATSU router receives messages from the VDR3, HFDR1 (if installed) and SDU (if installed).
All uplink blocks other than squitters (label SQ) and whose address fields (airline ID and ARN) do not match the aircraft addresses are ignored.
For uplink messages, the ATSU router determines the required destination by reading a specific label and forwards the message to the correct application (hosted AOC, remote AOC, printer...).
The uplink message labels are the following:
Messages with label H1 are directed to the remote AOC applications.
Uplink message with label C1 is sent directly to the printer.
The ATSU generates the green left memo "ACARS CALL" or "COMPANY CALL" when the uplink message is a Voice Go-ahead message (label 54).
Sublabels enable to direct the message to the appropriate peripheral:
Other labels are directed to hosted AOC applications.
The ATSU router receives messages from the VDR3, HFDR1 (if installed) and SDU (if installed).
All uplink blocks other than squitters (label SQ) and whose address fields (airline ID and ARN) do not match the aircraft addresses are ignored.
For uplink messages, the ATSU router determines the required destination by reading a specific label and forwards the message to the correct application (hosted AOC, remote AOC, printer...).
The uplink message labels are the following:
| SQ Message Squitter |
| :; ACARS Remote autotune or |
| AOA to ACARS autotune |
| :?? ACARS to AOA autotune |
| _DEL General response |
| 54 Voice Go-ahead or |
| COMPANY CALL |
| C1 Printer message |
Messages with label H1 are directed to the remote AOC applications.
Uplink message with label C1 is sent directly to the printer.
The ATSU generates the green left memo "ACARS CALL" or "COMPANY CALL" when the uplink message is a Voice Go-ahead message (label 54).
Sublabels enable to direct the message to the appropriate peripheral:
| H1/M1 FMGC1 |
| H1/M2 FMGC2 |
| H1/CF CFDIU |
| H1/DF DMU (ACMS) |
| H1/T1 Cabin Terminal 1 |
| H1/T2 Cabin Terminal 2 |
| H1/S1 SDU1 |
| H1/H1 HFDR1 |
| H1/H2 HFDR2 |
Other labels are directed to hosted AOC applications.
(15) Downlink messages processing
The ATSU router routes the downlink messages according to the availability of the sub-networks and according to the datalink sub-networks selection policy applicable to the application which generates the message.
The router informs the applications of the availability of the different sub-networks.
The ATSU router routes the downlink messages according to the availability of the sub-networks and according to the datalink sub-networks selection policy applicable to the application which generates the message.
The router informs the applications of the availability of the different sub-networks.
(a) Operation for AOC downlink messages
When the router receives an AOC downlink message, it performs the following operations:
When the router receives an AOC downlink message, it performs the following operations:
- it reads the routing policy code (destination code)
- it reads the priority associated to the message
- it reads the life time of the message
- it selects the first required sub-network as given in the routing policy
- it checks the availability of this sub-network. If it is unavailable, it checks the availability of the next sub-network given in the routing policy. When no other sub-network is given in the routing policy, the message is buffered until one sub-network becomes available.
NOTE: The router is able to buffer up to 32 messages for hosted AOC applications and 2 messages for each remote AOC application.
(b) Downlink labels generated by the ATSU router
Downlink messages are routed with one of the following downlink labels:
For remote AOC application, the following labels are defined:
Downlink messages are routed with one of the following downlink labels:
| Label MEANING |
| 5P Temporary suspension |
| _DEL General response |
| HX Undelivered message |
| Q0 Link test |
| Q5 Unable to deliver message |
| Q6 Voice to data change |
| advisory |
| QX Intercept/unable to process |
| SA Media change advisory |
| F3 Generated in response |
| to label 54 uplink |
| 5V Switch from ACARS VDL |
| Mode ACARS to AOA VDL2 |
For remote AOC application, the following labels are defined:
| H1/M1 FMGC1 |
| H1/M2 FMGC2 |
| H1/CF CFDIU |
| H1/DF DMU (ACMS) |
| H1/T1 Cabin Terminal 1 |
| H1/T2 Cabin Terminal 2 |
| H1/S1 SDU1 |
| H1/H1 HFDR1 |
| H1/H2 HFDR2 |
(c) Downlink message priority
The ATSU router sends the downlink messages according to their order of priority.
The following table gives the level of priority depending on the message source:
The ATSU router sends the downlink messages according to their order of priority.
The following table gives the level of priority depending on the message source:
| 1 Protocolar messages |
| (5P, F3, Q5, QX, _DEL, 5V) |
| 2 Link establishment messages |
| (Q0) |
| 3 Message media advisory |
| (SA) |
| 4 ATC communication |
| (provision) |
| 5 Essential ACARS message |
| (Q6, HX) |
| 6 Router manager messages |
| Remote AOC messages (FMGC) |
| 7 Hosted AOC messages |
| Remote AOC messages |
| (CFDIU, SDU1, HFDR1, HFDR2) |
| 8 Remote AOC messages |
| (DMU) |
| 9 Remote APC messages |
| (Cabin Terminals) |
(d) Routing policies
A routing policy lists a set of allowed media, with a preference order and the conditions which lead to a change of medium.
A routing policy lists a set of allowed media, with a preference order and the conditions which lead to a change of medium.
1 The hosted AOC application has defined the following routing policy codes:
- "V" code for VHF media only
- "S" code for Satcom media only
- "H" code for HFDR media only
- "G" code for VHF, then HFDR, then Satcom media depending on their availability.
2 The remote AOC application has defined the following routing policy codes:
- "V" code for VHF, then HFDR, then Satcom media depending on their availability
- "S" code for Satcom, then HFDR, then VHF media depending on their availability
- "H" code for HFDR, then Satcom, then VHF media depending on their availability
- "G" code for VHF, then HFDR, then Satcom depending on their availability.
C. Air/Ground Datalink Communication Indicating
(1) FWC warnings
The ATSU uses the services provided by the FWCs to activate visual/aural alerts and alarms in case of:
The FWCs are used to generate these warning indications according to the information provided by the ATSU. The conditions of activation/deactivation of these warning indications are managed by the ATSU, while the FWCs are in charge of display, priority and inhibition management.
A pin-programming is activated on the FWC following airline request to generate:
The ATSU uses the services provided by the FWCs to activate visual/aural alerts and alarms in case of:
- AOC message reception
- failure or unavailability of datalink functions.
The FWCs are used to generate these warning indications according to the information provided by the ATSU. The conditions of activation/deactivation of these warning indications are managed by the ATSU, while the FWCs are in charge of display, priority and inhibition management.
A pin-programming is activated on the FWC following airline request to generate:
- ACARS warnings when the "ACARS installed" hard pin-programming is activated
- ATSU warnings when the "ATSU installed" hard pin-programming is activated
(a) ECAM warnings related to AOC application
When an uplink message is received on-board for the ATSU hosted AOC application, the following alerts are generated.
When an uplink message is received on-board for the ATSU hosted AOC application, the following alerts are generated.
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| CONDITIONS UPPER ECAM DU WARNINGS |
| "ACARS installed" "ATSU installed" |
| pin-prog activated pin-prog activated |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| AOC message has been received ACARS MSG COMPANY MSG |
| from the ground (green right memo, (green right memo, |
| pulsing for 10s, not flashing) |
| and then steady) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| A message requesting a voice ACARS CALL COMPANY CALL |
| communication has been (green right memo, (green right memo, |
| received from the ground pulsing for 10s not flashing) |
| and then steady) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| The crew has received a high COMPANY ALERT |
| importance message from the (green left memo, |
| company. pulsing for 180s, |
| then steady |
| with the BUZZER |
| continuous sound) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(b) ECAM warnings related to the AOC datalink failure
The crew is informed of the datalink system status by the ECAM warnings described in the table below:
The crew is informed of the datalink system status by the ECAM warnings described in the table below:
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| CONDITIONS UPPER ECAM DU WARNINGS |
| "ACARS installed" "ATSU installed" |
| pin-prog activated pin-prog activate |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ATSU failure: the ATSU is COM ACARS FAULT DATALINK ATSU FAULT |
| not working any more. (amber warning) (amber warning with |
| No datalink communications MASTER CAUT light |
| between ground and and Single Chime |
| aircraft are available. activated) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ATSU initialization failure COM ACARS FAULT DATALINK ATSU FAULT |
| Some essential parameters ATSU INIT FAULT |
| are missing for ATSU working. (amber warning with |
| No datalink communications MAST CAUT light and |
| between ground and aircraft Single Chime |
| are available until the crew activated) |
| enters the missing parameters. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Temporary loss of AOC datalink ACARS STBY COMPANY DATALINK STBY |
| communication: the air-ground (green right memo) (green left memo) |
| communication means used for |
| AOC application are temporarily |
| unavailable but not failed. |
| The ATSU is trying to recover |
| the datalink communication |
| with the ground |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| AOC datalink communication DATALINK COMPANY FAULT |
| failure: the air-ground (amber warning) |
| communication means used for |
| AOC application are all |
| failed. The datalink |
| communications are definitely |
| unavailable. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(c) ECAM warnings related to the datalink media failure
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| CONDITIONS UPPER ECAM DU WARNINGS |
| "ACARS installed" "ATSU installed" |
| pin-prog activated pin-prog activated |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VHF3 data loss: VDR3 is failed COM VHF 3 FAULT COM VHF 3 DATA FAULT |
| for datalink communication. (amber warning) (amber warning) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| SATCOM data loss: SATCOM is COM SATCOM FAULT COM SATCOM DATA FAULT |
| failed for datalink (amber message) (amber message) |
| communication. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| HF 1 data loss: HFDR 1 is COM HF 1 FAULT COM HF 1 DATA FAULT |
| failed for datalink (amber message) (amber message) |
| communication. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VHF3 in voice mode: the VHF3 is VHF 3 VOICE VHF 3 VOICE |
| currently used in voice mode. (green right memo) (green right memo) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| HFDR in voice mode: the HFDR is HF VOICE HF VOICE |
| currently used in voice mode. (green right memo) (green right memo) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| HF data on ground HF DATA OVRD |
| (green right memo) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| The crew has received a message SATCOM ALERT |
| requesting a voice communication (green right memo) |
| from the ground. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(2) MCDU scratchpad messages
These messages are automatically displayed to inform the pilot of a given situation :
These messages are automatically displayed to inform the pilot of a given situation :
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| MESSAGE DISPLAYED ! COLOR ! COMMENT ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ENTER A/C REGISTR ! Amber ! The Aircraft Registration Number is not ! |
| ! ! entered or not valid. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ENTER ACARS A/L ID ! Amber ! The Airline identifier is not entered or ! |
| ! ! not valid. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ENTER VHF3 SCAN SELECT ! Amber ! The VHF3 SCAN MASK is not entered or ! |
| ! ! not valid. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| DEFAULT VHF SP LIST ! Amber ! The ATSU cannot configure the Router or ! |
| ! ! the VHF scan mask used by the Router has ! |
| ! ! a default. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VHF3 SWITCH IMPOSSIBLE ! Amber ! The VHF3 cannot switch in Voice or Data ! |
| ! ! mode. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| NOT ALLOWED ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| PRINT FAILED ! White ! The printing operation has failed. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| FORMAT ERROR ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| SYSTEM BUSY - TRY LATER ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| COMMAND NOT AVAILABLE ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VHF3 CAN BE SET IN VOICE! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| PRT MSG PRINT FAIL ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| PLEASE WAIT ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(3) FWC warnings
The ATSU uses the services provided by the FWCs to activate visual/aural alerts and alarms in case of:
The FWCs are used to generate these warning indications according to the information provided by the ATSU. The conditions of activation/deactivation of these warning indications are managed by the ATSU, while the FWCs are in charge of display, priority and inhibition management.
A pin-programming is activated on the FWC following airline request to generate:
The ATSU uses the services provided by the FWCs to activate visual/aural alerts and alarms in case of:
- AOC message reception
- failure or unavailability of datalink functions.
The FWCs are used to generate these warning indications according to the information provided by the ATSU. The conditions of activation/deactivation of these warning indications are managed by the ATSU, while the FWCs are in charge of display, priority and inhibition management.
A pin-programming is activated on the FWC following airline request to generate:
- ACARS warnings when the "ACARS installed" hard pin-programming is activated
- ATSU warnings when the "ATSU installed" hard pin-programming is activated
(a) ECAM warnings related to AOC application
When an uplink message is received on-board for the ATSU hosted AOC application, the following alerts are generated.
When an uplink message is received on-board for the ATSU hosted AOC application, the following alerts are generated.
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| CONDITIONS UPPER ECAM DU WARNINGS |
| "ACARS installed" "ATSU installed" |
| pin-prog activated pin-prog activated |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| AOC message has been received ACARS MSG COMPANY MSG |
| from the ground (green right memo, (green right memo, |
| pulsing for 10s, not flashing) |
| and then steady) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| A message requesting a voice ACARS CALL COMPANY CALL |
| communication has been (green right memo, (green right memo, |
| received from the ground pulsing for 10s not flashing) |
| and then steady) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| The crew has received a high COMPANY ALERT |
| importance message from the (green left memo, |
| company. pulsing for 180s, |
| then steady |
| with the BUZZER |
| continuous sound) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(b) ECAM warnings related to the AOC datalink failure
The crew is informed of the datalink system status by the ECAM warnings described in the table below:
The crew is informed of the datalink system status by the ECAM warnings described in the table below:
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| CONDITIONS UPPER ECAM DU WARNINGS |
| "ACARS installed" "ATSU installed" |
| pin-prog activated pin-prog activate |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ATSU failure: the ATSU is COM ACARS FAULT DATALINK ATSU FAULT |
| not working any more. (amber warning) (amber warning with |
| No datalink communications MASTER CAUT light |
| between ground and and Single Chime |
| aircraft are available. activated) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ATSU initialization failure COM ACARS FAULT DATALINK ATSU FAULT |
| Some essential parameters ATSU INIT FAULT |
| are missing for ATSU working. (amber warning with |
| No datalink communications MAST CAUT light and |
| between ground and aircraft Single Chime |
| are available until the crew activated) |
| enters the missing parameters. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Temporary loss of AOC datalink ACARS STBY COMPANY DATALINK STBY |
| communication: the air-ground (green right memo) (green left memo) |
| communication means used for |
| AOC application are temporarily |
| unavailable but not failed. |
| The ATSU is trying to recover |
| the datalink communication |
| with the ground |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| AOC datalink communication DATALINK COMPANY FAULT |
| failure: the air-ground (amber warning) |
| communication means used for |
| AOC application are all |
| failed. The datalink |
| communications are definitely |
| unavailable. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(c) ECAM warnings related to the datalink media failure
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| CONDITIONS UPPER ECAM DU WARNINGS |
| "ACARS installed" "ATSU installed" |
| pin-prog activated pin-prog activated |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VHF3 data loss: VDR3 is failed COM VHF 3 FAULT COM VHF 3 DATA FAULT |
| for datalink communication. (amber warning) (amber warning) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| SATCOM data loss: SATCOM is COM SATCOM FAULT COM SATCOM DATA FAULT |
| failed for datalink (amber message) (amber message) |
| communication. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| HF 1 data loss: HFDR 1 is COM HF 1 FAULT COM HF 1 DATA FAULT |
| failed for datalink (amber message) (amber message) |
| communication. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VHF3 in voice mode: the VHF3 is VHF 3 VOICE VHF 3 VOICE |
| currently used in voice mode. (green right memo) (green right memo) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| HFDR in voice mode: the HFDR is HF VOICE HF VOICE |
| currently used in voice mode. (green right memo) (green right memo) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| HF data on ground HF DATA OVRD |
| (green right memo) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| The crew has received a message SATCOM ALERT |
| requesting a voice communication (green right memo) |
| from the ground. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(4) MCDU scratchpad messages
These messages are automatically displayed to inform the pilot of a given situation :
These messages are automatically displayed to inform the pilot of a given situation :
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| MESSAGE DISPLAYED ! COLOR ! COMMENT ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ENTER A/C ICAO CODE ! Amber ! The ICAO code is not entered or ! |
| ! ! not valid. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ENTER A/C REGISTR ! Amber ! The Aircraft Registration Number is not ! |
| ! ! entered or not valid. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ENTER ACARS A/L ID ! Amber ! The Airline identifier is not entered or ! |
| ! ! not valid. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ENTER VHF3 SCAN SELECT ! Amber ! The VHF3 SCAN MASK is not entered or ! |
| ! ! not valid. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| DEFAULT VHF SP LIST ! Amber ! The ATSU cannot configure the Router or ! |
| ! ! the VHF scan mask used by the Router has ! |
| ! ! a default. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VHF3 SWITCH IMPOSSIBLE ! Amber ! The VHF3 cannot switch in Voice or Data ! |
| ! ! mode. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| REDUCED VHF DLK AVAIL ! Amber ! The VHF3 operates in mode ACARS only. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| NOT ALLOWED ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| PRINT FAILED ! White ! The printing operation has failed. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| FORMAT ERROR ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| SYSTEM BUSY - TRY LATER ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| COMMAND NOT AVAILABLE ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VHF3 CAN BE SET IN VOICE! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| PRT MSG PRINT FAIL ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| PLEASE WAIT ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(5) FWC warnings
The ATSU uses the services provided by the FWCs to activate visual/aural alerts and alarms in case of:
The FWCs are used to generate these warning indications according to the information provided by the ATSU. The conditions of activation/deactivation of these warning indications are managed by the ATSU, while the FWCs are in charge of display, priority and inhibition management.
A pin-programming is activated on the FWC following airline request to generate:
The ATSU uses the services provided by the FWCs to activate visual/aural alerts and alarms in case of:
- AOC message reception
- failure or unavailability of datalink functions.
The FWCs are used to generate these warning indications according to the information provided by the ATSU. The conditions of activation/deactivation of these warning indications are managed by the ATSU, while the FWCs are in charge of display, priority and inhibition management.
A pin-programming is activated on the FWC following airline request to generate:
- ACARS warnings when the "ACARS installed" hard pin-programming is activated
- ATSU warnings when the "ATSU installed" hard pin-programming is activated
(a) ECAM warnings related to AOC application
When an uplink message is received on-board for the ATSU hosted AOC application, the following alerts are generated.
When an uplink message is received on-board for the ATSU hosted AOC application, the following alerts are generated.
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| CONDITIONS UPPER ECAM DU WARNINGS |
| "ATSU installed" |
| pin-prog activated |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| AOC message has been received COMPANY MSG |
| from the ground (green right memo, |
| not flashing) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| A message requesting a voice COMPANY CALL |
| communication has been (green right memo, |
| received from the ground not flashing) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| The crew has received a high COMPANY ALERT |
| importance message from the (green left memo, |
| company. pulsing for 180s, |
| then steady |
| with the BUZZER |
| continuous sound) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(b) ECAM warnings related to the AOC datalink failure
The crew is informed of the datalink system status by the ECAM warnings described in the table below:
The crew is informed of the datalink system status by the ECAM warnings described in the table below:
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| CONDITIONS UPPER ECAM DU WARNINGS |
| "ATSU installed" |
| pin-prog activate |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ATSU failure: the ATSU is DATALINK ATSU FAULT |
| not working any more. (amber warning with |
| No datalink communications MASTER CAUT light |
| between ground and and Single Chime |
| aircraft are available. activated) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ATSU initialization failure DATALINK ATSU FAULT |
| Some essential parameters ATSU INIT FAULT |
| are missing for ATSU working. (amber warning with |
| No datalink communications MAST CAUT light and |
| between ground and aircraft Single Chime |
| are available until the crew activated) |
| enters the missing parameters. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Temporary loss of AOC datalink COMPANY DATALINK STBY |
| communication: the air-ground (green left memo) |
| communication means used for |
| AOC application are temporarily |
| unavailable but not failed. |
| The ATSU is trying to recover |
| the datalink communication |
| with the ground |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| AOC datalink communication DATALINK COMPANY FAULT |
| failure: the air-ground (amber warning) |
| communication means used for |
| AOC application are all |
| failed. The datalink |
| communications are definitely |
| unavailable. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(c) ECAM warnings related to the datalink media failure
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| CONDITIONS UPPER ECAM DU WARNINGS |
| "ATSU installed" |
| pin-prog activated |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VHF3 data loss: VDR3 is failed COM VHF 3 DATA FAULT |
| for datalink communication. (amber warning) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| SATCOM data loss: SATCOM is COM SATCOM DATA FAULT |
| failed for datalink (amber message) |
| communication. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| HF 1 data loss: HFDR 1 is COM HF 1 DATA FAULT |
| failed for datalink (amber message) |
| communication. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VHF3 in voice mode: the VHF3 is VHF 3 VOICE |
| currently used in voice mode. (green right memo) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| HFDR in voice mode: the HFDR is HF VOICE |
| currently used in voice mode. (green right memo) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| HF data on ground HF DATA OVRD |
| (green right memo) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| The crew has received a message |
| requesting a voice communication |
| from the ground. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ATC datalink communications DATALINK ATC FAULT |
| failure: the air-ground (amber message with |
| communications means used for ATC MAST CAUT light and |
| applications. ATC applications Single Chime |
| are all failed. The datalink activated) |
| communications are definitely and |
| unavailable. ATC COM VOICE ONLY |
| (cyan message with |
| MAST CAUT light and |
| Single Chime |
| activated) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ATC datalink application loss: DATALINK ATC FAULT |
| the airborne datalink ATC (amber message with |
| applications are failed. Datalink MAST CAUT light and |
| AOC application can still be Single Chime |
| available. activated) |
| and |
| ATC COM VOICE ONLY |
| (cyan message with |
| MAST CAUT light and |
| Single Chime |
| activated) |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Temporary loss of ATC datalink ATC DATALINK STBY |
| communications: the air-ground (green right memo) |
| communications means used for |
| ATC applications. ATC |
| applications are temporarily |
| unavailable for less than |
| 10 minutes, but not failed. The |
| ATSU is trying to recover the |
| datalink communications with the |
| ground. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(6) MCDU scratchpad messages
These messages are automatically displayed to inform the pilot of a given situation :
These messages are automatically displayed to inform the pilot of a given situation :
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| MESSAGE DISPLAYED ! COLOR ! COMMENT ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ENTER A/C ICAO CODE ! Amber ! The ICAO code is not entered or ! |
| ! ! not valid. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ENTER A/C REGISTR ! Amber ! The Aircraft Registration Number is not ! |
| ! ! entered or not valid. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ENTER ACARS A/L ID ! Amber ! The Airline identifier is not entered or ! |
| ! ! not valid. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ENTER VHF3 SCAN SELECT ! Amber ! The VHF3 SCAN MASK is not entered or ! |
| ! ! not valid. |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| DEFAULT VHF SP LIST ! Amber ! The ATSU cannot configure the Router or ! |
| ! ! the VHF scan mask used by the Router has ! |
| ! ! a default. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VHF3 SWITCH IMPOSSIBLE ! Amber ! The VHF3 cannot switch in Voice or Data ! |
| ! ! mode. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| REDUCED VHF DLK AVAIL ! Amber ! The VHF3 operates in mode ACARS only. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| NOT ALLOWED ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| PRINT FAILED ! White ! The printing operation has failed. ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| FORMAT ERROR ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| SYSTEM BUSY - TRY LATER ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| COMMAND NOT AVAILABLE ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| VHF3 CAN BE SET IN VOICE! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| PRT MSG PRINT FAIL ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| PLEASE WAIT ! White ! Self explanatory ! |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |