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TIC SDR-OMNI User Manual

Avionics test set
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SDR-OMNI
AVIONICS TEST SET
2021-CLS-TIC-0001
USER MANUAL
Revision B, 21 February 2023
Tel-Instrument Electronics Corp.
One Branca Road
East Rutherford, NJ 07073
(201) 993-1600
www.telinstrument.com

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  • Page 1 SDR-OMNI AVIONICS TEST SET 2021-CLS-TIC-0001 USER MANUAL Revision B, 21 February 2023 Tel-Instrument Electronics Corp. One Branca Road East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (201) 993-1600 www.telinstrument.com...
  • Page 2 NOTICE: The information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice. Tel-Instrument Electronics Corp. makes no warranty of any kind to this material, nor shall be liable including but not limited to, errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishings, performance, or use of this material.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Global System Settings ..........................24 Charging the Battery ..........................27 Retrieving and printing test reports ......................28 Chapter 5 Avionics Testing using the SDR-OMNI ....................29 Testing ATC Transponders ........................29 Testing 1090 MHz (Mode S) ADS-B OUT ....................44 Testing 978 MHz UAT ADS-B OUT ......................
  • Page 4 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Chapter 6 Cable & Antenna Testing Using the SDR-OMNI ..................74 VSWR/Distance-to-Fault Calibration ......................74 VSWR Measurement ..........................75 Distance to Fault (DTF) Measurement ..................... 77 Cable Loss Testing........................... 80 Chapter 7 Analog Radio Testing ..........................83 Chapter 8 SDR-OMNI System Menu ........................

  • Page 5: Warranty

    You have the original shipping container. If you do not have the original shipping container, contact Tel- • Instrument Electronics Corp. Customer Service. You have paid the freight charges to ship the SDR-OMNI. Freight charges for shipping the product to Tel- • Instrument Electronics Corp. are the responsibility of the owner. However, Tel-Instrument Electronics Corp.
  • Page 6 1. Wrap the SDR-OMNI in bubble sheeting or plastic wrap. 2. Place the SDR-OMNI into its original packaging material and shipping container. 3. Place the RMA form on top of the SDR-OMNI unit inside the shipping container before sealing the shipping container.

  • Page 7: Warnings

    User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set 3. Take the time to learn the proper operation and function of the SDR-OMNI. Complete knowledge of the Test Set and its capabilities greatly reduces the time it takes to complete the tests. 4. Pay particular attention to WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, and NOTES and that may accompany some test and operational procedures.
  • Page 8 Ensure soldering irons are grounded before use. • Do not remove any components or disconnect any connectors located in the SDR-OMNI with the power “ON”. • Properly ground all test equipment being used. Refer to the test equipment operating manual for information.

  • Page 9: Chapter 1 Introduction

    The SDR-OMNI is a lightweight, software-defined radio frequency (RF) test set for testing RF avionics in the 200 kilohertz (kHz) to 1.6 gigahertz (GHz) range. The SDR-OMNI is designed to test all of the basic navigation and communications avionics functions common to modern civil and commercial aircraft, with provisions for certain military avionics test requirements.

  • Page 10: Chapter 2 Preparation For Use

    Tel-Instrument Electronics Corp. 2.1 UNPACKING 1. After receiving the SDR-OMNI, inspect the shipping container for damage. Note any damage in case the SDR-OMNI unit is also damaged. 2. Remove the SDR-OMNI from the shipping container and packaging material. Retain the shipping container and packaging material for future shipment or storage.
  • Page 11 2.2.1 Transit Case The Transit Case (Figure 2-1) safely stores the SDR-OMNI and its accessories while they are not in use. The Transit Case can be carried using the carrying handles, or the Transit Case can be rolled using the two wheels and extendable handle.
  • Page 12 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual 2021-CLS-TIC-0020 Figure 2-1. Transit Case Revision B 21 February 2023 Page 9...
  • Page 13 The Telescopic Antenna can be extended out of the passenger door or the pilot’s window. Otherwise, the SDR-OMNI should be placed 10 to 30 feet (3 to 9 meters) from the unit under test (UUT) antenna with an unobstructed line-of-sight.
  • Page 14 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Table 2-2 NAV Frequencies FUNCTION TESTED ANTENNA LENGTH MB (75.0 MHz) Fully Extended VOR (108.00-117.95 MHz) 28.5 inches (72 cm) LOC (108.10 – 111.95 MHz) 28.5 inches (72 cm) GS (329.15 – 335.00 MHz) 9.5 inches (24 cm)
  • Page 15 The Wi-Fi Antenna (Figure 2-5) enables the SDR-OMNI to connect to a wireless network. Figure 2-5. Wi-Fi Antenna 2.2.6 GPS Antenna The GPS Antenna (Figure 2-6) enables the SDR-OMNI’s internal GPS receiver to receive GPS signals. Figure 2-6. GPS Antenna Page 12...
  • Page 16 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual 2.2.7 Kickstand Mount The Kickstand (Figure 2-7) supports the SDR-OMNI so it can be placed in a comfortable position for viewing. 2021-CLS-TIC-0025 Figure 2-7. Kickstand Mount 2.2.8 Micro USB adapter CableS Two USD Adapter cables are provided. The USB-A to Micro B Cable (Figure 2-8) enables the SDR-OMNI to connect to a personal computer (PC) for uploading new program file into the SDR-OMNI and downloading test reports.
  • Page 17 2.2.11 VSWR Bridge Connect Cables Two identical 12 inch cables are provided to connect the SDR-OMNI to the INPUT and OUTPUT ports on the VSWR Return Loss Bridge. They have a BNC-male on one end and an N-male on the other end.
  • Page 18 Figure 2-11 VSWR Bridge Connect Cables 2.2.12 Insertion Loss Calibration Cable This is a 12 inch BNC-male to BNC-male cable that connect the ANT-A and ANT-B ports on the SDR-OMNI during the Cable Loss calibration procedure. Figure 2-12 Insertion Loss Calibration Cable 2.2.13 Headset...
  • Page 19 A Whip Antenna Adapter is also included in the SDR-OMNI kit. It is used when testing aircraft that have a short L-Band dipole transponder antenna. The whip adapter fits into the bottom of the TAP-OMNI, which is then placed over the dipole antenna and clamped into place.
  • Page 20 Two RG-400 RF cables with TNC-male connectors on each end are provided. The 10 meter cable connects the SDR-OMNI to the TAP-OMNI Antenna Coupler. The 3 meter cable is used to connect the SDR-OMNI directly to a transponder, bypassing the antenna. Both cables have the cable loss, in dB, marked on the cables. These values will be entered into the SDR-OMNI during the initial setup procedure.
  • Page 21 Three separate audio test cables are provided: (1) Civil Phone/Mic plugs to SDR-OMNI Test connector; (2) Military U-93A/U plug to SDR-OMNI Test connector; and (3) 4 BNC male plugs to SDR-OMNI Test connector. These cable are used to test aircraft audio systems.

  • Page 22: Battery

    The SDR-OMNI is factory equipped with a rechargeable Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery capable of operating the SDR-OMNI at a 20% duty cycle for up to 24 hours at -4 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit (°F) (-20 to 55 degrees Celsius (°C)). This represents a full day of testing on a single charge. When operating the SDR-OMNI in lower temperatures, the charge duration will decrease.

  • Page 23: Chapter 3 Sdr-Omni Overview

    User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set CHAPTER 3 SDR-OMNI OVERVIEW 3.1 CONTROLS Figure 3-1 illustrates the controls for the SDR-OMNI. Table 3-1 describes the SDR-OMNI controls. 2021-CLS-TIC-0004 Figure 3-1. Controls for SDR-OMNI Table 3-1. Description of SDR-OMNI Controls NAME DESCRIPTION 5-Way Switch Power ON: Briefly press the OK middle button to turn the unit ON.

  • Page 24: Indicators And Connectors

    SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual 3.2 INDICATORS AND CONNECTORS illustrates the interfaces for the SDR-OMNI. Table 3- describes the SDR-OMNI interfaces. 2021-CLS-TIC-0006 Figure 3-2 SDR-OMNI Indicators and Connectors Revision B 21 February 2023 Page 21...
  • Page 25 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Table 3-2. Description of SDR-OMNI Indicators and Connectors NAME DESCRIPTION Wi-Fi Receives the Wi-Fi Antenna. Receives the GPS Antenna. TNC female - Direct Connect port for direct connection to UUT or to TAP-OMNI Antenna Coupler.

  • Page 26: Chapter 4 Powering On And Initial Setup

    1. Briefly press the center (OK) button of the 5-Way Switch (Figure 3-1, 1). The unit will power ON. The unit will briefly display the TIC logo screen (and the current software version will be displayed in the lower right corner), then go blank for approximately 15 seconds while it loads its firmware and runs its self-test routine.

  • Page 27: Home Menu

    User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set 4.3 HOME MENU Home/Settings Button 2021-CLS-TIC-0009 Figure 4-1 Home Menu 4.4 GLOBAL SYSTEM SETTINGS Several Global settings and parameters should be reviewed and set after the unit is powered ON for the first time.
  • Page 28 Checking this box will suppress the alignment and ensure that the test is not interrupted. If critical parametric testing is desired, it is better to leave the box unchecked so that the SDR-OMNI operates at the highest accuracy at all times.
  • Page 29 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set 2. Saved: A previously saved position. This is recommended if the unit is to be used in a hangar with no GPS repeater. First, select GPS as the position source, then take the unit outdoors for several minutes until it gets a GPS position fix (indicated when the Update button in the Saved Position row becomes active).

  • Page 30: Charging The Battery

    4. Verify that the Power Indicator (4) on the AC Power Adapter/DC Charger (1) lights. 5. Observe the Charging LED on the left side of the SDR-OMNI, next to the DC Charger connector. When steady yellow, the SDR-OMNI is charging. The Battery Status icon in the upper right corner of the screen will also show a charging status.

  • Page 31: Retrieving And Printing Test Reports

    4.6.1 Retrieving and Printing via PC or Laptop Connect the SDR-OMNI to a PC or laptop USB port using one of the supplied USB cables (see Figure 2-8). With the unit power ON, enter the following address into the browser: http://sdromni-0501.local/.

  • Page 32: Chapter 5 Avionics Testing Using The Sdr-Omni

    CHAPTER 5 AVIONICS TESTING USING THE SDR-OMNI 5.1 TESTING ATC TRANSPONDERS The SDR-OMNI has been designed to rapidly recertify Mode S ATC transponders according to US Federal Aviation Regulations Part 43, Appendix F. This is the primary ATC transponder test function. In addition, there are several other transponder test functions available in the Transponder Menu page;...
  • Page 33 5.1.2 Direct Connect or TAP-OMNI Antenna Coupler Testing Before beginning any ATC Transponder test, the SDR-OMNI needs to know which connection port will be used. For Direct Connect testing OR testing with the TAP-OMNI antenna coupler, select the Direct T/R port setting.
  • Page 34 (or over) the wing, or under or above the fuselage. 5. Antenna Cable: Additional path loss - only used if an extension cable is inserted between the SDR-OMNI and the L-Band Directional Antenna. Default = 0 dB.
  • Page 35 Figure 5-4. Transponder Test Menu Prior to starting a selected test, the SDR-OMNI goes through a very rapid Target ID procedure to determine what type of transponder it is testing: ATCRBS (Modes 3A and 3C only) or Mode S. If a Mode S transponder is detected, it determines whether it is a Diversity Transponder (with Top and Bottom antennas) and the extent of its Communications Capability.
  • Page 36 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual 4. If an ATCRBS reply is detected, the SDR-OMNI switches to ATCRBS interrogations and assumes that the UUT is ATCRBS only. 5. If no reply is detected to the ATCRBS/Mode S All-Call interrogations, the SDR-OMNI stops interrogating and begins listening for DF11 squitters for 6 seconds.
  • Page 37 If no transponder was detected during the Target ID period, the operator may manually enter the Mode S aircraft address (in hexadecimal), if known, of the transponder UUT. This will allow the SDR-OMNI to proceed with testing. Or, ATCRBS can be selected to allow Mode 3/A and 3/C interrogations to begin.
  • Page 38 (or over) the wing, or under or above the fuselage. 3. The SDR-OMNI will create a separate test report for each antenna tested. Thus, a complete UUT test will contain a test report for the Top antenna and another report for the Bottom antenna.
  • Page 39 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Figure 5-8. FAA Part 43 Test Results Table 5-1. FAA Part 43 Test Results Description NAME DESCRIPTION Overall Top level PASS (green check) /FAIL (red X). If any test failed, it will show FAIL.
  • Page 40 (Figure 5-10). Then operator can then enter a job ID, which could be a work order number, or the tail number of the aircraft. Then press Save. The SDR-OMNI will save the test report with the Job ID and a time and date stamp.
  • Page 41 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Figure 5-9 Enter Job ID popup Figure 5-10 Job ID entry keyboard 3. To access and print the Test Report, refer to Section 4.6 Page 38 21 February 2023 Revision B...
  • Page 42 ADS-B OUT squitters, e.g. autopilot modes, flight attitudes, and air data information. This is done via a GICB (Ground Initiated Comm-B) interrogation, which specifies the BDS register number of the data being requested. The SDR-OMNI has the capability to issue a GICB interrogation to any one of the 256 BDS registers.
  • Page 43 Figure 5-12 EHS Data Screens – BDS 4,0; 5,0; 6,0 5.1.11 Ground Initiated Comm-B (GICB) Any of the 256 BDS registers can be interrogated with the SDR-OMNI. Refer to Figure 5-13. Simply enter the 2 digit hexadecimal BDS register number desired. Once the empty BDS Register edit field is pressed, a hexadecimal keyboard will appear.
  • Page 44 This lockout condition should persist for 18 +/- 1 seconds after the last acceptance of an interrogation containing the multisite lockout command. This is an automated test that requires no additional user input. During this test, the SDR-OMNI: 1. Sends a Mode-S All-Call (UF11) and confirms that the transponder responds.
  • Page 45 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set 4. Every 100ms for the next 3 seconds, sends a Mode-S All-Call and notes if and when the transponder responds. 5. If the transponder responds before 17 seconds, FAIL. If it does not respond before 19 seconds, FAIL. If it responds between 17 and 19 seconds, PASS.
  • Page 46 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Figure 5-15 Mode C, Mode A, and Mode S Manual Test result screens Revision B 21 February 2023 Page 43...

  • Page 47: Testing 1090 Mhz (Mode S) Ads-B Out

    AIR mode. Refer the the ADS-B system installation manual for the proper procedure. Note that when testing ADS-B OUT systems, the SDR-OMNI is simply a 1090 MHz receiver. It does not interrogate during this test – it simply receives, decodes, and displays 1090 MHz ADS-B OUT transmissions from the aircraft under test.
  • Page 48 (2) Data that is transmitted only in AIR mode (e.g. TCAS Operational, RA active), and (3) Common data that is transmitted in both AIR and GROUND modes. For this reason, the SDR-OMNI keeps track of the data that it has received and displays the status at the top of the ADS-B data screen.
  • Page 49 5.2.4 SDR-OMNI ADS-B OUT Real-time Data Display The SDR-OMNI acts as a real-time ADS-B receiver and data display unit during the ADS-B test. Data is continuously updated as it is received. If the ADS-B OUT system stops transmitting certain data, or all data, the SDR-OMNI affected data fields will eventually time out and display nulls (---).
  • Page 50 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Figure 5-18 FAR 91.227 ADS-B OUT Summary screen (scrolled) Figure 5-19 BDS 0,5 BDS 0,8 BDS 0,9 Decoded Data screens Revision B 21 February 2023 Page 47...
  • Page 51 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Figure 5-20 BDS 6,5 BDS 6,2 Decoded data screens Page 48 21 February 2023 Revision B...

  • Page 52: Testing 978 Mhz Uat Ads-B Out

    ATC Transponder (refer to paragraphs 5.1.2 and 5.1.3). Once the Setup parameters have been entered and the popup closed, the SDR-OMNI will begin to listen for 978 MHz Message Element transmissions. If testing over-the-air, ensure the L-Band Directional Antenna is pointed toward the aircraft under test.
  • Page 53 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set LEGEND 1 TEST NAME 2 TEST CATEGORY 3 SUMMARY 4 PAYLOAD 5 TEST CATEGORY NAME 6 PASS ICON 7 NO INFORMATION ICON 8 SCROLLBAR 9 TEST RESULT VALUE 10 RUN ICON 11 MENU ICON...
  • Page 54 Run Icon When selected, runs the 978 MHz UAT Out test. Menu Icon Back Icon When selected, this icon will cause the SDR-OMNI to display the Air Traffic Control menu (see Paragraph Chapter 1 (page 82)). Revision B 21 February 2023...
  • Page 55 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set LEGEND 1 RECORD NAME 2 SUMMARY 3 PAYLOAD 4 RECORD VALUE 5 SCROLLBAR 6 TS 7 AUX SV 8 RUN ICON 9 MS 10 MENU ICON 11 SV 12 BACK ICON 13 HDR 2021-CLS-TIC-0035 Figure 5-23.

  • Page 56: Testing 978 Mhz Uat Ads-B In And Fis-B

    5.4 TESTING 978 MHZ UAT ADS-B IN AND FIS-B 5.4.1 ADS-B IN Traffic Simulation The SDR-OMNI has the capability to transmit four ADS-B UAT targets to test the ability of UAT ADS-B IN systems to identify and display proximate traffic. Each target has independent controls for: Latitude, Longitude, Range, Bearing, Altitude, N-S Velocity, E-W Velocity, and Vertical Velocity.

  • Page 57: Testing Acas/Tcas Systems

    A brief overview of VOR and ILS is included in Appendix C for reference. The SDR-OMNI can simultaneously simulate LOC, GS, and MB signals. However, each ILS component is separately controlled. All RF testing of ILS receivers is done via the ANT-B BNC connector on the top of the SDR-OMNI.
  • Page 58 NOTE The following tests are not meant to replace the avionics test procedures and criteria required for your equipment. These are general testing procedures to assist the operator in properly operating the SDR-OMNI. Figure 5-5-24. Navigation Menu WARNING When conducting tests with the aircraft autopilot engaged, any change of navigation signal may cause movement of the associated aircraft control surfaces (elevator, ailerons, rudder).
  • Page 59 MB antenna on the underside of the aircraft and repeat the MB test. 7. The ILS indicator display in the upper section of the SDR-OMNI screen simulates what should be seen in the aircraft cockpit. When the transmitters are enabled, the LOC and GS needles will turn yellow. Likewise, the Marker Beacon O, M, and I icons will each highlight when transmitting.
  • Page 60 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual 2021-CLS-TIC-0018 Figure 5-5-25, ILS Localizer Screen Revision B 21 February 2023 Page 57...
  • Page 61 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Table 5-4. ILS Localizer Screen Field Description CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION Marker Beacon Each icon highlights when the 75 MHz MB transmitter is actively transmitting: Icons Inner Marker [I] 3000 Hz; Middle Marker [M] 1300 Hz; Outer Maker [O] 400 GS / LOC Simulates ILS cockpit indicator.
  • Page 62 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION 150 Hz Toggles 150 Hz LOC modulation on and off (Enabled/Disabled). Normally used to check LOC indicator flag operation by disabling. ID Tone Turns on and off (Enabled/Disabled) audio Ident tone.
  • Page 63 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set 2021-CLS-TIC-0040 Figure 5-26. Glideslope Screen Table 5-5. Glideslope Description CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION Glideslope Glideslope tab: Displays GS controls when selected Page 60 21 February 2023 Revision B...
  • Page 64 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION GS Transmitter Turns ON and OFF the GS RF transmitter. ON=Enabled; OFF=Disabled (default) Prev Dot Moves the GS needle one dot up Next Dot Moves the GS needle one dot down Sweep GS For testing Autopilot coupling.
  • Page 65 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set 2021-CLS-TIC-0041 Figure 5-27. Marker Beacon Screen Page 62 21 February 2023 Revision B...
  • Page 66 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Table 5-6. Marker Beacon Field Description CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION Marker Beacon Marker Beacon tab: Select to display MB controls MB RF Turns ON and OFF the MB RF transmitter. ON=Enabled; OFF=Disabled Transmitter (default) Cycle When Enabled, begins cycling the 3 markers at a 3 second rate.

  • Page 67: Testing Vor Systems

    VOR receiver has a problem at the standard frequency. 6. The VOR indicator display in the upper section of the SDR-OMNI screen indicates the radial that is being transmitted by the test set when the FROM direction is selected.
  • Page 68 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual 9. Place the SDR-OMNI at an appropriate test location. The SDR-OMNI can generally be used in the cockpit by a single operator. The SDR-OMNI can also be placed outside the aircraft with clear line-of-sight to the aircraft VOR antenna(s).
  • Page 69 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set 2021-CLS-TIC-0043 Figure 5-28. VOR Test Screen Page 66 21 February 2023 Revision B...
  • Page 70 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Table 5-7. VOR Test Screen Field Description CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION Radial Minus Decreases the Radial by 30 degrees Radial Displays the simulated VOR radial in degrees. Always indicates actual radial being simulated (i.e. – is not affected by TO/FROM. Always indicates FROM radial.)

  • Page 71: Testing Dme Systems

    2. If directly connecting the DME unit under test to the SDR-OMNI using a coaxial cable: a. Select the Direct (T/R) port. b. Then enter Cable Length (TIC supplied Direct Connect cables are either 9.9 ft / 3 m OR 32.8 ft / 10 m) for proper computation of the path delay.
  • Page 72 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Velocity Either field can be used to enter the velocity. This field can be changed during the test. To / From Selects aircraft moving To or From the station Ident Turns ON Audio Ident: Enabled = ON; Disabled = OFF Squitter Turns ON Squitter: Enabled = ON;...

  • Page 73: Testing Elt Systems

    VHF (121.5 MHz) or UHF (243 MHz) audio modulated siren tones for ground-based triangulation location. The SDR-OMNI can test the 406 MHz digital message burst and one of either siren tones using either Direct Connect or Antenna mode. The SDR-OMNI can also test each frequency individually for fault isolation.
  • Page 74 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual LEGEND 1 FILTER BANDWITH SELECTION 2 DISTORTION 3 DISTORTION SELECTION 4 WAVEFORM SELECTION 5 AUDIO TONE OUT DISABLED 6 INTERFACE CABLES SELECTION 7 NOT APPLICABLE 8 MENU ICON 9 BACK ICON 10 LEVEL UNITS...
  • Page 75 Waveform Selection When selected, the Waveform popup menu will display where you may select Sine, Square, Triangle, or Ramp. Audio Tone Out When selected, the SDR-OMNI will begin Audio Tone Out testing and Disabled this “Disabled” will change “Enabled.” Interface Cables...
  • Page 76 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION Audio Level When selected, a virtual number keypad will display to enter the Audio Level. Revision B 21 February 2023 Page 73...

  • Page 77: Chapter 6 Cable & Antenna Testing Using The Sdr-Omni

    6. Connect the Calibration Kit for Short Cal (see Paragraph Chapter 1 (page 82)). 7. Select the Short Cal run icon (3) to the right of Short Cal. The SDR-OMNI will begin Short Cal. Figure 6-1. VSWR, DTF, and Cable Testing (Typical) NOTE Through (Thru) Cal (4) is not required for VSWR (6) and DTF (7).

  • Page 78: Vswr Measurement

    VSWR will not be selectable until Open Cal and Short Cal have been completed. 3. Select VSWR. The SDR-OMNI will begin VSWR testing and display the results. This may take several seconds for the unit to sweep across the selected frequency range.
  • Page 79 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set LEGEND 1 VSWR INDICATOR 2 RIGHT 3 PEAK 4 STOP FREQUENCY 5 NOT APPLICABLE 6 MENU ICON 7 BACK ICON 8 START FREQUENCY 9 RESOLUTION MENU 10 LEFT 2021-CLS-TIC-0049 Figure 6-3. VSWR (Typical) Page 76...

  • Page 80: Distance To Fault (Dtf) Measurement

    DTF will not be selectable until Open Cal and Short Cal have been completed. 3. Select Distance To Fault [sic] (7). The SDR-OMNI will being the DTF testing and display the results. 4. Review DTF results and change parameters (see [TBD: figure and table for DTF results]).
  • Page 81 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set LEGEND 1 DTF INDICATOR 2 RIGHT 3 PEAK 4 MAX DISTANCE 5 VELOCITY FACTORS MENU 6 NOT APPLICABLE 7 MENU ICON 8 BACK ICON 9 VELOCITY FACTOR VALUE 10 CENTER FREQUENCY 11 LEFT Figure 6-4. Distance to Fault (Typical)
  • Page 82 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Table 6-2. Distance to Fault Description CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION DTF Indicator Displays DTF values. Right Sets DTF Indicator (1) to right position. Peak Sets DTF Indicator (1) to peak position. Max Distance When selected, the Max Distance popup menu will display where you may select 1500 feet, 600 feet, 300 feet, 150 feet, 60 feet, or 30 feet.

  • Page 83: Cable Loss Testing

    Throughput Loss will not be selectable until Open Cal, Short Cal, and Thru Cal have been completed. 4. Select ThroughPut Loss [sic] (8). The SDR-OMNI will being the Throughput Loss testing and display the results. 5. Review DTF results and change parameters (see [TBD: figure and table for DTF results]).
  • Page 84 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual LEGEND 1 THROUGH LOSS INDICATOR 2 RIGHT 3 PEAK 4 RESOLUTION MENU 5 STOP FREQUENCY 6 NOT APPLICABLE 7 MENU ICON 8 BACK ICON 9 START FREQUENCY 10 LEFT 2021-CLS-TIC-0051 Figure 6-5. Through Loss (Typical)
  • Page 85 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Table 6-3. Cable Loss Description CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION Through Loss Displays Through Loss values. Indicator Right Sets Through Loss Indicator (1) to right position. Peak Sets Through Loss Indicator (1) to peak position. Resolution Menu When selected, the Points popup menu will display where you may select Fine or Detailed.

  • Page 86: Chapter 7 Analog Radio Testing

    User Manual CHAPTER 7 ANALOG RADIO TESTING The SDR-OMNI can be used to test just about any AM or FM communications radio that operates from 200 kHz to 1500 MHz (1.5 GHz). 1. Turn on the SDR-OMNI (see Paragraph 4.1 on page 23).
  • Page 87 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set LEGEND 1 RX TEST 2 COMMON 3 TX TEST 4 CONNECTION TYPE MENU 5 INTERFACE CABLES MENU 6 LEVEL STEP SIZE (DB) 7 NOT APPLICABLE 8 MENU ICON 9 BACK ICON 10 FREQ. STEP...
  • Page 88 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Table 7-1. Analog Radio Test - Common Description CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION Rx Test When Tx Test screen or Common screen is displayed, selecting this will display the Rx Test screen. Common When Rx Test screen or Tx Test screen is displayed, selecting this will display the Common screen.
  • Page 89 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set LEGEND 1 RX TEST 2 COMMON 3 TX TEST 4 DISTORTION VALUE 5 DISTORTION TYPE MENU 6 RF FREQUENCY PLUSE ICON 7 RF GENERATOR DISABLED 8 RF FREQUENCY MINUS ICON 9 RF LEVEL MINUS...
  • Page 90 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Table 7-2. Analog Radio Test - Rx Test Description CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION Rx Test When Tx Test screen or Common screen is displayed, selecting this will display the Rx Test screen. Common When Rx Test screen or Tx Test screen is displayed, selecting this will display the Common screen.
  • Page 91 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION Tone 2 Deviation When selected, a virtual number keypad will display to enter the Tone 2 (kHz) Deviation in kHz. Tone 2 Frequency When selected, a virtual number keypad will display to enter the Tone 2 (Hz) Frequency in Hz.
  • Page 92 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual LEGEND 1 RX TEST 2 COMMON 3 TX TEST 4 RF ERROR (KHZ) 5 MODULATION LEVEL TYPE MENU 6 DISTORTION VALUE 7 DISTORTION TYPE MENU 8 RF RECEIVER DISABLED 9 PTT 10 AUDIO TONE OUT...
  • Page 93 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Table 7-3. Analog Radio Test - TX Test Description CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION Rx Test When Tx Test screen or Common screen is displayed, selecting this will display the Rx Test screen. Common When Rx Test screen or Tx Test screen is displayed, selecting this will display the Common screen.
  • Page 94 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual CALLOUT NAME DESCRIPTION Minus Icon Decreases the value in the RF Receiver Frequency (MHz) (21). Plus Icon Increases the value in the RF Receiver Frequency (MHz) (21). RF Receiver When selected, a virtual number keypad will display to enter the RF Frequency (MHz) Receiver Frequency in MHz.

  • Page 95: Chapter 8 Sdr-Omni System Menu

    User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set CHAPTER 8 SDR-OMNI SYSTEM MENU 1. Connect the Telescopic Antenna (1) to the ANT-A connector located on the top the SDR-OMNI (see Paragraph 0 (page 21)). 2. Fully extend the Retractable Antenna (1). 3. Retract the Retractable Antenna (1) to the correct length (measuring from tip to tip) for the frequency being tested.

  • Page 96: Appendix Asdr-Omni Specifications

    SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION SDR-OMNI Size 12 x 7 x 2 inches (30 x 18 x 5 cm) Weight SDR-OMNI alone: 4.4 lb. (2.2 kg) With transit case and accessories: 22 lb. (10 kg) Environmental MIL-PRF-28800F, Class 1 Temperature Operating: -4 °F to 131 °F (-20 °C to +55 °C) Storage: -40 °F to 160°F (-40 °C to +71 °C)
  • Page 97 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Table 3. Features and Capabilities SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION Air Traffic Control ATC Transponder modes A, C, S Mode S 1090 MHz ADS-B IN/OUT UAT (978 MHz) ADS-B IN/OUT Navigation ILS (including LOC, GS, and MB)
  • Page 98 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Table 5. Miscellaneous Specifications SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION Computer Interface Micro-B female USB, Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz Remote Control Supports Windows, Android, iPad/iPhone User Interface 7-inch color touch screen display Table 6. Accessories Table 7. GPS Receiver...
  • Page 99 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Table 10. Head Set Connector SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION Connector 3.5 mm TRRS (Tip = Left, Right, ground, Sleeve = mic) Compatibility Android type (also compatible with mono/stereo headphone) Phone Output level 2 Vp-p max open circuit (mono drives both Left and Right)
  • Page 100 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Applications Table 12. Transponder Mode S / SIF Test Application SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION Frequency Accuracy of +/-50 kHz with Mode S, +/-100 kHz SIF modes Power Direct +40 to +60 dBm (10 to 1000 w)
  • Page 101 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Table 15. 406 MHz ELT Application SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION Frequency Measurement +/-0.5 ppm Power Measurement +/- 1 dB Data Displays raw or decoded message data Table 16. SELCAL Application SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION SELCAL Burst or continuous repeat modes Tone Squelch 20 to 300 Hz in 0.1 Hz steps...
  • Page 102 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION LOC Modulation AM, 90 & 150 Hz at 20-40% with variable DDM; 1020 Hz ID 10-30% VOR Modulation AM, 30 Hz & 9960 subcarrier 20-40% with variable Bearing, 1020 Hz ID 10-30%, audio...
  • Page 103 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Table 20. RF Signal Generator - Direct Port Output SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION Level -30 dBm to -120 dBm Resolution 0.1 dB Accuracy 1.5 dB -30 to -100 dBm, 2.5 dB below -100 dBm Output Impedance...
  • Page 104 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Table 22. RF Measurement Receiver SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION Frequency Range 200 kHz to 2200 MHz Resolution 1 Hz Accuracy 0.5 ppm Tuning speed 100 microseconds to within 1 kHz of final frequency Modulation CW, AM, FM, PM, SSB...
  • Page 105 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set Accuracy +/- 1.5 dB above -60 dBm, +/-2dB Table 26. RF Measurement Receiver - Frequency Meter SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION Range Tuned frequency +/- 1/2 of selected bandwidth Reading Frequency or Frequency Error Resolution 1 Hz, 10Hz Accuracy 0.5 ppm +/- 1 count, (0.01 ppm with GPS assist) analog signals...
  • Page 106 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION Distortion (Sine) Less than 0.5% at frequencies below 10 kHz and levels above 30 mVrms Usage Connect to microphone input of UUT (test set provides PTT control) Table 29. VSWR SPECIFICATION DESCRIPTION Frequency Range 1 MHz to 1.5 GHz...

  • Page 107: Appendix Bacronyms And Abbreviations

    User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set APPENDIX B ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ° ...... Degrees dBm ....Decibel-Milliwatts °C ....Degrees Celsius DC ....Direct Current °F ....Degrees Fahrenheit DDM ....Difference in Depth of Modulation A ..... Ampere DME....Distance Measuring Equipment AC ....
  • Page 108 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set kW ....Kilowatts RX....Receive lb..... Pounds S ....South LED ....Light Emitting Diode S/N....Signal-to-Noise LF ....Low Frequency SARSAT ..Search and Rescue Satellite-Aided Tracking Li-Ion ....Lithium-Ion SDR ....Software Defined Radio LOC ....
  • Page 109 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual Vp-p ....Peak-to-Peak Voltage VSWR .....Voltage Standing Wave Ratio VRMS ..... Root-Mean-Square Voltage Wi-Fi ....Wireless Fidelity W ....Watt (unit of measurement); West Revision B 21 February 2023 Page 3...
  • Page 110 Hz, and the Outer at 400 Hz. As the aircraft flies over the transmitters, located along the ILS course, the MB receiver receives the signal and illuminates the appropriate light on the instrument panel (). The SDR-OMNI also provides Difference in Depth of Modulation (DDM). Page 2...
  • Page 111 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual LEGEND 1 RUNWAY 7 ON COURSE 2 LOC 8 TYPICAL HSI/CDI 3 GS 9 GS DEVIATION BAR 4 90 HZ 10 GS INDICATOR 5 150 HZ 11 LOC DEVATION BAR 6 AIRCRAFT 12 LOC INDICATOR 2021-CLS-TIC-0010 Figure 8-2.
  • Page 112 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set LEGEND 1 RUNWAY 7 OFFSET OF ON COURSE 2 LOC 8 TYPICAL HSI/CDI 3 GS 9 GS DEVIATION BAR 4 90 HZ 10 GS INDICATOR 5 150 HZ 11 LOC DEVATION BAR 6 AIRCRAFT...
  • Page 113 SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set User Manual LEGEND 1 RUNWAY 4 MIDDLE MARKER 2 AIRCRAFT 5 OUTER MARKER 3 INNER MARKER 2021-CLS-TIC-0012 Figure 8-4. Typical MB Locations 2021-CLS-TIC-0013 Figure 8-5. Typical MB Display Table 8-2. Typical MB Approach Characteristics Marker Distance From Runway...
  • Page 114 User Manual SDR-OMNI Avionics Test Set VHF OMNIDIRECTIONAL RANGE (VOR) VOR is a VHF navigational aid to determine the bearing of an aircraft from a fixed point on the ground. The VOR ground station (, 1) transmits a VHF carrier modulated with an audio composite of two 30 Hz signals -- a reference and a variable signal.

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