ATC ATC Radar and Technology

Question 1

What does the acronym ASDE stand for in airport surface operations?

Accepted Answer

Airport Surface Detection Equipment

Answer

ASDE (Airport Surface Detection Equipment) is a radar system used to monitor aircraft and vehicles on the airport surface, especially in low-visibility conditions.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance System)?

Accepted Answer

To issue resolution advisories to pilots to avoid mid-air collisions

Answer

TCAS issues Resolution Advisories (RAs) directly to pilots, instructing them to climb or descend to avoid potential mid-air collisions independent of ATC instructions.

Question 3

What color is typically used on radar displays to indicate a primary radar return (skin paint) with no transponder data?

Accepted Answer

Green

Answer

Primary radar returns, known as 'skin paints,' are typically displayed in green on older radar scopes, representing raw radar energy reflected off the aircraft.

Question 4

What does Mode C on an aircraft transponder provide to ATC?

Accepted Answer

Pressure altitude readout

Answer

Mode C allows an aircraft's transponder to automatically transmit pressure altitude to ATC, enabling controllers to see the aircraft's altitude on their radar display.

Question 5

What is ARTS in the context of ATC radar systems?

Accepted Answer

Automated Radar Terminal System

Answer

ARTS (Automated Radar Terminal System) is the computer system used at TRACON facilities that processes radar data and displays aircraft position, identity, and altitude to controllers.

(ATC) Air Traffic Controller Practice Test

(ATC) Air Traffic Controller Practice Test

ATC ATC Radar and Technology