Electronics & Avionics Flashcards

What charge output specification must a rocketeer verify when selecting an altimeter for a specific airframe diameter?

Answer: Maximum current output and recommended e-match resistance range

The altimeter's pyro output current must be sufficient to fire the chosen e-match within its specified resistance range to guarantee reliable ignition.

In the context of HPR electronics, what does 'drogue at apogee' mean operationally?

Answer: The altimeter fires the drogue pyro channel when it detects the highest altitude point

The altimeter monitors pressure to detect apogee and fires the drogue channel pyro output at that point to open the drogue parachute.

Why is it important to test an e-match's resistance before installation in an avionics bay?

Answer: To verify the match is within the altimeter's firing range and is not open or shorted

Measuring e-match resistance confirms it falls within the altimeter's specified range and that the match element is intact, neither open-circuit nor shorted.

What is the function of a GPS tracker aboard a high-power rocket, distinct from the altimeter's role?

Answer: It provides post-flight location data to aid in recovery of the rocket

A GPS tracker transmits or logs the rocket's geographic coordinates, helping the flyer locate and recover the airframe after landing.

Which of the following is a safe procedure when connecting e-matches to an altimeter before a flight?

Answer: Connect e-matches first, then install the battery

E-matches should be connected before the battery is installed so the altimeter has no power and cannot accidentally fire the pyro channels during connection.

What effect does extremely cold ambient temperature have on alkaline batteries used in avionics bays?

Answer: It significantly reduces capacity and can cause voltage sag under load

Cold temperatures slow the electrochemical reactions in alkaline batteries, reducing usable capacity and causing voltage to drop more rapidly under current draw.

What is the purpose of the 'main deployment altitude' setting programmed into a dual-deploy altimeter?

Answer: It defines the descending altitude at which the main parachute pyro channel fires

The main deployment altitude is a user-programmed height above ground level at which the altimeter fires the main chute pyro channel during descent.