ACR&Artex ME406 Portable ELT - Manual (Page 43)

25-62-31
Page 43 of 85
JUN 25/13
ARTEX PRODUCTS / ACR ELECTRONICS, INC
DESCRIPTION, OPERATION, INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL
ME406P (453-6611)
TASK 25-62-31-810-801
3. Fault Isolation
SUBTASK 25-62-31-810-001
A. Self-Test Error Troubleshooting Guidelines
(1) Table 6 describes the ELT self-test LED error codes (i.e., flash codes), their probable causes,
and possible solutions. The 5-flash error is not present when the ELT is programmed with a
serial user protocol (short message).
NOTE: Upon activation, the LED will display a long single flash, which is normal. Any self-
test error codes will display following this initial flash. If there are multiple errors,
there is a 0.5 to 1.0 second pause between each error code.
Table 6. ELT Self-Test Error Codes Troubleshooting Guide
CODE PROBABLE CAUSE POSSIBLE SOLUTION
3-Flash
Indicates a 406 MHz transmission problem
Open or short condition on antenna
output or coax cable
Verify the coax cable/antenna is
connected and in good condition
Perform continuity check of center
conductor and shield
Check for a shorted cable
Check for intermittent connection in the
coax cable
Antenna or installation faulty
Check with a VSWR meter. Check antenna
for opens, shorts, or a resistive ground
plane connection
Impedance presented by antenna
Lengthen or shorten antenna coax cable
length by 4 to 6 inches
Insufficient ground plane
Provide ground plane at least 12 inches in
diameter
Upright metal structure obstructing
antenna causing re-radiation
Stay at least 10-12 inches away from
upright metal structures
Low power output
Battery low
3A fuse on battery pack circuit board
faulty
ELT local ground not connected
Verify continuity between antenna ground
plane and ELT local ground connection.
Transmitter module faulty
Cannot be repaired in field - Return to
factory for servicing