IFR Aeroflex ALT-8000 Radio Altimeter Test Set, FMCW/Pulse

The IFR Aeroflex ALT-8000 Radio Altimeter Test Set is a portable RF-based flightline test set engineered for comprehensive testing of installed FMCW and Pulse radio altimeters. Designed for avionics maintenance and repair facilities, it delivers precise altitude measurement validation and regulatory compliance verification through direct connection to Unit Under Test T/R units or via supplied antenna couplers. The instrument performs full RF loop testing to isolate faults within transmitter, receiver, antenna, or feeder systems.

The ALT-8000 replicates in-flight conditions by simulating altitude profiles across its operating range. It supports FMCW/CDF altimeters (analog) and non-pulse compression Pulse altimeters, making it essential for validating Terrain Awareness Warning System (TAWS) installations, auto-land systems, and altitude data feeds to Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning Systems (EGPWS).

– Technical Specifications

Altitude Simulation
• FMCW/CDF: -20 ft to 5,500 ft
• Pulse: 50 ft to 5,500 ft (dependent on RF coax length)
• Accuracy: ±1.5 ft or 2% RMS (whichever is greater)
• Rate: 1 to 10,000 fpm with 1 ft resolution
• Path Loss Simulation: 0 to 5,500 ft

Parametric Measurements
• TX Power
• TX Frequency (center)
• Sweep Rate (FMCW)
• FM Deviation (FMCW): 20 to 100 MHz
• TX Pulse Width: 20 ns to 400 ns
• Pulse Repetition Frequency: 0 to 30 kHz
• RF Level Control

RF Generator
• Manual Mode (FM/CW): -84 dBm to +9 dBm
• Manual Mode (Pulse): -76 dBm to +17 dBm
• Auto Mode with -20 dB to +20 dB offset capability
• Frequency Range (FMCW/CDF/Pulse): 4.20 to 4.40 GHz (ITAR Limited)
• Frequency Stability: ±1 ppm

– Key Features

• Ratio-metric RF loop testing for TX, RX, antenna, and feeder diagnostics
• User-settable static altitude with manual increment/decrement control
• TX and RX antenna couplers supplied for non-invasive verification
• Direct T/R unit connection capability

– Typical Applications

• TAWS system validation
• Auto-land system testing
• EGPWS altitude data feed verification
• Installed altimeter fault diagnosis

– Compatibility & Integration

Connects directly to UUT T/R units or via supplied antenna couplers. Remote control interface supported.