Apr/Sept 2014

WEATHER SYSTEMS TEAM, AJW-144 NEWSLETTER

April 2014/September 2014

`F The purpose of this newsletter is to facilitate the exchange of information in support of weather products throughout the National Airspace System (NAS). AJW-144 issues this newsletter to regional Airway Facilities Divisions, SMOs, and SSCs for their information and to Airway Transportation Systems Specialists who maintain the TDWR, NEXRAD, ITWS, WSP, ACE-IDS, LLWAS and other weather sensor sites.

IN THIS ISSUE

TERMINAL DOPPLER WEATHER RADAR (TDWR) METEOROLOGICAL SUPPORT SECTION, AJW-1441

TDWR Base Data Issues ............................................................................................................. 3 Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure (U-NII) Interference to the TDWR System .......... 4

TERMINAL DOPPLER WEATHER RADAR (TDWR) SECTION, AJW-1442 TDWR Brushless Antenna Drive Motors – Update .................................................................... 4 TDWR Elevation Bull gear Lubrication Canisters .. .......... .................. ....................................... 5 SGI Origin 200 Computer External Items .................................................................................. 6 SSM-TDWR-519 TDWR Fallback Switch (FBS) and Multiplexor Replacement .......................... 6

for the Backup Communication System (BCS). SSM-TDWR-511, RDA Rehost Documentation .......................................................................... 7 TechNet Auto-Notification Service .............................................................................................. 8

WEATHER PROCESSORS AND OFFSHORE NEXRAD SECTION, AJW-1443

OFFSHORE NEXRAD

Dual Polarization (Dual Pol) Modification .................................................................................... 8

On Site Display (OSD) Change to TCP/IP Modification .............................................................. 8 NEXRAD Remote Monitoring Sub-System (RMS) Build 12 Software .......................................... 9

NEXRAD Radar Data Acquisition (RDA) Build 14.0 and Radar Product Generator .................... 9 (RPG) Build 14.0 Software.

NEXRAD Radar Data Acquisition (RDA) Build 15.0 and Radar Product Generator .................... 10 (RPG) Build 15.0 Software.

NEXRAD Radar Data Acquisition (RDA) and Radar Product Generator (RPG) .......................... 10 Kit Proof. INTEGRATED WEATHER SYSTEMS (ITWS) SYSTEM

SSMs Available ........................................................................................................................... 10

ITWS Product Generator Power Supply Fan Replacement Modification ............ ....................... 10

Apr/Sept 2014

IN THIS ISSUE (Continued)

WEATHER SYSTEMS PROCESSOR (WSP)

SSM-029 and SSM-030 Workstation Rehost ....................................................................... 11 Site Adaptation Data Updates ......................................................................................... 11 Maintenance Alerts (#NMA-14-073 and NMA-14-082) .................................................... 11

WEATHER SENSORS AND DISPLAY SYSTEMS SECTION, AJW-1444

LOW-LEVEL WINDSHEAR ALERT SYSTEM (LLWAS)

LLWAS-RS Radio Modification ................................................................................................... 12 WME Software Version 3.0 ......................................................................................................... 12 LLWAS-NE++ and LLWAS-RS: Archive Files .............................................................................. 12

INFORMATION DISPLAY SYSTEMS (IDS)

ASOS Controller Equipment (ACE) Information Display System (IDS) ....................................... 13 ACE-IDS Maintenance Handbook, JO 6163.XX ......................................................................... 14 ACE-IDS Technical Instruction Book, TI 6556.1A ....................................................................... 14 Oakland (OAK) ATCT ................................................................................................................. 14 San Francisco (SFO) ATCT ........................................................................................................ 14 ACE-IDS Workstation and Server Hardware .............................................................................. 14 Intel 8210 Router Power Supplies ............................................................................................... 14 ACE-IDS RVR Virtual Display (RVD) .......................................................................................... 15 Remote Pilot Operations (RPO) Training Facilities at NCT and A80 ........................................... 15

INFORMATION DISPLAY SYSTEM Version 4 (IDS-4) IDS-4 Graphics Software Replacement ...................................................................................... 15 Floppy Disk Drive Support for IDS-4 ........................................................................................... 15 Houston TRACON Opens with IDS-4 ......................................................................................... 15

ORDER JO 6560.13, MAINTENANCE OF AVIATION METEOROLOGICAL SYSTEMS .... 16 AJW-144 PERSONNEL ..................................................................................................... 19

Apr/Sept 2014

TERMINAL DOPPLER WEATHER RADAR (TDWR) METEOROLOGICAL SUPPORT SECTION, AJW-1441

TDWR BASE DATA ISSUES Recently, through customer interaction and TDWR CREM studies, AJW-144 has noticed that several sites are having TDWR base data dropping issues. The TDWR is equipped with an External Base Data Recorder (EBDR) that records all TDWR base data while it is in operational mode. The EBDR is connected to the TDWR Radar Product Generator (RPG) via Ethernet. In 2007, AJW-144 issued a modification (SSM-TDWR-323, Limiting TDWR Base Data Users to Receive Only) which prevents external users of the TDWR base data from interfering with the TDWR system by use of multiple hubs and 1-way cables. The basic concept here is that the RPG broadcasts the TDWR base data over Ethernet via the User Datagram Protocol (UDP). UDP is inherently unreliable because it provides no guarantees for delivery and no protection from duplication; however, its simplicity allows the RPG to send messages to other hosts without prior communications to set up data paths or special transmissions. The hubs were designed to prevent any traffic from impeding the data flow within the TDWR by use of 1-way cables. See Figure 1, below, for the proper setup of the 3 base data hubs. Please make an attempt to verify that your system is properly setup through the use of these 3 hubs. For more information please do not hesitate to call Peter Smith, AJW-1441, at (405) 954-0372.

Figure 1. The Proper Setup of the 3 Base Data Hubs

[Peter Smith, AJW-1441, (405) 954-0372]

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Apr/Sept 2014

TDWR METEOROLOGICAL SUPPORT SECTION, AJW-1441 (Continued) UNLICENSED NATIONAL INFORMATION INFRASTRUCTURE (U-NII) INTERFERENCE TO THE TDWR SYSTEM Since 2009, AJW-144 has become aware of external interference caused by U-NII devices operating in the 5.6 GHz band of the TDWR. The interference includes co-channel, harmonics, or mixing as well as bleed-through from frequency roll off. This interference passes through the band-pass filter, and then is down converted to the TDWR’s intermediate frequency. Due to the TDWR’s high antenna gain and receiver sensitivity, the signal processor will process these spurious signals and contaminate the base data. Several in-house studies have shown a detrimental effect on the product generation. Since the interference originates outside of FAA equipment, the NTIA and FCC were brought in to corroborate AJW-144 findings about the interference, and to resolve the issue. Field enforcement and experimentation with analysis led to a new FCC rule change for these Par 15 devices. Information on this rule can be found at: http://www.fcc.gov/document/5-ghz-u-nii-ro. AJW-144 continues to monitor sites for this type of interference. When found, the local FCC offices are notified so that field agents can remove the offending transmissions. In some cases, the regional FAA Spectrum Engineering team gets involved, especially if it requires a trip to the radar site to perform measurements using the TDWR antenna. In other cases, the FCC may find the interference without the need to visit the radar site. It is important to note that the radar does not provide an interference alert, nor does the Base Data Display (BDD) at the TDWR site have enough resolution to indicate or show the interference except in extreme cases. However, AJW-144 is able to use high-resolution displays to locate the Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) due to the strobes that occur. Finally, with the recent budget issues, it has become imperative that each site experiencing RFI log the radar in a Code 84 LIR/IN “service” status. AJW-144 will contact the SSC and TDWR technicians with the information when interference is detected at a particular TDWR site. A log entry will be applied by the SSC and then cleared once the FCC/FAA team has removed the source of interference, which can take up to a month or more. For more information please do not hesitate to contact Aaron Tuttle, AJW-1441, at 405-954-2071. Additional resources can be found on the TDWR Information Server website under the ‘Download Files’ section. [Aaron Tuttle, AJW-1441, (405) 954-2071]

TERMINAL DOPPLER WEATHER RADAR (TDWR) SECTION, AJW-1442

TDWR BRUSHLESS ANTENNA DRIVE MOTORS PROTOTYPE – UPDATE Installation: AJW-144 and AML-2050 have installed the first production brushless drive motor system at the Indianapolis TDWR. Unfortunately, this installation did not go without problems. Manufacturing issues with isolation resistance and internal wiring problems in the roll-ring assembly that replaces the slip ring assembly were encountered. These manufacturing issues have been identified and presented to the manufacturer for resolution. The Orlando TDWR has also been updated with a new roll-ring as the modified slip-ring assembly (compatible with the brushless motor system) failed after nearly 2 years of operation. Orlando has not lost a brushless motor or servo amplifier since they were installed in June 2012.

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Apr/Sept 2014

TDWR SECTION, AJW-1442 (Continued) Once the roll-rings become available and pass testing, field installations will resume. An installation schedule has been developed and will be published once we get these manufacturing issues resolved. Once installations begin, it is anticipated that we will be installing at a rate of 2 systems per month. AML-2050 will be making the arrangements with the sites to schedule installation dates. Production: The production motors and amplifiers have all arrived and are in depot stock (for order by AML-2050 only). The manufacturers of the motors and amplifiers are in the process of finishing modifications to the initial first articles that we are returning to them. The cable and harness manufacturer is delivering 3 systems per month. The estimated completion date for manufacturing of cables and wire harnesses is May 2015. The Servo Control Unit (SCU) modification kits have been arriving also. The first 21 kits have been delivered and are in depot stock (for order by AML-2050 only for use by AJW-144 to rebuild the SCU cabinets). The Modification: As a continuation, to the last newsletter on the topic of the modification, I had stated that AJW-144 would test all of the site assets in the field before the modification is installed to ensure that all of the SCU Circuit Card Assemblies (CCAs) at the site operate properly. It would be highly desirable that when a site is scheduled to have their antenna drive system replaced that the site technicians test the entire site spare CCAs, (SBC, Servo Interface CCAs and the BITE) for operation prior to the arrival of the team that will perform the installation. The site spares need to be operational prior to the installation teams departure. If the spares are tested and found inoperable, the assemblies must be returned to the Logistics Support Center for replacements and those functional replacement assemblies provided to the installation team. All four of the SCU circuit card assemblies (single board computer, azimuth and elevation servo interface CCAs and the BITE) must be operational. The site will receive modified CCAs and spares. A total of two spare motors and one amplifier/power supply chassis along with two spare amplifiers will be left onsite. TDWR ELEVATION BULLGEAR LUBRICATION CANISTERS The depot has in stock replacement lubricator canisters and batteries in a kit so when you place your order you no longer need to order the kit with the motor in it unless the motor is no longer dispensing lubrication to the elevation bull gear. The NSN for the replacement lubrication canister with batteries is 4930-01-628-2591. If you need to replace the motor as well as the lubrication canister and batteries, the NSN is 4930-01-528-5593 and a part number of STARVARIO 120cc. The manufacturer has upgraded their technology, moving on to a digital pump motor instead of the analog version. The new version has an LCD display and a push button to operate it (push the button for 1 second to turn the pump on and 5 seconds to turn the pump off). The same button is used to program the unit for the lubrication canister size and the discharge rate. The new replacement digital motor is pre-programmed for the canister volume of 120 cm3 and a discharge rate of 3-months. All that you need to do is replace the batteries with the new digital unit just like the analog unit. If more information is required on these new pump motors, lubrication canisters or operation, you can go to this website http://www.permausa.com/ or feel free to contact AJW-144.

[Ron Bogen, AJW-1442, (405) 954-03773]

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Apr/Sept 2014

TDWR SECTION, AJW-1442 (Continued) SGI ORIGIN 200 COMPUTER EXTERNAL ITEMS The FAA Logistics Center is unable to find vendors who can provide certain external items for the SGI Origin 200 computer. To date, we can no longer get the furniture glides (feet), the plastic front cover with the front door hinges, and the top plastic cover. Often we can use other methods to attach damaged or broken items if they are returned with the computer. For example, we have been able to attach broken furniture glides by bolting them on. If the top cover is not broken beyond use, we can create an alternate method to secure it. However, as the remaining supply of these blue, plastic, cosmetic items dwindles, we will be forced to send computers out without them. They will have a stripped down appearance, but they will be fully functional. So please bear with us as we go through this transition. A replacement computer is in works, but the release time has not been set.

[Joe Richardson, AML-2010, (405) 954-0418]

SSM-TDWR-519, TDWR FALLBACK SWITCH (FBS) AND MULTIPLEXOR REPLACEMENT FOR THE BACKUP COMMUNICATION SYSTEM (BCS) This SSM was officially released to the field on 11/15/2011 and is being installed by AJW-1442 personnel. When travel funds become available, AJW-1442 will contact remaining sites to schedule installation and you will order your kit at that time. If you have already ordered a kit, your order was placed on backorder and subsequently cancelled. If you have an urgent need for the new equipment or have any questions, you may contact Monty Pipher at 405-954-9766.

TABLE 1. SSM-TDWR-519, TDWR FBS AND MULTIPLEXOR REPLACEMENT FOR THE BCS, COMPLETED INSTALLATIONS

Site Site Site Site Site Site MSY DCA TPA DAY EWR MIA IND ADW FLL OEX MCI HOU STL LAS PBI PIT TUL IAH BWI PHX BOS JFK CLT OKC IAD MCO CMH PHL RDU MKE SLC ICT ATL CVG SDF MEM BNA DFW DAL

[Monty Pipher, AJW-1442, (405) 954-9766]

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Apr/Sept 2014

TDWR SECTION, AJW-1442 (Continued)

SSM-TDWR-511. RDA REHOST DOCUMENTATION

TABLE 2. RDA REHOST ASSOCIATED DOCUMENTATION

Documentation Content Status Change 2 to Order 6315.2C

Updates for RDA upgraded sites and other changes

Released 11/27/12. Applies to all TDWR sites.

SDR-TDWR-028

Updates to Technical Instruction Books (TI) 6315.1, 6315.9A, 6315.10, 6315.11B, 6315.14

Released 10/19/2012. SDR-TDWR-028 applies to all SSM-TDWR-511 RDA Rehost modified sites as well as to sites that have not yet installed the SSM-TDWR-511 modification. All sites should make these page changes to their TIB’s.

SSM-TDWR-511 TDWR RDA Rehost modification, including revised DSP/REX TIB, 6315.2A

Was distributed to all sites on 10/18/2012. SSM-TDWR-511 RDA Rehost modified sites should use DSP/REX TIB, 6315.2A.

TABLE 3. TDWR TECHNICAL INSTRUCTION BOOKS

Book

Number Title

TI 6315.1 TDWR System, Vol. I and II TI 6315.2 TDWR DSP/REX Book, Vol. I and II TI 6315.2A* TDWR DSP/REX, Vol. I and II *SSM-TDWR-511 RDA Rehost modified sites TI 6315.3 TDWR Transmitter, Vol. I and II TI 6315.4 TDWR Tower, Vol. I and II TI 6315.5 TDWR Radome, Vol. I and II TI 6315.6 TDWR Antenna Group, Vol. I and II TI 6315.7A TDWR MTS, Vol. I and II TI 6315.8 TDWR Software User’s Manual (SUM), Display (DPL) Software CSCI-4 TI 6315.9A TDWR Computer System Operator’s Manual (CSOM) TI 6315.10 TDWR Software User’s Manual (SUM), Remote Monitoring Subsystem (RMS)

Software, DFU Enhancement, CSCI-3 TI 6315.11B TDWR Direct Digital Controller (DDC) Maintenance Addendum, Vol. I and II TI 6315.12A TDWR RPG/RMS Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) TI 6315.13A Revision to TDWR Backup Communications System (BCS) TI 6315.14 TDWR RPG/RMS, Vol. I and Vol. II

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Apr/Sept 2014

TDWR SECTION, AJW-1442 (Continued) The NAS Documentation Technical library contains all of the documentation related to the TDWR and much of the documentation related to other weather processors and sensors. The documents can be viewed on-line at http://nas.amc.faa.gov/technical_library/index.jsp. NEXRAD documentation may be accessed at http://www.roc.noaa.gov. To determine if you are on automatic distribution for these documents, call AJW-8, (202) 267-8499.

TABLE 4. RECENTLY RELEASED TDWR DOCUMENTATION

Doc. Number Title Released N JO 6314.64 Interim Guidance for DSP. WEB RELEASE ONLY. 08/21/2014

SDR-TDWR-027 Release TI 6315.13A. WEB RELEASE ONLY. 07/07/2014

SDR-TDWR-025 Update TI 6315.11B. WEB RELEASE ONLY. 07/11/2014

SDR-TDWR-029 Update Standard and Tolerances & Maintenance Procedures for the TDWR RPG/RMS UPS. WEB RELEASE ONLY. 08/16/2013

SSM-TDWR-637 Update Build 21.0 Revision 06/03/2014

SSM-TDWR-551 Brushless Motor Modification. WEB RELEASE ONLY. 07/03/2014

SSM-TDWR-545 Laptop Simulator for TDWR LCU. WEB RELEASE ONLY. 12/05/2013

TECHNET AUTO-NOTIFICATION SERVICE Due to budgetary constraints, some documentation is being released as WEB RELEASE ONLY. To remain aware of new documentation releases, the ATSS and all administrative personnel must subscribe to the Auto-Notifications Services for electronic library release notifications at http://technet.faa.gov/. Administrative offices can print these documents for local use as required. For electronic copies use: http://nas.amc.faa.gov/technical_library/index.jsp [Lena Wilson, AJW-1442, (405) 954-9183]

WEATHER PROCESSORS AND OFFSHORE NEXRAD SECTION, AJW 1443

OFFSHORE NEXRAD DUAL POLARIZATION (DUAL POL) MODIFICATION The NEXRAD Dual Pol modification to the NEXRAD has been installed at 158 sites including the twelve FAA sites. The King Salmon site has had the stepper motor replaced on the waveguide pallet. With the King Salmon site fix, the Dual Pol modification to the NEXRAD has been completed. ON SITE DISPLAY (OSD) CHANGE TO TCP/IP MODIFICATION The OSD change to TCP/IP communication protocol has received security accreditation. Now a modification test can be scheduled with the ROC. [Doug Erickson, AJW-1443, (405) 954-5185]

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Apr/Sept 2014

WEATHER PROCESSORS AND OFFSHORE NEXRAD SECTION, AJW 1443 (Continued)

NEXRAD REMOTE MONITORING SUBSYSTEM (RMS) Build 12 Software AWJ-144 recently released Build 12 software for the NEXRAD RMS. This modification supports required RMS changes associated with EEM 6345.1 Chapter 174, Change 186, RDA Build 14.0 and EEM 6345.1 Chapter 173, Change 185, Move LAN Cable for RMS on FAA Sites. It also includes modifications to the) RMS software for RPG/RDA Power Administration Refresh, RDA Router Connection for RMS, RDA Build 14 ICD changes, and VNC SSH cleanup. This modification also allows the technician to run the RDA HCI via the RMS. NOTE: The technician must know the channel 1 and channel 2 RDA “operator” passwords in order to be able to execute the RDA HCI via the RMS. NEXRAD RADAR DATA ACQUISITION (RDA) BUILD 14.0 AND RADAR PRODUCT GENERATOR (RPG) BUILD 14.0 SOFTWARE RPG Software Build 14.0 provides the following enhancements: • Provides security updates and antivirus software • Implementation of Storm-Based Auto PRF and SZ-2 Auto PRF

• Implementation of Supplemental Adaptive Intra-volume Low-elevation Scans (SAILS) for VCP 12 and 212.

• Adds two new products for FAA users: Icing Hazard Levels (IHL) and Hail Hazard Layers (HHL).

• Improvements to the Melting Layer Detection Algorithm (MLDA) • Improvements to the Dual Polarization Qualitative Precipitation Estimate (QPE) algorithm • Adds support for manually initiating an RDA Performance Check and provides the time of

the next RDA Performance Check • Adds support for display of model data • Adds support for a replacement power administrator

RDA Software Build 14.0 provides the following enhancements: • Implements Radial-by-Radial Noise (RxRN) • Implements Coherency Based Thresholding

• Sets RDA Normalized Initial System Differential Phase (st23) to 60 Degrees • Adds support for manually initiating an RDA Performance Check and provides time of the next RDA Performance Check. • Removes ability to edit Antenna Gain Adaptation Data (A001) • Adds support for a replacement power administrator

Deployment of Build 14.0 software was completed in June 2014.

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Apr/Sept 2014

WEATHER PROCESSORS AND OFFSHORE NEXRAD SECTION, AJW 1443 (Continued) NEXRAD RADAR DATA ACQUISITION (RDA) BUILD 15.0 AND RADAR PRODUCT GENERATOR (RPG) BUILD 15.0 SOFTWARE RPG Software Build 15.0 provides the following enhancements: • Provides security updates and antivirus software • GSM updates for SAILS cut elevation angles • Updates and optimization for Dual Pol QPE and ML algorithms

• Optimize System PhiDP calculation and allow sites to enable/disable PhiDP application RDA Software Build 15.0 provides the following enhancements: • Modifies RDA backup/restore procedures • STS Routine upgrades and enhancements

• Removes RDA UPS Build 14.0 software is currently in operations testing. Beta testing is scheduled for October 2014. NEXRAD RADAR DATA ACQUISITION (RDA) AND RADAR PRODUCT GENERATOR (RPG) KIT PROOF. A kit proof was completed in May 2014 to verify the EEM for the RDA power administration, LAN switch and KVM replacement modification and the RPG power administration and KVM replacement modification. These kids will be deployed to the sites in the summer 2014.

[Rick Mattox, AJW-1443, (405) 954-8046]

INTEGRATED TERMINAL WEATHER SYSTEM (ITWS) SECTION, AJW-1443 SSMs AVAILABLE AJW-1443 engineers are continuously working to prepare SSMs for ITWS sites. Changes currently being developed include the addition of new runways, new TRACON, new airport maps, and changes to communications. Sites are reminded to contact AJW-1443 for any planned new construction or commissioning of new equipment, which would affect ITWS, since Configuration Management (CM) responsibilities of the ITWS product/operational baseline have been transferred to AJW-1443.

[Todd Pattison, AJW-1443, (405) 954-1241]

ITWS PRODUCT GENERATOR POWER SUPPLY FAN REPLACEMENT MODIFICATION Multiple ITWS outages have occurred due to the failure of cooling fans inside the ITWS Product Generator (PG) power supplies. Each PG has three power supplies but whenever the internal cooling fans of two or more power supplies fail, the PG shuts down. The PG power supply cooling fans have starting failing on a routine basis which is increasing the risk of ITWS outages. The ITWS PG server has no alarm for failed power supply fans other than an overheating message that shows up on the console display. The console messages can easily be overlooked. The only reliable method for checking the

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Apr/Sept 2014

INTEGRATED TERMINAL WEATHER SYSTEM (ITWS) SECTION, AJW-1443 Continued) power supply cooling fan operation is through visual inspection. The ITWS PG power supplies are becoming harder to acquire because the PG hardware is at its end of life cycle and no longer supported by its manufacturer. Replacement of the fans should eliminate unscheduled outages caused by overheating power supplies. AJW-1443 has developed a modification to replace the fans in every ITWS PG power supply to eliminate the risk of ITWS outages from cooling fan failures. [Cecil Woods, AJW-1443, (405) 954-5142]

WEATHER SYTEMS PROCESSOR (WSP) SECTION SSM-029 and SSM-030 WORKSTATION REHOST The new Linux based workstations are installed with WSP_3-1. They have been shipped to all sites. The user interface for the GSD and MDT will remain the same. The tape drive unit used at the TRACON position is no longer used. Low cost CD-ROMs are used for Product Data archiving on the new workstation. This fulfills the requirement for archiving 14-day product data. Use the TRACON LTO2 tape drive as a second spare for base data archiving at the RDP. Send old Sun workstations back to the depot for re-use in other FAA systems. SITE ADAPTATION DATA UPDATES AJW-144 is working on WSP Map Updates so that we can rebuild the capability to generate and test new software. Our lead-time on developing and testing is approximately 90 days. If map overlays or runways are outdated, please contact us. MAINTENANCE ALERTS # NMA-14-073 Several Sigmet RIM modules have failed and there are no replacements at the depot. We are collecting information on how many Sigmet spare parts are remaining on site. Please report back to AJW-1443 on the status of your Sigmet spares. # NMA-14-082 The VLA-150 has an ID Prom battery module that can fail when the board is not used. This may affect your site spare sitting on the shelf. The process to replace the battery and reprogram the board is time consuming, so please send your spare VLA-150 board to the PSF per instructions in the alert. [Alok Gautam, AJW-1443, (405) 954-1242]

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Apr/Sept 2014

WEATHER SENSORS AND DISPLAY SYSTEMS, AJW-1444

LLWAS-RS RADIO MODIFCATION

The LLWAS-RS radio, that is used to provide wind information from the remote stations to the master station is obsolete and spare radios, is unavailable. A new radio has been tested and approved. The radio modification will include an upgraded power supply for the master station transceiver.

The parts have been procured. The modification kits with the Raveon radio and TDK Lambda Power supplies are being built. NOTE: Heads up: The new radios do not work with the old ones. Once the modification starts, all the radios must be changed.

SSM-LLWASRS-148 should be released in a few months. New radio programming software will be distributed about the same time.

WME SOFTWARE VERSION 3.0

The software released last year that changed the threshold for WME wind gust detection from a 9-knot to a 5-knot difference was withdrawn via a maintenance alert. Maintenance Alert #102929 instructed specialists to revert back to the previous software, version 2.1, for all WME Type FA-10240 systems until a software update is released.

The update is here. Software Version 3.0 is on its way. SSM-WME-015 will be arriving in your inbox soon. With Version 3.0, the 5-knot difference in wind speed from the 2-minute average for wind gust generation is back.

Version 3.0 will make the WME gust reporting look similar to the other wind equipment.

LLWAS-NE++ and LLWAS-RS: Archive Files We have been asked how long the archive files are kept on the computer hard drive and should they be cleaned off. The archive files are recorded to the computer hard drive and the removable media disk every day at about 30 seconds after 00:00 Zulu. The removable media disk is then sent to AJW-1444 monthly as directed by FAA Order JO 6560.13, Maintenance Aviation Meteorological Systems. Disks can be damaged during shipping or lost in the mailing process. If this happens, you might be asked by AJW-1444 to download the archive files residing on the computer hard drive.

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Apr/Sept 2014

WEATHER SENSORS AND DISPLAY SYSTEMS, AJW-1444 (Continued) The files do not remain on the hard drive forever. A day’s archive file will be removed from the computer when: • Less than 50% of the total non-removable media space is unused, and

• The day's archive data is at least 120 days old as determined by the file creation date and time

If both those conditions are met, the LLWAS software will delete the archive files from the computer hard drive automatically. There is no reason to delete the files manually. [Roxanne Johnson, AJW-1444, (405) 954-4239]

INFORMATION DISPLAY SYSTEMS (IDS), AJW-1444

ASOS CONTROLLER EQUIPMENT (ACE) INFORMATION DISPLAY SYSTEM (IDS) (ACE-IDS). A software utility is available that improves the DataStore Verify and Repair process, making it easier and safer to run. The utility is available as an easy-to-understand GUI that is accessed through the ACE-IDS menu. The improvements are listed below.

a. Automatically checks to see if any selected workstation has IDS5 archiving turned on and allows the tech to skip these workstations if any are detected. Because archiving greatly increases the size of the database, it literally may take over a day to verify its database. Allowing to skip these workstations will mean completing the verification faster.

b. Remote towers are no longer allowed to run the verify and repair process on any workstations or

servers outside of their tower. TRACONs, however, are still allowed to run the verify/repair process on any workstation or server connected to the network, even if they are located in a remote tower.

c. When a repair process is selected, the tech is reminded to schedule an outage of the selected

workstations with AT. Although, just as before, the verify process will run at any time without affecting AT operations.

d. When a repair process is run, the tech is limited to selecting only 10 workstations, preventing an

unscheduled outage across the entire network. This can be overridden by entering an override code that is available from second level engineering.

e. Logs from each selected workstation and server will be automatically combined into a single log

file. f. The log is automatically scanned for errors and notifies the tech if any were found. The log is still

presented in its entirety just as before. This utility will be released in the coming months via an SSM. [Dale Garrison, AJW-1444, (405) 954-9256]

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Apr/Sept 2014

WEATHER SENSORS AND DISPLAY SYSTEMS, AJW-1444 (Continued) ASOS CONTROLLER EQUIPMENT (ACE) INFORMATION DISPLAY SYSTEM (IDS). ACE-IDS MAINTENANCE HANDBOOK, JO 6163.XX. Guidance for ACE-IDS equipment was removed from JO 6560.13D, Maintenance of Aviation Meteorological Systems. The ACE-IDS has been reclassified as data display equipment with a subject classification code of 6163, and a new maintenance handbook has been developed for the maintenance of ACE-IDS. Draft JO 6163.XX is in the final stages of approval. A copy of Draft Order JO 6163.XX and the AJW-144 letter of authorization for use of the draft are available at the AJW-14 Technical Library, NAS Draft Documents. ACE-IDS TECHNICAL INSTRUCTION BOOK, TI 6556.1A. A revision to TI 6556.1A is in the final stages of the directive phase. None of the maintenance procedures has changed in this revision; however, some of the steps have been revised as a result of lessons learned and to reflect best practices. The revised document will reflect the subject classification code change and released as TI 6163.X. The final number will be assigned following approval of the NAS change proposal (NCP). OAKLAND (OAK) ATCT The new OAK ATCT commissioned with state of the art ACE-IDS equipment. The OAK ACE-IDS is part of the greater Northern California area ACE-IDS system that spans 21 towers to include SFO, SMF, SJC, RNO and numerous smaller locations. ATC coordination and weather information sharing between ATCT Towers and TRACON facilities makeup the primary ACE-IDS mission. This advanced weather display has been in operation in the Northern California area for over a decade and continues with undisrupted supportability on into the next decade.

SAN FRANCISCO (SFO) ATCT A new tower is being constructed to replace the older SFO tower facility. Among the many other systems, this new tower will also be equipped with a state-of-art ACE-IDS. The existing facility is equipped with ACE-IDS and like OAK; the system has been in operation since the new Northern California TRACON (NCT) was constructed. Commissioning for the new SFO ATCT is not expected until FY 2015. ACE-IDS WORKSTATION AND SERVER HARDWARE Prior obsolescence issues with ACE-IDS workstation and server hardware have been resolved. A new workstation chassis and Single Board Computer (SBC) has been tested. The new workstation chassis is Form/Fit/Functional replacement part. The only outward difference noted was the new chassis is ¼” narrower than the old unit. In position where the chassis is fixed to a shelf due to seismic concerns, the technician may have to drill two new holes to accommodate the new hard mount bracket alignment. The current stock levels of the old chassis is sufficient to meet expected needs for several years thus it may be some time before the new chassis is seen in the field by the ACE-IDS System Support Specialists. The new SBC is a transparent parts change located inside the computer that will not affect capabilities or maintenance. However, the new SBC eliminates obsolescence concerns for both the workstations and the servers. The new SBC has already been introduced into ACE-IDS operation. INTEL 8210 ROUTER POWER SUPPLIES The Intel 8210 routers have been in continuous use at many locations for over a decade now. Failures are being experienced with this equipment. Upon diagnosis, the power supplies are reaching end of operational life. The power supplies are readily available but information has not been loaded into the Logistics Information System (LIS) as of yet. If you are in need of a replacement Intel 8210 router power supply, please contact AJW-1444. So far, there have been no confirmed failures of the Intel 8210

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Apr/Sept 2014

WEATHER SENSORS AND DISPLAY SYSTEMS, AJW-1444 (Continued) routers. Once the new power supply is attached, the router reboots from NVRAM and returns to normal operation. Replacing a power supply does not cause a need to reload the router configuration. ACE-IDS RVR VIRTUAL DISPLAY (RVD) A latent defect has been revealed in the virtual RVR display on ACE-IDS workstations. The defect symptoms include inconsistent alerting and inability to save limit settings when runways without a position designation (L, R, or C) are present. The original vendor, Systems Atlanta Inc., promptly resolved the issue and delivered a new version of the RVD. AJW-1444 has completed testing of the new RVD application and is preparing an SSM to distribute to affected locations. REMOTE PILOT OPERATIONS (RPO) TRAINING FACILITIES AT NCT AND A80 Two of the large consolidated TRACONS have setup facilities for Remote Pilot Operations Training (RPO). At both the Atlanta Large TRACON (A80) and the Northern California TRACON (NCT) the ACE-IDS network was extended to present weather and ATC coordination information into the training environment. In both cases, the flexibility of the system allowed for a low cost solution to enhance the RPO instruction. [Ronny Lewis, AJW-1444, (405) 954-0065] INFORMATION DISPLAY SYSTEM VERSION 4 (IDS-4) IDS-4 GRAPHICS SOFTWARE REPLACEMENT Numerous sites have contacted AJW-1444 for a recommendation on a graphics software package that can be used on the FAA issued Windows 7 desktops to edit images for IDS4. (Note these Windows 7 workstations are not IDS4 equipment.) AJW-1444 has identified and tested Corel Paint Shop Pro X6 as a graphics software package that IDS4 database administrators can use on their non-IDS4 Windows 7 workstations. Corel Print Shop Pro X6 can create PCX files that are compatible with IDS4. This includes converting approach plates and other documents to PCX files that can then be imported to an IDS4 page. A guide is available from AJW-1444 that explains how to create a compatible PCX file, change the color pallet, and perform other required tasks. The local facilities are responsible for purchase of the software. FLOPPY DISK DRIVE SUPPORT FOR IDS-4 The FAA Logistics Center now stocks a USB Floppy Disk Drive. The USB floppy drive can be used on non-IDS4 computers to add floppy drive support where needed. The primary mode of removable media for IDS4 still remains as the 1.44MB floppy disk drive. The FAA Logistics Center has not assigned an NSN to the IDS4 USB FDD; however, they can be ordered non-catalog by contacting the Item Manager, Betty Malley at 405-954-7649. HOUSTON TRACON OPENS WITH IDS-4 The new Houston TRACON (I90) was commissioned with the legacy IDS-4 system. Due to delays in the IDS-R Program, the NAS Information Display Systems (NIDS) was not ready for operation for the I90 commissioning. The flexibility, scalability, and adaptability allowed the legacy IDS-4 to be used in yet another new facility. Although restricted due to lack of TCP/IP support, IDS-4 still remains the most robust IDS with the greatest capabilities and external data interfaces in the NAS. [Ronny Lewis, AJW-1444, (405) 954-0065]

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Apr/Sept 2014

WEATHER SENSORS AND DISPLAY SYSTEMS SECTION, AJW-1444

ORDER JO 6560.13, MAINTENANCE OF AVIATION METEOROLOGICAL SYSTEMS Order JO 6560.13D has been released. Revision D provides guidance and prescribes technical standards and tolerances, and procedures applicable to the maintenance and inspection of the Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS), Automated Weather Sensor System (AWSS), Stand Alone Weather Sensors (SAWS), Digital Altimeter Setting Indicators (DASI), Wind Equipment F-400 Series (WEF), Altimeter Setting Indicators (ASI), and Remote Readout Hygro-thermometer (RRH). In addition, it provides information on special methods and techniques, which enables maintenance personnel to achieve optimum performance. Summary of changes implemented with revision include the following: Chapter 4, Section 1, Performance Checks, Subsection 1. Atmospheric Condition Sensing Devices. Paragraph 403.c. DME DASI (Type FA-10454). (2) Display Output Check was added as an annual performance check to ensure that accurate data is displayed in the ATCT on the Digital Display Panels (DDPs). Subsection 2. Wind Equipment F-420 Series (WEF) System: Paragraphs 405.c. Check UHF Radio at Field (if present) and 405.d. Check UHF Radio at ATCT or Terminal (if present) were added as annual performance checks. The wireless systems use UHF radios for the system link which require performance verification periodically. Subsection 3. Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS Models 223 and 233), TI 6560.21B: Paragraph 409, Field Elevation, Sensor Elevation, and Magnetic Declination were added as annual performance checks. These checks ensure each AWOS has the correct elevation and magnetic declination values. Some AWOS sites may have moved on the airport without updating the elevation constants. The magnetic declination changes per the Earth’s Magnetic field variations, so this parameter needs periodic updates. Subsection 4. Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS), Type FA-29300, TI 6560.21C: In addition to the legacy AWOS, the maintenance criteria have been added for AWOS FA-29300 (SSM-AWOS-010: CDP Tech Refresh). Technical Instruction Book 6560.21C (a revision from TI 6560.21B) is being distributed with SSM-AWOS-010: CDP Tech Refresh. Subsection 5, Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS), Type FA-29600, TI 6560.75: Another: addition is for AWOS FA-29600 (SSM-AWOS-011: CDP Tech Refresh). Type FA-29600 is the new DCP and sensors (SSM-AWOS-010: CDP Tech Refresh) as in Type FA-29300, along with a new Central Data Platform (CDP). The new CDP allows the AWOS to function like an ASOS or AWSS. It can produce special aviation weather reports known as “SPECI”, that report significant change in weather information to the aviation community. Technical Instruction (TI) Book 6560.75 will be distributed with SSM-AWOS-011: CDP Tech Refresh.

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Apr/Sept 2014

WEATHER SENSORS AND DISPLAY SYSTEMS SECTION, AJW-1444 (Continued) ORDER JO 6560.13, MAINTENANCE OF AVIATION METEOROLOGICAL SYSTEMS (Continued) Subsection 6. Automated Weather Sensors System (AWSS), Type FA-29400, TI 6560.71: Paragraph 436. For AWSS, added Site Specific Settings check. Prior check performed on elevation settings only, while this revised check ensures that all site physical values are verified. Added Ground-To-Air (GTA) radio parameter checks instead of deferring to JO 6580.5 to clarify output power discrepancies. ASOS Controller Equipment – Information Display System (ACE-IDS). Guidance for the ACE-IDS was removed from this order. The ACE-IDS has been reclassified as data display equipment with a subject classification code of 6163. A new maintenance handbook has been developed for the maintenance of ACE-IDS. A copy of the Draft Order JO 6163.XX is available at the AJW-14 Technical Library, NAS Draft Documents: http://nas.amc.faa.gov/nasDrafts/template.jsp?bodyPage=body/index.jsp&title=NAS+Draft+Document Wind Measuring Equipment (WME). Guidance for the maintenance of the WME was removed from this order. The WME will be included in the LLWAS maintenance handbook, JO 6560.62. Technical Performance Record (TPR). The TPRs were removed with this release. Some systems will not need a TPR since they do not have trendable data. Those systems that do require TPRs will be accessible from the FAA TPR website. Change 1 to Maintenance Handbook, JO 6560.13D: The primary updates in Change 1 are:

• update the technical instruction book paragraph numbers

• clarify the technical performance record (TPR) requirements

• update AWOS and AWSS certification tables for the freezing rain sensor

• improve the consistency of the paragraph formatting

• correct the frequency deviation for all UHF radio links

• unify all initial and operating tolerances for orientation of all Ultrasonic wind sensors, and

• update the GTA/VHF radio and DCP Voltage standards and tolerances for the AWOS Type

29600. This change is in development. It will be available on the technical library website when completed.

[Bettie Loudenslager, AJW-144, (405) 954-5186]

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Apr/Sept 2014

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Apr/Sept 2014

AJW-144 Personnel

WEATHER SYSTEMS TEAM, AJW-144 TEAM

Bettie Loudenslager – Team Manager (405) 954-5186 Amanda Thorsen - Program Analyst (405) 954-2220 Terry McCorry - Contract Technical Manager (405) 954-8334 Carmen Hyam- Contract Administrative Analyst (405) 954-5485

TDWR METEOROLOGICAL SUPPORT SECTION, AJW-1441

Paul Biron, Section Manager (405) 954-8596 Ron Schudalla (405) 954-2664 Peter Smith (405) 954-0372 Aaron Tuttle (405) 954-2071

WEATHER SYSTEMS TEAM, AJW-144

Mailing Address: FAA/MMAC/AJW-144

6500 S. MacArthur Blvd, Bldg. 201 Oklahoma City, OK 73169-6901

FIELD SUPPORT: (405) 954-8427

FAX: PSF (405) 954-8351 (AJW-1441, 1442 and 1443) FAX: SSF (405) 954-0750 (AJW-1444)

AFTER HOURS DUTY OFFICER: (405) 954-3583

AJW-144 Information Server is at http://tdwr.jccbi.gov The username is faauser and the password is weather

NEXRAD Radar Operation Center (ROC) Home Page is at http://www.roc.noaa.gov

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Apr/Sept 2014

TERMINAL DOPPLER WEATHER RADAR (TDWR) SECTION, AJW-1442

Bob Sanford, Section Manager (405) 954-8012 Ron Bogen (405) 954-0373 Joshua Butler (405) 954-0025 Rex Crissup (405) 954-8335 Allene Dewitt Tanges (405) 954-8338 Rusty Gaines (405) 954-8354 Rajiv Gautam (405) 954-5688 Roger Ngomeni (405) 954-5168 Timothy J. Pigg (405) 954-5170 Monty Pipher (405) 954-9766 Robert Schaefer (405) 954-0305 David R. Smith (405) 954-1071 Roger V. Smith (405) 954-0326 Dick Starr (405) 954-0150 Lena Wilson (405) 954-9183

WEATHER PROCESSORS AND OFFSHORE NEXRAD, SECTION, AJW-1443

Todd Pattison, Section Manager (405) 954-1241 Mary Arnold (405) 954-5120 Robert Crowe (405) 954-2488 Douglas Erickson (405) 954-5185 Linda Galusha Smith (405) 954-0676 Alok Gautam (405) 954-1242 Rick Mattox (405) 954-8046 John Moyer (405) 954-2404 Tuan Nguyen (405) 954-1247 Brian Reed (405) 954-1765 Brad Steele (405) 954-2273 Ilana Steinhorn (405) 954-2245 Thien-Nga Truong (405) 954-1245 Vincent Valera (405) 954-6706 Cory West (405) 954-4817 Cecil Woods (405) 954-5142

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Apr/Sept 2014

WEATHER SENSORS AND DISPLAY SYSTEMS SECTION, AJW-1444

Ray Bahavar, Section Manager (405) 954-9640 Brad Ford (405) 954-4303 Eric Francis (405) 954-2202 Dale Garrison (405) 954-9256 Bill Goodwill (405) 954-5253 Cathy Gordon (405) 954-9209 David Gorman (405) 954-8745 Lyal Grissom (405) 954-2405

Ann Henderson (405) 954-9968 Roxanne Johnson (405) 954-4239 Tandy Jones (405) 954-3196 Reed Jackson (405) 954-1243 Dennis Kamin (405) 954-1815 Duong Le (405) 954-5797 Ron Lewis (405) 954-0065 Reza Moradi (405) 954-3611 Mehdi Rashidifard (405) 954-9129 Denver Ritchey (405) 954-5167 Justin Shaw (405) 954-3014 Chris Turner (405) 954-0974 Curtis Williams (405) 954-0938 Jonathan Williams (405) 954-2508 Karen Winston (405) 954-3355

NEXRAD SECTION, AJW-1445

Dennis R. Roofe – FAA/ROC, NEXRAD Liaison e-mail: Dennis.R.Roofe@noaa.gov or Dennis.Roofe@faa.gov

NEXRAD ROC Adair Building Suite 123 1200 Westheimer Drive Norman, OK 73069

Office Phone: (405) 573-8819 Cell Phone: (405) 820-9650 Office Fax Phone: (405) 573-8830 ROC Secretary: (405) 573-8803 ROC Hotline Phone: 1-800 643-3363

Gary Gookin (405) 573-3358 Gail Grimes (405) 573-8889 Donald Horvat (405) 573-3418 Ruth Jackson (405) 573-3348 Michael Karbowski (405) 573-8811 Michael McKissick (405) 573-3451 Tammy McPherson (405) 573-8895 Aamir Nawaz (405) 573-3421 David Rose (405) 573-3476 Kyle Thomason (405) 573-3484

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